Food in DeKalb and on Campus
Good friends. Good times. Great food.
Food is more than just sustenance; it is a language that speaks to our senses and brings people together. While at NIU, you'll have a endless opportunities to try new cuisine both on campus and in the DeKalb community.
Dining on Campus
Huskies have a variety on dining options to choose from on campus. Our dining facilities are located in the residence halls and throughout several areas of campus, including the Holmes Student Center and Founders Memorial Library.
Below are some resources to help you eat healthy while in college.
MyDining
Campus Dining Services helps you make decisions about the foods you choose to fill your plate. With MyDining you can select a campus dining location to learn about the nutritional value of the foods offered. Whether you are vegetarian, vegan or have food allergies, MyDining helps you find dining options that are best suited to your needs.
Nutrition Coaching
Our team of nutrition coaches can show you how the right foods can boost energy and concentration so you are not feeling tired during the day and can perform at your best while in class or studying. A wide range of programs provides many ways to connect with our nutrition team. From one-on-one visits with a nutrition coach to group classes and events, we've got something for everyone.
Huskie Food Pantry
As a Huskie, you should never experience food insecurity. You should focus on your education, not on where you are getting your next meal. Our Huskie Food Pantry provides all Huskies with staples such as fresh produce, canned and boxed goods, and household and hygiene products.
Ellington’s Restaurant
Three-course meals prepared from course work.
For a fine dining experience on campus, visit Ellington’s Restaurant in the Holmes Student Center during the fall and spring semesters. The menu changes with each service and these healthy meals are prepared by fellow students studying nutrition and dietetics, as well as business administration with an emphasis in hospitality and tourism management.
No reservations are required to experience the three-course, dine-in service that occurs on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., and Huskie Bucks, Dining Dollars and debit/credit cards are accepted.
Delicious Dining in DeKalb County.
Foodies will delight in tasting all the flavors and options for dining in DeKalb County. There are so many options to choose from: farm-to-table, tapas, classic diners, ethnic delights, pub food and upscale options to name a few. The food is delicious and served with a smile.
With over 70 restaurants within the community there is surely something to satisfy your cravings. Taste the many flavors DeKalb has to offer including Barb City Bagels, Old School Pizza, the Thai Pavilion and Insomnia Cookies. The DeKalb Foodie Map provides an overview of all the tasty places to visit in town. You can browse for ethnic options, places that provide delivery, restaurants that are open late, and places that are found exclusively in DeKalb.
Local Favorites in the Heart of Campus
During the fall and spring semesters we bring local flavors to the MLK Commons for Food Truck Wednesdays. Take a midweek break between class to meet up with friends, enjoy an outdoor lunch and experience some local favorites right in the heart of campus.
Have Questions?
Take a look at these frequently asked questions about physical and mental wellness.