We’ve all had those days — rushing out the door for a 6 PM class, fully intending to throw together a quick meal, only to lose track of time. Then as a result, you’re stuck sitting through a three-hour lecture on an empty stomach, either choosing between a bag of chips from the vending machine or trying to focus on anything other than how hungry you are.
But here’s something you might not know: if you’re an Emerson graduate student commuting to the Boston campus for classes, you receive seven complimentary meal swipes each semester to use in the Dining Center or at other retail locations. Many grad students assume these spaces are just for undergrads, or avoid using their swipes because they’re not sure how it works. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone!
Gone are the days of skipping meals — this guide gives you insight into all the different dining options Emerson offers its graduate students.
Emerson’s Dining Center
Located at 122 Boylston St., the Dining Center on Emerson’s campus is anything but lackluster. With stations that offer diverse and allergen-friendly options that rotate multiple times a day, the dining hall is one of the most reliable spots to grab a meal.
Some of these stations include vegetarian options, made-to-order burgers and chicken, internationally-inspired cuisine, and unique pizza flavors. Not to mention all the dessert options, homemade teas, and an extensive salad bar with rotating soups of the day. You can also check the daily menus and hours ahead of time here!
The best part? The Dining Center follows an “all-you-can-eat” model, meaning all you have to do is swipe your Emerson ID when you walk in, and you’re free to enjoy as much food as you could possibly want. As part of your single swipe used to access the Dining Center, you also ask a staff member for a clean eco-friendly to-go container for meals (or leftovers) on the go, because why not? Might as well get as bang for your buck!
Fortunately, even if you run out of swipes for the semester but need a quick bite, the Dining Center also accepts Visa and Mastercard (trust me, I’ve been there).
Tip: Look out for the self-scoop ice cream freezer near the salad bar. I’ve been known to bring an ice cream sundae to class!
The Lion’s Den
Looking for a place where you can sip on a coffee or enjoy a full meal while getting some work done? The Lion’s Den has you covered. Featuring Griff’s Taqueria and the Lion’s Den Coffee Bar, it’s easy to grab a caffeine boost or a hearty bite before class.
A little less formal than eating in the dining hall, the Lion’s Den is designed for everything from study sessions to group hangouts. Griff’s Taqueria offers fresh bowls, burritos, and grab-and-go options, while the Coffee Bar serves fair trade, organic coffee brews sourced locally in Massachusetts. They also have pastries and breakfast items for a morning pick-me-up, but note that Coffee Bar is only open until 2 PM.
Like the Dining Center, the Lion’s Den accepts meal swipes for specific items as well as all major payment methods.
C-Store at the Max
The C-Store at the Max combines a made-to-order grill with a campus market always stocked with tons of local products and well-known favorites. Found on the second floor of the Piano Row building, this spot also boasts a generous amount of organic and gluten-free options, along with a high-quality coffee machine if you’re in desperate need of a quick pick-me-up.
The C-Store also features Bon Appetit’s GO program, which offers a variety of ready-made hot and cold meals for when you’re on the move.
Tip: Because of its close proximity, this is a great spot to visit before or after hitting the gym.
Backstage Cafe and Deli
You don’t need to take the Amtrak to get that New York City deli experience; just venture to 2 Boylston Place and visit the Backstage Cafe. Known for its made-to-order sandwiches crafted with house-prepared meats and fresh ingredients, this deli is always a reliable spot for lunch, opening at 11 AM daily.
In addition to sandwiches like a classic BLT, a chicken caesar wrap, and more, Backstage also offers a variety of soups, salads, and desserts.
Like most other spots, this spot accepts meal swipes as well as cash/credit/debit cards.
Between classes, internships, and everything else grad students have to prepare for, figuring out a place to eat on campus shouldn’t add to the stress. Whether you need a quick bite or a place to recharge, Emerson’s dining spots have you covered. Check out the daily menus and specials for the establishments here.
If you have questions about the graduate student dining plan or meal swipes, email business_services@emerson.edu for more information.
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