It’s been two years since UNB Saint John’s Baird Dining Hall introduced its large-scale renovations and reinvented buffet-style food service. Since that first fall term in 2023, the Baron has published annual reviews that draw attention to student perspectives on the dining hall. Now, as we roll through the 2025 fall Semester, the time has come once again to gather the student body’s thoughts.

Samridhi Girdhar/The Baron

Food Quality

It has been consistently noted by students that the overall ingredient quality in the dining hall has significantly improved this year, especially in the department of comfort foods: burgers, chicken patties, and pizza. After being absent from the menu in the 2024 – 2025 academic year, pizza has returned as a regular dish, and it has proven to be one of the quickest foods to run out. Two anonymous dining hall staffers even admitted that they just “can’t keep pizza in,” bringing attention to the simple cheese and meat options as the most popular.  

The same staff members praised the new chicken patties, along with the made-to-order stir fry at the create station, which offers a wide range of customization. A hotel-grade pancake machine has also been introduced, serving fresh pancakes at the push of a button. Although the machine has faced some maintenance issues, it was a hit when first installed. 

 The consensus given by one of the staff members was “Food wise, I’m floored.”, but it’s not just the staff saying the dining hall’s graces this year. Several first-year students have reported being surprised by the quality of the food after arriving with low expectations. 

“It’s better than I expected, but it depends on what hour you go.” Reported first-year arts student Isabel Smith. “If you show up at an odd hour, the food will be picked over, but if you go at the right time, it’s great!” 

This statement has proven true, with odd hours of the day containing periods with very limited food options—an unfortunate downfall for students who have limited availability between classes. Rumours among the student body suggest that the cause of these events may be related to staffing issues, but nothing can be confirmed by the dining hall’s employees or management.

Among the population of returning students, the notion of improvement continues to be present.  

“Last semester, food was sometimes undercooked.” Reported second year computer science student, Medha Madhub. “There’s better variety now. There’s no more eating cheeseburgers every day, and there’s much more fruit too.”   

Samridhi Girdhar/The Baron

Labelling and Inclusion

Although many reviews have held positive and in favour opinions of the dining hall this year, some old issues still linger. One concern brought forward by an anonymous second year psychology student spoke about the limitations and confusions that still surround issues of proper labelling and variety of halal food options. 

“Halal options are limited,” the student reported, “and it’s frustrating when you ask and get no real answers.”  

Already this year, several students who follow halal dietary restrictions have reported being misled by unclear labeling. While most dining hall staff are considerate of halal needs, occasional knowledge gaps or delays in labeling can lead to some serious oversights. 

Students with allergies have also expressed concerns over inconsistent labeling. One notable change this year has been the removal of openly available peanut butter, aimed at protecting students with severe nut allergies; though sealed peanut butter packets are still available upon request. 

Samridhi Girdhar/The Baron

Closing Thoughts

The dining hall seems to be receiving positive praise, and students are more available to submit their feedback and push for changes. There remains a question of consistency: will the dining hall be able to keep up? It’s difficult to know, but the current student consensus is a lens of optimism, even in the face of challenges. Keep an eye out for our next report in fall of 2026, where we’ll once again revisit student opinions, list any notable changes, address new or lingering issues, and see whether this positive momentum has truly held up.