Where to Eat Near the University Of Pennsylvania and Drexel University
Philadelphia boasts a diverse range of cuisines as a result of its rich and long history as well as its cultural diversity. It is gradually emerging as one of America’s leading food cities, especially as a city recognized for its exquisite cheesesteaks. And if you’re a student at UPenn or Drexel or perhaps visiting a friend/family member at Penn or Drexel, there are a wide range of dining options to choose from. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of Drexel and University of Pennsylvania adjacent restaurants where you may savor some of the most delectable cuisines that Philadelphia has to offer!
Photo Credit: whitedog.com
White Dog Café
3420 Sansom St.
(215) 386-9224.
White Dog Cafe has been a hotspot for meals, libations, and festivities and is among our best picks of University of Pennsylvania restaurants in Philadelphia. The White Dog is noted for its friendly hospitality and inspired cuisine. It was the first eatery in Philadelphia to employ ecologically sustainable, organic, and local ingredients from farms within 50 miles. White Dog Cafe is the place to go whether you’re looking for a spot to eat during your lunch break or for meals with your pals. We suggest the Kennett Square Mushroom Soup, Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, and Prince Edward Island Mussels as main course options.
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Louie Louie
3611 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19104
(267) 805-8585
Louie Louie is a French-inspired American cafe and another pick of top University of Pennsylvania restaurants. Its modern décor meets the timelessness of a magnificent European café thanks to gorgeous art nouveau blind blended with a seventies ambiance. The cuisine is influenced by classic French taste combinations, employing seasonal ingredients in a contemporary presentation, with vibrant specialty drinks, real ale, and a wide selection to match. The Salon has bespoke luxury seating, which is ideal for cocktails and appetizers with friends. The spot is great for dining and people-watching–especially outside in their the outdoor seating, which is evocative of a French cafe!
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Don Barriga
4443 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(267) 292-5741
There’s more to authentic Mexican cuisine than tacos and salsa. You’ll find many top Mexican delicacies at Don Barriga’s, including churros, flautas, fajitas, soups, barbacoa, posole, and more. We suggest washing down your meal with classic Mexican drinks like Jarrito or a Horchata. If you have room for dessert, try some of the restaurant’s dessert specialties– Tiramisu, Flan Napolitano, and Churros!
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Distrito
3945 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19194.
(215) 222-1657
The Distrito is a lively commemoration of Mexico City’s culinary traditions, with cuisine focused on the multifaceted street food offered in what Mexicans refer to as the Distrito Federal. With dishes like nachos, papas fritas, meatless albondigas, poblano cornbread, and a taco flight, everyone is certain to find something that fills them up and makes them happy. This cafe specializes in Mexican cuisine and beverages such as red sangria, devil’s margarita, and Tecate. If you’re searching for a place to eat, consider Distrito!
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Walnut Street Café
2929 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 867-8067
Walnut Street Cafe should be at the top of your list of University of Pennsylvania restaurants to consider whenever you’re searching for a spot to eat. They serve lunch, supper, and brunch on Saturday and Sunday and have all the staples you’re searching for. Walnut Street provides delicacies including shakshuka, eggs benedict, Belgian waffles, and breakfast sandwiches for breakfast and brunch. East Coast Oysters, Octopus, and Steamed Halibut are popular choices, as well.
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Abyssinia
229 S 45th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 387-2424
Abyssinia provides all the nostalgic feelings as well as a delectable selection of Ethiopian-inspired meals. Start with their appetizers, which include Abyssinia Samosas and Kosta wraps. They also have a selection of meaty delicacies including chicken, lamb, beef, and many other wonderful Ethiopian seafood dishes that will have anyone drooling over the menu. However, it’s the vegetarian combo plate that is a highlight we recommend trying while you’re in Abyssinia.
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Alsaeeda Restaurant
136 S 45th street, Philadelphia, PA 19139
(215) 386-0919
Whether you are a student at the University of Pennsylvania who wants to sample Yemeni cuisine or simply a visitor who’s looking for a University of Pennsylvania restaurant, Alsaeeda Restaurant is the place to go. You’ll want to come back for more of the Yemeni food, such as their renowned Lamb Haneeth and Chicken Mandi and Fahsah, which are all delicious when accompanied with bread. For regulars, we’re sure you’ll be coming back for the lamb soup!
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Yiro yiro
6024 Ridge Ave 118, Philadel[hia, PA 19128
(267) 331-9476
When you want to have a great Greek experience, go to Yiro Yiro, one of the University of Pennsylvania restaurants nearby. The Gyro, an iconic Greek sandwich, is generally the most popular request on the menu. Your personalized gyro will arrive with all of your favorite toppings and will be wrapped in a fluffy pita. Be sure to also try the handmade Spanakopita, fried puffs known as Loukoumades, or the flaky Baklava. Yum!
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Copabanana
40th and Spruce Streets, 4000 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 382-1330
Whether you’re looking for a spot for a quick brunch, lunch, or dinner, Copabanana is a great choice. Their flavorful appetizers, such as quesadillas, nachos, shrimp, and better than Buffalo Wings, will fulfill all your foodie desires. They also provide delectable, nutrient-dense soups and salads that will have you coming back for more. Copabanana also has you covered if you’re looking for a burger or sandwich before heading to a lecture!
Photo Credit: phillymag.com
Booker’s Restaurant and Bar
5021 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143
(215) 883-0960
Whether you’re hosting a lot of people or just want to have an intimate evening with friends, Booker’s Restaurant and Bar is one of the restaurants near UPenn that you should visit if you’re looking for carefully prepared food for any dietary concerns. We recommend one of their daily specialties such as the Creole Vegan Jambalaya, Lamb Shank, or a basket of Fried Shrimp. There are additional comfort sides, such as collard greens and homemade cornbread, that are available and pair well with every meal. This eatery also has a children’s menu that includes items like cheeseburger sliders and grilled cheese sandwiches so the little ones will be happy too!
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Bistro Perrier
Philadelphia, PA 19104, 4207 Walnut Street
(215) 222-4200
A really distinctive location with excellent French cuisine! Bistro Perrier has beautiful cobblestone walkways, a small inside rooftop deck, and an outside eating terrace. This restaurant specializes in French delicacies and desserts. Escargot and Saumon Poele are two French staples on the menu and highly recommended. We also suggest the Garbure and Steak Tartare. And of course, to finish it off with an order of the Traditional Creme Brulee.
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