It’s that time of the semester when you barely have time to think, let alone pack a lunch or dinner before you head to campus. So what do you inevitably do? Buy potato wedges from Timmies or chips from the vending machine (no judgment here, those are still amazing choices), but Carleton has a wide array of fantastic food on campus – if you know where to look! Check out my guide below for when and where to buy the best food on campus.
Ollie’s Chicken Tenders and Fries
UC 1st Floor
Okay, so this may be a bit basic – but who can go wrong with some good chicken tendies? Ollie’s is Carleton’s campus pub, and while it has some great deals on drinks throughout the week, its food is quite inexpensive too, making it easy and affordable for students to pick up a quick snack. Their chicken tenders and fries are only $10.50 and come crispy and warm – just the way they should be. Don’t want to grab a whole meal? Get some of their deliciously crispy fries for only $4. Definitely, the type of pub, comfort food you need after getting some of those mid-term grades back.
Rooster’s Western On Toast
UC Galleria (UC 4th Floor)
Now I know I may take some heat for this – but I find Rooster’s infamous Bagelwitch a little overrated — bread to egg ratio is really off, in my opinion. However, I am a strong advocate for their Western sandwich. It comes with a serving of egg with green peppers and onions fried into it served on toasted bread or bagel, cheese and your choice of two toppings for $5.99. You really get the veggies and a variety within this sandwich, and it is the perfect thing to fill up so your stomach doesn’t rumble during your discussion groups (i.e. it will save you some tummy-rumbling embarrassment). Want something to drink with it? I highly recommend any of their smoothies! But be warned: long lines are in your future if you’re headed to Roosters during peak hunger times of the day, AKA in between every class, and especially at 12:00 pm.
Bento Sushi – Anything on the menu
UC Food Court (UC 2nd Floor)
For any vegetarians out there (and even vegans), this is the place for you! Albeit a little generic and basic, you can’t go wrong with any of the packages or types Bento Sushi has available. I’m a huge fan of sushi, so if I can get it easily, quickly, and at an affordable price, you know you’re going to see me in the UC Food Court getting my Salmon Lovers Combo of sushi. Prices usually range from $9 to $12, but there’s usually something for everyone. A warning: the UC Food Court changes its hours throughout the semester, so they won’t always be open during dinner time. Regardless I think it’s best to treat yourself to sushi at lunch rather than risk there being none left at dinner!
Tim Horton’s Crispy Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
UC 1st Floor
You had to see this coming. If you’ve ever seen me grab a bite to eat on campus, out of everything I’ve listed, it’s usually Timmies’ crispy chicken bacon ranch wrap. This thing has it all: ranch dressing (which tastes more like a caesar, in my opinion, which I prefer anyway), bacon, lettuce, tomato, and (of course) crispy chicken! You can also get grilled chicken in the wrap instead, but I opt for the warm, tender, and crispy chicken instead. The great part about this wrap is that it’s around $6, or boost it up and pay $10.50 to get a drink and a side with it. I think it’s the best deal around because you can get a coffee or tea and a donut/cookie/wedges/soup as your side. You can’t go wrong! Since the Richcraft Tim’s has been closed, though, the lines at the UC location have been insane. That being said, the service is always great and consistent!
There you have it: all the best foods worth checking out in the UC. Got more suggestions? DM us on IG @hccarleton, and get featured on our story!