Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in University City

Delicious food and many gluten free options for one celiac diner. Wonderful atmosphere and wonderful service. I felt like I was back in France

My colleague and I stopped into El Vez for dinner last night and the food, service and overall experience exceeded our expectations. We followed the waiter's recommendations for the roasted garlic guacomole, short rib tacos, open-faced shrimp quesadilla and pomegranate margaritas. All were to perfection! Just wish I lived locally so I could go again!

Wonderful Sunday Brunch experience. They have fantastic cocktails. Enjoyed a spicy Bloody Mary or two. You have to order your complete meal at once which was odd, but there is a reason for this to discourage dawdlers and table squatters. I get it.. Our meal was paced perfectly and we did not feel rushed. The Salads and starters were freshly prepared and delicious. We enjoyed the royal benedict and local breakfast which were so delicious and tasty. Overall made for a really enjoyable brunch. The service was excellent with a nice balance of attentiveness. Ended with doughnuts and coffee which were savory and delicious. An deliciously indulgent experience left us comfortably satiated for a one meal only day but well worth it.

We had an excellent meal on a holiday weekend in a quiet small room by ourselves. Because of hearing issues, that was most welcome. The food was superb and the waiter was charming and helpful. We all three had different fishes and shared the wild mushroom toast and unbelievably good hummus with warm pita. Much appreciated on a cold night!

If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Fiorella Pasta is the place to go. A solid 10/10, no question. The service was impeccable—attentive, warm, and perfectly timed, making us feel right at home from the moment we walked in. And the pasta? Simply divine. The ricotta gnocchi is a masterpiece—soft, pillowy, and paired with brown buttered onions. The rigatoni was classic perfection, cooked with rich flavors that left us craving more. And the cacio e pepe? Simply heavenly—creamy, peppery, and the ultimate comfort dish. Fiorella truly honors the art of pasta, and every bite reflects their passion and skill. Every bite was a testament to the care and expertise poured into their dishes—fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. And don’t even get me started on their focaccia—it was exceptional! It’s clear they take pride in delivering authentic, top-tier cuisine. We had an amazing time and can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend for anyone looking to indulge in exceptional food and stellar service!