Introduction

Hi everyone! My name is Frank Xue, and I am currently a PhD student in Film. Originally from China, I have lived in the UK for over four years now, from undergraduate to PhD.

Moving to a new country can be a daunting experience, especially for those freshers who might be leaving home for the first time. One of the biggest worries is often homesickness and whether you can find the familiar tastes of your own culture. Based on my personal experience of living in Lancaster’s city centre for the past year, I’ve put together this guide to show you that Lancaster is a truly welcoming cultural hub. While I enjoy cooking at home, I also love exploring the local food scene with friends.

International supermarkets

Cooking for myself is a staple of my routine, as it allows me to enjoy authentic flavours while managing my budget. Since I live in the city centre, I primarily use the shops in town rather than on-campus facilities.

1. Sainsbury’s - World Food Section (city centre)

This is my primary destination for a "weekly shop." For general groceries, the large Sainsbury’s in town is incredibly convenient. I specifically frequent their World Food aisle, which is well-stocked with international staples like jasmine rice, diverse spices, and noodles. It is perfect for picking up my daily necessities alongside familiar ingredients.

2. Taste the Orient (city centre)

I was delighted to find this shop because it is a national chain. I was a regular at their branch during my time in Newcastle, so walking in here feels very familiar. It is a highly reliable place to find specific snacks and pantry brands that I have loved for years. Along with Sainsbury’s, this is one of my most frequent stops for grocery shopping.

3. KF Oriental (city centre)

When I need more specialised ingredients that a standard supermarket might not carry, I head to KF Oriental. They have an excellent selection of fresh produce and authentic sauces. While I don't visit as often as the others, it is a fantastic resource for those weekend meals when I want to cook a particularly traditional dish.

4. Wong’s Oriental Market (on campus)

Although I live in the city and rarely shop on campus, I have visited Wong’s Oriental Market and found it to be super convenient for students living in the colleges. It is a brilliant spot to buy East Asian ingredients and snacks. If you are studying in the library and need a quick snack that tastes like home, this is an affordable and welcoming place to stop by.

International restaurants

While I am a fan of home cooking, I love eating out as a social activity. It is a wonderful way to connect with friends and unwind after a busy week of research.

5. Tasty Wok (city centre)

In the city centre, Tasty Wok is one of my top choices for a group dinner. The atmosphere is perfect for a long catch-up with friends over authentic dishes. Sharing a variety of traditional plates here makes the distance from home feel much smaller.

6. Aroma Chef (city centre)

Another city-centre favourite is Aroma Chef. They have an extensive menu and a very welcoming vibe. It is a great place to go when you want a high-quality meal in a relaxed environment where you can chat with friends for hours.

7. Sultan’s (on campus)

You cannot talk about food at Lancaster University without mentioning Sultan’s. While they are famous for their burgers and fries, it is more than just a takeaway; it is a legendary social hub on campus. The staff are incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere is always buzzing—it is a "must-visit" for the full Lancaster student experience.

8. Wok Iin (on campus)

Since I don't need to be on campus every day, I don't eat at university outlets constantly. However, Wok Iin is a great option for an authentic, warm lunch when I am between library sessions or seminars. It provides a quick and delicious taste of home right in the heart of the campus.

Conclusion

Lancaster is a vibrant cultural hub with a wide variety of shops and restaurants catering to many different nationalities. Whether you are browsing a national chain like Taste the Orient or sharing a meal at Tasty Wok, these "home comforts" make it much easier to settle into life in the UK.

Exploring these food spots has helped me embrace my culture and connect with a diverse community of fellow students. I hope this guide reassures you that you can truly feel at home here. Invite your new friends out for a meal—food is the best way to start a journey together at Lancaster!

Ready to explore more?

• Find out more about international students at Lancaster University.

• Discover more food, drink, and shops on campus.

• Learn about the city and beyond.