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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If you have wanted to explore University City/West Philly area restaurants, here’s a great chance.

University City Dining Days, is returning from July 17th through July 27th. This year’s event, organized by University City District (UCD), will include over 25 local restaurants and eateries. During these 11 days, guests can enjoy three-course meals for lunch or dinner for the set prices of $20, $30, or $40.

Dining Days offers a great opportunity to sample the area’s diverse restaurant scene at reduced prices while boosting business for eateries during the slower summer months. This is a great chance to try something new or revisit a neighborhood classic.

Participants this year include returning favorites Han Dynasty, Sabrina’s Cafe, and New Delhi along with first-time participants Haraz Coffee House, Lulu Cafe, and Corio.

Please note that all the reservations should be made directly at a restaurant of your choice. See the full list of participating restaurants and their contact info, plus Dining Days menus by visiting ucdiningdays.com.

Photo courtesy of University City District

July is here, which means one of the most favorite annual events, University City Dining Days, will return soon. This year’s event, organized by University City District (UCD), will be held from July 18th through the 28th with over 30 local restaurants participating. During these 11 days, guests can enjoy three-course meals for lunch or dinner for the set prices of $20, $30, or $40.

Dining Days offers a great opportunity to sample University City’s diverse restaurant scene at reduced prices while boosting business for eateries during the slower summer months. Participants this year include returning favorites Han Dynasty, Sabrina’s Cafe, and Board and Brew along with first-time participants Blaze Pizza, Crate & Press Cafe, Sichaun Mathai, and Tataki Ramen & Sushi.

Please note that all the reservations should be made directly at a restaurant of your choice. See the full list of participating restaurants and their contact info, plus Dining Days menus by visiting ucdiningdays.com.

Photo courtesy of UCD

The Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll is returning this Thursday, June 6, from 5 – 8 p.m.. The first Dollar Stroll of 2024 will bring deals, music, arts, and more to Baltimore Avenue between 40th and 51st Streets. Just a reminder, that local businesses and vendors now offer $1, $3, and $5 deals during this event.

The Dollar Stroll is a great opportunity to enjoy some of your favorite items from well-known businesses, like VIX Emporium, Renata’s Kitchen, Desi Village, Loco Pez, Vientiane Cafe, Booker’s Restaurant & Bar and more. The event is also a chance to check out new businesses like Manzanita (42nd and Baltimore), Milkcrate Cafe (45th and Baltimore), Third Wheel Cheese Co (50th and Baltimore), and more.

The list of performers and entertainers includes Gretchen Elise at 40th and Baltimore (5-7 p.m.), Orchestra 2001 at Clark Park and HMS School Block Party, and Hip Hop Fundamentals at 50th and Baltimore.

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University City Dining Days returns July 20 to showcase West Philadelphia’s diverse restaurant scene. This year’s promotion will feature 25 restaurants offering three courses for three prices: $20, $30, and $40 at lunch and dinner.

The list of participating restaurants and eateries includes: El Taco, Dahlak, Renata’s Kitchen, Jezabel’s, Garces Trading Company, Pattaya Thai Cuisine, Chengdu Famous Food, Renata’s Kitchen, Aksum, Booker’s Restaurant and Bar, 48th Street Grille, White Dog, and more.

The promotion ends on July 30. To view the full list of participating restaurants, their menus and contact details, visit: https://www.ucdiningdays.com. Reservations should be made directly at each restaurant.