Food is life—especially for students! 

Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite between classes, finding budget-friendly meals, or chilling at a café, everyone has their go-to spot. 

But let’s be real—street food is the ultimate favorite. It’s cheap, tasty, and everywhere!

And if there’s one street food that defines CDO’s student food culture, it’s proben! (deep-fried chicken intestines) 

Whether you’re munching on it after class, enjoying it with friends, or pairing it with a cold drink, this deep-fried goodness has become a staple for many students in the city.

We asked students from CDO’s top universities about their favorite food spots. 

Their answers? A mix of budget karenderias, hidden gems, and cafés—but street food was the clear winner! 

If you’re looking for your next food trip, here’s where students love to eat.

Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan

Since XU is right in the heart of the city, students have tons of food options just a short walk away. From fast food to street food, here are their top picks:

1. McDonald’s (McDo) – A Classic Go-To

Let’s be real—McDo is everyone’s comfort zone. 

Whether it’s grabbing breakfast before an early class, a quick lunch break, or a post-exam stress meal, you’ll always find XU students here. 

The best part? It’s literally just in front of the main gate, making it the most convenient food stop ever.

“McDo is our go-to spot since duol ra, like in front lang gyud sa XU main gate. Plus, barato and affordable ra pud,” says Arjay, a BS Management Accounting student. 

The Chicken McDo with rice is a classic fave, but their McSaver meals are a lifesaver for students looking for a budget-friendly, filling meal.

2. Smiley’s Food Hub – Affordable and Delicious

Smiley’s Food Hub is a favorite among students who want a hearty, home-cooked meal at a student-friendly price. 

Known for their budget rice meals and sizzling plates, Smiley’s is the perfect place for those looking to get the most value for their money.

“The best ilang sizzling sisig na tag 99 pesos ra jud! If eh rate 8.5/10 ang kalami sa ilang foods ” says Sofia, a BSBA Marketing Management student. 

Whether you’re craving a warm and flavorful rice meal or a sizzling plate loaded with meat and sauce, Smiley’s is a dependable option that won’t break the wallet. 

3. Proben sa May Pabayo – The Street Food Staple

No true Kagay-anon experience is complete without a stop at the legendary probenan on Pabayo Street. 

More than just a food stall, it’s a rite of passage for students and locals alike—a place where crispy, deep-fried goodness meets unbeatable affordability. 

Whether you’re a student looking for a quick after-class snack. 

‘Sa my pabayo na streetfoods kay dira man ang daghan ug affordable na kan an. Inig ting pang uli na.” says Mark an XU student.

A night owl in search of something savory, or simply someone who appreciates street food at its finest, this spot never disappoints.

Xavier University students, along with those from nearby schools, keep coming back for that perfect bite of proben (deep-fried chicken intestines)—crunchy, flavorful, and best enjoyed with spicy vinegar. 

A staple among street food lovers, proben—deep-fried chicken intestines coated in batter—is a flavorful and crispy snack that pairs perfectly with spicy vinegar.

Alongside proben, many students also enjoy their deep-fried chicken skin for an extra crunchy and satisfying treat.

From quick fast food meals to home-style cooking and street food cravings, XU students have plenty of budget-friendly food options just minutes away from campus. 

Whether you need a filling meal before class or a satisfying snack after a long day, these spots prove that great food doesn’t have to come at a high price. 

Next time you’re hungry near XU, you’ll know exactly where to go!

Lourdes College

Lourdes students love a mix of street food and homey eats. Here’s where they go when hunger strikes:

1. Street Food Stalls Near Gaston Park – Quick and Affordable

For Lourdes students, Gaston Park is more than just a place to relax—it’s the spot for quick, affordable street food that’s perfect for merienda. 

The moment classes end, you’ll see students flocking to food stalls, grabbing their favorite snacks like crispy kwek-kwek (battered quail eggs), savory isaw, and golden-brown fish balls. 

“Daghan ug food choices sa Gaston park if nag tipid ka and want lang mag eat ug street foods diraa ang da best,” says  Desaira Jean. 

What makes it even better? The food is not only cheap but also served fresh and fast. 

Whether you like it dipped in sweet, spicy, or vinegar sauce, one thing’s for sure—these street food favorites never disappoint!

2. Pidot 1997 – Deep Fried Chicken & Barbecue

If there’s one thing students can agree on, it’s that Pidot 1997 serves a deep-fried chicken. 

Just one block away from the campus, this small eatery has become a cult favorite among students looking for a filling, budget-friendly meal. 

“Pidot’s chicken kay if bet nimo na mag chicken for the day, go to jud namo sya na food place” says a group of nursing students of Lourdes. 

Aside from their signature fried chicken, their barbecue is also a must-try. 

Whether you’re dining in between classes or grabbing a takeout meal before heading home, Pidot 1997 proves that great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

3. Karen’s “Karenderya” – Feels Like Home

For students craving home-cooked meals, Karen’s “Karenderya” is the place to be. 

Known for its lutong-bahay goodness, this eatery is a go-to for those who miss the comforting taste of home. 

“Geh tawag sya as karen short for karenderya, mostly sa ilang menu didto kay mga homey vibe and foods. If geh nag crave ka for a homey foods the best sila na choice,” says Jay

From classic sinigang to savory adobo, every dish at this karenderya is made with that homemade touch. 

It’s the perfect place for students who want something hearty and filling without spending too much. 

If you’re looking for a taste of home away from home, Karenderya  is a must-visit.

4. Prito Paborito – Crispy Goodness

If you’re all about crispy, deep-fried goodness, then Prito Paborito is the place to be. 

Their fried chicken is a top favorite, with a perfectly crisp skin and juicy meat inside. 

What makes Prito Paborito even more popular among Lourdes students is its convenience.

Since it serves the same menu as Pidot 1997, students often head here when Pidot is packed, making it a go-to backup spot when hunger can’t wait. 

Whether it’s lunchtime rush or after-school cravings, this place ensures that students can still enjoy their favorite fried meals without long waiting times.

If you ever find yourself craving a filling, budget-friendly meal and Pidot 1997 is full, Prito Paborito is the perfect alternative that never disappoints.

From street snacks to home-style cooking, Lourdes students have no shortage of satisfying, budget-friendly eats. 

Whether you’re in the mood for grilled barbecue, crispy fried chicken, or comforting home-cooked meals. 

These food spots prove that great food doesn’t have to be expensive. 

So, next time you find yourself hungry near Lourdes College, you know exactly where to go!

University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP)

At USTP, good food is never hard to find—especially if you’re on a student budget. 

Whether you’re craving something deep-fried, fresh off the grill, or a rice meal that actually fills you up, there’s always a spot nearby that hits the spot. 

Here are the places USTP students can’t stop coming back to!

1. Probenan sa Ayala – Crispy, Crunchy, and Affordable

For students craving something crispy and flavorful, Probenan sa Ayala is a must-visit. 

This popular food stall serves all-time street food favorites like proben (deep-fried chicken intestines), kwek-kwek (battered quail eggs), fish balls, and tempura. 

Everything is freshly fried, best enjoyed with a side of spicy vinegar or sweet sauce. 

“It’s our go-to spot after class kay daghan and lami ang street foods didto,” says Mark, an Engineering student.

2. Street Food Stalls in Front of Shakey’s – Snack Time Essential

For those in need of a quick snack, the street food stalls in front of Shakey’s offer a variety of affordable eats. 

Grilled barbecue sticks, fish balls, and dynamite (cheese-stuffed chili wrapped in lumpia wrapper) are among the top choices. 

The convenience and affordability of these stalls make them a popular stop before heading home.

“Sa Shakey’s– the front of shakeys. Naay daghan stall sa mga street foods didtoa, pag nag tipid ka goods na kaayo didto busog naka,” says a group of friends, a BS Computer Engineering student.

3. Lawesbra – Affordable and Satisfying

For students in need of a satisfying meal without spending too much, Lawesbra is a go-to spot.

Known for its generous portions and affordable prices, this eatery has become a favorite among USTP students looking for comfort food that won’t hurt their wallets.

“It’s a lifesaver pag on a budget, kay daghan kaykag choices didto and lami mn sad ang mga street foods didtoa,” shares Micheal. 

With so many budget-friendly options around USTP, students never have to worry about going hungry. 

Whether it’s a crispy deep-fried snack, a flavorful barbecue skewer, or a hearty silog meal. 

These local food spots prove that great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Capitol University 

Capitol University (CU) students know that great food doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. 

Whether they’re looking for comforting home-style meals or quick and tasty street food, there are plenty of go-to spots around campus that offer delicious and affordable options.

1. Ante Bubong – Homey and Delicious

When students start missing lutong-bahay (home-cooked meals), Ante Bubong is the place to be. 

This cozy eatery serves up classic Filipino dishes that bring a taste of home, making it a favorite among CU students who crave something warm and comforting. 

Must-tries include their flavorful sinigang, with its perfect balance of sour and savory, and their rich, peanut-infused kare-kare that’s best paired with rice and bagoong.

2. Street Food Stalls Around the School – Cheap and Satisfying

For students looking for something fast and affordable, the street food stalls around CU are an everyday go-to. 

Whether it’s grilled isaw (chicken intestines), fish balls, or the ever-popular proben, these stalls offer a variety of snacks that are perfect for those on the go. 

It’s the ultimate student experience—grabbing a stick of freshly grilled barbecue or a paper cup filled with deep-fried goodies and dipping them in sweet or spicy sauce.

From hearty meals that remind them of home to street food favorites that are easy on the wallet, CU students never run out of delicious options nearby. 

Whether you’re in the mood for something filling or just need a quick bite, these food spots prove that you don’t have to spend much to enjoy great food.

Liceo de Cagayan University

At Liceo de Cagayan University, food isn’t just about filling an empty stomach—it’s about flavor, affordability, and convenience. 

Whether students are rushing between classes, hanging out with friends, or grabbing a late-night bite, there are a few go-to spots they keep coming back to. 

From deep-fried street food to fast-food comfort meals, here’s where Liceo students satisfy their cravings without spending too much.

1. Probenan – The Ultimate Student Favorite

If there’s one thing that unites Liceo students, it’s their love for proben. 

This crispy, golden-brown street food is a campus staple, and for good reason—it’s cheap, tasty, and seriously addicting.

Made from battered and deep-fried chicken intestines, proben is best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, dipped in spicy vinegar for that extra kick. 

Alongside proben, their crispy chicken skin is another bestseller, offering the perfect balance of crunch and rich, savory goodness.

It’s the ultimate budget-friendly snack that never gets old. 

Whether students need a quick merienda before heading home or a filling treat after a long exam, Probenan is a must-visit for anyone studying at Liceo.

2. Jollibee – The Classic Comfort Food

When Liceo students need something fast, filling, and familiar, Jollibee is always the answer. 

Whether it’s a breakfast stop before an early class, a quick lunch break, or a post-exam treat, this fast-food favorite never fails.

“The OG kan ana kay ang Jollibee kay duol ra and kaya ra sad sa amoang budget,” says a group of Arts students.

Their Mix and Match meals make it easy to grab a satisfying meal on a student budget. 

While the ever-popular C1 (Chickenjoy with rice) is a top favorite for those craving crispy fried chicken with that signature gravy. 

The best part? Jollibee is always open, making it the perfect spot for both early risers and night owls.

For many students, Jollibee is more than just a fast-food stop—it’s a place to bond with friends, unwind after a long day, and enjoy a comforting meal that feels like home.

For Liceo students, food is all about taste, affordability, and accessibility. 

Whether they’re lining up for crispy proben on the street or enjoying a classic Chickenjoy meal with friends. 

These food spots prove that you don’t need to spend a lot to eat well.

So, if you ever find yourself hungry near Liceo de Cagayan University, you know where to go. 

Whether you’re in the mood for deep-fried street food or a comforting fast-food fix, these student favorites will always hit the spot.

Final Thoughts: Where’s Your Go-To Student Spot?

At the end of the day, students just want good food that won’t hurt their wallets—and in CDO, that usually means street food, carinderias, and budget-friendly eateries. 

From the legendary proben stalls to cozy karenderyas, students across different universities have their go-to places that keep them full and happy.

So, if you’re a student looking for your next food trip, try these student-approved spots—you might just find your new favorite meal!

Gotta go-to food spot we missed? Drop it in the comments!

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