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Best Open Kitchen Restaurants in University City

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Louie Louie Bistro Bar restaurant
1. Louie Louie Bistro Bar
4.5
Awesome(1840)
Price: Moderate
• French / American • University City
Booked 56 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 Fiorella Philadelphia restaurant
2. Fiorella Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(189)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Bella Vista
Booked 78 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 Vernick Fish restaurant
3. Vernick Fish
4.8
Exceptional(2294)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Center City
Booked 55 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 Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
4. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(8903)
Price: Very Expensive
• Greek • Center City
Booked 77 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 Fork - Philadelphia restaurant
5. Fork - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(5191)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Old City
Booked 49 times today
Fork has been part of Philadelphia's exciting dining scene for over 25 years. Always evolving , Fork has stayed true to its mission, with a commitment to seasonality, carefully sourced local ingredients grown and produced by local farmers, producers and fishermen. Located in Old City, a neighborhood of art galleries, shops and independent small businesses, Fork is completely consistent with that spirit. The dining room includes gorgeous contemporary murals and a newly updated central bar where you can watch the action in our open kitchen or relax and enjoy the warm hospitality offered by our team.James Beard Winner-Outstanding Restaurateur, Ellen Yin, 2024James Beard Foundation Finalist - Outstanding Restaurateur, Ellen Yin, 2018, 2019, 2021; Best Chef Mid-Atlantic, Eli Kulp 2016Esquire - "100 Restaurants We Can't Afford to Lose" 20% gratuity added to all parties of 6+.
A photo of Dolce Italian - Philadelphia restaurant
6. Dolce Italian - Philadelphia
4.5
Awesome(129)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 1 time today
Capturing the timeless spirit of Fellini’s 1960’s Rome, Dolce Italian truly brings ‘la dolce vita’ to life with its effortless charm and approachable sophistication. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with house-made pastas, Neapolitan-style pizzas, and other signature Italian dishes.
A photo of River Twice restaurant
7. River Twice
4.6
Exceptional(67)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • South Philly
Booked 12 times today
River Twice is a Modern American restaurant that celebrates the richness of our regions bounty located on East Passyunk Avenue in South Philadelphia. Our menu frequently changes to reflect the finest of what local purveyors have in season to give guests a unique experience with every visit in our intimate but casual atmosphere. Our thoughtfully curated beverage list and wine pairings coincide with our dedication to develop a sincere connection to the Delaware River Valley and mid-Atlantic region. Our intimate, window-lined dining room offers a charming view of the iconic Singing Fountain on East Passyunk Avenue. The dining room surrounds an open kitchen where you will be able to see our chefs at work.River Twice has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer, The New York Times, has earned Chef Randy Rucker’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently Chef Randy Rucker garnered a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic.
A photo of Melograno restaurant
8. Melograno
4.8
Exceptional(1687)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 19 times today
Melograno was established in 2003 by Chef Gianluca Demontis & Rosemarie Tran. The couple met in Rome when Rose was studying abroad. When Luca relocated to Philadelphia they wanted to represent his roots. Located in the beautiful Rittenhouse Square, surrounded by shops and entertainment. Melograno is a warm haven for good food and comforting service. A place to enjoy with friends and family. We are a BYOB so bring the spirits of your choice, we are happy to serve you.
A photo of Mercato restaurant
9. Mercato
4.6
Exceptional(1975)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Center City
Booked 18 times today
Mercato BYOB is a festive and modern Italian eatery that lets you bring your own drinks. A simple and to the point menu focuses on quality over quantity and features items like ricotta raviolo and a spicy crab bucatini with squid ink pasta.The artisan cheeses and house-cured meats at Mercato BYOB are perfect for sharing and are paired with sauces and condiments like agrodolce and pickled white grapes. A whole grilled artichoke appetizer will undoubtedly turn you into the vegetable's biggest fan. Heavier dishes, like the Grilled Hanger Steak with yukon gold potato wedge, are equally impressive. Mercato BYOB opens at 4 p.m. The restaurant has a four course tasting menu that is ideal for groups. Conveniently located to all the theatres, shopping and convention center. Outdoor seating available when weather permits.
A photo of Roxanne restaurant
10. Roxanne
4.6
Exceptional(17)
Price: Expensive
• American • Queen Village
Booked 10 times today
Welcome to Roxanne—a brilliant, wild, revolutionary project by chef Alexandra Holt, sparked behind a purple door in South Philly two years ago. Named after her mother, Roxanne is a true labor of love. The vibe is cozy, open, and personal: with an open kitchen, you’re right in the action, catching Alexandra plating each dish and pouring her journey into every detail.Tables are handcrafted by Alexandra and her mom, the entire space designed with their hands. Roxanne’s menu brings ‘American Expressionism’ to the plate, inspired by Alexandra’s life across 30 countries. Expect fearless flavors—seafood, a burger, caviar, organ meats; there’s nothing off-limits.Whether you’re here for the tasting menu at reserved tables, exploring the à la carte board, or diving into the bar snacks with a drink, Roxanne is all about big, unapologetic vibes and dishes crafted with passion.

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