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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in University City

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110 restaurants available nearby

A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5480)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • University City
Booked 76 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
4.8
Exceptional(17445)
Price: Expensive
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 220 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 Craftsman Row Saloon restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1171)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old City
Booked 65 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 Melograno restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1645)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 37 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
4.8
Exceptional(7330)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 225 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 The Dandelion restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8128)
Price: Moderate
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 157 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 Little Water restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(88)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 45 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 Barclay Prime restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5437)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 90 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of El Vez restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(7039)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 105 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.
A photo of Talula’s Garden restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(13239)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Washington Square
Booked 154 times today
Behind the wrought iron gate, past the herbaceous patio and through the atrium is Talula's Garden, the warm and elegant Washington Square eatery from Aimee Olexy and Starr Restaurants. The modern menu, prepared with carefully-sourced ingredients and a light European touch, changes with the seasons. The artful cuisine, hospitable staff, sustainable spirits, and a focus on cheese make the dining experience here incredibly memorable.
‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Julia
    Philadelphia County •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We got lucky and got a last minute reservation yesterday after being on waitlist for a few days. Felt like I hit the lottery lol, as I know this restaurant starts booking up in October for the holidays! Timing worked out perfectly as we had to get my daughter to her bus back to another city where she lives — and we had exactly one hour to eat. Got seated right away, thankfully. Atmosphere is always festive this time of year, which is the main reason we wanted to eat here. Food arrived promptly and was tasty, service was good and we were on our way out the door on time as very satisfied customers! We will be back ☺️
    More info
    Craftsman Row SaloonPrice: Moderate• American• Old City
    4.4
  • KellyVIP
    New York City •38 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I always have a great experience at PARC, but my Christmas night dinner was nothing short of exceptional. From the warm welcome I received at check in, my wonderful server, Miss Amy’s attentive and fun service, and my delicious meal, this particular visit is one I’ll happily remember. Also, a special thank you for always treating solo diners with respect! It’s for all these reasons I’m a loyal + faithful PARC diner. Looking forward to my next visit!
    More info
    ParcPrice: Expensive• French• Rittenhouse Square
    4.8
  • Tristan
    Philadelphia County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great experience, great food! My dad has some food intolerances and they were so accommodating and attentive, it’s minor but was really wonderful they could accommodate. Made sure we knew what was in what dishes and it was super easy to order. Everything was fantastic and surprisingly large portions. Can’t wait to go again.
    More info
    The LovePrice: Expensive• American• Rittenhouse Square
    4.8
  • Anne
    New York City •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We enjoyed our own private room as it was a quiet night. Our waitress was delightful! I’m sorry to not remember her name. She’s was very engaging and attentive. We could not have had better service!
    More info
    White Dog Cafe - University CityPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• University City
    4.7
  • kathy
    Philadelphia County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Dinner for 6 at Melograno’s was awesome! The restaurant is comfortable and welcoming. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable (especially Marco). The food is amazing! We sampled salads, burrata, multiple pasta dishes and of course dessert. Everything was delicious. Thank you!
    More info
    MelogranoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Rittenhouse Square
    4.8
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