At the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the dining experience is nothing short of legendary. It’s hard to believe, but for nine consecutive years, this college has topped the charts as the best in the nation when it comes to campus food. How did they pull off such a remarkable feat? Well, according to a survey conducted by the Princeton Review, which gathered opinions from over 100,000 students, the answer lies in the incredible variety and quality of food available to the students.
When walking into one of UMass Amherst’s dining halls, it feels like stepping into a culinary wonderland. Students boast about the endless options available for their meals. Imagine indulging in dishes that span the globe—from an Indian tandoor to a Mediterranean station, students can satisfy nearly any craving they might have. As if that’s not impressive enough, the ingredients are sourced locally to support the nearby farms and ensure freshness. The man behind all this culinary magic is a seasoned chef with experience at high-end hotels like the Shangri-La and the Ritz Carlton.
Every day at the dining halls is like a mini food festival. Alongside the Indian and Mediterranean offerings, students can relish a variety of choices that include a salad bar, a walk-in grill, made-to-order sushi, and noodle bowls. And for those who enjoy a sense of occasion, there’s a beloved tradition of an annual lobster and steak dinner on Halloween, which attracts a long line of eager diners. There’s something uniquely special about gathering with friends and family over a good meal, especially one as extravagant as lobster and steak!
But UMass Amherst’s dining experience isn’t just reserved for students—it’s open to the public too! This means that local residents often join in on the fun, turning campus dining into a community affair. The pricing is quite reasonable considering the quality and variety offered. Adults can enjoy breakfast at $12.50, lunch at $17, and dinner at $20. Parents of students can actually eat for free, and kids under two dine complimentary as well. Little ones between the ages of 2 and 10 can delight in their meals for just $6.50. It’s a great way for families to connect while enjoying delicious food.
In addition to the main dining hall, UMass also showcases unique dining personalities, like a chef known as Pizza Joe. At Hampshire dining hall, Pizza Joe serves up creative concoctions that leave students craving more. During an exploration through the dining halls, a particularly whimsical offering caught attention: a Hello Kitty pizza and a dessert pizza topped with Nutella and M&M’s. These fun and creative dishes are just another reason why UMass Amherst continues to reign supreme in college dining.
As the sun sets over the campus, it’s clear that the dining experience at UMass Amherst is about more than just food; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and culinary delight. For students and families alike, this campus offers a delightful dining adventure that keeps everyone coming back for seconds, and even thirds!
