What I eat on campus
Hi there! My name’s Micaela, and I’m a fourth-year International Economics and Finance student at Toronto Metropolitan University. I’m originally from Peru, and like many international students, adjusting to a new country also meant adjusting to a whole new food scene.
Whether I’m grabbing a quick bite between classes or winding down with a warm meal after a long day, campus and the area around it has definitely become my second kitchen. So, here’s a peek into what I eat on a typical day as a student at TMU and some of my favorite food spots I swear by.
Morning Rituals: Coffee & Something Sweet
Mornings for me always start with coffee (non-negotiable). If I have time, I’ll swing by Oakham Café. It's cozy, affordable, and their breakfast deals are chef’s kiss. If I'm rushing, The Footnote Café near the Library building is my go-to. Their cappuccinos are great, and I’ll usually grab a croissant or a blueberry muffin to power me through my first lecture.
Between Classes: Quick Bites & Comfort Cravings
When my stomach starts growling mid-day, I usually head to Hub Café. The Friendly Fiver has become my go-to. It’s a warm, filling meal that only costs $5. I’ve tried everything from the Chickpea Ragout with Quinoa to the Asian Rice Bowl with Tofu. It’s affordable, tasty, and perfect for getting through a busy day. Honestly, it has become my little comfort ritual between classes.
Another hidden gem is Ted’s Kitchen. They serve cuisines from all around the world, which keeps things exciting. Last fall I got to try Ethiopian food for the first time, and this winter they had Korean and German dishes on the menu.
Grocery Hauls & Late-Night Cooking
I usually do my grocery shopping at Metro or Loblaws, both a short walk from campus. They’ve got a decent international aisle where I can find ingredients to recreate some dishes from home like ají de gallina or lomo saltado. There’s also Perola’s Supermarket in Kensington Market if I’m on the hunt for more authentic Latin American ingredients.
Off-Campus Treats
When I’m not eating on campus, I usually head to Chipotle if I’m looking for a more filling meal. Their chicken bowl with beans and guac always hits the spot. Another favorite of mine is Shake Shack, which just opened near campus. I first tried it in New York, so I was pretty excited when they launched in Canada. Now I treat myself every couple of weeks to one of their classic cheeseburgers and a strawberry milkshake. Totally worth it.
Food Security & Free Eats
Something I’ve really appreciated about TMU is how it supports students dealing with food insecurity. The Good Food Centre offers grocery hampers, and the TMU Eats Free Food Project sometimes hosts pop-ups with free meals. I’ve also been to events in the fall at DCC’s Urban Farm, where students can learn about sustainable food practices and even take home herbs and veggies.
