18.10.2023
Food at EPFL is a topic that has frustrated anyone spending more than a month there (week 5, the moment where the idea of preparing another tupperware is less enticing than working on your algebra series). In this context, many members of AGEPoly have had numerous meetings with the person in charge of EPFL’s catering to discuss excessive prices, lack of variety, non-compliance with cafeteria rules, absence of microwaves on campus, lack of vegan or gluten-free options, and the scarcity of open restaurants on weekends and evenings. In short, there are some issues. Since then, EPFL has opened food trucks in the evenings and weekends in addition to what was already there. The person in charge is also conducting weekly rounds to ensure rule compliance, and they have also committed to improving the meals’ quality. The number of microwaves has also increased.
The big question remains the price; we are told that it is not economically viable to reduce the cost of meals, but you can always have a second helping of your side dish (rice, vegetables, pasta…) if you’re still hungry at the end of the meal. Negotiations are still ongoing and are far from being concluded.
In response to repeated criticisms voiced by your student representatives, an external body has been commissioned to conduct a study to find out what could be improved price-wise and study the question of internalization of restaurants. We should have the results before the end of the semester.