Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) and the University of Pennsylvania have officially launched the Penn-CCP Entrepreneurship Academy, a new initiative designed to drive economic growth and support small businesses across West Philadelphia.

The program was announced on Thursday during a signing ceremony and open house at CCP’s Career and Advanced Technology Center, featuring leaders from both institutions, local official representatives, and program leadership (see photo).

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In a major win for local economic development, off-price retail giant Burlington Stores, Inc. is packing up its New Jersey headquarters and relocating to West Philadelphia, according to state and local officials.

The Fortune 500 company has agreed to purchase property at 3151 Market Street within Brandywine Realty Trust’s Schuylkill Yards development. According to a press release from the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, the total project represents a $370 million investment—marking the largest corporate headquarters relocation to Philadelphia in recent memory.

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The end-of-summer tradition is back: the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll returns this Thursday, Sept. 3, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., bringing $1, $3, and $5 deals from dozens of local businesses and neighborhood festivities to Baltimore Avenue between 40th and 51st Streets.

Organized by University City District in partnership with local businesses and organizations, this edition features more local vendors, music, and community block parties spread out along the corridor.

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Here is the latest roundup of restaurant updates and culinary developments across West Philadelphia.

New Openings & Upcoming Arrivals

After months of anticipation, Barakat Chicken opened last month at 43rd and Walnut. Launched by the team behind Barakat Halal Market in Northeast Philly, this new Central Asian and halal eatery sits directly across from Masjid Al-Jamia and next door to Makkah Market. The fast-casual spot includes indoor seating for 10–15 guests and serves authentic house-made specialties—including traditional beef plov (pilaf), stews, kebabs, chicken shawarma, and prepared items available by the pound. Check out their Instagram for more info.

7th Street Burger is coming to 3931 Walnut St, taking over the ground-floor retail space until recently occupied by Hummus Grill. The NYC smashburger chain is set to open its doors by the end of the calendar year. Founded in 2021 in New York City’s East Village by college friends Kevin Rezvani and Paras Jain, the fast-casual spot operates on a minimal approach centered around quality ingredients, quick service, and accessible pricing.

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Get your appetites ready: University City Dining Days is returning next week! From Thursday, July 16 through Sunday, July 26, more than 25 local eateries will showcase West Philadelphia’s diverse, global culinary scene with special three-course menus.

The popular neighborhood promotion features a “3 Courses, 3 Prices” setup, offering fixed-price lunch or dinner options at $20, $30, or $40. Whether you want to revisit a long-time neighborhood staple or branch out and try something brand new, it is the perfect excuse to dine out.

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Port Coffee opened last week at 4013 Walnut St. (former Metropolitan Bakery storefront).

The West Philadelphia business scene is welcoming several new culinary additions, boutique retail shops, and neighborhood relocations this season. From highly anticipated eateries to unique specialty storefronts, here is a look at what is coming to the area, along with a notable coffee spot that has already opened its doors.

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