For the eighth consecutive year, UCLA leads Niche.com’s Best College Food in America list, a title the university has earned nine out of the past 10 years. The rankings are primarily based on student surveys (85%), with meal plan affordability also factored into the score (15%).

“Coming in No. 1 out of 1,355 colleges and universities surveyed is no small feat and does not happen by accident,” said Al Ferrone, interim director, hospitality. “It takes hard work, dedication and purpose to achieve this prestigious award.”

Niche received 5,888 reviews for UCLA Dining, an exceptional participation rate, underscoring how the students view and appreciate this very talented team, said Ferrone. “I am proud of each and every one of our team members.”

UCLA Dining operates roughly a dozen quick-service restaurants and all-you-care-to-eat dining halls in UCLA’s residential community, known as “The Hill.” It is also home to two bakeries, which produce nearly all the bread, desserts, and pastries served each day in these locations and throughout campus catering operations, and a commissary where all soups, sauces, salad dressings, and more are made. 

With 15,500 on-campus residents to serve each day, equaling roughly 34,000 meals daily, UCLA Dining continues to set the national standard for campus cuisine. Want a closer look? Visit the UCLA Newsroom or explore content posted on Instagram.