Bates College Dining, Conferences and Campus Events is dedicated to supporting the mission of the institution by creating a co-curricular space where learning and community come together. We believe that through the sharing of food – which is locally sourced, skillfully prepared and thoughtfully served – we can create an environment that fosters collaboration, community engagement and individual growth. We are committed to building a culture which promotes the success of our students, faculty, staff and alumni and being responsible stewards of the wider world.

How to be a Responsible Bobcat: Commons Etiquette

You’re part of a large community now. Learning to navigate Commons makes the experience better for everyone

Get Ready To Grab & Growl Bobcats!!

Get prepared – check the menu ahead of time and remember your ID.

Reduce waste. 

• Thoughtfully select your meal. 
• Hold your plate close to pans to avoid dropping food on counters. 
• Try a small amount of unfamiliar dishes, and come back for seconds if you like them. 

Always get a clean plate when coming back for seconds.

Be conscious of others’ allergies. Don’t share serving utensils between foods and respect designated equipment.

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Get to know the Commons staff! 

Respect the environment and the dish crew by sorting liquids, silver, trash and compost at the tray window. A friendly “Thank You” on your way out means a lot to the team.

Offer helpful feedback – leave a napkin, send a virtual napkin or communicate with the DCCE Food Advisory Committee.

Welcome others to your table. You never know who you might meet.

Leave the black mugs in Commons! Bring your own reusable beverage container instead. Taking black mugs out of Commons may be convenient for you but it creates problems for Commons staff and shortages for fellow diners.

Be Respectful   *   Be Responsible  *   Be SafeJoin DCCE for our upcoming Adventures in Dining!

• Prepare to be spooked on October 29 for our Haunted Happenings! See Commons transformed into a spooktacular sight. Enjoy Halloween desserts at the bakery, stop by for candy and tattoos at the table in front of the manager’s station.
• And don’t forget our November 19 Harvest Meal! Walk into the dining room transformed with festive fall decorations and hear live music while enjoying a traditional harvest meal. Enjoy a horse pulled carriage ride and stop by the Trashion Show in the Gray Cage for baked Alaska and other delicious desserts.