Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall

520 Cowell-Stevenson Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
+1 831-502-7436
$$$ Cafeteria
(99 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to the Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall, a hidden gem nestled on the beautiful campus of the University of California, Santa Cruz. Located at 520 Cowell-Stevenson Road, this cafeteria is renowned not only for its delectable offerings but also for its breathtaking views. Whether you're a student seeking a satisfying meal or a visitor soaking in the vibrant campus atmosphere, this dining hall promises an experience that's both hearty and memorable.

The moment you step into Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall, you're greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere. This is more than just a cafeteria; it’s a community space where laughter and conversation flow as freely as the various food options available. From the balcony, you are treated to stunning vistas, making it the perfect locale for your lunch or dinner, especially during sunset. Imagine savoring a plate of coastal kale salad while the sun bathes the horizon in golden hues—a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

Speaking of flavor, the dining hall excels in one-of-a-kind food offerings that cater to diverse tastes. Reviewers like Jumur Jamal have raved about the hall's ability to "do the job" when it comes to satisfying hunger, though there’s always room for more variety—like adding more halal options to the menu. Ibrahim “ibby” Saeed highlights that the food here has "da flavor" and diverges from more traditional offerings, ensuring every meal is a delightful cultural experience. If you're a fan of filling, flavorful food, you’ll appreciate the well-seasoned dishes that keep patrons coming back for seconds.

Patrons such as JD Bonilla vow that the coastal kale salad deserves a special shout-out—it’s a perfect blend of crisp freshness and hearty texture. Just perfect it with their famous marinade, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser! Meanwhile, Ben Wilkonski reminisces about the “fire music” that adds to the vibrant energy of the hall, turning each meal into a musical experience that evokes fond memories and great times.

Moreover, the Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall is more than just a place to eat; it's a venue for events! Ian “IanL” Lamson describes a particularly memorable Mardi Gras event where the atmosphere was lively and colorful with music filling the air. The staff not only contributed to the positive energy but also ensured everything went smoothly, making it an enjoyable experience for performers and guests alike.

In essence, Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall is where culinary delight meets community spirit. Whether lounging on the balcony with friends or enjoying a meal solo, it offers a unique dining experience on campus that tantalizes the taste buds while providing a visual feast. So next time you're in Santa Cruz, don’t miss out on this delightful dining hall—bring your appetite and your friends, and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

07:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Tuesday

07:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Wednesday

07:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Thursday

07:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

07:00 AM - 11:00 PM

99 Reviews
Jumur Jamal

26 Aug 2025

My favourite dining hall at UCSC! Nothing will beat the gorgeous view at the Cowell/Stevenson Dining Hall. I wish they had more halal options and a greater variety of food, but it does the job! Would highly recommend getting food here pre-sunset, and to bask in the view whilst sitting on the balcony - alone and with friends.

Ibrahim “ibby” Saeed

18 Aug 2025

Views are lit and food better than most of the other spots on campus. They got da flavor food here not the white ppl stuff. Overall Obote mid but the music here just lame mfs playing Taylor swift and one d and not even they good shtuf smh

JD Bonilla

07 Jul 2025

pretty solid keep the coastal kale salad comin and MARINATE it!! they only have dry meat once in a while so solid 8/10 on dining hall levels

Ian “IanL” Lamson

23 Jun 2025

As a performer, I had a great time. The students were helpful in setting up the stage. The staff was friendly, helpful, easy-going, and down-right cheerful even. It was a Mardi Gras event. So, the place was decorated and colorful. We provided NOLA-based Zydeco music, and we were pleasantly surprised to actually see (a few bolder) people dancing in the spirit of tradition. I was even impressed by how close the food was to traditional Cajun food. That, doesn't happen too often. BTW, the view was glorious. A very pleasant experience.

Ben Wilkonski

11 Jun 2025

Music is so fire lit! food is so filling. Love this place, brings back so many memories. I love their free food!

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