STUDENTS' PREFERENCE FOR CAMPUS RESTAURANTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

Students' preferences for campus restaurants are crucial for addressing issues related to restaurant satisfaction. This study investigates the correlation between student preferences and various influencing factors. The research aims to elucidate the complex factors influencing students' restaurant selections. Identifying these factors and their interrelations can assist campus restaurant services in customising offerings to accommodate student preferences, ultimately enhancing satisfaction and fostering a positive dining experience on campus. A questionnaire was administered to a sample size of 100 respondents, and dataanalysis was conducted using E-Views software, employing regression analysis to assess the relationship between variables. The research findings revealed that students prioritise restaurants offering cost-effective meal options without compromising quality. Furthermore, the accessibility of restaurants in convenient campus locations significantly influences their preferences. Diverse menu offerings catering to various dietary preferences and restrictions are also highly valued by students. Moreover, stringent adherence to hygiene standards, including cleanliness and food safety practices, is imperative in their dining choices.Additionally, students seek out restaurants that prioritise nutritional value and provide transparent nutritional information. Peerrecommendations also hold sway, as students are swayed by positive word-of-mouth endorsements from their peers. The study enhances comprehension of the factors impacting students' restaurant preferences on campus. By scrutinising affordability, accessibility, convenience, menu variety, recommendations, hygiene standards, and health considerations, the research offers valuable insights into the complex factors influencing students' choices. This deepened understanding enables campusrestaurant services to refine their offerings more adeptly to align with student preferences, thereby increasing satisfaction and fostering a positive dining experience within the university environment. Campus restaurants should prioritize affordability by offering budget-friendly meal options without compromising quality. They should ensure accessibility by strategically locatingdining facilities in easily reachable areas across the campus. Additionally, emphasising menu variety can cater to diverse dietary preferences and restrictions among students. Maintaining stringent hygiene standards is essential to uphold cleanliness and food safety. Furthermore, campus restaurants should focus on providing nutritious meal options and clear nutritional information to promote student health and well-being. Leveraging peer recommendations through positive word-of-mouth endorsements can enhance the reputation and appeal of campus dining establishments.