Restaurant owners and operators are no doubt planning ahead while we wait for CDC guidelines and city and state guidance on re-opening. In the meantime, the University City District (UCD) wants to help restaurants prepare to re-open once they’re permitted to do so, and to hear from owners about their needs during the recovery.

UCD has been working with the Commerce Department and business improvement districts throughout the city to think through options for local restaurants. They’ve put together a survey to help get a better sense of the needs of restaurants so they can help them get operational as soon as possible. UCD is asking for restaurant operators to take a few moments to complete a short survey. The information provided will help UCD target efforts to aid the University City restaurant community.

They have already heard from some restaurants, but are encouraging many more to participate in the survey.

Too access the survey, click here. It only takes a few minutes to complete.

University City District is asking local restaurants to participate in a short online survey to understand how they are preparing to re-open once permitted. UCD is interested to know what safety measures and aid would most help get restaurants fully operational. The survey particularly asks about outdoor seating availability and whether restaurant owners are interested in setting up or expanding outdoor seating.

UCD has been known for installing parklets (outdoor seating platforms) in parking lanes adjacent to restaurants or eateries during summer months and early fall. The survey also asks restaurants owners whether they would benefit from such seating or from using the parking lane for loading or curbside pickup.

To access the survey, click here.

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This year, Ramadan is being observed by Muslims all over the world from April 23rd to May 23rd. This is a reminder that some halal restaurants in the area close or have special hours during this month.

Saad’s Halal at 45th and Walnut will be closed for the month of Ramadan. The popular Spruce Hill restaurant, which has been offering takeout in the last few weeks due to the COVID-19 health crisis, will reopen on May 24th. For more information, visit their website.

Manakeesh Cafe across the street from Saad’s will remain open for takeout and delivery, but will have special hours – from 7:00-9:30 p.m. During Ramadan, Manakeesh offers special packages and platters that can be pre-ordered for free delivery. Check out the flyer for more info. To order online, go here.

Visit UCD’s new Digital Dining Days website

To help support local restaurants in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, University City District has launched the Digital Dining Days website, an in-progress online guide to restaurants offering takeout, delivery, gift cards, and staff fundraisers in West Philadelphia. The website will be continually updated as conditions at restaurants change. If you don’t see a local favorite on the list, please email UCD at marketing@ucd.org and let them know! As of April 1st, the website includes information on around 80 local restaurants, cafes and eateries.  Continue Reading

As the number of people infected with the coronavirus in the Philly area is growing, many local businesses are considering measures to help slow the spread of the disease. In West Philly, some restaurants, like Renata’s Kitchen, have temporarily suspended dine-in service. No doubt, many places will suffer from reduced business or will have to face temporary closures due to the virus outbreak.

During these trying times, it is important to support local restaurants, eateries and other businesses and help them stay in business. Please consider ordering take-out or delivery or purchasing gift certificates or cards from your favorite spots.  Continue Reading

University City Dining Days, the popular annual dining promotion, will be held from Thursday, July 18 through Sunday, July 28.

This year, over 30 restaurants will offer three-course menus for either $15, $25, or $35, including first-time participants like Mediterranean-influenced restaurant The Common, Argentine empanada shop Jezabel’s Cafe, and upscale sandwich joint KQ Burger. For the first time, many restaurants will also be offering lunch options for 2019 Dining Days.

Make your reservation directly at a restaurant of your choice. The menus and contact info of participating restaurants can be found here.