Brandeis International Business School

I’m always planning my next culinary adventure.

Thankfully, Brandeis University is a great place to be a foodie!

Whether it’s a quick bagel on campus, chicken and waffles on Moody Street or a fresh lobster roll in downtown Boston, Brandeis is surrounded by delicious dining spots.

Variety is the spice of life, and you’ll also find plenty of it here in Waltham — a diverse city with an equally diverse array of ethnic restaurants. The primary hotspots can be found along Main Street and Moody Street, which is known as the city’s trendy restaurant row.

But it doesn’t end there. No matter what flavors you’re craving, you’ll probably be able to find it not too far from campus.

So let’s dig in! Here are my personal dining recommendations on campus, in Waltham and beyond.

Dining on campus

Brandeis students have access to diverse on-campus dining options that cater to various tastes.

Sherman Dining Hall serves as the primary dining venue, offering a broad selection of dishes to meet different dietary requirements. For those looking for a quick bite or a comfortable spot to catch up on work, Einstein Bros. Bagels offers delicious bagels, coffee and snacks.

Wakuwaku Ramen (located inside the business school!) stands out for its Japanese-inspired menu. Their simple yet delicious breakfast sandwiches are a hit, and I particularly enjoy their beef rice bowl and curry bao for a flavorful lunch option.

And since we’re in Massachusetts, Dunkin’ is the perfect spot for students on the go, providing an iconic range of doughnuts and drinks — ideal for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up between classes.

Dining on Moody Street

Moody Street is Waltham’s restaurant row, a vibrant culinary hub with options to suit just about any preference.

Amuleto Mexican Table delivers a true taste of Mexican cuisine, featuring colorful drinks and authentic dishes. In a Pickle is a brunch hotspot, known for its creative chicken-and-waffle dishes (try the Oreo Crunch!) as well as tasty paninis. For seafood lovers, Tempo offers a welcoming atmosphere with delicious fried oysters and scallops.

After enjoying a savory meal, a visit to Lizzy’s Ice Cream is a must — their mocha almond latte flavor is amazing.

Bistro781 is an excellent place to relax with friends, combining classic American meals, good music and a wide drink selection — perfect for celebrating any occasion.

If you prefer plant-based meals, Masao’s Kitchen provides a wholesome vegan buffet that focuses on fresh and minimally processed ingredients. Other honorable mentions include Solea Restaurant and Tapas Bar and Margaritas Mexican Restaurant.

Other options in Waltham

The dining scene in Waltham is as varied as its community.

Café on the Common offers a comfortable space for studying, complete with rustic tables and cozy couches — it’s where you might find me on weekends working on a project.

Peppino’s Dosa shines with its vegetarian-friendly menu, featuring delicious dosas and pav bhaji, and their affordable weekday buffets are a personal favorite.

For authentic Taiwanese dishes, head to Mu Lan for superb dumplings and smoked duck. Or for a taste of the Mediterranean, don’t miss Boston Kebab, known for its flavorful lahmacun and Turkish teas — a true delight for anyone who enjoys good Turkish cuisine.

Dining in Boston

The city of Boston offers diverse dining options for every palate.

Vaisakhi Indian Kitchen stands out as my favorite for Indian cuisine, featuring staple dishes such as samosa chaat, lamb biryani and chicken tikka masala.

For those looking to enjoy a meal with friends in a lively atmosphere, Bartaco in the Seaport District offers creative tacos and refreshing cocktails. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate Yankee Lobster Company, also in the Seaport, which is known for delicious lobster rolls and clam chowder.

If you’re in the mood for a unique dining experience, Q Restaurant in Chinatown invites you to try their engaging hotpot with a variety of broths and fresh ingredients.

For dessert, head over to Modern Pastry in the North End, a beloved bakery celebrated for its traditional Italian pastries and desserts.

Student Insights features blog posts produced by current students and recent graduates of Brandeis International Business School. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here belong solely to the author.