Top 17 lunch restaurants in University City
University City, a bustling hub of academia, is known for its vibrant energy and diverse community. Among the many attractions in this area, the lunch restaurants in University City stand out as a must-visit. These establishments offer a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences, making them the perfect spot for students, faculty, and visitors alike to grab a bite to eat during their busy days. From cozy cafes to bustling food halls, there's something for everyone at the lunch restaurants in University City.
- 1. White Dog Cafe University City
- 2. Copabanana University City
- 3. Shake Shack University City in University City
- 4. Landmark Americana University City
- 5. Han Dynasty Univ. City in University City
- 6. Greek Lady
- 7. New Deck Tavern
- 8. Allegro Pizza and Grill
- 9. Louie Louie
- 10. Renata's Kitchen
- 11. Walnut Street Cafe
- 12. Bonchon University City
- 13. honeygrow in University City
- 14. Hummus Grill
- 15. CO-OP Restaurant & Bar
- 16. Lascala's Fire University City
- 17. DIG
1. White Dog Cafe University City
Sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, focus on social responsibility

The sandwich options at this establishment include fried chicken, pulled pork, and tofu egg, which have received high ratings from customers. Among the sandwiches offered, the cheeseburger was tried and found to be satisfying. Although the prices are a bit higher than one might expect, the quality of the food is reportedly worth it for a special occasion.
In terms of the sandwich selection, customers have expressed their satisfaction with options such as fried chicken, pulled pork, and tofu egg. From personal experience, the cheeseburger stood out as a tasty option. It is important to note that the prices are on the higher side, but the consensus seems to be that the satisfying and high-quality food makes it worthwhile for a special treat.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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2. Copabanana University City
Tropical-themed restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere

The inviting atmosphere at Copabanana makes it an ideal spot for drinks, with my server Kia providing excellent and friendly service. However, the food left me feeling let down. My order did not meet expectations, which was a bummer. Yet, the tantalizing aroma and appearance of the fajitas served to other patrons pique my curiosity, and I look forward to giving their menu another chance.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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3. Shake Shack University City in University City
High-quality ingredients, sustainable practices, and convenient location

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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4. Landmark Americana University City
Eco-friendly to-go packaging, supports local farmers, diverse craft beer selection

The food at this establishment has been described as delicious and interesting, with some patrons even raving that it was great and went well with the available drinks. However, not all experiences were positive, as some customers noted that their food was cold or lacking in taste. On the other hand, some were pleasantly surprised and found that the food exceeded their expectations.
As for starters, fried cheese is one of the options available. But, there have been some complaints about missing sauces. This inconsistency in the food preparation may have contributed to the varying opinions on the taste of the food. Overall, while there are some areas for improvement, the positive comments suggest that there is potential for a great dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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5. Han Dynasty Univ. City in University City
Offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options

The Han Dynasty restaurant is known for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal location for group outings or social lunch gatherings with friends. The staff's service has been described by some reviewers as fast, great, good, and friendly, which suggests that overall, the service is satisfactory. However, it's worth noting that there are some reviews that mention slow service, which may be a hit or miss depending on the day or time of visit.
In terms of the food, Han Dynasty serves up authentic Sichuan cuisine that is both delicious and flavorful. The menu offers a wide variety of options, from traditional dishes like Mapo Tofu and Dan Dan Noodles to more unique offerings like Dong Po Pork and Spicy Grilled Fish. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available, making it accessible to diners with dietary restrictions. The restaurant's commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques has earned it a reputation as one of the best Sichuan restaurants in the area.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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6. Greek Lady
Family-owned restaurant with authentic Greek vibes and decor

The Greek Lady in Philly is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best cheesesteak in the city. Its food quality, taste, and service are unparalleled, making it stand out from other spots. The Greek Lady's cheesesteak is so delicious that it beats its competitors hands down.
If you're on Penn campus, you're in luck because there's an awesome lunch place that serves huge and phenomenal salads. The gyros are also a great choice, and they come with an added treat - french fries. This combination of delicious food and convenient location makes it an excellent choice for a quick and tasty lunch.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
7. New Deck Tavern
Full bar with a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails

The Great Irish Pub near UPenn campus offers an impressive selection of beers and delicious pub food. It is a great spot for satisfying cravings for classic American dishes, with generous serving sizes. The burger, fish and chips, and Philly cheese steak are popular choices, and for good reason.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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8. Allegro Pizza and Grill
Offers catering and delivery services, Family-owned restaurant with a cozy vibe

Allegro Pizza and Grill is a well-known establishment on the city's east side, praised for its delicious pizza, particularly the pepperoni and fluffy crust cooked in a pizza oven. The restaurant's popularity may result in a slightly longer delivery time, but the quality of the food makes up for it. During a recent lunchtime visit, I enjoyed a satisfying meal of Sicilian slices and a cheese slice with mushrooms, which were quite filling.
However, I felt that the prices were slightly high for the portion sizes. On the positive side, the staff members were friendly and attentive, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience. Despite the steeper prices, Allegro Pizza and Grill is still a popular destination for pizza lovers in the area, and its commitment to quality ingredients and cooking techniques ensures a consistently enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
9. Louie Louie
Offers vegan and gluten-free options, kid-friendly, and unique daily specials.

The staff at the establishment are generally friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. However, some visitors have noted that the service can be slower than desired, which may impact the overall experience.
In terms of the atmosphere, the establishment offers a cool and enjoyable ambiance that exceeds typical expectations. This aspect of the experience, along with the welcoming staff, contributes to a better than average experience for guests.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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10. Renata's Kitchen
Middle Eastern cuisine with homemade recipes in a family-run restaurant

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
11. Walnut Street Cafe
Seasonal menus using local ingredients, sustainably sourced

The Walnut Street Cafe in University City is heating things up with a featured Valentine's Day menu. On February 14 and 15, diners will enjoy a $75 prix fixe meal. The dining experience will include four courses plus an oyster appetizer. Some options will include crab fondue and raclette with escarole salad, Lancaster chicken, New York strip steak and red snapper.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
12. Bonchon University City
Authentic Korean cuisine in the heart of Philadelphia

The lunch menu at this establishment provides a wide selection of dishes. Two standout options are the bibimbap and chicken katsu. Both are highly recommended for their unique flavors and textures.
During a recent lunch outing with friends, we had the opportunity to try the soy garlic wings. They were a crowd favorite, with their delicious taste and satisfying crunch. Additionally, the service we received was friendly and attentive, making for an enjoyable dining experience. We look forward to returning in the future.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
13. honeygrow in University City
Farm-to-table, locally sourced ingredients

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Hummus Grill
Freshly made Mediterranean cuisine using local ingredients

The falafel sandwich is a highly recommended lunch option. The pita bread is freshly baked, providing a soft and satisfying base for the dish. The falafel itself is crispy on the outside and perfectly cooked on the inside, resulting in a delightful texture.
For those following a vegan lifestyle, this establishment offers a variety of delicious options. The hummus and grilled veggie platter is a standout choice, featuring fresh and flavorful vegetables grilled to perfection. The creamy hummus adds a satisfying richness to the dish, making it a fulfilling and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
15. CO-OP Restaurant & Bar
Cozy atmosphere, eco-friendly approach, supports local farmers.

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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16. Lascala's Fire University City
Neopolitan-style pizza, pasta made from scratch, diverse lunch specials

LaScala Fire is a fun restaurant located near Drexel and UPenn that offers a lively college vibe and delicious sit-down Italian food. The restaurant's server was knowledgeable and provided good service, with food arriving in a timely manner.
During a monthly lunch gathering, a group of colleagues visited the University City location of LaScala Fire. The food served was excellent, and while service was a bit slow due to the busy lunchtime hour, the overall experience was enjoyable. The group had a great time catching up and socializing over their meals.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
17. DIG
Serves locally sourced, organic ingredients with many gluten-free options

The food served at this establishment is fresh and delicious, with a focus on healthy, high-quality ingredients. However, some customers may take issue with the portion sizes, which are relatively small. Additionally, some dishes may be over-seasoned, which can overpower the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients.
Despite these drawbacks, the food is generally regarded as being worth the higher price point. The quality of the ingredients and the care taken in preparing each dish contribute to a healthy and satisfying dining experience. However, those with larger appetites may want to consider ordering additional dishes or sides in order to feel fully satisfied.
TOPICS
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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