Best Historic Restaurants in University City

33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant

1. White Dog Cafe - University City

4.7

Exceptional(5464)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • University City

Booked 63 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.

2. Parc

4.8

Exceptional(17343)

Price: Expensive

• French • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 307 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."

3. Bistro Romano

4.8

Exceptional(4948)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Society Hill

Booked 17 times today

This Historic Landmark in Society Hill, nestled in an 18th century granary, will stimulate your senses with an ambiance of candlelight and casual elegance while creating an unforgettable dining experience. Wine Spectator Award for our wine list! Voted a “Best of Philly” Restaurant, guests enjoy Bistro Romano’s acclaimed Regional Italian Cuisine and rave of the award-winning Caesar Salad and the romantic underground wine cellar for two to four. Wine Cellar reservations book the Wine Cellar Experience on OpenTable. We are now celebrating our 36th year! Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence (Two Glasses). Over 750 wine selections, including 20 by the glass.

4. Butcher & Singer

4.9

Exceptional(8792)

Price: Very Expensive

• Steak • Center City

Booked 97 times today

Butcher & Singer, in the amazing historic location of 1500 Walnut, is an intimate and sophisticated dining experience in a relaxed clubhouse setting. We brought back the true classics from perfect Manhattans and Sidecars to hand-cut steaks and chops, and freshly caught fish. Timeless and fun for all in the continued age of the American chophouse.

5. Little Water

new

4.6

Exceptional(52)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Center City

Booked 34 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 Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant

6. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(2349)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Center City

Booked 10 times today

Located in a historic townhome in the heart of Philadelphia, Vetri Cucina is a unique space that invites guests to become part of our family. The intimate dining rooms evoke the charms of Italy with custom crafted features including hand-blown Murano glass chandeliers, Richard Ginori porcelain and Venetian glassware.Showcasing the constantly evolving, dynamic creativity of Chef Vetri and his team, Vetri Cucina serves a classic tasting menu at $165pp using the highest quality local and specialty ingredients. The menu is inspired by both classic Italian recipes and our extensive culinary research across the globe. Vetri Cucina also offers a seasonal Forchetta menu which is a premium tasting menu experience at $215pp. These are the restaurant’s sole dining options, designed to provide each guest with a memorable, unparalleled experience. Reservations are released on the first of the month for the following month: ie. On October 1st, reservations are released for the month of November.

7. The Morris

4.7

Exceptional(313)

Price: Expensive

• American • Center City

Booked 13 times today

The Morris is a new restaurant and bar in a truly unique location. It’s connected to a boutique, 17 room colonial hotel and courtyard located right next to Washington Square Park. We have a scratch kitchen that only uses the freshest ingredients available by season. Our bar program consists of delicious hand-crafted cocktails, organic wines, selection of local beers, and spirit-free beverages. Whether it's for a casual night out, business dinner, or date night, we are so excited to serve you in our newly renovate dining room or in the garden courtyard*! *We want to inform our guests that the courtyard is fully tented and heated throughout the winter!

8. Saloon Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(2540)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • South Philly

Booked 51 times today

Entering the Saloon, a family owned restaurant since it opened in 1967 is a bit like stepping into Philadelphia's past. Dark oak paneling, shiny brass and authentic local antiques create a warm congenial and casual atmosphere. The choice of two comfortable dining rooms each with its own vintage bars make dining and conversation a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Both bars feature a delicious and moderately priced food menu. The menu is Italian with seafood specials such as grilled octopus and dover sole. Saloon steaks and veal chops are legendary. Many prefer a plate of fried long hot peppers to compliment the steaks. All desserts and gelatos are made on the premises daily. The Saloon is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar and restaurant with a national reputation. And the parking is FREE!

A photo of The Victor Cafe - Philadelphia restaurant

9. The Victor Cafe - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(4744)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Philly

Booked 40 times today

The Victor Café is an Italian restaurant that cultivates old traditions and seamlessly blends them with new ones. With classic Italian dishes and unforgettable live music, we invite you to join us for many enjoyable evenings for years to come. PLEASE NOTE: Multiple reservations made for the same party cannot be seated together. To book large parties that are not available by default on OpenTable, please contact the restaurant directly. When booking, party size should encompass total number of guests, including children. We try our best to accommodate special requests, however they are not guaranteed.

A photo of High Street Restaurant & Bar restaurant

10. High Street Restaurant & Bar

4.8

Exceptional(50)

Price: Moderate

• American • Center City

Booked 31 times today

Located in the historic Franklin Building, High Street is a modern American eatery and bar that celebrates the essence of local grains. With an on-site bakery at the heart of our culinary creations, we pride ourselves on crafting artisanal breads, pastries, pizzas, and handmade pastas that showcase the best of the region.Under the guidance of Chef Christina McKeough, our seasonal menu highlights the bounty of local producers, offering a fresh take on classic flavors and dishes. Our commitment to supporting American winemakers adds an exciting dimension to your dining experience, with a carefully curated selection of wines to complement your meal.At High Street Restaurant, we invite you to savor the rich tapestry of flavors that define our culinary philosophy, blending tradition, innovation, and a passion for local ingredients.Parties of 7 or more require a credit card on file and are required to participate in our "Leave It To Us" menu.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

D
Danielle
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We dined at Butcher & Singer to celebrate having just gotten married. Ryan, our server, was outstanding. The food and drinks were remarkable and the vibes were spot on. Perfect date night for two!
More info
Butcher & SingerPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• Center City
•
4.9
P
Paigevip
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
The best food and best staff. I will be coming here time and time again ❤️
More info
Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
•
4.6
L
Laurievip
Los Angeles •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We were greeted, seated and then treated to a lovely dining experience. We started with a couple of the specialty cocktails-Romarin and Nouveau Basilic: their pour was generous as our drinks lasted through our meals. A bonus of a basket of bread was brought to our table, such a rarity! Baguette, sourdough and what seamed a seasonal bread with cranberry and walnuts with beurre---seemed such a treat! Our waiter was attentive and made well informed dinner suggestions after asking us our preferences and we enjoyed the beef bourguignon; duck a l'orange and roasted chicken. Parc has made our top 10 list of places to eat while in Philly!
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ParcPrice: Expensive• French• Rittenhouse Square
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4.8
A
amy
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
The food and service were great! I would have liked if the waiter slowed down a bit when telling us about the specials as none of us at the table really understood him
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White Dog Cafe - University CityPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• University City
•
4.7
J
Jessica
Philadelphia County •15 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 21, 2024
I haven’t been here in a few years and decided to return as I’ve always loved the ambiance. I remember the food as being good but not excellent. This time it was excellent as was the seevice and everything about our meal. It seems they have really stepped things up a notch since I was last there. I’ll definitely be back again soon!
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Bistro RomanoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Society Hill
•
4.8

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University City

Best Historic Restaurants in University City

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33 restaurants available nearby

1. White Dog Cafe - University City

2. Parc

3. Bistro Romano

4. Butcher & Singer

5. Little Water

6. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

7. The Morris

8. Saloon Restaurant

9. The Victor Cafe - Philadelphia

10. High Street Restaurant & Bar

See what locals rave about

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