Mass. school’s dining is No. 1 for college food

Sep 20, 2024 at 9:51 AM

Culinary Excellence: UMass Amherst Reigns Supreme in College Dining

In a testament to its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, UMass Amherst has once again been named the top college for food in the prestigious Princeton Review rankings. This marks the eighth consecutive year the university has claimed the coveted top spot, solidifying its reputation as a gastronomic haven for students.

Elevating the Campus Dining Experience to New Heights

A Diverse Culinary Landscape

UMass Amherst's dining program is a true melting pot of global flavors, catering to the diverse palates of its student body. Executive Chef Bob Bankert takes pride in showcasing a wide array of international cuisines, with as many as 12 different culinary traditions represented on any given day. "We love to feature world cuisines all over campus," Bankert explains. "We have a really diverse student body that comes from all over the world, and we want to give them a taste of home."From the aromatic huevos rancheros to the made-to-order omelets, the dining halls at UMass Amherst offer a culinary journey that transcends the typical college experience. The focus on fresh, nutritious ingredients and a commitment to satisfying the diverse dietary needs of students have earned the university widespread acclaim.

Endless Options, Endless Satisfaction

The sheer variety of dining options available to UMass Amherst students is a key factor in the university's continued dominance in the Princeton Review rankings. "There's just so many different options every single day. You don't get bored," enthuses junior Sophia Roselli, echoing the sentiments of her peers.Whether it's the vibrant international fare or the comforting classics, the dining halls at UMass Amherst ensure that students never have to settle for a monotonous meal. "Whenever my friends come up and visit, they love UMass dining," says junior Kaylin Rutkowski. "They were like, 'I don't know how you have all these things.'"

Fostering a Sense of Community

The dining experience at UMass Amherst extends far beyond the mere sustenance of the body; it is a catalyst for fostering a sense of community among the student population. The diverse array of culinary offerings serves as a unifying force, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and creating a shared appreciation for the joy of good food."At the end of the day, we just want to cook really good food," says Executive Chef Bankert. "That's what it's all about." This unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, coupled with a deep understanding of the needs and preferences of their student body, has solidified UMass Amherst's position as the undisputed champion of college dining.