Written by Alessandra Hickson
There isn’t much in the immediate area of the College, except for Fedora’s, Main Moon, and Carmine’s—go there for a bite to eat if you don't want to drive anywhere. There are also some places in the Village Commons that will deliver to campus. If you have a car, you’ll easily be able to get to Subway, Friendly’s, Big Y for groceries, and a few other places that are a mile or less from campus. (The desperate have been known to walk this distance, but it’s uphill most of the way back from the shopping plaza. Walking a mile in the freezing cold of winter isn’t exactly fun and is not recommended.) Most students, when they want a night out, take the bus or drive to Amherst or Northampton, where there are restaurants aplenty. Northampton, in particular, has a tremendous variety—just walk down Main Street, and you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. Most places are relatively cheap, too: $5–$10 will get you a decent meal somewhere.
If you want 24-hour eating, you’ll have to try a fast food place, as most restaurants around here close at or before midnight. In the beginning of each school year, you’ll be inundated with coupon books and advertisements from area restaurants. Save these—they are likely the only student specials you’ll get. Try the Thirsty Mind for a place to hang out and do your homework. On weeknights, it’s almost always full of students. Plus, you get the convenience of being able to use your MHCXPress account—a debit account granted to all students—both here and at Tailgate Picnic, so even if you don’t have cash on you, you’ll be able to swipe your OneCard and get that coffee or sandwich.