The meal card is God’s gift to first years. So many options, so much good food to sample. If there’s one thing I miss about being in catered halls, it’s having a meal card (even if I did put on a considerable amount of weight). Impact have selected the top picks for where to spend your meal card on University Park campus.
“The Students’ Union Bar serves a plethora of burgers”
Mooch – this list would not be complete without Mooch. Nestled on the bottom floor of the Portland Building, the Students’ Union Bar serves a plethora of burgers, hotdogs and traditional English meals, with plenty of veggie and vegan options too. Although it’s more pricey than other alternatives, the portion sizes are huge – you definitely get bang for your buck. I’d recommend visiting several times to work out which of their staple burgers is your favourite.
“There is only one word to describe the bagels of Trent Café – heavenly.”
Trent Café – there is only one word to describe the bagels of Trent Café – heavenly. From salmon and cream cheese to hummus and roasted veg, there’s something for every bagel lover. The café also offers a range of hot paninis, soup and cakes – a slightly healthier choice of meals despite the cakes. It might be a little overpriced, but you’ve paid for your meals already, so you may as well splash out and treat yo’self.
Man’s Gourmet – another one of Portland’s treasures, Man’s Gourmet is your go-to Chinese option. With more choices than any other location on campus, you’ll need a good 10 minutes to decide what to order. I personally love the sweet and sour chicken and chicken satay, served with your choice of rice or noodles. Just make sure to get there early or be prepared to wait at lunchtime, there’s always a big queue as a hotspot on Uni Park.
Latitude @ Hugh Stewart Hall – UoN’s take on Nando’s, Latitude offers all things chicken. Flavourful, good value and still right in the centre of campus, it’s a convenient stop-off point between lectures. The meal deal will fulfil your £5.50 limit with plenty of food to enjoy. Just be warned, it’s not the best place for vegetarian dishes.
“The dough balls are to die for. “
Vesper @ Willoughby Hall – last but definitely not least, is Vesper. Probably because I lived in Willoughby in my first year, Vesper will always have a special place in my heart. It’s cheap, it’s very cheerful and it does a great range of Italian dishes, including pizza, pasta and breads. The dough balls are to die for. Although it’s more out of the way, if you have a spare couple of hours head down to Willo, you won’t regret it.
Sophie Hunt
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