Since opening in 2018, Franklin’s Table has established itself as one of the best places to eat in University City. With an eclectic mix of international flavors and casual charm, it’s the perfect answer to the eternal question: “What do you want to eat?”
A Food Hall for All
Franklin’s Table features distinct food vendors, each offering a unique flavor and experience. Whether you’re planning lunch with friends, need a quick dinner near campus, or want to explore new bites, this University City food court offers something for everyone.
If you think you can handle the heat, Big Dean's Hot Chicken is ready to test that theory. This Nashville-style hot chicken spot brings serious fire to Franklin's Table, with crispy, judiciously spiced birds available at heat levels ranging from "just a little tingle" to "you've been warned." The chicken — whether piled onto a sandwich, served as tenders, or perched atop a bed of cooling pickles and white bread — boasts a satisfying crunch that holds up even as the burn kicks in. First-timers might want to start mild and work their way up; regulars will tell you the hottest level is a rite of passage worth sweating through.
3401 Walnut Street
Franklin's Table
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Craving fresh sushi near Penn? DK Sushi delivers a standout omakase experience inside Franklin’s Table. Created by celebrated chef Michael Schulson (of Double Knot and Sampan fame), DK Sushi is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality fish, hand-crafted rolls, and stylish presentation. Sit barside for a crash course in what’s affectionately known as “Sushi School.” Whether you go with an individual roll or a specialty box (shout-out to “Eat Your Salmon”), take it from the hordes of people touting DK’s sleek, gift-like boxes: it’s hard to go wrong here.
3401 Walnut Street
Franklin's Table
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Believe the hype. Vegan and kosher falafel shop Goldie is the brainchild of the CookNSolo Restaurant Partners, which also includes such faves Zahav, and Federal Donuts, among others. The no-frills menu features falafel, fries, and tehina shakes, and makes a compelling argument for keeping it simple. Crunchy-yet-fluffy, emerald green falafel balls are fried fresh to order and can be tucked into a pita or used to top a salad, unlike one you’re about to whip up at home on a weeknight. Their creative condiments (Spicy Schug! Earthy Harissa! Funky Amba!) and shawarma-spiced fries can’t go without mentioning and make sure to save room for one of their signature shakes. Available in flavors like Turkish coffee, mint chocolate, and banana, you won’t believe something so rich and creamy could be dairy-free.
3401 Walnut Street
Franklin's Table
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Gouldsburger's brings comfort to Franklin's Table Food Hall with a menu that satisfies cravings from morning till night. Their signature burgers showcase premium ingredients and meticulous preparation, while their hearty cheesesteaks deliver that perfect combination of savory meat, melted cheese, and fresh toppings that keeps customers coming back. Early birds will appreciate their breakfast sandwich offerings, making Gouldsburger's a destination throughout the day.
East meets West in the most delicious way possible at Korea Taqueria, Franklin's Table's boldest flavor mashup. This inventive concept marries the smoky, savory world of Korean BBQ with the handheld satisfaction of a taco, and the result is exactly as crave-worthy as it sounds. Think tender bulgogi, chicken, or spicy pork tucked into warm tortillas and topped with kimchi slaw, gochujang drizzle, and fresh scallions. Can't decide between a taco and a rice bowl? You don't have to, their bowls let you load up on all the same bold flavors with a little extra room to pile on toppings.
3401 Walnut Street
Franklin's Table
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Two words: Pizza. Night. You may recognize the name Pitruco from their treasure of a pizza truck — or perhaps from the nighttime bites at Smokey Joe’s (where they go by the name Enjay’s). The two childhood friends from northwest Philadelphia landed one of the coveted slots inside Franklin’s Table for their first brick-and-mortar shop, and can be seen slinging affordable, award-winning, wood-fired pies with an ideal sauce-to-cheese-to-crust ratio. You don’t need to be a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur to appreciate the beauty in their from-scratch, cut-no-corners approach. All of their sauces, doughs, veggies, and toppings are done in-house. Make sure you visit often, as specials change continuously, not just seasonally!