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Best Neighbourhood Gem Restaurants in University City

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110 restaurants available nearby

A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant
1. White Dog Cafe - University City
4.6
Exceptional(5512)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • University City
Booked 78 times today
An iconic restaurant in University City since 1983, White Dog Cafe is a leader in using environmentally sustainable, organic, and local foods from farms within 50 miles. Known for warm hospitality, and inspiring award-winning food, the White Dog's historic three brownstones offer charming and whimsical dog décor and artwork in its many unique dining spaces and outdoor dining on the sidewalk.
A photo of Parc restaurant
2. Parc
4.8
Exceptional(17618)
Price: Expensive
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 272 times today
Stephen Starr's stylish addition to Rittenhouse Square pays tribute to French cafe culture, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Parc recalls the chic brasseries of Paris, serving classic French fare in a charming space. Red leather banquettes topped with frosted glass provide a sense of intimacy. Details such as well-worn wooden chairs, vintage framed paintings and photos and antique brass fixtures transport guests across the Atlantic. French doors spill onto a sidewalk terrace covered by a dark red awning perfect for dining "en plein air."
A photo of Melograno restaurant
3. Melograno
4.7
Exceptional(1674)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 20 times today
Melograno was established in 2003 by Chef Gianluca Demontis & Rosemarie Tran. The couple met in Rome when Rose was studying abroad. When Luca relocated to Philadelphia they wanted to represent his roots. Located in the beautiful Rittenhouse Square, surrounded by shops and entertainment. Melograno is a warm haven for good food and comforting service. A place to enjoy with friends and family. We are a BYOB so bring the spirits of your choice, we are happy to serve you.
A photo of The Love restaurant
4. The Love
4.8
Exceptional(7483)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 180 times today
Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr's The Love is a bi-level sanctuary features 150 seats, split between the main dining room, sidewalk seating, and an upper-level loft. The restaurant is a spirited and carefree neighborhood café celebrating everyday American cuisine. The menu is crafted around what’s truly seasonal and local, while the beverage program reflects the best of the region. This creative energy is matched by a front-of-house service staff passionate about providing homey hospitality morning, noon and night.
A photo of Craftsman Row Saloon restaurant
5. Craftsman Row Saloon
4.4
Awesome(1216)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old City
Booked 10 times today
Craftsman Row Saloon is a neighborhood gem for its festive, unique ambiance and creative menu. Reviews rave about the 'fun cocktails', 'outstanding' decorations and 'excellent' service. It's praised for being a 'great place for bar food' with a 'fun atmosphere'. It's also noted for its 'charming establishment' and 'friendly efficient servers'. The restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, making it a must-visit place in the Old City neighborhood.
A photo of Little Water restaurant
6. Little Water
4.7
Exceptional(153)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 46 times today
Located in the historic neighborhood of Rittenhouse Square, Little Water is the latest restaurant from husband-and-wife team, Chef Randy Rucker and Amanda Rucker. Inspired by the Ruckers' experiences living along the Gulf Coast, New England, and Mid-Atlantic regions, Little Water is a contemporary coastal restaurant that celebrates the ecological diversity of life by the sea.The sister restaurant to the acclaimed East Passyunk Avenue gem, River Twice—which has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer and The New York Times, and has earned Chef Randy’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently, a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic—Little Water continues the Ruckers' dedication to sustainability and local sourcing. With an a la carte menu inspired by the dynamic ecosystem of tranquil marshes, expansive bays, and secluded coves, Little Water captures the coastal spirit in a warm and lively atmosphere.
A photo of The Dandelion restaurant
7. The Dandelion
4.7
Exceptional(8187)
Price: Moderate
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 121 times today
London's culinary revolution comes to Philadelphia with this unique gastro-pub. Cozy rooms and intimate bars create a storied, Old World aura, while updated seasonal takes on British food make up the menu. In keeping with tradition, our casks and tap craft beers are always rotating and classic family-style roasts are served on Sundays.
A photo of Barclay Prime restaurant
8. Barclay Prime
4.8
Exceptional(5482)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 84 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
9. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(8884)
Price: Very Expensive
• Greek • Center City
Booked 66 times today
Estia in Philadelphia is a neighborhood gem. It's a unique Greek restaurant with a warm, inviting ambiance and a menu of authentic Greek specialties. As one reviewer said, 'Estia is one of my favorite restaurants and my neighborhood gem.' The food is consistently praised as 'delicious', 'creative', and 'fresh', and the service is often highlighted as 'impeccable' and 'friendly'. It's also loved for its excellent location, in the heart of the theatre district.
A photo of El Vez restaurant
10. El Vez
4.8
Exceptional(7094)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 118 times today
A contemporary Mexican restaurant, El Vez offers many unique items such as mahi mahi tacos, ahi tuna tostadas, carne asada and pasilla braised pork pozole. Enjoy their made-to-order guacamole & margaritas with fresh-squeezed juices. Top off your meal with "The El Vez," a flourless chocolate cake, peanut butter mousse and carmelized bananas.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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