Best Places to Grab Food around Campus

During busier periods of the academic year, you may find yourself spending more time on campus, so knowing where to head when you need a quick pick-me-up will save you that extra bit of time you can spend on your work.

Finding good places to eat near campus can be a challenge. Between lectures, library sessions, and group projects, you need food that’s affordable, convenient, and without wasting too much time. After quite some time here, I’ve narrowed down the best options for students. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between classes or a proper meal after a long study session, here’s where to go. 

On Campus

The easiest option is to stay on campus. There are multiple cafés and restaurants in pretty much every building, and in my opinion, they usually serve pretty decent meals. You can grab a hot meal or a cold salad, or a sandwich, and you’re all set. My personal favourite is the café in the NU Building, offering cheap sandwiches and coffee. 

The upside? No need to leave campus, which saves time. The downside? The menus can get repetitive, and it can get crowded during peak hours. Still, if you’re in a rush or just need caffeine, the on-campus spots are a lifesaver. 

Check out your options on the VU website:

https://vu.nl/en/about-vu/more-about/food-and-drinks-on-campus

Amsterdam Zuid Station

A five-minute walk from campus, you can find the Amsterdam Zuid Station, which has plenty of quick options. Because the station is surrounded by big office spaces, these restaurants and shops accommodate individuals and big groups of people coming in and out, so you won’t have to worry about waiting for too long. There’s also a Starbucks if you need coffee and Wi-Fi. 

Market 33

Close to the station and all the offices around, Market 33 is a great option if you’re perhaps in a larger group with people craving different things or if you are undecided yourself. The foodcourt-style layout with many different fast-food stalls around allows you to sit down anywhere with an array of different options ranging from ramen, Thai, and burritos to pitas, Chinese or Korean.

Supermarkets

If you want to save money, nearby supermarkets are your best bet. The Albert Heijn To Go at Zuid Station has meal deals, and the larger AH and Jumbo in Gelderlandplein (both within a 10-minute walk) offer fresh sandwiches, microwave meals, and other groceries. 

Pro tip: The VU library has microwaves, so you can heat up your supermarket meal or food from home.

Final Tip: Too Good To Go

For extra savings, download ‘Too Good To Go’. Nearby bakeries and cafés often sell leftover food at huge discounts.