Experiences with Mess Food at IIT Guwahati: Reviews and Comparisons

The mess food at IIT Guwahati is often the subject of mixed reviews from students, reflecting a range of opinions on its quality, variety, and overall experience. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the mess food at IIT Guwahati, covering different aspects like variety, quality, hygiene, and pricing.

Variety of Mess Food Options

The mess at IIT Guwahati offers a diverse range of culinary options, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. It includes traditional Indian dishes with rice, dal, vegetables, and chapatis, alongside South Indian snacks, and even occasional international cuisine. These options are designed to meet the dietary habits of the student population, a majority of whom are vegetarian. However, there are usually some non-vegetarian options available on select days, allowing students to experiment with different flavors and preferences.

Quality and Preparation

The quality of the mess food can vary, with some students finding it satisfactory while others feel that the taste, freshness, and preparation quality can differ from day to day. The preparation quality and taste can be influenced by a range of factors, including the ingredients used, the skills of the cooks, and the availability of fresh produce. Despite these variations, the mess is generally maintained to a good standard of hygiene, which is a crucial aspect for any college mess.

Pricing and Accessibility

The cost of meals in the mess is considered affordable and accessible to most students, making it a popular choice for daily dining. The pricing is managed in a way that offers variety, with different menus offering varying prices. For instance, Menu 1 is typically cheaper, excluding certain special items, while Menu 2 incorporates additional special items at a slightly higher cost. This flexibility allows students to choose according to their budget and preferences. Additionally, some hostels have dedicated canteens that remain open late into the night, ensuring that students do not face hunger pangs in the middle of the night.

Hostel-Specific Mess Food

While the mess food in most hostels is generally similar, there are slight differences that cater to specific preferences. For example:

Kapili Mess: The food is consistently good, with a variety of options available. The special dinner on Wednesdays and Sundays is particularly noteworthy. The kheer at Lohit hostel is exceptional, and the upama in Tuesday breakfast at Kapili is incomparable. Dibang Mess: The food quality is commendable, especially noted for the hi-tea which offers a range of options, with the holi super special dinner being a standout feature. Umiam Mess: The rotis are the best at Umiam hostel, always served with ghee, adding to the delightful taste experience. Brahmaputra Mess: The rotis are the worst at Brahmaputra hostel, with the smell being a significant drawback.

Conclusion

While the mess food at IIT Guwahati may not be considered gourmet, it generally meets the basic dining needs of students. The variety, quality, hygiene, and pricing are factors that contribute to the overall experience. With the availability of different mess options, late-night canteens, and food vans, students have several convenient options to choose from. Many students adapt to the offerings over time, finding ways to enjoy the diverse culinary experiences offered at IIT Guwahati.