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Best Authentic Restaurants in University City

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105 restaurants available nearby

A photo of LaScala's Fire-University City restaurant
1. LaScala's Fire-University City
4.5
Awesome(184)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • University City
Booked 8 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 Parc restaurant
2. Parc
4.8
Exceptional(17659)
Price: Expensive
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 262 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 Dandelion restaurant
3. The Dandelion
4.7
Exceptional(8202)
Price: Moderate
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 129 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 Gran Caffe L'Aquila Philadelphia Italian Restaurant restaurant
4. Gran Caffe L'Aquila Philadelphia Italian Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2256)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 45 times today
Gran Caffe L'Aquila is widely appreciated for its authentic Italian cuisine, as per reviews. Customers highlight the restaurant's 'authentic Italian dishes', 'authentic cuisine', and 'authentic Italian trattoria environment'. The weekly specials from different regions of Italy are a hit, paired with region-specific wines. The staff's knowledge and passion for the food and history of the restaurant also add to the authenticity.
A photo of Fiorella Philadelphia restaurant
5. Fiorella Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(184)
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 Saloon Restaurant restaurant
6. Saloon Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2629)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 54 times today
The Saloon Restaurant, a family-owned establishment since 1967, serves authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, congenial environment. The menu is praised for its high-quality, innovative dishes. Reviewers highlight the 'consistently high quality' food and 'impeccable service', with one even calling it a 'classic Italian restaurant'. The restaurant's ambiance, featuring dark oak paneling and authentic antiques, further enhances the authenticity.
A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
7. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(8900)
Price: Very Expensive
• Greek • Center City
Booked 67 times today
The stunning restaurant, which is first of its kind in Philadelphia, will transport guests to the Greek Islands with an atmosphere reminiscent of an inviting Mediterranean home & a menu of authentic specialties, simply prepared, that represent the best of Greek cuisine. The restaurant specializes in whole grilled fish which are flown in from the Greek Islands, the shores of Morocco, Tunisia, & Portugal. Guests are able to choose from Estia’s expansive display & watch chefs cook their fish to perfection over a charcoal grill in the sparkling open kitchen.
A photo of Mona restaurant
8. Mona
4.0
Excellent(94)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Center City
Booked 70 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
A photo of Bellini restaurant
9. Bellini
4.8
Exceptional(1211)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 22 times today
Some of the most inspired and acclaimed Italian food in the country is served here. We use innovative flavors and artful presentations prepared by Italian born Chef Francesco Parmisciano. Chef Francesco was born in small town in Naples, Italy where he learned the beautiful art of Italian cuisine. Our goal is not only to prepare authentic and delicious dishes, but we strive to give all of our guests a flawless dining experience. With ownership change in 2021 Parid and Kristi Spiro have brought new life to Bellini and bustling to new heights.
A photo of La Fontana Della Citta restaurant
10. La Fontana Della Citta
4.3
Awesome(2058)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 13 times today
La Fontana Della Citta, run by Rafael Kupa, is a hit among the locals. Its authentic Italian cuisine is loved by many, with one reviewer mentioning it as the 'most authentic' restaurant in Philly. The food is consistently praised for being excellent, with many dishes made from homemade ingredients. The service is also highly rated, with many customers finding the staff friendly and attentive. Plus, the restaurant's great ambience and value add to the overall dining experience.

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Discover best authentic restaurants in University City

Discover authentic dining experiences in University City, Philadelphia County, where a vibrant culinary scene meets academic vitality. This neighborhood is not only a hub for students but also a destination for food enthusiasts searching for genuine flavors and unique gastronomic delights. Each restaurant in this area prides itself on offering dishes that are both traditional and innovative, ensuring that every palate is catered to. Whether you're craving an intimate dinner spot or a lively gathering place, University City's restaurant scene promises an authentic taste of diverse cultures and cuisines. The commitment to authenticity is apparent in the meticulous preparation of each dish, the sourcing of quality ingredients, and the warm, inviting atmospheres that define these eateries. Dining here is not just about eating; it's an exploration of culinary traditions and contemporary creations that truly reflect the spirit of Philadelphia.

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