By Akanksha Dhingra

Unpredictable Canadian weather and long lectures are not a great mix. To survive the day, we always need a strong breakfast, lunch, snacks, and a cozy place to enjoy it all.

Although Ryerson University is surrounded by downtown Toronto's various food options, on-campus food outlets also offer affordable meals and snacks for students.

In between classes, it is always a blessing to have a café nearby to pick up your coffee to-go. Other times, having a lavish lunch with your friends is the best solution to all your school stress.

Convenient and affordable little space to get your wraps

Oakham Café located in the Ryerson Student Centre, offers the right setting for an early morning breakfast or a perfect midday lunch break.

Oakham Café in the Ryerson Student Centre offers a cozy environment with mouth-watering food options. (CanCulture/Akanksha Dhingra)

As you enter, the red brick walls with student artwork on display give you a warm, welcoming vibe. If you are looking for some Instagram-worthy pictures and a chill atmosphere, Oakham Café is the ultimate spot.

It is a perfect place to study and catch up on assignments. Although, expect it to always be busy as it seems like no one can resist the palatable items.

One can never get tired of trying different items on the menu. Freshly-brewed drip coffee, espresso, chai lattes and freshly-squeezed juices are available for $3 and under.

Near the entrance, a chalkboard displays mouth-watering ‘Café Specials’ that are different every day.

Vegans don’t be disappointed, Oakham Café has plenty of things to offer for you too.

The quinoa burger made of quinoa, oats, mushrooms, pecans, and spices is usually in high demand.

“I love quinoa burgers, and Oakham Café has some really good vegetarian options,” said Juliana Regan, a second-year film student. “It is a convenient and affordable little space to get wraps in between classes and after long commutes.”

Juliana Regan, a second-year film student, at Oakham Café. (CanCulture/Akanksha Dhingra)

As a Pitman Hall resident, I find Oakham to be my go-to place after getting tired of the food.

I would highly recommend my all-time favourite, the garlic bread with spicy mayonnaise.

Oakham Café accepts payments through Ryerson One Cards, so next time you have some flex dollars, visit the café and save some cash.

Oakham is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Monday to Friday and has brunch meals from 9:30 a.m.- 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

Juliana Regan, a second-year film student at Oakham Café. (CanCulture/Akanksha Dhingra)

Junk or healthy? You get both

The Flavoursome Grill halal chicken burger and a cheesy pizza slice from the Service Hub Cafe at Ryerson University. (CanCulture/Akanksha Dhingra)

If you prefer vegan, vegetarian, or halal options, the centrally located Service Hub Cafe can be your next favourite setting.

The place gives you the choice between your guilty pleasure food items and healthy workout day food too. From burgers and fries, you can also make your own bowl full of veggies, meat, and sauces.

As a foodie, I love the variety of soups, pizza, and sandwiches.

The cafe is clean and has big windows all around, creating a well lit and active environment.

I tried the grilled halal chicken burger, and it was as delicious as it seemed. A grilled chicken patty topped with a layer of pickles, peppers, tomatoes, and mayonnaise is all you need to have a better day.

“I love how you can build your own bowl, I always come here between classes,” said Pooja Rambaran, a first-year journalism student.

Pooja Rambaran, a first-year journalism student. (CanCulture/Akanksha Dhingra)

The central location makes the café busy and an ideal place to get some munchies in between classes.

The Ryerson Service Hub is right next to the cafe and is never short on seating. If you have a lot of homework piled up, I would suggest you to grab some food and find your comfort spot there.

The Hub Cafe is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Thursday.

Rye’s one and only student pub

The Ram in the Rye. (CanCulture/Akanksha Dhingra)

Ryerson’s student pub Ram in the Rye is a great place to loosen up after having a hectic day.

Cheap food and drinks are exactly what every student is looking for and you’ll find it all here.

My personal favourite is the tandoori chicken and naan. Being Indian, the spice is all I crave. The quantity is always enough to fill you for the rest of the day.

A cheeseburger, poutine, and garlic bread from Ram in the Rye. (CanCulture/Akanksha Dhingra)

The pub has good service and a friendly environment. Being a university pub, there is always some fun event going on. The pool tables and dark lighting are the perfect combination when wanting a night to destress.

Don’t miss the chicken wings, nachos, grilled paninis, and the special Ram Burger that cannot be found anywhere else but here.

“It is always a fun night to come here during events. I get to dance and have a cheese sandwich later,” said Mahima Soni, a second-year business management student.

You always have a place for your study break or late night hunger, and the pub helps your pocket as the drinks and food are inexpensive.

The Ram in the Rye is located next to the Ryerson Student Centre and is open from 11 a.m. - 2 a.m., Monday to Friday.