A flood of students flock to University City near Drexel University every year once the academic year begins. This stampede of young adults to the university has been taken advantage of by some of the best cuisine and restaurants in Philadelphia, creating a region with some of the best places to enjoy a good meal (as well as being one of the best areas for apartments for rent near Drexel University). Students and those who work in the area can find everything from food trucks to a friendly spot for breakfast or lunch with friends, to an upscale restaurant to try when mom and dad are in town (and footing the bill). 

With over 50,000 combined students attending college in the area, there are many choices when it comes to filling your belly. However, with so many different flavors and experiences to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Learn more about the best restaurants near Drexel University and where to find them when your stomach starts rumbling.

Sabrina's Cafe

227 N 34th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

One of the area's best places to eat is Sabrina's Cafe. This popular eatery is located in a beautiful old Victorian home on 34th Street in University City. It is known for its brunch options that have been featured in plenty of top publications. Try their burgers, homemade french fries, and cheesesteak options as well. With so many loyal patrons, you'll need to plan on coming early or be willing to wait on the weekends. 

Visit their website to find out more.

White Dog Cafe

3420 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

This long-standing spot is another staple for Drexel University students. White Dog Cafe opened in the '80s and features a unique and fun atmosphere. Enjoy locally-sourced ingredients from this unique establishment, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with friends. Be sure to check out their double cheeseburger and french fry options, as well as their goat cheese appetizer. They also have a happy hour and feature local wines at the bar as well. 

Visit their website to find out more.

Louie Louie

3611 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

This upmarket restaurant is the perfect choice for date night or to take the parents to when they are in town. Louie Louie features high-end options like oysters, escargots, duck confit, and beef bourguignon. Italian dishes are also available for a warm and cozy meal. Open for brunch through dinner, you can find elevated dishes paired with your favorite cocktail to celebrate.

Visit their website to find out more.

Koch's Deli

4309 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

A long-standing staple of Philadelphia, Koch's Deli has been in business since 1966! You won't find more authentic Jewish cuisine than the sandwiches that are stacked high with corned beef, pastrami, and all of the fixings. Stop by at lunchtime for a sandwich complete with pickle spears to get your flavor fix. 

Visit their website to find out more.

Han Dynasty

3711 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Another top pick for the best food near Drexel University is Han Dynasty. This Asian restaurant offers the best options for pork belly, wonton soup, noodles, and lo mein. Try their popular scallion pancake as an appetizer, as well as their cumin and dry fry-style dishes. 

Visit their website to find out more.

Terakawa Ramen

125 S 40th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

A top spot for Japanese cuisine is Terakawa Ramen on 40th Street. This easy-going ramen shop is a popular choice for Drexel college students looking for a warm bowl of goodness on a cold day. This authentic Japanese noodle house offers two styles of ramen noodles: traditional and Kyushu. Both are handmade and paired with the perfect pork bone broth complete with the best Japanese spices.

Visit their website to find out more.

The Board & Brew

33rd & Chestnut, 3200 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Stop by The Board & Brew in University City for that local cup of coffee or tea to start your day. This unique spot also features lunch and dinner options that include soups, salads, and sandwiches. The best part about this place is that you can pull a board game from their library of 750+ options to play while hanging out with friends. Consider dropping by on your own to meet new friends from Drexel University and join in on a game while you enjoy a cup of joe or a light snack.

Visit their website to find out more.

Walnut Street Cafe

2929 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Plenty of locals and Drexel University students in the area love the vibe of Walnut Street Cafe. Stop by during "Golden Hour" from 4 pm-7 pm Tuesday through Sunday for cheap drinks and bites to eat that will knock your socks off. Brunch options are also available with a unique mimosa kit to build your own cocktail. Order their seafood risotto or raclette cheese and kale dip for a savory meal.

Visit their website to find out more.

Mizu Sushi Bar

111 S 40th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

This restaurant near campus is a great spot to grab sushi at a reasonable price. You'll find plenty of roll options, including potato, tempura, and vegetarian options. Try their lunch special for a meal that won't break the budget.

Visit their website to find out more.

Nafi Food Express

3400 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

This food truck is known for its big portions and plenty of spice. Nafi Food Express is a great find for a quick lunch that won't break the bank. Try their Chicken Tikka Masala, gyros, or vegetarian dishes.

Visit their website to find out more.

Cucina Zapata

3101 Ludlow Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

The taste is on point with the mix of Asian and Mexican cuisine at this popular food truck. Cucina Zapata isn't afraid to pair some of the most unique flavors together to wow their customers. Check out their Captain Crunch-crusted tilapia burrito, tacos, or cheesesteak options if you can find them open. You won't be disappointed with this Mexican-inspired food truck!

Visit their website to find out more.

Dim Sum House by Jane G's

3939 Chestnut St 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Another great date spot or place to take the parents is Dim Sum House by Jane G's. This upscale and modern dining location offers authentic Chinese dishes complete with soup dumplings and shrimp balls. You can find unique dishes like chicken feet and full fish entrees, as well as traditional Chinese options like Mongolian beef and General Tso's chicken. 

Visit their website to find out more.

Chengdu Famous Food

3635 Lancaster Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary culture shock at Chengdu Famous Food. This friendly restaurant near campus features authentic Sichuan meals that are perfect for a quick bite to eat. Check out their stir-fried dry pots or any of their other delicious meals with unique ingredients like rabbit and sliced pig ear.

Visit their website to find out more.

New Delhi Indian Restaurant

Address: 4004 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

If you're looking for a great buffet featuring the best Indian dishes around, check out the New Delhi Indian Restaurant on Chestnut Street. This Philly staple has fed hungry college students for the past 30 years. You can also order off their main menu if you're looking for a specific Indian dish. 

Visit their website to find out more.

Shake Shack

3200 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Plenty of Drexel students enjoy stopping by the Shake Shack for a quick meal. Choose from a burger and french fries, find a tasty milkshake, or choose from many of their other options that are perfect for filling your belly. This iconic fast food joint even features elevated tastes like a black truffle burger and bacon-topped french fries. 

Visit their website to find out more.

Great food on offer near University City Campus

No matter what kind of food you are in the mood for,  if you live in Drexel off-campus housing or in any other housing near University City, there is always something delicious to eat. Drexel University students and those who live nearby have access to a wide range of food, flavors, and fun spots to choose from no matter what time of day (or night). Work your way through all of these options for the best food near Drexel University this year and tell us what you think of our picks!

Find your own apartment near Drexel University with Tripalink

If you’re looking for a place to call home near Drexel University, be sure to check out Tripalink for help finding the right apartment. Whether you’re looking for a house, apartment, or room for rent, Tripalink has a great range of housing options on offer. Or, if you're looking for rooms, apartments, or houses for rent in Philadelphia in general, we’ll also have some affordable listings for you to take a look at. 

Visit Tripalink to learn more about the housing options that we have available in the Philadelphia area, as well.