Best of 8 diners in University City
Diners in University City offer a wide variety of delicious food options for students, faculty, and visitors alike. From classic American fare to international cuisine, these diners cater to diverse palates and dietary needs. With their cozy atmospheres and affordable prices, they provide an excellent dining experience in the heart of the university district. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast spot or a place to gather with friends, diners in University City are the perfect choice.
1. White Dog Cafe University City in University City
Farm-to-table dining, historic building, and supports local community

The staff at White Dog Cafe are known for their helpfulness and willingness to accommodate guests, although a few reviewers have noted a recent decline in politeness. The restaurant has a unique and varied menu, with dishes made from locally sourced, organic ingredients. Patrons seem to appreciate the eclectic options, even if the menu can be difficult to read at times.
White Dog Cafe is an iconic establishment in University City, having been around since 1983. The restaurant is a leader in using environmentally sustainable and organic foods from farms located within 50 miles. This commitment to locally sourced ingredients has helped the restaurant build a strong reputation over the years.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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2. Landmark Americana University City
24/7 dining, full-service bar, and outdoor seating

The restaurant offers a nice atmosphere, reminiscent of an American diner but with a more upscale feel, making it an ideal spot for a group breakfast or brunch.
The ambiance of the restaurant is pleasant and can be compared to that of an American diner, but with a more sophisticated touch. It is a suitable place for a gathering, especially for breakfast or brunch.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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3. Greek Lady
Family-owned and operated, Wide variety of vegetarian options

There is a popular lunch spot located on Penn campus, where one can enjoy large and delicious salads or savory gyros. However, the restaurant can get quite crowded during peak hours, which may lead to longer waiting times and occasional oversights in orders. In my experience, I had to request a refund after my order was mistakenly overlooked and it took nearly 30 minutes to be prepared.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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4. Louie Louie
Live music on weekends, extensive wine list, and sustainable seafood

The restaurant has a cool and enjoyable atmosphere, providing an above-average dining experience. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, adding to the positive ambiance. However, some diners have noted that the service can be slow at times, which may affect the overall satisfaction of the dining experience.
Despite some instances of slow service, the staff is generally composed of friendly and attentive individuals. The restaurant's atmosphere is one of the standout features, offering a cool and enjoyable setting for diners. However, the service pace can be improved to ensure that all customers have a positive experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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5. Cedar Park Cafe
Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, supports local businesses

Cedar Park Cafe is a popular choice for breakfast and brunch, known for its diner-style atmosphere. The cozy and welcoming ambiance makes it an appealing spot for patrons. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes, with the French toast and scrambled eggs being particular standouts.
The no-frills diner experience at Cedar Park Cafe is part of its charm. The focus is on providing great food and friendly service in a relaxed and casual setting. The restaurant is a perfect choice for those seeking a straightforward and enjoyable dining experience.
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6. Walnut Street Cafe
Seasonal Italian-inspired menu, house-made pastas, and a great selection of wines

The hotel staff recommended a restaurant in Philadelphia, and it exceeded expectations despite many closures. The atmosphere was pleasant, and the staff was amiable and welcoming. The menu offered unique and delicious items.
The ambiance of the restaurant was enjoyable, and the service staff was exceptionally friendly and kind. While the drinks were a highlight, the food did not leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
7. CO-OP Restaurant & Bar
Co-op owned by the restaurant's employees, emphasizing on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients

The newly discovered spot boasts a beautiful ambiance, featuring large windows that create an inviting atmosphere. The server was friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating, making dietary restrictions no problem. Creative dishes were a hit, showcasing a unique and delicious menu.
Dinner at this establishment was thoroughly enjoyed. The filet mignon stood out as a highlight, cooked to perfection. A satisfactory wine selection was available and taken advantage of. Attentive service added to the overall positive experience, although there were slight room for improvement.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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8. Hamilton Restaurant in University City
Committed to sustainability, locally sourced ingredients, and wood-fired cooking

The food from this establishment is decent, though the owner or manager on duty exhibits rude behavior. I have ordered take out from this place twice due to the limited dining options. Her negative attitude may be a usual occurrence or perhaps it was just a coincidence during my visits. Regardless, her demeanor has prompted me to explore other dining options.
On a positive note, the Scrapple-Egg-and Cheese breakfast sandwich I ordered was delicious and reasonably priced, and the service was quick. The next time my trolley is delayed and passes through 40th & Market Streets, I plan to return for another sandwich. Parking is available on the street, but it is unclear whether it is free or metered. With the increasing greediness of cities, I would not be surprised if meters were installed in that area.
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