Our Story

AT UNT DINING SERVICES, "IT'S ABOUT THE FOOD."

Food is more than just a source of nourishment—it’s one of the building blocks of a successful life.

We believe that ambitious minds need ambitious cuisine. From a hydroponic garden to a full-scale bakery, we seek innovative methods to make sure our food is as fresh, local, delicious and healthy as possible—without compromising our environmentally sustainable practices.

In the 14 years since we became a self-operated department, we have dedicated ourselves daily to caring for our students and giving them what they need to succeed—whether that is through employment, nutrition programs, alternative dining options, or other initiatives. We don’t just serve UNT, we are UNT—and that affinity affects everything we do.

College is an exciting time, full of friends, self-discovery and fresh experiences. Dining Services strives to support a student’s growth by cultivating an environment where there is a seat at the table for all. Our guests deserve no less, and whether you are a student, faculty, staff or a visitor to our campus, we want you to have the best dining experience possible.

Our chefs are committed to doing food service the right way: preparing the highest quality food, utilizing whole ingredients and cooking with sustainable methods. On behalf of everyone in Dining Services, welcome to our campus – we look forward to serving you soon!

– Peter Balabuch
Executive Director of Dining Services

POINTS OF PRIDE

20+ Retail food shops, including an upscale dining restaurant

5 Dining Halls

Full-service Catering department

In-house bakery

Fried wontons with dipping sauce from Mean Greens Café.

Nearly 5 million meals served annually

Part-time employee serving a student at Avenue A in Eagle Landing.

Résumé-building job opportunities for 1,100+ student employees

Leader in Vegan and Allergen-Free Campus Dining

Plate of Black Forest Seitan "Eggs" Benedict, roasted potatoes and roasted tomatoes from Mean Greens Café.

Plant-forward Dining

The nation's first and only 100% plant-based (vegan) collegiate Dining Hall. Features non-GMO, organic leafy greens grown on campus.

MEAN GREENS CAFÉ

Plate filled with a gyro and Mediterranean food.

Member of MCURC

UNT is a proud member of Menus of Change, and MCURC, which focuses on healthy, sustainable and delicious cuisine.

MCURC

Roasted meat, mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans.

Full of Flavor

The state's first and only Dining Hall Certified Free From™ the Big 9 food allergens and gluten.

KITCHEN WEST

FEATURED IN TRADE PUBLICATIONS AND NEWS OUTLETS, SUCH AS:

mnj

Awards & Accolades

#1 BEST COLLEGE FOOD IN TEXAS 2026, 2025, 2024, 2023

Niche.com

#15 BEST COLLEGE FOOD IN AMERICA 2026

Niche.com

INNOVATIVE DINING PROGRAM OF THE YEAR GRAND PRIZE

from the National Association of College and University Food Services

CATERING PROGRAM OF THE YEAR GRAND PRIZE

from the National Association of College and University Food Services

RESIDENTIAL SPECIAL EVENT OF THE YEAR GRAND PRIZE

from the National Association of College and University Food Services

RETAIL SALES: MARKETPLACE OF THE YEAR SILVER

from the National Association of College and University Food Services

SILVER MEDAL

at the UMASS Culinary Conference

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

We aim for excellence every time—not just in our cooking, but also in our meal plan options, employee satisfaction and customer relations.

If you have specific questions or concerns, please contact us at (940)-565-2462 or email us at dining@unt.edu.