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Lewiston Today
By the People, for the People
Bates College Cafeteria Serves Some of the Best Food in the U.S.
Maine college's dining program ranked 7th nationally for quality and variety.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:07am
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The vibrant, welcoming atmosphere of Bates College's dining hall reflects the school's commitment to providing students with a nourishing, community-focused dining experience.Lewiston TodayBates College in Lewiston, Maine has been recognized as having one of the top college dining programs in the United States, ranking 7th on Niche's list of colleges with the best food. The college's Dining Commons is praised for its diverse menu, specialty food stations, and commitment to providing high-quality, nutritious meals that cater to the needs of the student body.
Why it matters
College dining experiences can vary greatly, with some schools offering subpar cafeteria food while others prioritize providing students with delicious, healthy, and diverse meal options. Bates College's recognition as having one of the best college dining programs in the country highlights the school's dedication to supporting student well-being and creating a vibrant campus community centered around food.
The details
Bates College's Dining Commons, known as the DDC, serves three meals a day on weekdays and brunch and dinner on weekends. The menu features a wide variety of options, from steak tips and chicken stir fry to made-to-order omelets and other specialty stations. The college's commitment to providing high-quality, nutritious food has earned it an 'A+' grade from Niche, a leading college ranking and review site.
- Bates College first opened in 1855.
- Niche released its list of the best college food in the United States in 2026.
The players
Bates College
A private liberal arts college located in Lewiston, Maine that was founded in 1855 and is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student well-being.
Niche
A leading college ranking and review site that publishes annual lists of the top colleges and universities across various categories, including best college food.
The takeaway
Bates College's recognition as having one of the best college dining programs in the country underscores the importance of providing students with access to high-quality, nutritious, and diverse food options as part of a holistic approach to supporting student well-being and fostering a vibrant campus community.
