New Business Roundup: Fall 2025

Discover new businesses opening their doors in the neighborhood!

Two people smiling while standing outside of a new business during a grand opening

West Philadelphia is buzzing with new business openings including food halls, new retail options, and cafes. Read on to discover what’s new!

Interior of Franklin's Table food hall

Big Dean’s Hot Chicken at Franklin’s Table

3401 Walnut Street

University City gets ready to turn up the heat! Big Dean’s hot Chicken has touched down at Franklin’s Table, offering an authentic taste of Nashville. Visitors can expect classic and specialty chicken sandwiches, locally sources buns, and fan-favorite sides including mac & cheese and coleslaw.

A promotional image featuring a variety of italian food - pastas, pizzas, salads, on a wood table

Corio

3675 Market Street

Corio, a new restaurant and takeaway from Vernick alums Chef David Feola, James Smith, and Ryan Mulholland, opened this spring in uCity Square. Guests can expect modern twists on Italian classics, including pizzas, fresh pastas, and signature dishes like“Chicken Riggies.” Come by for lunch or dinner, or visit their lively bar, a great stop for both casual nights and special celebrations.

Student working at a sewing machine

The Made Institute West

4719 Pine Street

Philadelphia’s Made Institute is bringing fashion design and sewing classes to West Philadelphia, offering workshops, teen programs, community events, and a shop for fabrics and supplies. The fashion education hub is redefining access to design careers with high-level training offered at an approachable pace and price. Their recent expansion to Made Institute West has brought small class sizes and hands-on instruction to the neighborhood…grab your pin cushion, and explore what the institute has to offer!

Interior of Out West Cafe

Out West Cafe

5127 Walnut Street

Out West Cafe is a new West Philadelphia café  offering dining, a workspace, a back patio, and a community library!  The café market, a sibling to Down North Pizza, serves brewed coffee, lattes, and breakfast classics crafted by Chef Michael Carter. Continuing restaurant owner Abdul-Hadi’s commitment to second chances, every employee has previously been incarcerated, reflecting the mission that earned him a James Beard Award for Leadership.

Folded piles of merchandise at the Drexel Rally House

Rally House Drexel

3250 Chestnut Street

On August 1, Drexel University entered a new era of apparel with the grand opening of Rally House’s brick and mortar location, offering sports apparel and team gear. The conveniently located shop serves as a one-stop-shop  for Drexel Dragons gear and Philadelphia team pride. Stocked with apparel, accessories, and gifts for the Phillies, Eagles, 76ers, Flyers, Union, and of course the Dragons, it’s the place to be for sports fans alike!

Two people smiling while standing outside of a new business during a grand opening

Wonder Food Hall

3925 Walnut Street

Wonder is a neighborhood café and community hub in University City, known for its creative menu, welcoming atmosphere, and local collaborations.  Guests can mix and match dishes from about 20 restaurants featuring a diverse range of cuisines, including American, Italian, Hawaiian, Mexican, Chinese, and Middle Eastern!  Designed with takeout and delivery in mind, the space also offers indoor seating, making it a convenient spot for students, faculty, and neighborhood diners.

Cookie sandwich from 4th St. Cookie

Famous Cookie Creamery

4004 Spruce Street

Famous Cookie Creamery has arrived in University City! This new outpost brings together three Philly favorites: The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company, Bassetts Ice Cream, and Passero’s Coffee, for one epic treat destination. Whether you crave a classic Famous Cookie, an ice cream sandwich made with Bassetts flavors, or a bold cold brew from Passero’s, this is your one-stop-shop for all thing sweet!