noun
dining room; dining hall; cafeteria
Refers to a room or hall where meals are served, especially in schools, companies, or institutions. Can also mean a cafeteria-style eatery.
会社の食堂で昼食をとった。
I had lunch in the company cafeteria.
大学の食堂はいつも混んでいる。
The university dining hall is always crowded.
noun
Used for a casual restaurant or eating place, often with a simple, homey feel. Can be part of a name like 〇〇食堂.
駅前の食堂でカレーを食べた。
I ate curry at a diner in front of the station.
あの食堂は安くて美味しい。
That eatery is cheap and delicious.