W hat’s there to eat at UCLA? Plenty, of course. The food options are as diverse as the student body. From full service restaurants to fast food take-out, coffee shops to award-winning residential cuisine, this series features the current dining choices in each area of campus, complete with actual student reviews of their experience.
NORTH CAMPUS
Description:
Named after James “Jimmy” Lu Valle ’36, M.A. ’37, this coffee house features Intelligentsia coffee, espresso drinks, matcha tea favorites, pastries, sushi and light lunch items.
Location:
LuValle Commons
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Review:
“The people here are nice in a ‘Cheers’ sort of way. It's friendly and run by students who work hard every day. Go to study and enjoy the standard cup of coffee and muffins.” - Kevin S.
Description:
Burgers, chicken sandwiches, wings and other lunch favorites!
Location:
LuValle Commons
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sunday Closed
Review:
“The only good thing to eat here is the burgers. everything else is expensive and subpar.” Javier G.
Description:
Mexican food and grill.
Location:
LuValle Commons
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sunday Closed
Description:
Made-to-order fresh tossed salads.
Location:
LuValle Commons
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sunday Closed
Review:
“Unbelievably fresh and tasty salads. A bit pricey, but you know it's worth the price when your last bite (actually almost every bite) has a piece of your favorite meat added. They are certainly not stingy at all with the amount of meats added to your order.” - Dean R.
Description:
Your choice of hot ramen or rice bowls, vegetarian options available.
Location:
LuValle Commons
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sunday Closed
Review:
“There is never a line and I'm served my food within 2-3 minutes! Perfect for when I'm in a hurry between classes. I definitely recommend this place for UCLA students.” - Jennifer K.
Description:
Featuring Starbucks coffee, espresso drinks, pastries, made-to-order Mediterranean bowls, specialty sandwiches, and grab-and-go lunch options.
Location:
Anderson School of Management
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday Closed
Review:
“Gone are the days of Il Tramezzino with the newly renovated and renamed Anderson Cafe. Located just down the steps from the new Marion Anderson Hall, this location is also perfect for those attending an event at Royce Hall. I stopped by today for a cup of coffee and was pleasantly surprised to see that they now serve Starbucks coffee and some of their most popular drinks, such as a very berry hibiscus. The staff was pleasant and informative, and our drinks came out quickly.” - Christina M.
Description:
Public Domain coffee & tea, pastries, sushi, and fresh cut fruit cups, bowls, and agua fresca.
Location:
North Campus Food Court
Hours:
Temporarily Closed
Review:
“As a college student, the first and last thing you'll always need is coffee. This place is open very early and is conveniently very close to other classrooms, meaning you can run for a coffee before, during or after class for a quick pick-me-up! They also serve frozen yogurt, paninis (which rotate every day) and pastries alongside a large selection of coffees. While they close halfway through the day, it is still a great place to meet up for a quick conversation or a study session.” David V.
Description:
Featuring delicious and complete meals, all under 600 calories.
Location:
North Campus Food Court
Hours:
Temporarily Closed
Review:
“In the Northern Lights food court, there is a section called "the lighter side." Here, they offer a variety of proteins and vegetable sides. Proteins include rotisserie chicken, salmon and other fish. Sides include vegetables, carrots, mashed potatoes and rice with veggies.” - Megan E.
Description:
Individual pizzas made with fresh ingredients and your choice of classic flour or cauliflower crust! Enjoy a hot cup of soup, add a side salad for a wholesome meal.
Location:
North Campus Food Court
Hours:
Temporarily Closed
Review:
“Cheap personal pizzas that come out hot. It's even better if you get there right as they're taking the pizzas out of the oven! Sometimes they have a bunch sitting out waiting for takers. The specials change every day, so you never know. The pizzas fill you up and you don't need to spend more than $4 woo-hoo!”- Katherine S.
SOUTH CAMPUS
Description:
Fast-fired, fresh, made-from-scratch pizza with your choice of toppings.
Location:
Court of Sciences
Hours:
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“What distinguishes this Blaze from every other Blaze is the fantastic service! My server took so much care making my pizza, asking if I was satisfied with the portions, etc. This can probably be attributed to the fact there was no line behind me...but I really appreciated the service. My pizza tasted so delicious and she arranged the toppings perfectly.” - Teresa A.
Description:
Proudly pouring Peet’s Coffee and pastries.
Location:
Court of Sciences
Hours:
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“This place gives you a decent fix. Not the best, but not the worst coffee. Also, the workers are all students here, so they are all really nice and courteous. They make sure to ask you what type of milk you would like and offer suggestions for when you are feeling adventurous!” - Hanning X.
Description:
Quick and fresh! Made-to-order subs and salads just the way you like it.
Location:
Court of Sciences
Hours:
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“My favorite subway location. The staff are nice and work fast on the sandwiches. They generously fill extra vegetables whenever someone asks. The drink station is clean and has a lot of options.” - Diem R.
Description:
Featuring ramen and rice bowls, vegetarian options available.
Location:
Court of Sciences
Hours:
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“It gets really busy at lunch and the wait may be long but they're preparing the food fresh so it is worth it if you plan accordingly. I recommend the steak sandwich.” - An P.
Description:
Japanese rice bowls, fast and at an affordable price
Location:
Court of Sciences
Hours:
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“Service is very quick and efficient. Chicken teriyaki bowl is my favorite. Consistent quality. Don't forget the ted ginger and chili powder!” - Emily L.
Description:
A place for the researchers and doctors of the Gonda Center and MacDonald Laboratories to connect with each other. Pours Peet’s Coffee, features all-day breakfast, specialty panini sandwiches and gourmet salads.
Location:
Neuroscience Building across from UCLA Ronald Reagan Hospital
Hours:
Monday – Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“Paninis and omelets never disappoint. Shout out Deb the best chef at UCLA and Alex the barista whose personality shines on the darkest days. Definitely give them a try!” - Justin D.
Description:
Serves a wide variety of offerings such as sushi, breakfast favorites, salads and sandwiches. Perfect place for a quick bite on the UCLA Medical campus.
Location:
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Hours:
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“I love coming to Cafe Med. I typically order the breakfast quesadilla which includes as many veggies as I like, egg, cheese, hash browns and salsa. The portion is huge and it only costs $3.93, which is a bargain for Westwood. The burgers are also huge and inexpensive, this cafe is a better alternative to the Ronald Reagan cafeteria.” - Hannah M.
Description:
Guests at the cafeteria may stop by for a delightful and aromatic cup of freshly brewed coffee or a skillfully prepared meal at any of the six meal stations including: the grill, pizza, hot entree, exhibition cooking, deli bar, and soup & salad bar. The friendly and dedicated staff makes it a priority to ensure that guests enjoy a complete and pleasant dining experience.
Location:
UCLA Ronald Reagan Hospital
Hours:
Monday - Friday 6:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Review:
“A great hospital cafeteria! It can get pretty crowded during lunch but lines move relatively quickly. There's indoor and outdoor seating. A wide variety of food throughout the week. I really enjoy the sandwich bar at lunchtime. My favorite is the grilled chicken sandwich which has a great sauce with avocado and a pickle on the side. I've also seen signs of their famous bread pudding. Hope I get to try it out some day!” - Andy W.
CENTRAL CAMPUS
Description:
Mediterranean-inspired, sustainably sourced, California-fresh dishes.
Location:
Inside the UCLA Luskin Conference Center
Hours:
Monday - Sunday 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Review:
“Place is delicious! You can tell the cooks really enjoy what they’re doing. Have tried a variety of different items and haven’t been disappointed. Their veal pasta is amazing. I am in love with their risotto and broccolini. Their tiramisu is too good! Seriously everything.” – Genesis Q.
Description:
Brewed Public Domain coffee, espresso drinks, pastries and sandwiches.
Location:
Ackerman A-level
Hours:
Monday - Friday 7 a.m – 6 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“I'm here way too much. But I just can't help it. Decent prices, open early hours. I highly recommend their spinach and feta tortilla wrap, which comes with feta cheese, spinach, egg white and sun dried tomatoes in a huge green tortilla — IT IS AMAZING, to say the least. Ask the cashier to heat up the wrap for you (trust me). In terms of coffee, I stick to the nonfat vanilla latte. It is super strong, and it can often be substituted as a meal (great for suppressing your appetite).” – Arash D.
Description:
Asian-style noodles, sushi and boba.
Location:
Ackerman A-level
Hours:
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“Come here so often and have tried almost everything. They have some pretty good deals with their noodles and sushi combo, which I would get when I was really hungry. Great deal for lots of food. Definitely recommend getting their tan tan noodles — peanuty and a dry noodle.” - Paulina L.
Description:
All of your Mexican favorites: tacos, burritos and quesadillas.
Location:
Ackerman A-level
Hours:
Monday - Friday 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“The service is fast and considerate. Would recommend this Taco Bell! They typically get the proportions of the ingredients just right.” – Katie L.
Description:
Charbroiled burgers, chicken sandwiches, chili fries, shakes and a lot more!
Location:
Ackerman A-level
Hours:
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Review:
“This place has saved my poor hungry soul many times! I've tried the bacon cheeseburger, a hearty mess of ‘I don't want to know what I'm digesting.’ There is also the constant contender, the teriyaki burger, always packing a one-two with its sweet pineapple and its savory patty. Finally, I often get the spicy chicken sandwich. This little guy will kill that hunger and give your taste buds a kick while keeping your wallet happy.” – Hanning X.
Description:
Fish tacos and many more freshly prepared Mexican offerings right off the grill.
Location:
Ackerman Level 1
Hours:
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Review:
“Oh man I can't say enough good things about this food - the flavors, the way the food is cooked, very tasty, melts in your mouth. The staff was so friendly and helpful too. We will definitely be coming back to eat the best fish tacos out there. I wish I could give six stars. Delicious!” – Christina C.
Description:
Vegan restaurant chain
Location:
Ackerman Level 1
Hours:
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Review:
“Great quality food! I'm not vegan or even vegetarian yet really enjoy the food here. Ackerman Union was really missing quality food before VG opened.” – Omar A.
Description:
Gourmet Chinese food, from orange chicken to spring rolls.
Location:
Ackerman Level 1
Hours:
Monday - Friday 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Review:
“This spot constantly delivers. They serve awesome food for reasonable pricing, there are no long waits even when the place is packed.” – Misael B.
CORE (Convenient Options Ready To Eat)
Description:
Featuring gourmet salads and sandwiches, plant forward bowls and tasty treats!
Location:
Ackerman Level 1
Hours:
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Description:
Fresh-baked pretzels served hot! Lemonade and other drinks too.
Location:
Ackerman Level 1
Hours:
Monday - Friday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“My pretzel was soft, fresh and ready in a jiffy.” – Tigra C.
Description:
Serving boba tea, flavored teas, iced coffee and smoothies.
Location:
Ackerman Level 1
Hours:
Monday - Friday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“My guilty pleasure after a long day on campus is a taro milk tea with boba. I try to come when they’re on special like Milk Tea Mondays or Taro Tuesdays. The servers even give me the option to adjust the sweetness level or the type of dairy they use. Hands down my favorite spot to satisfy my sugar cravings.” – Anthony C.
Description:
UCLA’s first coffee house is where campus culture and coffee collide since 1975. Taste the fresh pastries or have a light meal, try the soup and grilled cheese combo.
Location:
Kerckhoff Hall, Second Floor
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Review:
“This is one of my favorite coffee shops on campus. It’s very beautiful. This place has lots of tables and outlets along the pillars. It’s a nice place to gather and discuss homework, projects or study for any upcoming exams. It’s a loud, vibrant, yet productive atmosphere filled with hip-hop music from the speakers.” – Yoandra V.
Description:
Serving boba tea, flavored teas, iced coffee and smoothies.
Location:
Ostin Music Center, First Floor
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday Closed
Review:
“Yes to the coffee and yes to being a great study place on campus! I tried a cafe latte with almond milk then a French vanilla latte, and the French vanilla latte was yummy! It wasn't too sweet and tasted perfect with the croissant. There’re a few outlets on the ground nearby two of the tables so try to snag those tables if you can. Wifi is also strong here! There are also gender-neutral bathrooms!” – Annie B.
PART III of Campus Eats will feature residential dining options.