Opinion

Battle of the dining halls

JONAH LAGRANGE/THE CREIGHTONIAN

Harper Dining Hall gives Creighton students fewer options, but higher quality at the price of two dining extra dollars compared to Brandeis.

It’s a tale as old as time. Since the opening of Harper Dining Hall, Creighton’s second dining hall, students have debated which dining hall is the best. This conflict has torn apart friendships and annihilated trust between loved ones. But as the dust settles, which dining hall stands victorious? Let’s dig in and find out.  

When it comes to choosing where to go for food, there are lots of elements to consider, some of a higher priority than others, depending on the person. Personally, I emphasize quality, convenience and health, whereas some of my peers may focus on taste, price and popularity. Both perspectives are equally valid, but to a true dining hall connoisseur, it’s clear that Harper is the best.   

Brandeis Dining Hall offers the widest variety of options, if that’s what you prioritize. And I suppose it’s the most convenient option if you live in Swanson or Deglman. But that’s only two pros, and at Creighton, we’re taught to be true critical thinkers.   

Harper Dining Hall offers the best flavor, signature dishes and healthy options for an extra two dining dollars –– a fair trade to me. And if you’re one of those people who refuse to go to Harper because of the two extra dollars, go ahead and stop reading now. Two dollars is more than worth it for the Gordon Ramsay-comparable dishes served at Harper. If you still don’t feel like paying, I’m afraid I can’t help you, only judge you from afar.  

You might be wondering what qualifications I have to be lecturing you on what the best Creighton dining hall is, but after speaking with other students, my opinion has only been fortified.   

β€œHarper is my personal favorite because it tastes really good and reminds me of meals from home … The salmon with veggies and quinoa rice is my favorite,” Heider College of Business freshman Taylor Wick said. β€œBoth dining halls are convenient since they’re on campus and there are a lot of options depending on how you feel.”  

Bringing forth an alternate perspective, Heider College of Business freshman Jeffrey Sookram argues that Harper doesn’t offer enough variety, but he still appreciates its superior taste and quality. He adds that Harper has better protein-rich options.   

In the end, both Brandeis and Harper have their own strengths, and we should love and appreciate what each has to offer. Offering pre-exam brain power and sweet solace when I just need a comforting treat, I owe both Brandy and Harper gratitude for the wins, breakdowns and lock-in sessions they’ve helped me through. Running into friends at the Harper Center and going to get dinner is the best feeling, and the Brandeis pie is something a five-star chef couldn’t recreate.  

Another special mention, of course, is those who work in the dining halls; no one brightens my day like the employees at both.  

Each of Creighton’s dining halls serves their special purpose, but in the end, Harper very clearly takes the cake as the best option. 

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October 31, 2025

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