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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in University City

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73 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Louie Louie Bistro Bar restaurant
1. Louie Louie Bistro Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1839)
Price: Moderate
• French American • University City
Booked 48 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 White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant
2. White Dog Cafe - University City
4.6
Exceptional(5525)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • University City
Booked 67 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 Parc restaurant
3. Parc
4.8
Exceptional(17684)
Price: Expensive
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 251 times today
Stephen Starr's stylish addition to Rittenhouse Square pays tribute to French cafe culture, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Parc recalls the chic brasseries of Paris, serving classic French fare in a charming space. Red leather banquettes topped with frosted glass provide a sense of intimacy. Details such as well-worn wooden chairs, vintage framed paintings and photos and antique brass fixtures transport guests across the Atlantic. French doors spill onto a sidewalk terrace covered by a dark red awning perfect for dining "en plein air."
A photo of The Love restaurant
4. The Love
4.9
Exceptional(7548)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 168 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
5. Barclay Prime
4.8
Exceptional(5504)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 88 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of The Dandelion restaurant
6. The Dandelion
4.7
Exceptional(8214)
Price: Moderate
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 134 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 Saloon Restaurant restaurant
7. Saloon Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2640)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 59 times today
Saloon Restaurant is a special occasion destination with its warm, casual atmosphere and excellent food. As quoted from the reviews, it's a 'spectacular establishment' for Valentine’s Day, a 'fantastic birthday celebration place', a 'perfect setting for a friends dinner' and a 'go to place for special occasion'. With its authentic local antiques and vintage bars, it creates a unique and memorable dining experience.
A photo of Ocean Prime - Philadelphia restaurant
8. Ocean Prime - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(6170)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Center City
Booked 47 times today
Located in Philadelphia's Center City, Ocean Prime is a nationally acclaimed, dynamic seafood & steakhouse from the award-winning Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. Ocean Prime delivers an elevated experience with exceptional ambiance, a chef-curated menu, signature handcrafted cocktails, Wine Spectator honored wine list and genuine hospitality. Reservations are recommended. Ocean Prime strives to provide an elegant, fine dining atmosphere. Our associates’ priority is to ensure your experience is memorable. Admittance to Ocean Prime is at the discretion of management who reserves the right to refuse service to patrons who are inappropriately dressed in the following:Revealing clothing or exposed undergarments Clothing with offensive language, graphics or an excessive marijuana odor We are happy to host larger groups. A 20% gratuity will be applied to parties of six or more. Parties of eight or more will be contractually held to a minimum spend and are required to provide a deposit.
A photo of Vernick Fish restaurant
9. Vernick Fish
4.8
Exceptional(2294)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Center City
Booked 70 times today
Vernick Fish presents Philadelphia’s own, Chef Greg Vernick’s exploration beyond the boundaries of a seafood restaurant. His ingredient-driven cooking style, paired with a love for global flavors, results in an inventive menu of fish and shellfish dishes, and a range of vegetable preparations. Taking a detailed, seasonal, and sustainable approach with small and large plate offerings, the kitchen brings new life to the favorite hallmarks of American oyster bar fare and raw bar. Complementing the experience are well-crafted cocktails, and a focused wine list of seafood-friendly white and sparkling offerings, as well as light, fresh reds.
A photo of Jean-Georges Philadelphia restaurant
10. Jean-Georges Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(1417)
Price: Moderate
• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service • Center City
Booked 19 times today
Jean-Georges Philadelphia Tasting Menu is the perfect spot for special occasions. Reviewers rave about its breathtaking views, exquisite food, and outstanding service. It's described as the 'perfect restaurant for those incredibly special occasions' and a 'spectacular experience for birthday celebrations'. The high overall ratings and frequent mentions of special occasions in the reviews make it clear that this restaurant is the go-to place for making memories.
‘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.

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