Al Fresco Dining Dash

It's the perfect time of year to relish a delicious meal al fresco with comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery all around.
Spring has arrived in Philadelphia, and there’s no better time to enjoy outdoor dining in University City. With warm weather and tree-lined streets surrounding the Penn campus, many Shop Penn restaurants are rolling out seasonal menus and opening their patios for a vibrant al fresco dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down brunch or just grabbing food to-go, Shop Penn offers countless ways to dine outdoors near Penn, from charming patios to shaded campus greens.
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Dine
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Address

3401 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

The best food hall in West Philadelphia features a diverse set of offerings from DK Sushi, Goldie, Gouldsburger's, Papermill Fresh Asian Kitchen, Pitruco Pizza, and T.Uni Tea Cafe all ready to serve. Diners can grab a spicy garlic pizza from Pitruco, a classic Philly cheesesteak at Gouldsburger's, or the fan-favorite Spurrito from Papermill Foods, and complete the meal with a famous tahini shake from Goldie.  Enjoy it either on the patio right out back or around the atmospheric Penn campus.

 

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dine
Dine
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Address

3611 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

If you are looking for a bountiful brunch on a picturesque patio than look no further than Louie Louie, a European bistro in the heart of the district. There is something for everyone on their menu, whether your brunch choices lean more towards the refined like an Eggs Benedict or the guilty pleasure like the Bannanas Foster Waffle with Vanilla Ice Cream. At night, the patio is lit up like a Parisian street while diners partake in such offerings as Mushroom Risotto, Cassoulet or Braised Beef Short Ribs.

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Dine
Lunch
Dinner
Address

222 South 40th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Some of the finest Greek food in all of Philadelphia can be found at Penn staple Greek Lady on 40th Street. Take advantage of their covered patio to enjoy some outdoor dining no matter the weather. The Greek Lady is a perfect lunchtime destination, with traditional Greek appetizers like Melitzanosalata, roasted eggplant whipped with olive oil & garlic or Tzatziki, and their signature Gyros with carved lamb, pork or chicken served on fresh made pita bread.

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DIG

Dine
Address

140 S. 36th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Conveniently located at 36th and Walnut, DIG is the perfect spot to grab a meal and soak up the sun at one of the many cafe tables set up on the patio right out front. DIG features a menu full of vegetable-forward meals with locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients that are prepared fresh each day. Pair your favorite protein with such favorites as roasted sweet potatoes, sheet pan carrots, or charred broccoli, and savor a fresh meal in the fresh air during your lunch break.

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dine
Dine
Address

3428 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

For a taste of something different this spring, Puyero Venezuelan Flavor brings bold, Latin American street food to the heart of University City. Their signature arepas are the star of the show, stuffed with fillings like shredded beef, black beans and cheese, or sweet plantains for a satisfying and flavorful bite. Round out your meal with a side of tostones or their rich, savory tequeños. Grab a table outside and enjoy your meal in the open air while taking in the energy of the neighborhood.

 

6
dine
Snacks
Address

3631 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

When the temperature rises, there is no better way to cap off a spring afternoon than with a scoop from Van Leeuwen Ice Cream. Known for their rich, high-quality ingredients, Van Leeuwen offers something for every palate, from beloved classics like Honeycomb and Earl Grey Tea to rotating seasonal flavors that make each visit feel fresh. Just steps from Locust Walk, it is the perfect spot to enjoy a seat at a café table out front or pick up a cone and stroll through one of Penn's most iconic tree-lined paths as the campus blooms around you.

Franklin's Table

Louie Louie Bistro & Bar

Greek Lady

DIG

Puyero

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream