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Best Italian Restaurants in University City

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80 restaurants available nearby

A photo of LaScala's Fire-University City restaurant
1. LaScala's Fire-University City
4.4
Awesome(174)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • University City
Booked 6 times today
LaScala's Fire-University City, nestled in the heart of University City, Philadelphia, on the Drexel University Campus, is a beacon of Modern European cuisine. Celebrated as Open Table's Diner's Choice for both 2022 and 2023, the restaurant consistently impresses with its unique and authentic flavors. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, with one guest highlighting that "the flavors were well crafted, complex and authentic." From the must-order ricotta bread to the lauded meatball trio, every dish is a testament to the culinary prowess of LaScala's Fire. The vibrant atmosphere and excellent service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional Modern European dishes in Philadelphia.
A photo of Fiorella Philadelphia restaurant
2. Fiorella Philadelphia
4.9
Exceptional(99)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Bella Vista
Booked 47 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 Gran Caffe L'Aquila Philadelphia Italian Restaurant restaurant
3. Gran Caffe L'Aquila Philadelphia Italian Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2124)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 52 times today
Tucked away in Center City, Philadelphia, Gran Caffe L'Aquila stands as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, especially noted for its authentic Seafood offerings. This gem has garnered acclaim not only for its ambiance but also for its commitment to authentic Italian flavors, making every seafood dish a delightful experience. Patrons rave about the freshness and quality, with one diner celebrating the "divine" seafood pasta and the "delicious fried artichokes." The restaurant's ability to consistently deliver "authentic and delicious" meals resonates through glowing testimonials. Gran Caffe L'Aquila is the go-to destination for anyone craving genuine Italian seafood cuisine in Philly, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience every time.
A photo of Saloon Restaurant restaurant
4. Saloon Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2538)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 42 times today
Step into Saloon Restaurant in South Philly, where the essence of Italian cuisine is celebrated with an authentic flair that has been the talk of Philadelphia since 1967. Recognized for its "first-class" approach to dining, Saloon offers an array of Italian specialties, from the legendary veal chops to the mouth-watering pasta bolognese. Every dish is complemented by homemade desserts and gelatos, crafted on-site daily. Guests rave about the "phenomenal dinner" experiences and the "amazing service," with reviews highlighting the "melt-in-your-mouth Braciole" and the "magnificent Bolognese." Saloon Restaurant isn't just a meal; it's a plunge into the heart of Italian tradition, making every visit unforgettable.
A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant
5. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia
4.9
Exceptional(2343)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 10 times today
Located in a historic townhome in the heart of Philadelphia, Vetri Cucina is a unique space that invites guests to become part of our family. The intimate dining rooms evoke the charms of Italy with custom crafted features including hand-blown Murano glass chandeliers, Richard Ginori porcelain and Venetian glassware.Showcasing the constantly evolving, dynamic creativity of Chef Vetri and his team, Vetri Cucina serves a classic tasting menu at $165pp using the highest quality local and specialty ingredients. The menu is inspired by both classic Italian recipes and our extensive culinary research across the globe. Vetri Cucina also offers a seasonal Forchetta menu which is a premium tasting menu experience at $215pp. These are the restaurant’s sole dining options, designed to provide each guest with a memorable, unparalleled experience. Reservations are released on the first of the month for the following month: ie. On October 1st, reservations are released for the month of November.
A photo of Bistro Romano restaurant
6. Bistro Romano
4.8
Exceptional(4947)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Society Hill
Booked 21 times today
Bistro Romano, nestled in Philadelphia's historic Society Hill, is a haven of Italian culinary excellence, celebrated for its authentic regional Italian cuisine. With a charming ambiance set in an 18th-century granary, this gem has earned accolades such as the Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence and the prestigious “Best of Philly” title. Patrons rave about experiences like the "unforgettable" underground wine cellar dining and the "award-winning" Caesar Salad. With over 750 wine selections, the restaurant promises an exceptional meal complemented by an exquisite wine list. As one diner put it, "The food is amazing, especially the gnocchi and the heirloom tomato panzanella!" Ensuring every visit is special, Bistro Romano’s blend of fine food, romantic setting, and superior service make it a must-visit for those seeking a premier Italian dining experience in Philadelphia.
A photo of Melograno restaurant
7. Melograno
4.8
Exceptional(1626)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 29 times today
Melograno, nestled in the vibrant Rittenhouse Square of Philadelphia, is a treasure trove for seafood lovers. Established in 2003 by the talented duo, Chef Gianluca Demontis and Rosemarie Tran, this restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Italian seafood dishes. Patrons rave about the "delicious ink pasta with shrimp, clams, and octopus," highlighting the "terrific nuanced sauce with Calabria peppers" as a standout. Another guest recommended the "special fish bream" and the "squid ink linguini with seafood in a red sauce," which was so good that they "asked for more bread just to soak up the oils and sauce left at the bottom." Melograno's commitment to quality and its BYOB policy only enhances the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional seafood in a charming atmosphere.
A photo of La Fontana Della Citta restaurant
8. La Fontana Della Citta
4.3
Awesome(2004)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 12 times today
La Fontana Della Citta, located right off Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia, shines as a beacon of exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine. This 100-seat BYOB gem, brought to life by owner Rafael Kupa, receives consistent praise for its delectable dishes and warm, attentive service. Patrons rave about the "delicious food with a lot of menu options," highlighting the perfectly executed seafood pasta and the nightly special pasta that keeps diners coming back. The restaurant's ability to create a "small intimate space" amidst the bustling city ambiance, coupled with its friendly staff and the BYOB option, crafts a personalized dining experience. As one review perfectly sums it up, La Fontana Della Citta is "one of my favorite spots in the city."
A photo of Bellini restaurant
9. Bellini
4.7
Exceptional(1133)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 13 times today
Experience the heart of Italian cuisine at Bellini, located in the vibrant Center City of Philadelphia. Under the expert guidance of Italian-born Chef Francesco Parmisciano, Bellini has become a culinary beacon, renowned for its innovative flavors and artful presentations that stay true to authentic Italian roots. Guests rave about the "consistently delicious" dishes, with standout reviews for the "incredible Duck Ragú" and "homemade fresh pasta." The restaurant's ambiance is complemented by exceptional service, where the staff makes diners feel genuinely valued, noting that they "treat you like family." Whether it's the pre-theater dinner crowd or local food enthusiasts, Bellini promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons returning. Join us for a meal that celebrates the best of Italian tradition and innovation.
A photo of Pietro's Italian - Walnut restaurant
10. Pietro's Italian - Walnut
4.6
Exceptional(1861)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Center City
Booked 35 times today
Pietro's Italian - Walnut in Center City, Philadelphia, is a haven for authentic Pizza Bar cuisine. Celebrating a family tradition that began in the 1930s, Pietro’s has mastered the craft of coal oven pizza, creating slices that diners describe as "phenomenal" and "some of the best thin-crust pizza I've had." The atmosphere is consistently praised as "cozy" and "perfect for family gatherings," ensuring every meal feels like a special event. As one reviewer raves, "Great food, great service...great all around! Will go back!" Pietro's commitment to quality and authentic Italian flair makes it a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking a memorable dining experience in Philadelphia.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Wendyvip
    Philadelphia County •29 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    La Scala is a pizza place with lots of other choices on the menu. Our table took a non-pizza route and had a really nice meal. The fish dishes (salmon and tuna) were both lovely; the gnocchi were super, and the one person who ordered a noodle dish reported that it was very good. However, I don't think we were playing to the restaurant's strong suit, which is pizza, as evidenced by the large pizza oven visible from our table and what was ordered at the tables near us. I would have preferred not to have the large TV screens visible throughout the place, but that's a me thing. Our server was very attentive. We were very pleased with our meal, happy that we would sit at the table long after having finished eating, to continue our conversation.
    More info
    LaScala's Fire-University CityPrice: Moderate• Italian• University City
    •
    4.4
  • Jessicavip
    Philadelphia County •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I haven’t been here in a few years and decided to return as I’ve always loved the ambiance. I remember the food as being good but not excellent. This time it was excellent as was the seevice and everything about our meal. It seems they have really stepped things up a notch since I was last there. I’ll definitely be back again soon!
    More info
    Bistro RomanoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Society Hill
    •
    4.8
  • Davidvip
    New York City •52 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great experience. Food was excellent. Wine list was very nice. We picked a Sagrantino. Very nice. Kitchen accommodated a couple of special requests. Very pleased.
    More info
    Gran Caffe L'Aquila Philadelphia Italian RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Center City
    •
    4.8
  • Jonathonvip
    Philadelphia County •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Consistently EXCELLENT for 35 years. Never had a bad experience. Parking is easy, service is always great and the food is as good as anywhere in the world. Never disappointing...except when we can't get in!
    More info
    Saloon RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• South Philly
    •
    4.9
  • OpenTable Diner
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Absolutely AMAZING! As someone who bought their sausage from Fiorella’s I am blown away by how much of the original charm they kept. This was our 2nd visit and it did not disappoint. First visit was outside, tonight we were indoors. So happy I requested indoors. While enjoying dinner I really got a chance to look around and reminisce about old Fiorella Sausage and my visits as a young girl and a married woman. Oh and those monkfish arancini… delish. The rigatoni with Fiorella sausage and the ricotta gnocchi to die for. Everything was wonderful. Can not wait to go back.
    More info
    Fiorella PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Bella Vista
    •
    4.9

Discover best Italian restaurants in University City

Discover the essence of Italian dining in University City, Philadelphia, a hub that satisfies cravings with its range of Italian restaurants. Each establishment offers a unique twist on traditional Italian cuisine, blending authentic flavors with local influences. The dining scene in this vibrant area is characterized by its youthful energy and diverse culinary offerings, making it a prime destination for food enthusiasts and university students alike. Patrons can expect a variety of menus featuring everything from classic pasta dishes and hand-tossed pizzas to innovative Italian fusions that cater to all taste preferences. These restaurants are noted for their commitment to quality and atmosphere, providing a cozy, inviting environment perfect for both casual diners and special occasions. Whether you're a local or visiting, dining in University City ensures a memorable Italian meal that combines the warmth of Italian hospitality with the freshness of local ingredients. This area truly represents the rich culinary tapestry of Philadelphia, offering a delightful experience to anyone seeking authentic Italian cuisine.

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