There are a ton of eating options on Miami’s campus. From grab and go’s to all-you-care-to-eat dining commons, from light meals to comfort food, you’re sure to find something you like. It can be a little overwhelming at first to know which spot has what, so we’re here to break it down for you.
Dining Commons
The dining commons are where you can use your meal swipes. There are four dining hall locations on campus. These commons are all-you-care-to-eat style dining, and you should make a point to try them all! Each has a unique feature that sets them apart from the rest.
Garden Commons
Garden Commons, located behind Farmer School of Business near east quad, has the beloved Ciao station. This station serves varieties of pizza, pasta, and yummy sides like garlic knots or cinnamon bites. Garden Commons also features its own version of a stir-fry station, Zen Garden. If you’re looking for something more like a home-cooked meal, Comfort Thyme will be your best friend. They serve mostly sandwiches as well as every side you could think of. I always look for the Italian subs (yum!). Every time I saw them on the serving line, I knew I would be eating well for dinner!
Maplestreet Commons
Maplestreet Commons has many of the same stations as other all-you-care-to-eat locations like pizza, the grill, and the salad bar. But, if you have any allergies, Maplestreet has options! It’s also centrally located, about a half a block from Armstrong. The Allergen Station creates delicious dishes made without the top nine allergies (dairy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, sesame, shellfish, soy, and wheat), and also has many vegan and vegetarian options. Maple has been my favorite dining hall. It was also nearby most of my classes, so it always made for a great spot to work while I ate in-between classes!
Martin Commons
Martin Commons is the smallest dining hall on campus, but it still has great options! The main stations include a grill, a pizza station, and a salad bar. You can also ask for many made-to-order options like grilled cheese or black bean burgers at the Scoreboard Grill!
I lived on north quad during my first and second years, and Martin Commons is right at the center. They have a great market with a bunch of hot food options that you can order to go as well!
Western Commons
Western Commons, located on western campus is a bit different from the other commons on campus, in both the style of the building and the foods offered. As usual, it features a fantastic grill and salad station. Like Maplestreet Commons, Western also has a vast allergen station to cater to any of your needs. The most coveted part of Western Commons is the ice cream bar. This dessert station features two ice cream machines where students can order their favorite soft serve flavors. Don’t forget the toppings!
Markets
If you’re looking for a quick snack or a meal on the go, campus markets are your best option. There are seven markets on campus that allow you to use your dining dollars, including King Cafe. Many of these markets also have hot foods, customizable smoothies, and coffee that is all made-to-order! If you don’t want to use dining dollars, check out Meals To Go which allows you to use a meal swipe and comes with a York Street prepackaged entree, a piece of whole fruit, and a bottle of water. If you’re a coffee drinker, check out the campus Starbucks! Yes, you can use dining dollars on your Starbucks purchases when you are on campus.
Armstrong Student Center
Armstrong Student Center features two markets with grab-and-go food as mentioned above, but if you want more of a meal, check out one of the seven a la carte options. All food from Armstrong can be purchased with dining dollars. From sushi to milkshakes to pizza, and everything in-between, Armstrong has a little bit of everything. While you’re there, make sure to stop by Pulley Diner to try Miami’s famous toasted roll!
Chloe Miller
