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Best Cozy Restaurants in University City

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140 restaurants available nearby

A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant
1. White Dog Cafe - University City
4.6
Exceptional(5494)
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 LaScala's Fire-University City restaurant
2. LaScala's Fire-University City
4.6
Exceptional(179)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • University City
Booked 6 times today
LaScala's Fire at University City is located at 32nd & Chestnut on the Drexel University Campus. (This is not our Old City location.)* NOW WITH A FULL BAROpen Table's Diner's Choice 2022, 2023
A photo of The Dandelion restaurant
3. The Dandelion
4.7
Exceptional(8155)
Price: Moderate
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 123 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 Craftsman Row Saloon restaurant
4. Craftsman Row Saloon
4.4
Awesome(1204)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old City
Booked 29 times today
Craftsman Row Saloon is a cozy place because of its festive and fun atmosphere. It's often decorated in a fun and festive way, adding to the coziness. As one reviewer put it, 'The Christmas decor was outstanding! The food was excellent, the service was great, and the ambience was perfect for Christmas.' This place is also known for its friendly and efficient servers, contributing to the cozy atmosphere. Plus, the year-round iconic burgers and other comfort foods make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy good food.
A photo of Little Water restaurant
5. Little Water
4.6
Exceptional(108)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 39 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 The Love restaurant
6. The Love
4.8
Exceptional(7382)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 222 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 Barclay Prime restaurant
7. Barclay Prime
4.8
Exceptional(5460)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 75 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of Fiorella Philadelphia restaurant
8. Fiorella Philadelphia
4.9
Exceptional(137)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Bella Vista
Booked 63 times today
The Fiorella you see today is still the intimate space you know & love! Chef Marc Vetri and his team bring decades of talent & experience to this special space, creating a truly memorable dining experience. Pasta is the main event at Fiorella, with rotating antipasti and desserts rounding out the menu.A la carte seating is available both in our indoor dining room and outdoor patio, year round.Indoor seating is predominantly at our chef's counter, with a few high-top tables outlining the space. Table vs. counter reservations are seated on a first-come, first-served basis.Patio seating is shaded from sun in summer and insulated with heaters in winter. Due to the nature of outdoor reservations, Fiorella may have to cancel outdoor service for severe weather.Looking to dine with a larger group or want to try a different taste of Fiorella? Join us upstairs for our Pasta Club chef's selection!From the whole Fiorella Team, thank you for your continual love and support!
A photo of Aleksandar restaurant
9. Aleksandar
4.5
Awesome(509)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary European • Center City
Booked 20 times today
Aleksandar is the newest addition to the acclaimed Rittenhouse Square restaurant scene. We are inspired by seasonal ingredients, chef-driven techniques, and the traditions and flavors of ancestral and modern Europe. With floor-to-ceiling windows, large-scale original artwork, and cozy wood finishes, we at Aleksandar strive to marry Old World authenticity and modern culinary flare. Aleksandar is an approachable introduction to different corners of Europe, a place to discover new flavors and old traditions. Reservations are highly recommended. Walk-ins are accommodated whenever possible. We look forward to your visit!
A photo of Mona restaurant
10. Mona
new
3.8
Excellent(42)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Center City
Booked 95 times today
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant with a Greek-forward menu, set in a lively and upbeat atmosphere. The space flows seamlessly with an open layout, blending communal dining areas and intimate corners. The design features modern touches alongside traditional Greek elements like whitewashed walls, floral accents, and olive trees, evoking the charm of the Mediterranean.Please be advised of the following dress code:No hatsNo hoodiesNo steel toe boots
‘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
  • Ashely
    Philadelphia County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had a great time enjoying a team outing to celebrate a new year!
    More info
    Craftsman Row SaloonPrice: Moderate• American• Old City
    •
    4.4
  • Brian
    Philadelphia County •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Absolutely adore this restaurant. Grace, our server, was so attentive and polite. The food, as always, was delicious! And if you’re looking for something special that may not necessarily be on the menu, they’re always happy to try and get creative if possible!
    More info
    White Dog Cafe - University CityPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• University City
    •
    4.6
  • Chris
    Philadelphia County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our second time at Little Water and quickly becoming our favorite restaurant in the city. Upon walking in, the hostesses greeted us by name and our server knew of our food allergies from our last visit. From their non-alcoholic drink options to every flavor on the menu, each item we ordered was fantastic and just as good as we remembered from the first visit. The fried sea bass is definitely a star of the show and we have literally told no less than 3 dozen people about it lol. I’m not normally one to leave a long detailed review, but Little Water really delivers a phenomenal dining experience in every way — best food/drink and service/hospitality in recent memory no question!
    More info
    Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
    •
    4.6
  • Shawn
    Philadelphia County •4 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Quick and polite, seated right away. Server was attentive and not overbearing. Food was good on point for the price. The desserts were very good.
    More info
    LaScala's Fire-University CityPrice: Moderate• Italian• University City
    •
    4.6
  • Tracey
    Philadelphia County •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The drinks and food were really good! The service is slow - based in past as well as this experience- just for awareness. Overall a great place!
    More info
    The DandelionPrice: Moderate• Gastro Pub• Center City
    •
    4.7

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