Students coming out of Hampshire Commons at UMass Amherst as the Fall 2025 semester begins.
Hampshire Commons is one of the campus’s major dining centers. UMass Dining has earned national recognition for years, ranked as the top campus dining program in the country for 9 straight years. Hampshire Dining Commons is known for its wide range of options, from fresh salad bars and global cuisines to comfort food staples.
Hampshire DC, along with Berkshire, Worcester, and Franklin Dining Commons, helps feed tens of thousands of students daily. Menus feature local produce whenever possible, thanks to partnerships with farms in the Pioneer Valley. UMass reports that nearly 30% of its food budget goes to buying from local sources, which supports farms in Amherst, Hadley, and Sunderland.
The dining commons also play a role in sustainability efforts. Hampshire DC participates in UMass’s food waste reduction program, composting, and student-led initiatives like “Green Monday,” which highlights plant-based meals.
Curious about the food scene beyond campus? Local favorites like Antonio’s Pizza and The Black Sheep Deli remain popular with students and visitors alike.
