Canada : Food And Grocery

Eating well in Canada as an international student is easy thanks to diverse food options, affordable grocery chains, and campus dining services. Whether you prefer home-cooked meals or eating out, Canada offers both quality and variety.

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On-Campus Dining & Meal Plans

Most Canadian colleges and universities offer flexible meal plans through their residence services. These are especially helpful during your first year.

Access to campus cafeterias, food courts, and dining halls
Special dietary support: Halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free
Typical monthly cost: CAD 200–400
Example: University of Toronto Food Services | UBC Food Services

Grocery Shopping in Canada

Grocery shopping is affordable and convenient. Students typically spend CAD 150–300/month, depending on city and lifestyle.
Top Canadian supermarket chains:

Access to campus cafeterias, food courts, and dining halls
Special dietary support: Halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free
Typical monthly cost: CAD 200–400
Example: University of Toronto Food Services | UBC Food Services
Access to campus cafeterias, food courts, and dining halls
Special dietary support: Halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free

International & South Asian Grocery Stores

Canada’s multicultural population means you can easily find familiar ingredients.
Popular Indian/South Asian grocery options:

Iqbal Halal Foods – GTA
Patel Brothers Canada
Apna Farm – Calgary & Edmonton
Desi Bazaar – Vancouver
SamosaBox & DesiBasket – Nationwide delivery

Eating Out Affordably

Canada has thousands of eateries offering budget-friendly meals perfect for students.
Popular budget food options:

Fast food: Tim Hortons, Subway, A&W, McDonald’s
Global cuisines: Indian, Middle Eastern, Chinese, Korean, Mexican
Local favourites: poutine, shawarma, pho, sushi, butter chicken
Meals range between CAD 7–15
Tip: Look for student discounts using ISIC card or university IDs.

Grocery & Food Delivery Apps

Save time and get discounts by using trusted delivery platforms:

Food delivery: Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes
Grocery delivery: Instacart, Walmart Grocery, Loblaws PC Express

Summary: Student Grocery Budget Tips

Shop at discount stores like No Frills and Walmart
Cook in shared kitchens to cut costs
Split bulk purchases with roommates
Explore ethnic grocery stores for affordable ingredients
Use apps for deals and promotions
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