Frequently Asked Questions

 Why are there not more vegan and vegetarian options?
Earlham’s student body is unique in part because of its large population of Vegan and Vegetarian students, and to cater to these students, there is a specific station exclusively for Vegan and Vegetarian menu items. We also serve items at each of our other stations, meaning that roughly 65% of the items we prepare daily meet the needs of our Vegan and Vegetarian Students. These items are identifiable by the Purple Vegan icon, and the Chartreuse Vegetarian Icon.  Look for these on our menu ID cards at each meal.

Why are there not more Gluten Free items?
We maintain a selection of Gluten Free breads in the Dining Hall as well as a separate toaster and waffle maker. Gluten Free Pizza Crusts and pastas are available upon Request at Villa Toscana. Gluten Free items can be identified by the Green Gluten Free Icon on our menu ID cards. We also have options for Gluten Free Breads and Sub Rolls in Café 1847, but these items are prepared in a common kitchen with the risk of gluten exposure.  Customers with gluten sensitivities should exercise judgment in ordering these items.

What are the meal times?
Each weekday is divided into 3 meal times.  Breakfast runs from 7:30am to 11:25am.  Lunch runs from 11:30am to 4:25pm, and dinner runs from 4:30pm to Midnight.  On weekends, Brunch runs from 11:30am to 1:00pm and Dinner runs 5:30-7:00pm.  You are allowed to use 1 meal per each meal period.  This meal can be in the Dining Hall, or on weekdays, one of our Meal Exchange options in Café 1847 and Intermetzo.
 
What is Meal Exchange?
Sometimes student’s classes and extracurricular activities are in conflict with when the Dining Hall is open.  That is why we offer students the chance to “Exchange” their Dining Hall meal for a meal in Café 1847 or a quick Meal Exchange To Go (MXTG) option at Intermetzo.  Each meal includes an entrée, side and a drink.  Meal Exchange options are updated each semester and posted online and at Café 1847 and Intermetzo.

What is the difference between Quaker Dollars and Points?
The terms Points and Quaker Dollars are used interchangeably, but really are the same thing.  Points can be used to purchase items at Café 1847, Intermetzo or in the Dining Hall for guest meals.  Points come with all Student Meal plans, and give you flexibility when you can’t make it to the Dining Hall on time, or just want a change of pace.  Unused points carry over from the Fall to Spring semester, but expire on the last day of the Meal Plan each May.   Additional points can be added to Student accounts at any time.  Simply ask at Café 1847 or Intermetzo, or in the Dining Services office located in the Dining Hall. 

Why is it called Café 1847?
For years, the space was referred to as “The Coffee Shop” but when Intermetzo was moved to the renovated May-Crossen Student Commons in 2016, Student Life held a naming contest for what is now known as Café 1847.  Earlham College was founded in 1847.  This is good trivia to keep in your back pocket for future Earlham Alumni gatherings. 
 
Why can’t I use Meal Exchange on the Weekends?
Meal Exchange is provided to give students flexibility in when and where they eat during the week when classes are in session.  On weekends, items in Café 1847 or Intermetzo can be purchased with cash, credit or debit card, or the Quaker Dollars that come with every meal plan. 
 
Why does food take so long at Café 1847?
Café 1847 offers several Dining Concepts whose menus include burgers, toasted sub sandwiches and burritos.  Each of these items are made to order and customized for each guest. Our burgers, for example, are hand-pattied daily, and are not placed on the grill until the guest places their order.  It’s not a mass produced, fast food burger, waiting under a heat lamp.  During heavier traffic times, weekday lunches for example, several dozen orders can be submitted each minute.  If time is an issue, we have a selection of Up For Grabs fresh sandwiches and salads that are made each morning that can be purchased directly at our registers. 
 
Why is there a Pig on some signs?
Some of our students do not eat pork for religious reasons.  We have added the Pig Icon to our Menu ID cards to let students know when items contain pork. 

 
Why do you not offer Halal or Kosher options?
Halal Chicken and Beef are available by request at J Clark's Grille in the Dining Hall. 
 
How do I arrange for catering an event, and what are my menu options?
Catering options and pricing are listed on our catering page, but we are able to customize any catering order to meet the needs and budget of the event planner. To review Earlham College’s Food Policy and Guidelines, please click here.
 
My new ID isn't working in the Dining Hall or Cafe?!?
If you have just received a replacement ID from the Public Safety office, your next stop should be to the Dining Services office to have your account updated in our system with your new ID info.