Fresh Finds: New Business and Organization Lineup in University City
Everything you need to know about new businesses opening in University City. This roundup includes information on local non-profits, grocery store openings, and new fodder for Philly foodies! Read on to learn about all of the new things coming to our corner of Philadelphia.
Discover a new favorite at Carter’s Pizza and Beer, now open in University City! Known for its pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and more, this local shop partners with Slice to make ordering easier than ever. Swing by for curbside pickup or take advantage of their latest deals to enjoy quality food at an affordable price.
Cork & Candles is a family-owned business offering an experiential scent bar where guests enjoy a hands-on candle making sessions in a welcoming space. Choose your favorite scents, blend them to perfection, and create your own candles to take home! Perfect for date nights, team building experiences, or just a fun night on the town.
Founded in 2006 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Gong Cha (meaning “tribute tea for the emperor”) has become a global sensation for premium bubble tea. Known for its freshly brewed tea, tapioca pearls, and signature milk foam, Gong Cha delivers a creamy, sweet-savory experience with every sip. Now open in University City, swing by and see firsthand how they live up to their slogan: Brewing Happiness.
COMING SOON! Gouldsburger’s will arrive at Franklin’s Table Food Hall in late 2024, bringing their famous burgers, cheesesteaks, and veggie-friendly options to our part of town! We’re thrilled to welcome this local favorite, known for fresh ingredients and “Good Food Done Right,” to Penn’s bustling dining scene. Keep an eye out for their new shop alongside neighborhood favorites like Goldie Falafel and Pitruco Pizza!
University City Grocery Outlet is now open at 4301 Chestnut Street! Run by local sisters Jaelyn and Jaida Deas, this friendly spot offers amazing discounts on fresh produce, meats, and everyday essentials. You'll find a unique NOSH section with organic goodies, plus fun additions to their inventory, like sriracha mayo and rice paper wrappers—all at bargain prices! Drop by any day between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., and follow them on Instagram.
Koch’s Deli has been serving University City since 1966, becoming a West Philly staple known for their mouth-watering Jewish deli sandwiches and fresh, crispy veggies. Each bite is a taste of tradition and history, showcasing the flavors that have made it a beloved institution. After a brief intermission, Koch’s Deli reopened its doors to the public with a new ownership team on Friday, November 15th, 2024.
COMING SOON! Lulu Cafe, famous for Taiwanese street snacks and bubble tea, is moving to a new location at 28-30 S. 40th Street, with a planned reopening of February 2025. Originally opened in March 2016 by Janice Wang, Lulu takes pride in offering natural flavors, original recipes, and a carefully curated menu, plus they insist on brewing teas daily.
COMING SOON! Puyero, the beloved Queen Village spot for Venezuelan arepas and tequeños, is opening a second location in University City at 3428 Sansom Street. Known for their tasty arepas, fried plantains, and patacones, it will feature a similar menu and add dine-in, takeout, and catering options. University City is about to get a little tastier—don’t miss it!
Sichuan Mathai brings a fusion of Malaysian, Thai, and Chinese Sichuan cuisine to Baltimore Avenue! Chef and owner Peng, with over ten years of experience running his own restaurant in Malaysia, delivers bold flavors to the area. After a popular debut at the last Dollar Stroll, Sichuan Mathai is ready to impress—don’t wait until the next Stroll to try the Thai wings!
COMING SOON! Van Leeuwen believes good ice cream is for everyone. The company, which began as a yellow ice cream truck in the streets of New York, has grown in popularity and will celebrate their 4th Philadelphia location on Penn’s campus. They’re known for decadent, premium flavors like Honeycomb and and Brown Sugar Cookie Dough Brownie, along with vegan options, milkshakes, cookies, and more.
The West Philadelphia Alliance for Children (WePAC) has a new home! This non-profit serves the local community by promoting childhood literacy. They engage volunteers in Philadelphia public schools to re-open and staff libraries, empowering students with critical literacy skills. If you’re looking to get involved, they are currently accepting new volunteers!