University City, Philadelphia, bustles with activity, and fueling that energy requires a diverse and delicious lunch scene. Whether you're a student, faculty, or just visiting this vibrant neighborhood, finding the perfect lunch spot can be a delightful challenge. This guide highlights 19 top-notch restaurants offering a wide array of cuisines and price points, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. We'll explore diverse options, from quick bites to leisurely sit-down meals. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best lunch spots in University City.
Quick & Casual Lunch Spots in University City
This section focuses on restaurants perfect for a fast and satisfying lunch break.
1. Joe's Steaks + Subs
A University City institution. Joe's is known for its classic Philly cheesesteaks. Expect long lines during peak hours, a testament to its popularity. Their cheesesteaks, chicken cheesesteaks, and Italian hoagies are consistently satisfying.
2. Campus Pizza
A classic college-town pizza joint. Campus Pizza serves up large, reasonably priced pizzas perfect for sharing (or not!). Their classic cheese, pepperoni, and veggie options are crowd-pleasers. They also offer a wide array of sides like fries and salads.
3. Subway
A reliable choice for a quick and customizable lunch. Subway offers a wide array of sandwiches, salads, and wraps, allowing you to create your perfect lunch. Their consistency and familiarity make them a safe bet for a quick bite.
4. Wawa
A Philadelphia staple. Wawa offers a wide variety of hot and cold food options, from sandwiches and salads to hoagies and coffee. Its convenience and extensive menu make it a popular choice for students and professionals alike. They are known for their Hoagies, and prepared sandwiches.
Upscale Lunch Options in University City
For a more refined lunch experience, these restaurants offer higher-quality ingredients and a more leisurely atmosphere.
5. Talula's Garden
Farm-to-table dining at its finest. Talula's Garden is a celebrated restaurant featuring seasonal menus and an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients. Their lunch menu often includes creative salads, sandwiches, and entrees. Expect a more elevated, pricier lunch experience.
6. The Continental
Classic American cuisine with a modern twist. The Continental's lunch menu features refined dishes, a sophisticated ambiance, and excellent service. It's a great choice for a business lunch or a special occasion.
7. Lolita
Modern Mexican with flair. Lolita provides a vibrant atmosphere and inventive takes on Mexican classics. Their lunch menu is a fantastic option for a flavorful and exciting meal.
Diverse Culinary Experiences in University City
This section explores restaurants offering unique and diverse culinary options.
8. Han Dynasty
Authentic Sichuan cuisine. Han Dynasty is known for its bold flavors and authentic Sichuan dishes. Their lunch menu is a spicy and satisfying adventure for adventurous eaters. Be warned: the spice level can be intense!
9. Amada
Spanish tapas and paella. Amada offers a taste of Spain with their delicious tapas and paella. Their lunch menu is perfect for sharing and trying a variety of flavors.
10. Sang Kee Noodle
Classic Cantonese cuisine. If you're craving authentic Cantonese noodles, Sang Kee Noodle is your destination. Their menu features numerous noodle dishes with delicious broths and toppings.
11. Falafel's Place
Delicious falafel and Mediterranean delights. Falafel's Place serves up fresh and flavorful falafel, hummus, and other Mediterranean specialties. It's a healthy and satisfying option.
Cafes and Bakeries in University City
For a lighter lunch or a quick caffeine fix, these options are perfect.
12. Green Line Cafe
A popular spot for coffee, pastries, and light lunches. Green Line Cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. It's a great spot for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
13. Saxbys Coffee
Another solid coffee option. Saxbys offers a wide variety of coffee and tea drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. It's a reliable choice for a quick and satisfying caffeine fix.
International Flavors in University City
These restaurants take you on a culinary journey around the world.
14. Khyber Pass Pub
A unique Indian and Pakistani restaurant. Khyber Pass Pub offers delicious curries, naan, and other Indian and Pakistani specialties in a lively pub atmosphere.
15. P.J. Whelihan's
A sports bar with pub fare. P.J. Whelihan's is a great place for a casual lunch, with plenty of TVs showing sports. They have a pretty broad menu that caters to most tastes.
Budget-Friendly Lunch Options in University City
These restaurants offer delicious food without breaking the bank.
16. Honeygrow
Build-your-own stir-fry and salads. Honeygrow offers customizable stir-fry and salads, perfect for a healthy and affordable lunch. You can choose your ingredients and customize your meal to your preferences.
17. Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Classic sandwiches and soups. Potbelly Sandwich Shop is a familiar and dependable choice for a quick and affordable sandwich or soup. Their toasted sandwiches are a particular highlight.
Unique Lunch Experiences
These spots offer more unusual culinary adventures.
18. Govinda's Vegetarian Restaurant
Delicious and affordable vegetarian Indian food. Govinda's provides a tranquil setting and a wide array of vegetarian Indian dishes. It's a great choice for those seeking flavorful and ethical eating.
19. Sweetgreen
Healthy and customizable salads and bowls. Sweetgreen focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and offers a wide variety of customizable salads and bowls. A refreshing and healthy option for lunch.
This list offers a diverse range of options to suit any taste and budget. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead for hours of operation and menu updates. Enjoy your culinary adventures in University City!
