Best Historic Restaurants in University City

We went on Christmas Eve for drinks at the bar with friends and then a 5 course prix fixe dinner for 2. Both experiences were fabulous. Quality bartender and the table service team was top notch: professionally urgent, menu advice, flexible to small adjustments, on top of clearing and packaging to go, no time holes in waiting for food or drinks, EXCELLENT FOOD. I am embarrassed I lived in Philly for 21 years before coming here. I have been missing out. Will definitely be back.

From our welcome to our good night is was perfect. The drinks were delicious the steaks phenomenal and according to my wife the Chocolate Gelato was the best she has ever had in America. We were very happy the made our Christmas Eve a truly special evening and our server Brandi was very entertaining and fun Cheers

My husband and I returned to Vetri Cucina to celebrate our anniversary, as we had done the year prior. Immediately, we were encompassed by the warm singular ambience of the small dining room: it feels like coming home. Eric, our server, was outstanding. He was with us throughout the multi-course prix-fixe meal, and gave us excellent commentary about what we were about to eat and drink. He even laughed when I asked, “Does everyone make it through all of the courses?” and he responded, “No. You are the first one.” Vetri is a unique experience. The courses arrive in a decent pace, always giving us enough time to digest and ruminate. The food is uniformly excellent; you can’t really go wrong. Highly recommend!

We enjoyed our own private room as it was a quiet night. Our waitress was delightful! I’m sorry to not remember her name. She’s was very engaging and attentive. We could not have had better service!

Little Water is a refreshing dinner spot offering a nice variety of seafood dishes. The service and pacing of the meal make this place shine - it is so relaxing to dine here! The staff keep glasses full. The pacing of the meal is excellent - they leave plenty of time for each dish to shine. Tables are spaced out nicely as well, further contributing to a relaxed dining experience. We had a 5:45 res on a Saturday night and stayed for about 2 hours as a party of 2 ordering apps, drinks & entrees. For a ladies night out, we tried the bread, swordfish crudo, Caesar salad & swordfish Milanese. Each course surpassed our expectations. The caesar salad was HUGE and delicious - definitely something you could split as a large side for 2 or a small side for 4. Excellent wine and cocktail selection as well. They also had some mocktails on the menu that looked tasty. Absolutely thrilled! Would return for a celebration