Dining Out

5th (tie): Adams' Alley and Dunster's Courtyard.

Adams' narrow alley has a few picnic tables and is packed at lunch time with sunshine-seekers. Not-so-easy access from the dining hall and several steps make for tipsy trays--watch out!

Dunster's courtyard, located directly outside the dining hall, gets points for a minimal schlep. Picnic tables, lots of grass and a good crew view of the Charles makes the Dunster courtyard a lovely location for noshing a tuna melt.

4. Cabot House.

Quadlings are blessed with a huge grassy space and a whole lot of sun during any meal. Limited seating available but excellent direct sunlight.

3. Quincy House.

Forget the revolting architecture nearby! The Quincy courtyard wins the prize for best lawn furniture--picnic tables and plastic chairs are everywhere in the courtyard. But be careful! Quincy has several sets of extremely treacherous stairs.

2. The Rocks.

Sure, fly-by is a little soggy, but the rocks in front of the Science Center is a prime location to see and be seen. Cell-phonies and cigarette smokers just love the sun-soaked rocks. Easy access from the Greenhouse, Loker and Annenberg.

1. Hillel's Safra Courtyard

Sure, Hillel isn't a "house" and the food sucks but this super-modern venue offers solid-steel tables and chairs easily accessibe from the serving area. Great people watching, great architecture. Just great.