How to Eat on Campus 101
Welcome to Wake Forest: Your Guide to Campus Dining
Whether you’re a first-year student or a seasoned regular at “The Pit,” Wake Forest University offers a wide variety of dining options to suit every taste and dietary need. From buffet-style meals to cozy cafés, here’s your guide to Deacon Dining across campus.
Reynolda Hall
The Pit
The heart of campus dining, “The Pit” is an all-you-can-eat buffet-style cafeteria known for its diverse daily menus and welcoming atmosphere. Be sure to greet our lovable cashier Ms. Sonnie at the entrance! Menus are available online and include full transparency on ingredients and allergens, so you always know what’s being served. The Allgood Station serves meals free from the top nine allergens, and Reynolda Hall is entirely peanut-free. Students with dietary restrictions can also meet with Registered Dietitian Andrea Carlisle and may gain access to the Stress Less Pantry, offering prepackaged allergen-free foods. Keep an eye on the chalkboard wall and social media for weekly Chef’s Table Pop-Up events featuring unique small plates.
The Magnolia Room
Located on the second floor, the Magnolia Room offers a refined dining experience with white linen tablecloths and southern sweet tea. Open for lunch Monday through Friday and dinner on Monday nights, it’s a great spot for a quiet meal with a touch of elegance.
Benson Hall
Shorty’s
A nostalgic sports-themed restaurant with roots dating back to 1916, Shorty’s is perfect for grabbing a bite with friends before the game. Enjoy burgers, baked potatoes, trivia nights, and a photo wall celebrating Wake Forest history.
La Sabrosa
Located in the Benson Food Court, La Sabrosa serves Latin-inspired build-your-own burritos, bowls, salads, and tacos. With a vibrant new look and a plant-forward menu, it’s a flavorful and inclusive option for students on the go.
Forest Greens
Looking for something light and fresh? Forest Greens offers made-to-order sandwiches and acai bowls.
Retail Options
Benson also houses Chick-fil-A, Bento Sushi, and the 336 South Market Convenience Store for quick meals and snacks.
North Dining Hall
Hilltop Dining
On the second floor, Hilltop Market features a modern servery with healthy, all-you-care-to-eat options including salads, American classics, and global cuisine. Open daily for lunch and dinner.
Village Juice
Founded by a Wake Forest alum, this local favorite offers smoothie bowls, grain bowls, toasts, and fresh-pressed juices—all made in-house.
Peet’s Coffee
Located on the first floor, Peet’s is a cozy spot for coffee, pastries, and light meals. It’s a popular place to study or catch up with friends.
Farrell Hall
Einstein Bros. Bagels
Stop by for freshly baked bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and Caribou Coffee. Einstein’s also offers catering options and is a reliable spot for a quick bite.
On the Quad
Billy D’s & Zick’s
Chef William Dissen’s fried chicken is the star at Billy D’s, made with love and local ingredients. Zick’s, named after former VP Ken Zick, is known for its flatbread pizza, wings, salads, and billiards. It’s a top hangout spot on campus.
Subway & P.O.D.
Located in Davis Hall, Subway offers fresh sandwiches and salads, while the attached P.O.D. store provides snacks and dorm essentials.
Worrell Professional Center
Legal Grounds Café
Enjoy locally roasted coffee and artisan-crafted products in this convenient café located in the Worrell Professional Center.
ZSR Library
Smith’s Café
Named after Zachary Smith Reynolds, this café features coffee and pastries from local vendors like ByGood Coffee, Bobby Boy Bakeshop, and Village Juice. The menu evolves throughout the year to include new community offerings.
From casual bites to fine dining, Wake Forest’s campus dining has something for everyone. Be sure to explore all the options and find your favorite spot!