I get a lot of questions from incoming students about what kind of food is offered at USC, and how difficult it is to stay healthy in college. The answer is: USC offers great food options, and it’s not that hard to figure out something that works for you!
USC just revamped one of the older dining halls on campus (EVK). Not only is it super modern on the inside now, but the food selection has expanded and there are even more healthy options than before, including an outside grill and a pasta bar inside. And since it’s right between Birnkrant and New North dorms, it’s perfect for quick meals before class or in between study sessions. In addition to EVK, USC still has Parkside dining hall, and also has the recently opened Cafe 84 dining hall. Both of these are great alternatives, and they’re centered around dorm buildings as well, so you never have to go far for great food!
USC’s new Cafe 84 dining hall!
This year I’ve been cooking a lot too. Living in a house of 12 guys, we go through a lot of food, and there’s always something awesome cooking in our kitchen. Lately my new staple is a skirt steak sandwich. My roommate taught me the recipe, and because it’s so easy, I’ve been having it 3 nights a week (a little excessive, but it’s so good!).
So for those who want to try it, here it is:
All you need is some steak, bread (from fresh and easy, my new favorite store), cheese, tomatoes, spinach, and balsamic vinegar. Grill the steak on low heat while you mix together the spinach, diced tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar in a bowl. Cut the bread and throw some cheese on it. Let the steak sit for 5 minutes after it’s done grilling, cut it up into pieces, and throw in on the bread with the rest of the ingredients and viola! It’s that easy.
There’s also no shortage of great, healthy restaurants around the area. With new restaurants like “Margharita Pizza” and “The Lab” popping up all the time, there are plenty of opportunities for students to get great food while still being healthy.
