My Favorite Places to Eat on Campus

When I first came to Carnegie Mellon, I didn’t expect to have strong opinions about the food on campus. But over the past year, finding meals I genuinely look forward to has made a big difference in my daily routine. Whether I’m grabbing something quick between classes or sitting down with friends after a long day, good food has become a surprisingly comforting part of college life, especially during the colder months in Pittsburgh.

My absolute favorite place to eat is Revolution Noodle, located right in the University Center. Their signature broth with noodles is exactly what I need after a long day—it’s comforting, flavorful and somehow always makes everything feel better. I usually add a side of crispy fried chicken, an egg tart or a boba if I’m a little hungrier than usual. It’s definitely worth a visit—the portions are generous, and the quality is consistently great.

Another spot I really enjoy is The Exchange, tucked away in the Posner Building. Although the hot meals are excellent, the sandwiches are what I keep going back for. From the General Assembly to the chicken salad melt, I don’t think I’ve eaten anything faster. The Leonardo, in particular, is a multi-layered masterpiece that’s gained a following of its own—yes, there’s even an Instagram page dedicated to it, and yes, it’s absolutely justified.

When I’m feeling homesick, Scotty’s Market is where I go. As an international student, finding food that reminds me of home is so meaningful. Scotty’s Indian meals—like white rice with chicken curry and chicken tikka—are my go-to and their vegetarian dishes are also excellent. Indian food is hard to get right, but they do a fantastic job every time. It’s also perfectly located inside the campus grocery store, which makes it convenient for a quick meal before or after shopping. If you go, you must get the tiramisu.

As a Tartan Ambassador, I’m often asked by parents about the food on campus. Many assume I’ve been trained to give a polished answer, but honestly, I just speak from experience. I’ve truly enjoyed the meals I’ve had here and I genuinely believe students will find great options that fit their tastes and make them feel at home.

CMU might not be famous for its dining, but with everything from Mediterranean comfort food to hearty sandwiches and flavorful Indian meals, I’ve loved exploring the variety of cuisines and discovering all the spots that make dining on campus something to look forward to.