Dining Services FAQ

How do I sign up for the Dining Program?: Complete the dining contract and return the original signed contract to:
Housing and Dining Services
Carnegie Mellon University
1060 Morewood Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
When I purchase a meal plan, is it just for one semester?: No, when you purchase a meal plan, you make a purchase for the entire school year. You may make a change in your meal plan during the semester, but you may not drop the meal plan during the school year. You are billed per semester, but the purchase is for the academic year.
Why are first year students required to have a meal plan?: The meal plan helps students to make a successful transition from living at home to living on their own. It helps with the socialization process as well.
Is there any way I can be released from a meal plan?: Exceptions to the meal plan are made only for acute and severe health reasons or upon official withdrawal from the university.
What if I have special dietary requirements?: If you have special dietary needs or concerns, please call Dining Services at 412-268-2127. Fresh, pre-packaged Kosher meals are available. Many of our locations offer vegetarian and vegan menu items. You may also want to talk to any of the location managers who can help you select appropriate menu items. In addition, Carnegie Mellon employs a Registered Dietician, Paula Martin, who works in the Student Health Services office. She regularly meets with groups - and can be scheduled for individual counseling sessions - to help you with dietary planning as a part of a healthy lifestyle. She can be reached via email at askrd@andrew.cmu.edu.
How do I use the Dining Program?: Your Dining Program is encoded on your campus ID card. Present this card when you make a purchase. Your meals or DineExtra will be deducted as appropriate.
What if I lost my ID card?: REPORT A LOST CARD IMMEDIATELY by calling the HUB at 412-268-8186 or Campus Security at 412-268-2323. Carnegie Mellon is not responsible for any funds expended or the use of any lost or stolen cards. In addition, you are responsible for any charges you may make or attempt to make on your ID card. The university replacement fee is $15.
What are the hours of operation during holidays or other special events?: The hours will vary for each operation during special periods. Any adjustments to hours will be posted at least one week in advance. Check the Carnegie Mellon Dining Services web site for up to date information.
What happens to the meal plan during less than full weeks, such as Thanksgiving?: The meals available are pro-rated by plan and the number of service days available in the week. The meal plans are reduced to fewer meals and DineXtra dollars available. This change was factored into the cost of each meal plan.
Why can't food be carried out of the Schatz Dining Room?: At specified times the Schatz Dining Room is an "All you care to eat" facility while you are there. So, you are welcome to consume all you wish during each visit, but due to the pricing structure, food cannot leave this area.
Who serves the food on campus?: Carnegie Mellon uses two primary contract dining operators for all it's dining needs. Parkhurst Dining Services directly provides several of our dining unit concepts: Barista Cafe, East Street Deli, Pepperazzi, Penne's International Market, Bento Bowl, Showcase Salads, Kosher Korner, On The Go, Shatz Dining Room and Carnegie Mellon Catering Services. They also supervise several other smaller vendors who operate food locations on campus: Ginger's Deli and Express, La Prima Expresso, The Original Hot Dog Shop, Si Senor, Taste of India, Asiana's, Mitchell's Main Street Market and Sushi Two. Our Student Affairs Dining Unit is operated by Mark Hastie, owner of Gullifty's restaurant in Squirrel Hill, and includes Andy's Eatery, Skibo Cafe, The Underground, and Zebra Lounge.
Who sets the pricing for the vendors?: Dining Services reviews and approves the pricing structures. Pricing must be competitive with similar operations and their restaurants. In some instances, prices are actually lower.
Who watches over vendor quality?: Our Dining Services Management team regularly monitors vendor services and products. We welcome any comments or suggestions regarding vendor services.
What if I have a question or how can I voice my suggestions and give feedback to Dining Services directly?: Use the feedback portion of our website or attend the Student Dormitory Council Food Committee meetings. Also, you can email the Student Dormitory Council Food Chair at sdc-food-chair@andrew.cmu.edu or post to assocs.sdc.food.