Philadelphia's University City neighborhood is a bustling hub of academic life, innovation, and, most deliciously, an incredible street food scene. Fueled by hungry students, busy professionals, and hospital staff, the area boasts one of the city's highest concentrations of gourmet food trucks. These mobile kitchens offer a diverse and affordable array of global cuisines, making a food truck lunch a quintessential experience in University City. This guide will take you to the key locations where you can find some of the best street eats in Philly.
Philadelphia's University City neighborhood is a bustling hub of academic life, innovation, and, most deliciously, an incredible street food scene. Fueled by hungry students, busy professionals, and hospital staff, the area boasts one of the city's highest concentrations of gourmet food trucks. These mobile kitchens offer a diverse and affordable array of global cuisines, making a food truck lunch a quintessential experience in University City. This guide will take you to the key locations where you can find some of the best street eats in Philly.1. The Drexel Hub (Market Street & Ludlow Street)
- Where to Find It: The Drexel Hub is conveniently located in the area surrounding Drexel University's Main Building, particularly along Market Street between 32nd and 34th Streets, and on the adjacent Ludlow Street, making it easily accessible for a quick and delicious meal. Hub is a treasure trove of diverse flavors, from classic cheesesteaks and halal carts to authentic Chinese, Korean, and Mexican cuisine. The variety here is sure to excite your taste buds, especially during the weekday lunch rush.
- Don't Miss: Look for long-standing, highly-rated trucks that have been serving the Drexel community for years.
2. The Porch at 30th Street Station
- Where to Find It: Located in the public plaza directly outside of Philadelphia's central train hub, 30th Street Station.
- What to Expect: The Porch features a rotating lineup of some of the city's best and most popular food trucks, curated by the University City District. This means the options are always fresh and exciting, providing a reassuring dining experience. The area offers plenty of public seating, often accompanied by umbrellas and seasonal landscaping, making it a fantastic spot to enjoy a meal before catching a train or taking a break from work.
- Pro-Tip: Check the University City District's website or social media for the weekly food truck schedule at The Porch.
3. The Penn Medicine Corridor (Spruce Street)
- Where to Find It: Along Spruce Street, between 34th and 38th Streets, near the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
- What to Expect: This cluster of food trucks caters heavily to the thousands of doctors, nurses, researchers, and hospital staff in the area. You'll find a great mix of quick, delicious, and often healthy lunch options, from gourmet salads and sandwiches to flavorful international dishes.
Why University City's Food Truck Scene Thrives:
- A Captive Audience: The dense population of students, university faculty, and medical professionals consistently demands quick, affordable, and high-quality lunch options.
- Diversity: The international student body and diverse workforce have fostered a demand for a wide array of global cuisines.
- Entrepreneurship: The food truck model allows for culinary experimentation and provides a platform for aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs.
Exploring the food trucks of University City is a delicious adventure and an essential part of experiencing the neighborhood's vibrant, fast-paced energy. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between classes at Drexel, enjoying a curated lunch at The Porch at 30th Street Station, or refueling during a hospital shift near Penn, the area's mobile kitchens offer a fantastic and flavorful tour of global street food.
