Umami at the University of Pécs: Dining Beyond Borders

Described by Telex as “the coolest and most special canteen in Hungary,” Umami has been redefining university dining since its opening in 2021 at the University of Pécs Medical School. Telex—one of Hungary’s leading independent news portals—highlighted not only the quality of the cuisine but also Umami’s distinctive role in fostering community and intercultural exchange.

With more than 2600 international students enrolled in the English and German programmes Umami was created to reflect the institution’s vibrant international character. From the outset, management envisioned a dining space centred on global cuisine, while also catering to guests with food sensitivities and special dietary requirements.

The menu draws inspiration from international cookbooks developed with student contributions, transforming the canteen into a platform for culinary discovery. These dishes introduce new ingredients, spices, and techniques, making international students feel at home while encouraging Hungarian students to explore flavours from around the world. At the same time, many international students encounter Hungarian cuisine here for the first time—making Umami a space of genuine cultural exchange.

Combining affordability with thoughtful organisation, it has become a popular meeting point for both Hungarian and international students.

Umami’s concept is closely connected to the University’s intercultural initiatives, including the English–Hungarian cookbook 50 Delicacies on Earth, first published in 2019 with active student involvement, followed by a second volume in 2023. These publications continue to inspire the canteen’s evolving menu and further strengthen the University of Pécs’ dynamic international community.