É«»¨ÌÃ

Students having fun with friends while eating at the Crow's Nest

World-Class Dining at the Heart of Campus

Located in the Lumen Vitae University Center, the Crow’s Nest Campus Restaurant is the centerpiece of student dining at the É«»¨Ì×open 24/7 during the academic year for students and guests. Far from a traditional college cafeteria, it offers a diverse menu of great food in a warm, welcoming space that fosters community and connection.

Something for Every Taste

Named after the lookout post atop a sailing vessel—and as a nod to the raven that sustained a young St. Benedict—the Crow’s Nest blends adventure and tradition into one dynamic dining experience.

The interior brings the Marauders spirit to life with a wide variety of themed stations:

  • The Stern – Soup and salad bar featuring campus and local favorites like hearty Knoephla Soup
  • Davy Jones Deli – Build-your-own sandwiches with a panini press
  • The Treasure Chest – A rotating selection of tempting desserts
  • The Seven Seas – Inspired cuisine from around the world
  • The Main Deck – Classic entrée of the day, served hot and fresh
  • Buccaneer Breakfast Bar – Continental breakfast available all day
  • Jolly Roger Grill – All-American grilled favorites like burgers and brats
  • The Plank – Pasta dishes and authentic wood-fired pizza
  • Allergies Avast! – A specialized station for students with dietary restrictions, sensitivities, and preferences
  • Dakota Homestyle – Regional dishes inspired by North Dakota’s German-Russian and Scandinavian roots

Additionally, Susanne's—a full-service We Proudly Brew Caribou Coffee shop—is included in all meal plans at no extra charge, offering espresso drinks and cozy café vibes whenever you need a pick-me-up.

Susanne’s Coffee Shop 

Tucked inside the Crow’s Nest, Susanne’s is our go-to campus coffee shop—open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Featuring We Proudly Brew Caribou Coffee, the shop serves hot, iced, and blended beverages, along with a variety of teas. Guests dining inside the Crow’s Nest can enjoy Susanne’s at no additional cost when dining in the Nest.

For those on the move, Susanne’s Grab-and-Go window—located just outside the restaurant—offers quick service for students and visitors without a meal plan. Credit cards, Universal Bucks, and Marauders Bucks are accepted here, making it easy to grab your favorite drink anytime.

A Campus Living Room

The Crow’s Nest isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a space to connect, recharge, and unwind. Whether you’re looking for a quiet corner to study or a place to catch up with friends, our thoughtfully designed dining areas have you covered.

You’ll find quiet nooks equipped and communal tables, charging stations, in-house printing, and large TV monitors perfect for group projects or catching the game. Each table comes stocked with a treasure chest containing a cribbage board, a deck of cards, and trivia questions — ready for spontaneous fun or friendly competition.

On the north side of the space, enjoy custom-made pool tables, shuffleboard, and our one-of-a-kind Bubble Hockey Table. You can even vote on the music playing overhead, making the vibe truly your own.

Crow’s Nest Hours

Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day for our students

  • Breakfast: 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    Door Price: $11.50; ages 5-10: $4.25; ages 65+: $9.75
  • Lunch: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Door Price: $15.00; ages 5-10: $5.25; ages 65+: $12.75
  • Dinner: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
    Door Price: $17.00; ages 5-10: $6.00; ages 65+: $14.50

Summer Hours
7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (every day)
Hours may vary

Featured Staff

Have Dietary Needs?

Visit the Dining Accommodations page or contact our registered dietitian at nutrition@umary.edu.

Questions About Catering?

Contact our Catering Staff.