As many college students can tell you, it’s easy to either forget to eat when you’re busy with schoolwork, or eat the worst possible stuff you can find. But with UVA’s many different dining options, some of the struggle is made a little bit easier.
All first years are required to have a meal plan, and upperclassmen have the option of purchasing one, but it is not required. The number of meal swipes depends on the meal plan, and students may upgrade to a larger plan at any time. Weekly plans provide unlimited meal swipes in the main dining rooms seven days a week, while block plans have a set number of meal swipes available for use on any day of the semester. A different entrée selection at both lunch and dinner at all three residential restaurants gives students a Grounds-wide total of six options every day, in addition to Grab n Go and dine-in items. These menus are posted online.
UVA Dining Services also includes a wide variety of options and resources for students with dietary restrictions or allergies. Meatless entrees are available at all residential dining rooms during each meal period, and gluten-free and lactose-free food is available in all three main dining rooms. The Copper Hood provides students with allergies and intolerances a safe dining experience, with stations at O’Hill, Fresh Food Co. and Runk dining rooms. All meals served from the Copper Hood are free of egg, milk, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, tree nuts and peanuts. Students also have the option to work with a nutritionist if they have questions, concerns, or require modifications.
Another aspect of meal plans at UVA is Flex Dollars. Flex Dollars are included in meal plans and are available for use in all dining locations on Grounds. Each meal plan includes non-taxable dollars for students to spend like cash for food items.
Dining Halls
- Newcomb
- O’Hill
- Runk
- Shea
- John Paul Jones (for student athletes only)
Meal Exchange Locations, Plus Dollars Locations and Associated Vendors
- The Pav (Pavilion XI)
- The Castle
- Crossroads
- Street Eats (food trucks at the amphitheater)
- Einstein Bros. Bagels
- Starbucks
- Library Cafés
- And more!
It might seem like a no-brainer but remember to stay fueled while you’re in school! UVA offers plenty of options for students to get the nutrition they need, whether it’s a full breakfast spread at 10 a.m., pizza at half past midnight, or anything in between.