Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Philadelphia County

Best Pre-Theater Restaurants in University City, Philadelphia County

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Accessibility

19 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
1. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(9083)
$$$$
• Greek • Center City
Booked 42 times today
The stunning restaurant, which is first of its kind in Philadelphia, will transport guests to the Greek Islands with an atmosphere reminiscent of an inviting Mediterranean home & a menu of authentic specialties, simply prepared, that represent the best of Greek cuisine. The restaurant specializes in whole grilled fish which are flown in from the Greek Islands, the shores of Morocco, Tunisia, & Portugal. Guests are able to choose from Estia’s expansive display & watch chefs cook their fish to perfection over a charcoal grill in the sparkling open kitchen.
A photo of Loch Bar - Philadelphia restaurant
2. Loch Bar - Philadelphia
4.6
Exceptional(1241)
$$$$
• Seafood • Center City
Booked 53 times today
Located on Philadelphia's vibrant Avenue of the Arts in the heart of the city, Loch Bar is a classic seafood tavern that blends the best of land & sea!Spotlighted by an impressive raw bar that offers an array of succulent seafood & fresh flavors, Loch Bar's menu incorporates some of the region's most popular seafood dishes including oysters, Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab & more.In addition to our stellar raw bar, we present an extensive whiskey list from around the world that caters to both the seasoned aficionado as well as curious newcomers. To complement our whiskey offerings, our bar program features handcrafted cocktails & local craft beers.Loch Bar hosts live music every night of the week showcasing the incredible talent of Philadelphia's local music scene.Loch Bar on Philadelphia's Avenue of the Arts is more than just a restaurant; it's an immersive journey through the finest culinary offerings, live music &
A photo of Marathon - 19th & Spruce restaurant
3. Marathon - 19th & Spruce
4.7
Exceptional(900)
$$$$
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 18 times today
Marathon has served the neighborhoods of Philadelphia for over 25 years as a family-run restaurant group. We serve well-made American classics, and strive to source the freshest food locally available to us, including from our own Marathon Farm in Brewerytown, Philadelphia. Our favorite farm to table items include our grass-fed Cheesesteak, free-range Turkey Plate, and fluffy Omelettes made with cage-free eggs.We love food, but more importantly we create the food that people love to eat. We set out each day to provide our guests with a complete feel-good dining experience in a casual setting. We offer warm and personal hospitality rooted in a real concern for our guests' experience and we believe that everyone should be able to afford delicious food. We bring people together through food, personal connections and artistic spaces.
A photo of La Viola Bistro restaurant
4. La Viola Bistro
4.7
Exceptional(496)
$$$$
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 7 times today
For PARTIES OF 10+, please call 215 735 8630 to make a reservation. To place an order, call us at 215-735-8630.To have your table reserved please call us at 215 735 8630. Walk-ins are welcome!La Viola Bistro is open for both lunch and dinner during the week and dinner on weekends. A fine-dining establishment, it specializes in Italian fare. Some items on the menu at La Viola - East include pasta such as bowtie pasta with shrimp, along with a linguini pasta dish with veal. In addition to pasta, La Viola serves a variety of seafood and grilled steak entrées. No alcohol is served at La Viola - East, but you are welcome to bring your own bottle of wine or champagne to accompany your meal. Offering a casual but chic dining space, its décor includes wood furnishings and chandelier lighting.
A photo of Parc restaurant
Icon
5. Parc
4.8
Exceptional(18628)
$$$$
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 310 times today
Stephen Starr's stylish addition to Rittenhouse Square pays tribute to French cafe culture, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Parc recalls the chic brasseries of Paris, serving classic French fare in a charming space. Red leather banquettes topped with frosted glass provide a sense of intimacy. Details such as well-worn wooden chairs, vintage framed paintings and photos and antique brass fixtures transport guests across the Atlantic. French doors spill onto a sidewalk terrace covered by a dark red awning perfect for dining "en plein air."
A photo of Spice Finch restaurant
6. Spice Finch
4.6
Exceptional(1412)
$$$$
• Mediterranean • Center City
Booked 27 times today
Named after the bird that populates nearly every port along the ancient maritime spice routes, Spice Finch pays homage to a passerine that does not sing, yet is known to vocalize or chirp in recognition of good eats. We are inspired by the distinctive flavors of the nations bordering the Mediterranean Sea, and heavily influenced by the cultures and culinary traditions of Morocco and Greece. Our menu is a bold, seasonally accurate menu featuring an array of small plates, vegetables, grilled meats and fish. Follow us on Instagram @SpiceFinchPhilly
A photo of Square 1682 restaurant
7. Square 1682
4.5
Awesome(2099)
$$$$
• American • Center City
Booked 3 times today
With its delicious, approachable menus and upbeat ambiance, Square 1682 has become a beloved Center City gathering place thanks to Chef Patrick Czerniak's great food, great drinks and great people. Our New American fare could be described as: worldly, progressive, delicious, artfully presented, healthful and comforting. Time and again, loyal patrons return to the Architects Building in Rittenhouse Square for restaurant draws like popular brunch specials, the raved-about Square Burger, one of the country’s top bar programs and seasonal patio seating. If you’re hosting an intimate dining affair for a small or large group, be sure to explore our private dining options, too.
A photo of Bellini restaurant
8. Bellini
4.8
Exceptional(1471)
$$$$
• Italian • Center City
Booked 21 times today
Join us this Mother's Day as we open our doors at 12pm!Since 2001, Bellini has been a family-owned and operated spot serving up some of the most delicious and heartfelt Italian food around. Our chef, Francesco Parmisciano, was born and raised in the small town of San Marco di Castellabate located 30 miles south of Salerno, Italy, where he fell in love with the art of Italian cooking. He brings that passion to every dish with fresh flavors and beautiful presentation.In 2021, Parid and Kristi Spiro took the reins and brought new energy to Bellini, keeping the spirit of the original while taking things to the next level. Our goal is simple: serve authentic Italian food in a welcoming space where everyone feels like family. Great food, great service —just a genuinely good time.
A photo of La Fontana Della Citta restaurant
9. La Fontana Della Citta
4.1
Excellent(2117)
$$$$
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 8 times today
Experience the taste of Italy at La Fontana Della Citta, where every dish is crafted with tradition, passion, and fresh ingredients. Enjoy classic Italian favorites, handmade pastas, and hearty seafood and meat dishes served in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving comforting Italian flavors, La Fontana Della Citta brings the charm and soul of Italy to Philadelphia.
A photo of Buca D'oro Ristorante restaurant
10. Buca D'oro Ristorante
4.7
Exceptional(926)
$$$$
• Italian • Society Hill
Booked 13 times today
Just two blocks away from the Italian market and in the heart of Washington Square Park serving Fresh Amalfi coast Italian cuisine, Buca D’oro Ristorante continues the tradition of sparing nothing to provide the highest quality ingredients in all our dishes. Buca D’oro is dedicated to delivering the finest Italian cuisine with one of the most innovative and interesting menus in Philadelphia. Our extensive ala carte menu is sure to appeal to even the finest of palates, as well as a wide variety of fine imported and domestic wines and cocktails in a beautiful multi-room venue. Great for intimate or large parties for lunch or dinner being served by professional old-school and friendly waiters. Make reservations by phone, on our website, or on Open Table. Walk-ins are also encouraged. Parking accommodations at parkway Walnut towers with a discounted rate for evening parking at $15 from 5pm to 5 am. Address: 800 Walnut street phila pa 19107.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • James
    Philadelphia County •32 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Very accommodating, very friendly, and food was great. Highly recommend! A+
    More info
    Square 1682$$$$• American• Center City
    •
    4.5
  • Amy
    Philadelphia County •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great visit on Mother’s Day! Service was excellent food and drinks were great. Nice atmosphere inside and tables outside. Would highly recommend!
    More info
    Loch Bar - Philadelphia$$$$• Seafood• Center City
    •
    4.6
  • PatGold
    Philadelphia County •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Estia does not disappoint. We started with the Estia Chips. My wife had the roasted chicken and I had the charcoal grilled salmon. Both were delicious. We had baklava for dessert. As usual, a very enjoyable dinner at Estia.
    More info
    Estia - Philadelphia$$$$• Greek• Center City
    •
    4.8
  • Jennifer
    New York City •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Parc never disappoints. It’s my favorite place to go in Philly. From our waiter, Isador to the delicious food to the yummy drinks, everything was perfect. Margarito is the best guy and always makes sure to come say hello and give us some love (and extra bread… if you’ve never had the bread at Parc, you are missing out!) We ate outside and it was a perfect meal.
    More info
    Parc$$$$• French• Rittenhouse Square
    •
    4.8
  • Rob
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on May 1, 2026
    Excellent choice!! We were a few minutes late for our reservation, no problem. Seated right away. Quick and friendly service. Food was excellent!! Authentic Italian foods were delicious. Mussels, calamari were delicious. Entree was even better. First time trying it, our waiter told us it wanted be your last. He is right!!! Will definitely be back!!! Five stars all the way around. And reasonably priced to boot!!!!
    More info
    La Viola Bistro$$$$• Italian• Rittenhouse Square
    •
    4.7

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2026 OpenTable Australia Level 22, 357 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo