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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in University City, Philadelphia County

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60 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of a.kitchen restaurant
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1. a.kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(2522)
€€€€
• French American • Center City
Booked 37 times today
Located at 18th and Walnut, a.kitchen is a French inspired American restaurant rooted in seasonality and a deep love of wine. Led by Executive Chef Eli Collins, the menu moves from thoughtful small plates to refined lunch and dinner classics, all designed to pair beautifully with what is in your glass. Morning service features a seasonal breakfast, with weekend brunch offering a fresh take on daytime favorites.​Nationally recognized for its natural and terroir focused wine program, a.kitchen highlights iconic regions and emerging producers, with a knowledgeable team ready to guide your next pour. The bar offers a focused cocktail list and wines by the glass, making it ideal for a drink before dinner or a casual seat at the bar.​ In warmer months, enjoy sidewalk café dining with a relaxed European feel. Honored by Wine Spectator, The New York Times, Vogue, and the James Beard Foundation.
A photo of High Street restaurant
2. High Street
4.7
Exceptional(472)
€€€€
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 29 times today
Located at the corner of 9th and Chestnut in the heart of Washington Square West, High Street is a cozy neighborhood restaurant and bar centered on local grains and seasonal cooking.​ Our exhibition bakery showcases pastries, pizzas, and handmade pastas, all visible from our light filled dining room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.​Join us for brunch, lunch, or dinner, or stop by the bar for cocktails and small plates. Executive Chef Christina McKeough’s seasonal menu highlights local producers with fresh, modern takes on classic dishes.​Tucked behind the main dining room, our Back Bar is a cocktail focused space hosting seasonal events and pop ups. The Back Bar and Back Room are available for private dining and group events. ​Recognized by the Michelin Guide and named one of The Inquirer’s 76 Most Vital Restaurants of 2025.​Parties of seven or more require a credit card on file and participation in our Leave It To Us menu.​
A photo of Parc restaurant
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3. Parc
4.8
Exceptional(18858)
€€€€
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 247 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 Spice Finch restaurant
4. Spice Finch
4.7
Exceptional(1450)
€€€€
• Mediterranean • Center City
Booked 27 times today
Named after the bird that populates nearly every port along the ancient maritime spice routes, Spice Finch pays homage to a passerine that does not sing, yet is known to vocalize or chirp in recognition of good eats. We are inspired by the distinctive flavors of the nations bordering the Mediterranean Sea, and heavily influenced by the cultures and culinary traditions of Morocco and Greece. Our menu is a bold, seasonally accurate menu featuring an array of small plates, vegetables, grilled meats and fish. Follow us on Instagram @SpiceFinchPhilly
A photo of Saloon Restaurant restaurant
5. Saloon Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3078)
€€€€
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 94 times today
Saloon Restaurant is a must-visit destination. It's been serving Philadelphia's finest Italian food since 1967. The ambiance, service, and food consistently receive rave reviews. The menu boasts of Italian classics like grilled octopus, dover sole, Saloon steaks, and veal chops. Reviews mention 'excellent food', 'outstanding ambiance', and 'amazing service'. Plus, it's free parking!
A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
6. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(9141)
€€€€
• Greek • Center City
Booked 26 times today
The stunning restaurant, which is first of its kind in Philadelphia, will transport guests to the Greek Islands with an atmosphere reminiscent of an inviting Mediterranean home & a menu of authentic specialties, simply prepared, that represent the best of Greek cuisine. The restaurant specializes in whole grilled fish which are flown in from the Greek Islands, the shores of Morocco, Tunisia, & Portugal. Guests are able to choose from Estia’s expansive display & watch chefs cook their fish to perfection over a charcoal grill in the sparkling open kitchen.
A photo of Honeysuckle restaurant
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7. Honeysuckle
4.7
Exceptional(319)
€€€€
• American • North Broad
Booked 14 times today
Honeysuckle is more than a restaurant. It is a network of community spaces centered around ancestry, nourishment, and reclamation, founded by two-time James Beard Award Finalists Chef Omar Tate and Chef Cybille St.Aude-Tate. Located in Philadelphia’s North Broad neighborhood, our Michelin Guide recommended space offers a fresh perspective on food systems—expanding Afrocentricity in food by celebrating the legacies, recipes, and traditions that came before us.Our multi-course tasting menu in the main dining room highlights local Black farmers, Indigenous ingredients, and the diverse foodways and cultures that shape our work. Our à la carte menu is available exclusively in our bar and lounge.Our lunch program extends our commitment to community through accessibility, flavor, and hospitality. Join us from 11am to 2:30pm Wednesday to Friday for a three-course experience offered at a price of your choosing.
A photo of Tuna Bar restaurant
8. Tuna Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1119)
€€€€
• Japanese • Old City
Booked 32 times today
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW PRIOR TO BOOKING Outdoor reservations are weather permitting and must be specified upon booking the reservation. Specific table requests are considered but not guaranteed. Tuna Bar is a Japanese Raw Bar and Grill concept created by Owner and Chef Kenneth Sze. Located in Old City Philadelphia, Tuna Bar boasts a relaxing, upscale atmosphere serving fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The diverse menu offers traditional and specialty sushi rolls, raw oysters, scallops, hand-selected fish, and shareable entrees. Tuna Bar offers a fully stocked bar of wine, sake, and spirits. There are no outside food and beverages allowed. There is a $40 dessert/cake fee for guests that wish to bring in a dessert/cake for their special occasion.
A photo of In Riva restaurant
9. In Riva
4.4
Awesome(2122)
€€€€
• Italian • East Falls
Booked 27 times today
In Riva is a Southern Italian inspired restaurant with an urban edge, specializing in wood-fired Napoletana pizza, house-made pasta, and contemporary antipasti. Executive Chef Crisanto Ramos, who has been with In Riva since the very beginning, brings passion and creativity to every dish — from signature favorites like our Margherita Pizza to innovative new flavors.“In Riva” — Italian for “along the banks” — we sit on the Schuylkill River in East Falls, just steps from the iconic Falls Bridge. Our unique atmosphere blends rustic charm with modern flair, perfect for date night, family dinners, or gatherings with friends. Guests also love our cozy backyard patio, the ideal spot to sip on our signature Riva Spritz or enjoy wine al fresco.With eclectic wines, Italian craft beers, and bold cocktails, In Riva has been a true neighborhood staple for over 14 years — where great food, good company, and river views come together.
A photo of Tomo Sushi & Ramen restaurant
10. Tomo Sushi & Ramen
4.8
Exceptional(824)
€€€€
• Japanese • Old City
Booked 25 times today
We are a BYOB sushi and ramen restaurant located in Old City, Philadelphia, serving traditional style sushi and ramen with a newfangled twist. Tomo was funded out of passion by two lifelong tomodachi (friends in Japanese): Sushi Chef Andy and Ramen Chef Steven.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • gloria
    Philadelphia County •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This meal was a total delight from the charming ambience of an old men's club with a tree outside our window to the lovely well trained server to the well made John's water iced drink of the day to the perfection of a seasonal tomato stack and a wonderful beet salad to my partner's perfect filet and my lobster fra diabalo with balanced great spice. Chocolate mousse may seem old fashioned but no, it was happiness and lusciousness. We'll be back before long.
    More info
    Saloon Restaurant$$$$• Italian• South Philly
    •
    4.8
  • Afia
    Philadelphia County •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I’ve been wanting to try Parc for a long time (I am soon relocating to Philadelphia). I was a little worried that Parc would be overrated - I was wrong. Everything was amazing - down to the bread and butter. We had the tuna carpaccio, sardines, lamb shank and steak frites - all so good. Can’t wait to go back.
    More info
    Parc$$$$• French• Rittenhouse Square
    •
    4.8
  • JenniferGold
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •31 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    This restaurant was a last-minute decision and such a hidden gem! We started with the trio of spreads with the flatbread. They were delicious! My son got the swordfish and said it was the best he ever had. I got the lamb kabob and rice cakes and my husband got the lamb shank. The lamb shank came with beautiful vegetables and a cous cous salad and could have fed 2 people. Unfortunately we were too full to eat dessert. Definitely a must visit!
    More info
    Spice Finch$$$$• Mediterranean• Center City
    •
    4.7
  • PatrickGold
    Philadelphia County •31 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 29 Jul 2026
    Great pizza. SOme of the best in Philadelphia. A plus that it is BYOB. We had the classic cheese but upgraded to a square. The dough was so light and fluffy and a great taste all around. Also had the special potato pizza which was great as well. had the meatballs to start. Tender with a little spice. Do not miss out on the baked alaska. Great combo of soft serve, brownie and marshmallow. Will definitely be back.
    More info
    Char$$$$• Pizzeria• Philadelphia
    •
    4.8
  • NicoleGold
    Oklahoma •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 28 Jul 2026
    Phenomenal service all around, particularly from our server Brandon!
    More info
    Tuna Bar$$$$• Japanese• Old City
    •
    4.8

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in University City

Discover the best dining spots in University City, Philadelphia County, that are truly "worth the drive." This vibrant area is renowned for its eclectic food scene, offering a wide range of culinary experiences that cater to both adventurous foodies and traditional palate enthusiasts. Each restaurant in this curated list not only boasts unique and flavorful dishes but also embodies a commitment to quality and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences. These establishments stand out not just for their food, but for their atmosphere and service, making each visit memorable. Whether you're in the mood for innovative cuisine or classic comfort foods, University City's restaurant scene promises satisfaction. Enjoy the convenience of our user-friendly reservation system to secure your spot at these highly recommended locations. Experience the best that University City has to offer, where each meal is worth the journey.

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