Photo Courtesy / Jessica Lee

As university begins, many first-year students will come to realize that you spend an excessive amount of time on campus, both in class and studying. Naturally, finding food becomes a necessity, especially when you don’t have time to make your own meals.

“There is a [variety] of food at UTSC but you have to know where to look to make sure you are not paying an arm and a leg,” advised Christian Williams, a fourth-year orientation group leader.

In UTSC’s front courtyard outside the Student Centre, Nasir, fondly known as “The Hot Dog Guy,” is clearly visible. His stand is a UTSC crowd favourite, with reasonable prices that hit the spot.

The Student Centre itself houses bigger name food chains like A&W, Asian Gourmet, Subway and Treats.

“Though it gets a little pricier, with deals like A&W’s and Subway’s – you will never lose,” said second-year orientation group leader, John Bastawrous.

Keep an eye out for A&W’s coupons and Subway’s $4 six-inch subs.

The R-wing cafeteria near the gym houses Pizza Pizza and Sultan’s Middle Eastern Cuisine where you can treat yourself to either a pizza combo or a shawarma for less than $6. Don’t worry, you can always burn the calories in the cardio room after.

“In terms of a healthier variety of food, the Marketplace is your best bet,” sad Williams.

From pasta, poutine, chow mein and sushi, the H-wing Marketplace has everything, all freshly-made and cooked in front of you. The only downside is that meals are more costly. However, students can save money by purchasing a meal plan that can be used at several food outlets on campus, including the Marketplace.

And let’s not forget good ol’ Tim Hortons, which is easily the most popular food choice on campus. It’s hard to miss their two locations in the ARC near the library and in the Meeting Place because both are always swarmed with students eager to satisfy their caffeine addictions.

If you’re looking for a place to hang out with your friends sans wallet-busting prices, you will find your answer at Rex’s Den in the Student Centre, which was just launched last year. With a discount to any UTSC student and a menu consisting of pub favourites like chicken wings and a wide array of entrees, it is quickly becoming a popular hangout for hungry students.

However, new students will quickly realize that after 9 p.m., finding food on campus becomes extremely tricky as most locations close.

“Pack some water and snacks and a solid meal and you are set,” Williams advised for students on campus at night.

There are microwaves located in the H-wing, Bladen wing and Student Centre for students who wish to bring food from home. Also, keep in mind that Tim Hortons has extended hours during exam periods.

“UTSC admittedly has a more limited selection compared to other universities, but the options are just growing,” said Bastawrous.