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Best Date Night Restaurants in University City

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190 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Louie Louie Bistro Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1773)
Price: Moderate
• French American • University City
Booked 31 times today
Located in University City, Louie Louie is an American bistro with a French inspired menu offering seasonal, ingredient-inspired dishes based on a classical combination of flavors. House-made pastries and an extensive beverage program highlighting wines by the glass and bottle as well as seasonal specialty cocktails and craft beers add to the dining experience. The décor pays homage to Art Nouveau and European cafes with a touch of the 1970s. Traditional wood tones, reclaimed subway tiles, tried and true black and white marble stones as flooring and wainscoting and blue and buttery leathers, fabrics and patterns bring color and graphic identities to the space. The Lounge offers custom lux seating, perfect for gathering with friends for cocktails and snacks. Outdoor seating reminiscent of French cafes is the ideal spot for dining and people watching.
A photo of LaScala's Fire-University City restaurant
4.5
Awesome(174)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • University City
Booked 1 time 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 Fiorella Philadelphia restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(100)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Bella Vista
Booked 68 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 Barclay Prime restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5399)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 70 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of Little Water restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(55)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 36 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 Butcher & Singer restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(8795)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • Center City
Booked 86 times today
Butcher & Singer is a top-notch date night destination. With its intimate setting, luxury meals, and top-class service, it's a place where couples can celebrate special occasions or just enjoy an intimate evening out. As one reviewer put it, it's an 'amazing way to spend a date night or celebration'. Another reviewer highlighted the 'romantic' ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a special dinner.
A photo of The Dandelion restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8084)
Price: Moderate
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 119 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 The Love restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7234)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 202 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 Bastia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(86)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Fishtown
Booked 17 times today
Leisurely cafe by day, Bastia transforms to a Mediterranean restaurant by night and draws culinary inspiration from the sun-drenched islands of Corsica and Sardinia
A photo of El Vez restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(7015)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 91 times today
A contemporary Mexican restaurant, El Vez offers many unique items such as mahi mahi tacos, ahi tuna tostadas, carne asada and pasilla braised pork pozole. Enjoy their made-to-order guacamole & margaritas with fresh-squeezed juices. Top off your meal with "The El Vez," a flourless chocolate cake, peanut butter mousse and carmelized bananas.
‘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
  • MG520vip
    Philadelphia County •35 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    What a phenomenal dinner! The restaurant was bustling when we arrived, and the host seated us immediately. The service was exceptional, and the food was incredibly fresh, inventive, and delicious, and coursed perfectly. If you love seafood, this must be at the top of your to-do list. We will definitely be back!
    More info
    Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
    4.6
  • Fatima
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Fiorella Pasta is the place to go. A solid 10/10, no question. The service was impeccable—attentive, warm, and perfectly timed, making us feel right at home from the moment we walked in. And the pasta? Simply divine. The ricotta gnocchi is a masterpiece—soft, pillowy, and paired with brown buttered onions. The rigatoni was classic perfection, cooked with rich flavors that left us craving more. And the cacio e pepe? Simply heavenly—creamy, peppery, and the ultimate comfort dish. Fiorella truly honors the art of pasta, and every bite reflects their passion and skill. Every bite was a testament to the care and expertise poured into their dishes—fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. And don’t even get me started on their focaccia—it was exceptional! It’s clear they take pride in delivering authentic, top-tier cuisine. We had an amazing time and can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend for anyone looking to indulge in exceptional food and stellar service!
    More info
    Fiorella PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Bella Vista
    4.9
  • Luana
    Washington, D.C. Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The Love is an exceptional choice for a quick yet delightful lunch experience in Philadelphia. If you're planning to visit, it's advisable to secure a reservation in advance to guarantee your spot, or consider arriving after 3 pm to avoid the lunch rush. The restaurant boasts an upscale and contemporary ambiance, creating a perfect setting to enjoy a meal. One of the standout features of their menu is the unique twist they put on classic Southern cuisine. Among their offerings, the side potatoes are a highlight—cooked to perfection, they are simply one of the best I've ever tasted. Additionally, the Brussels sprouts paired with sweet potatoes are a must-try; the combination of flavors is both intriguing and satisfying. For the main course, the ravioli is nothing short of exquisite; it's prepared flawlessly, featuring a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors that leaves a lasting impression. With its innovative dishes and inviting atmosphere, The Love is undoubtedly a fantastic dining destination worth visiting in Philadelphia.
    More info
    The LovePrice: Expensive• American• Rittenhouse Square
    4.8
  • Patriciavip
    Philadelphia County •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great choice in University area. Fun atmosphere and great service. Our server Chris was knowledgeable, friendly and personable. Nice variety of food options.My salad nicoise was very good.
    More info
    Louie Louie Bistro BarPrice: Moderate• French American• University City
    4.6
  • Wendyvip
    Philadelphia County •30 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 23, 2024
    La Scala is a pizza place with lots of other choices on the menu. Our table took a non-pizza route and had a really nice meal. The fish dishes (salmon and tuna) were both lovely; the gnocchi were super, and the one person who ordered a noodle dish reported that it was very good. However, I don't think we were playing to the restaurant's strong suit, which is pizza, as evidenced by the large pizza oven visible from our table and what was ordered at the tables near us. I would have preferred not to have the large TV screens visible throughout the place, but that's a me thing. Our server was very attentive. We were very pleased with our meal, happy that we would sit at the table long after having finished eating, to continue our conversation.
    More info
    LaScala's Fire-University CityPrice: Moderate• Italian• University City
    4.5
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