Best of 16 outdoor dining in University City
Outdoor dining in University City offers a unique and enjoyable experience for food lovers. With a variety of restaurants and cafes that provide al fresco dining, you can savor delicious meals while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling academic hub. From cozy sidewalk cafes to spacious patios, outdoor dining in University City is a must-try for both students and visitors alike. Experience the best of University City's culinary scene in the great outdoors.
- 1. Booker's Restaurant & Bar in University City
- 2. White Dog Cafe University City
- 3. Copabanana University City
- 4. Landmark Americana University City
- 5. Greek Lady
- 6. New Deck Tavern
- 7. Louie Louie
- 8. Local 44 Restaurant & Bar
- 9. Renata's Kitchen
- 10. Walnut Street Cafe
- 11. CO-OP Restaurant & Bar in University City
- 12. The Board and Brew
- 13. Lascala's Fire University City
- 14. Class of 1920 Commons
- 15. Sunset Social in University City
- 16. DIG
1. Booker's Restaurant & Bar in University City
Booker's Restaurant & Bar is a premier destination for watching sports and enjoying live music in University City.

The outdoor dining area at this establishment is delightful, particularly during happy hour. The atmosphere is informal and conducive to a relaxing meal. However, the dining room is small, so it's recommended to make a reservation in advance to avoid waiting outside and possibly missing out on a table. Alternatively, patrons can enjoy the happy hour specials served exclusively in the outdoor dining area, making the wait more pleasant.
The happy hour, which runs from 5-7 pm, is a highlight of the outdoor dining experience. Patrons can take advantage of these specials while watching the hustle and bustle of Baltimore Ave or simply passing time until a table becomes available. The outdoor dining set-up provides a perfect opportunity to soak up the atmosphere while sipping on a well-deserved drink after a long day.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
2. White Dog Cafe University City
Committed to sustainability and local farmers

The White Dog restaurant is renowned for its warm hospitality and inspiring, award-winning food. Housed in three historic brownstones, the restaurant features charming and whimsical dog décor and artwork in its many unique dining spaces. Additionally, diners can enjoy outdoor dining on the sidewalk. A visit to this restaurant is a fun and enjoyable experience, with cool decorations adorning the walls and friendly service. Dog lovers will particularly appreciate the dog-centric decorations.
The food at the White Dog is excellent, with the cheeseburger being a particularly popular choice. The restaurant is a little pricier than one might expect, but many visitors feel that it is worth it for a special occasion. The unique and charming atmosphere, combined with the high-quality food, make for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're looking for a romantic date night spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion, the White Dog is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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3. Copabanana University City
Tropical-themed bar and restaurant with Latin American cuisine and drinks.

The interior of the establishment appears worn and outdated, with old carpet and fixtures that have seen better days. Despite this, it remains a suitable place to visit. For those who prefer to dine al fresco, there are tables available outside on the sidewalk.
Copabanana University City is a beloved Penn institution, known for its genuine campus vibe. Its popularity is due in part to its large ceiling-to-floor windows and sidewalk cafe, which offer a charming view of the campus scene. The establishment is also frequented by the nearby Penn hospital complex, making it a popular destination for a variety of patrons.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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4. Landmark Americana University City
Features a rooftop bar and lounge

The Landmark Americana Tap & Grill, located in University City, features an outdoor seating area known as the Landmark Patio. This patio offers a special drink menu that includes frozen cocktails, as well as the full food menu. Both bar and table seating are available for customers on a daily basis, but this is dependent on the weather.
In summary, the Landmark Patio at the Landmark Americana Tap & Grill in University City is a great place to enjoy food and drinks in an outdoor setting. The patio offers a unique drink menu featuring frozen cocktails and the full food menu. Bar and table seating are available for customers daily, but this is subject to the weather.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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5. Greek Lady
Family-owned and operated, serves authentic Greek cuisine

The outdoor dining area at the establishment provides a pleasant atmosphere for guests, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed meal. The option for al fresco dining is available, which is a nice feature for those who prefer to dine in the fresh air.
The outdoor seating is a welcoming addition to the overall experience of the restaurant. It offers a refreshing alternative to indoor dining, allowing patrons to enjoy their meals while soaking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding environment.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
6. New Deck Tavern
Historic building, community-oriented, offers brunch on weekends

The New Deck Tavern, a popular restaurant and pub located in University City, Philadelphia, has been serving customers since 1986. Housed in three renovated second empire style row houses from the late 1800s, the tavern can be found on historical Sansom Street, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. The New Deck Tavern, also known as "The Deck," originally opened on the 3400 Block of Walnut Street, but was reopened at its current location after a ten-year break.
The New Deck Tavern is known for its generous portions of classic American fare, including delicious burgers, cheese steaks, fresh salads, and sandwiches, served from 11am till 1am. The welcoming pub-style atmosphere and extensive drink menu, which includes a vast array of draft beers from around the world and one of the largest single malt scotch collections in Philadelphia, make it a popular spot for students and visitors alike. A European draft beer system imported from County Cork, Ireland, allows the tavern to boast that they pour the "Best Pint in the City." The friendly and accommodating staff, and clean bathrooms, have been consistently praised by visitors.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. Louie Louie
Features a lively atmosphere with eclectic decor

Louie Louie is a restaurant with a cozy heated outdoor patio, reminiscent of French cafes, which provides an ideal spot for dining and people-watching. On a busy Saturday night, we were seated in the patio without reservations and received excellent service from friendly and attentive staff.
The menu offers a variety of options, and we decided to split the Feta and Olive appetizer. My son opted for a pasta entree while I chose the mushroom risotto. Both dishes were delicious and highly recommended. Louie Louie is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, making it a convenient option for any meal. We will definitely be returning for another great dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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8. Local 44 Restaurant & Bar
Rotating seasonal cocktails, extensive wine list, and locally sourced ingredients

This place in Philadelphia offers a great selection of craft beer and has a menu that features delicious options for both meat-lovers and vegetarians. The location is charming, offering a chance to explore the neighborhood and admire the colonial architecture. However, the quality of the food can be inconsistent, with some dishes being excellent and others being disappointing.
The interior design is pleasant and there is ample seating available both indoors and outdoors. Despite the hit-or-miss nature of the menu, the establishment is still worth a visit for its extensive beer selection and lively atmosphere. Whether you come for a meal or just drinks, this spot is a recommended addition to your itinerary when in Philadelphia.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
9. Renata's Kitchen
Known for their delicious Filipino cuisine and warm hospitality

The restaurant is an excellent choice for lunch, especially if you go with a group and share various appetizers. The cauliflower with tahini sauce is a must-try, as it was prepared flawlessly. Enjoying the meal outside was an additional treat.
During happy hour, the appetizers are delicious, and the non-alcoholic drinks are exceptional. The atmosphere is relaxing, with large screens inside for sports enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
10. Walnut Street Cafe
Housed in a historic 19th-century factory building with industrial decor

The establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating options to its patrons. The outdoor dining area provides a pleasant and calming environment, complete with a nice view. The space is set up in a way that allows for adequate distancing between groups, creating a more comfortable and safe experience for diners. On the day of the visit, the outdoor seating was particularly enjoyable and not overly crowded.
Indoor seating was also plentiful and arranged in a manner that adheres to social distancing guidelines. Whether guests choose to dine inside or out, they can expect to have a relaxed and enjoyable meal. The outdoor seating area's tranquility and lack of crowding make it an attractive choice for many.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
11. CO-OP Restaurant & Bar in University City
Co-op owned and operated with a focus on locally sourced ingredients

CO-OP Restaurant & Bar is an excellent choice for celebrating special occasions with family and friends. They offer a spacious and inviting patio/outdoor dining area, perfect for enjoying meals and drinks in a relaxed and comfortable setting. The restaurant is known for its beautiful ambiance, featuring big windows that allow for plenty of natural light and a cozy atmosphere.
The staff at CO-OP Restaurant & Bar are friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent service to guests. Whether you're looking for a recommended dish or drink, they're happy to provide suggestions and ensure that you have a memorable dining experience. The restaurant offers a varied menu, with something to suit every taste and preference, making it a great spot for groups with varying food preferences.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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12. The Board and Brew
Features local art and supports community initiatives

The location offers a great outdoor dining experience with a relaxed atmosphere. The food served is delicious and I highly recommend trying the pulled pork sandwich. It's a perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends and colleagues.
I had a pleasant evening with friends, making use of their outdoor seating. The service provided was attentive, ensuring our needs were met promptly. Besides the delightful company, the coffee served was fantastic, making the entire experience even more enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Lascala's Fire University City
Live music on weekends and happy hour specials

Outdoor dining is a popular and enjoyable experience at this establishment, featuring a well-maintained patio with a view of the city. Ideal for summer evenings, the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery while enjoying a meal.
Diners can enjoy a casual meal in the outdoor dining area, which boasts a pleasant ambiance and attentive service. The combination of the lovely setting and excellent service makes for a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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14. Class of 1920 Commons
Sustainable practices, extensive allergy-friendly options, locally sourced ingredients

The outdoor dining area at Class of 1920 Commons is an excellent place to unwind and enjoy a meal, especially during warmer months. Its lively atmosphere makes it an ideal location for socializing and meeting new people.
Class of 1920 Commons provides a pleasant outdoor dining experience, boasting a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for students, staff, and visitors alike. The outdoor seating area offers a refreshing alternative to eating indoors, making it a popular choice during the warmer months of the year.
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15. Sunset Social in University City
Stunning sunset views, friendly staff, and a lively social scene

Sunset Social is a unique rooftop venue situated on top of a parking garage, providing guests with breathtaking views of the Philadelphia skyline and Schuylkill River. The venue boasts a combination of green space, cement patio, and a tented area, making it an ideal location for various social gatherings.
The mix of outdoor and tented areas allows for versatility, whether it's a relaxed picnic on the grass or a formal dinner under the tent. With its stunning surroundings and flexible space, Sunset Social is a perfect spot to unwind, socialize, and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Rooftop
16. DIG
Live music on weekends and pet-friendly policy

I had a wonderful experience dining at DIG. The staff greeted me warmly and the food was incredible. I will definitely be returning to DIG in the future.
The outdoor dining area at DIG is a wonderful place to enjoy a meal on a sunny day. The food served is fresh and full of flavor, though the portions are on the smaller side. Despite this, the delicious taste of the meals makes it worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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