After nearly three years in Greater Philadelphia, I can attest to the delicious and diverse food culture of the region. Certainly, it’s not New York City or Tokyo, but the metropolis stands out as having a range of delectable and affordable restaurants that students can actually enjoy. As someone comes from a family of cooks and chefs, I have spent a considerable amount of time exploring many of Philadelphia’s budget-friendly restaurants. I’ve decided to compile a small list of some of the best eateries I have visited, beginning with the those closest to Swarthmore’s campus.
1. Luna’s Mexican Grill – Swarthmore Town Center
Luna’s is probably the off-campus eatery I’ve eaten the most at while at Swarthmore. The restaurant is in the Swarthmore Borough’s Town Center, a three-minute walk from the center of campus, and it accepts Swat Points—dollar-equivalent credits included in all meal plans which can be spent at many nearby dining establishments. While I cannot testify to the authenticity of the Mexican food served, I have found almost everything at Luna’s delicious! I particularly love Horchata and the Quesa-Birria Tacos. They also have a dish named after Swarthmore students called the “Swattie Quesadilla.” The owner is a super nice women that sings a bilingual version of “Happy Birthday” while beating a set of drums and dangling a piñata for customers’ birthdays.
2. Swarthmore CO-OP – Swarthmore Town Center
The CO-OP has been a cornerstone of the Swarthmore Borough and the Swattie student experience since 1932. It is the third-oldest food cooperative in the country and was started by a group of women, many of whom had connections with the College, with the aim of bringing affordable groceries to the town. Among Swarthmore students, the Co-Op is known for their (surprisingly) good sushi, gourmet cheeses, and deli. I love getting the “Chef’s Special 7,” the “Tuna/Salmon Avocado Bowl,” or their “Sausage, Egg, and Cheese” sandwich for quick lunch or dinner. While shopping at the Co-Op can be pricey, Swarthmore students can use their Swat Points, making it a popular choice for those looking for a quick bite to eat.
3. Nifty Fifty’s – Multiple Locations, including nearby Ridley Township.
Nifty Fifty is a classic American diner with multiple locations, including in the neighboring Ridley Township. While the Folsom location is challenging to reach on foot or transit, it is a short 15-minute bike ride from campus. My friends and I visited Nifty Fifty several times last semester to grab a late-night meal or milkshake because the restaurant was open until midnight every day. While Nifty Fifty’s is never going to win a Michelin star, the retro vibe combined with their 100 percent beef smash burgers and MASSIVE milkshakes hit different after a long day of studying. My favorite milkshake is the mint chocolate chip or the chocolate with malt.
4. Amma’s South Indian Cuisine – University City, Philadelphia
Amma’s is one of the few places in Philadelphia that serve authentic South Indian food. I recommend going to the University City location as the prices and atmosphere are a lot more student-friendly than the Center City location. I’ve taken so many friends to Amma’s because it has kothu parotta which is the closest thing to Sri Lankan food in the Philadelphia region. I highly recommend the “mutton (goat) kothu parotta,” the “samosa chaat,” and the “mango lassi,” for a delicious South Indian meal.
5. Bai Wei – Chinatown, Philadelphia
Philadelphia is lucky to have one of the most resilient and intact Chinatowns in the country. You can’t really go wrong with any restaurant in Chinatown, but Bai Wei stands out as one of the best Chinese restaurants I’ve eaten at in my entire life. They serve a range of Szechuan, Hunan, and dim sum dishes. I visited this restaurant as a part of a Tri-Co Philly Program cohort event where we ate a range of mouth-watering dishes, including “Spicy Chicken Gizzards” and “Jumbo Shrimp with Walnut & Mayo Sauce”, all on the programs’ dime. According to two independent sources (two Chinese international students), this is one of the most authentic Chinese restaurants in Philadelphia! I’m salivating just thinking about it!!
6. Bread Top House – Chinatown, Philadelphia
Bread Top House is a tiny Chinese bakery on the edge of Philadelphia’s Chinatown. It has some delectable sweet and savory treats, including egg tarts, “pineapple buns,” and “mooncakes.” I enjoy their “pineapple mooncake” and pork buns. The most something will cost at this hole-in-the-wall establishment is $4, but make sure to bring cash as they don’t accept debit/credit card. A must visit in Chinatown!
7. Silk City Diner – Northern Liberties, Philadelphia
Another establishment I visited as a part of the Tri-Co Philly Program, Silk City Diner has some of the best burgers I’ve had in Philadelphia. Their Shrimp and (vegan) “Impossible Burger” will make your mouth water. It is also one of the only restaurants in Philadelphia of which I genuinely appreciate the architecture and interior design. The establishment kind of looks like a cross between a spaceship and a 70s-themed party—totally bizarre!
8. Gleaner’s Cafe – 9th Street, Philadelphia
Gleaner’s Café is my favorite café in Philadelphia. Their coffee is always made with care, and I absolutely (absolutely) love their mini baked-good section, where they have miniature versions of classic bakery items for typically less than $1. As someone who loves trying little bits of everything and takes a month of Sundays to order, I appreciate that I can eat many different small things at Gleaners. I remember trying their Blueberry Mini Muffin and kept going back to the counter to buy another one for 75 cents because they were soooo scrumptious.
9. 9th Street Market & Washington Ave – South Philly, Philadelphia
Although not a specific restaurant, something that I recommend all Swatties do is head to 9th Street Market and experience the various ethnic food (and non-food) establishments on the street. For decades, Italians, Lebanese, Mexican, and various other Latin American immigrants have established a little slice of the world on 9th Street, enabling visitors to sample a variety of different cuisines. Beside 9th Street Market, Washington Ave has many strip malls constructed by Vietnamese immigrants that house many authentic Vietnamese restaurants. I’ve had good experiences with Pho Skyline and Le Viet.
These are just a few of my favorite dining establishments in the region. One of the best things about Swarthmore being within the Greater Philadelphia region is that students can explore thousands of restaurants in the city to compile their own list of favorite restaurants. If you ever come to Swarthmore, I highly recommend immersing yourself in Philadelphia’s culinary scene.
