Tastiest bang for your buck
By: Ronald Leung
We’re a pretty diverse bunch here at McMaster, but perhaps one of the common threads that hold us together is our love for caffeine. If you’re anything like me, it becomes a habit that will slowly burn through your pocket. Never fear! The following is an analysis of where exactly you can find the cheapest coffee, and some other sustenance, on campus.
| Pros | Cons | |
| Tim Hortons (MUSC) | - Reasonable prices ranging from $1.24-$1.90- A wide range of sizes, from x-small to x- large
- Central location in MUSC - Accepts student cards |
- Long lines at peak times- No substantial food items are sold (only donuts and Timbits) |
| The Union Market (MUSC) | - $1.30 and $1.45 for medium and large coffees- Large assortment of snacks and other food
- Less expensive salads ($4.99) compared to La Piazza or Centro - Central location in MUSC |
- Doesn’t accept student card/meal plan |
| House of Games (MUSC, Basement level) | - Best curry (vegetarian option available!) on campus- Only place to sell bubble tea on campus
- Huge variety of bubble tea flavours - Sells other food such as Jamaican patties and samosas, as well as specialty beverages and snacks - Large collection of video and arcade games to enjoy |
- Doesn’t accept student card/meal plan |
| Caffeine: The Elements (BSB) | - Great cupcakes- Sells large assortment of drinks, snacks, and baked goods
- Cozy sitting area - Accepts student cards |
- Location is not very convenient (unless you frequent BSB a lot) |
| Williams (MUSC, HSC first and second floor) | - Large selection of hot drinks in addition to coffee: speciality lattes, hot chocolate, cappuccinos, etc.- Convenient location to grab a bite during study sessions (two locations in the HSC alone, one right beside Health Sciences Library)
- Filling meals consisting of wraps, salads, or fresh-made paninis - Many baked goods and snacks - Good assortment of cold drinks, such as Ice Caps or Fruity Chillers - Accepts student cards |
- Prices (especially for the speciality drinks) can be much higher than other places- Long lines at peak times |
