A Day In The Life of an All-Day Cafe

February 4, 2025

It’s not just coffee and pastries.

Mornings Begin with a Warm Welcome

The scent of freshly brewed coffee. The sound of the stovetops firing up, ready for the first ingredients. The sight of the morning sunrise gracing the walls. Those early risers find their way in for a quiet moment before the city fully wakes—whether it’s a quick espresso to go or a slow morning with tea and eggs. Conversations begin to unfold, and the first plates of breakfast make their way from the kitchen.

Lunch Becomes the Midday Reset

By noon, the café transforms into a space filled with a mix of work meetings, friendly catch-ups, and solo diners looking for a break. The menu takes a shift from eggs and french toast to salads and house-made pastas, maybe even a pizza—with each dish perfectly satisfying the hungry diners. Whether it’s a quick stop between errands or a long lunch paired with a chilled glass of wine, midday is all about finding that reset.

The Afternoon Quiet

As the lunch rush fades, the restaurant takes on a quieter pace. Some linger over that well-deserved second glass of wine, while others settle in with a book or a laptop. Those afternoon espresso pick-me-ups and light bites make their way to tables, offering a small but welcome pause in the middle of the busy day. It’s a time for enjoying a space that moves at your pace—whether that means catching up on emails or just sitting back and soaking in the atmosphere.

Golden Hour Brings Back The Brightness

The golden light fills the space and happy hour begins. Glasses clink, small plates are shared, and the day begins its wind down with good company. It’s a time of recovery—one that blends the bustle of the day with what’s to come.

Evenings Set the Tone for Connection

As night falls, the café settles into a cozy rhythm. Some stay for a full dinner, while others stop by for a nightcap and conversation. The space takes on a warm, inviting feel, where the hustle of the day fades into something more relaxed and intimate. From first sips of coffee in the morning to the last pour of wine at night, an all-day café is designed to move with you—creating moments that feel both familiar and new, no matter the time of day.

5 Ways to Show Love This Valentine’s Day

January 21, 2025

Valentine’s Day doesn’t just have to be about the grand gestures—sometimes it’s the littlest things that make the biggest impact. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, friends, or even treating yourself, here are five meaningful ways to show love and appreciation this Valentine’s Day.

Sharing an Experience

Sometimes the best gift is quality time together. Exploring a new part of the city, taking a walk down the Schuylkill, or even having a cozy game night at home can create a memorable experience between you and your loved one.

Celebrate Over a Delicious Meal

Food just has a way of bringing people closer, and a thoughtfully prepared dinner is always a winner. However, if you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else, our 4-course dinner at Walnut Street Café for Valentine’s Day is available! With exclusive dishes like our Savage Blonde Oysters and Chicken Marsala, we’re creating the perfect setting for an intimate evening. See our menu here!

Share The Experience

Dining is about more than just food—it’s about sharing the experience with others. Our happy hour menu features shareable bites, from light, flavorful options like our Heirloom Tomato Toast to White Bean Hummus. Whether you’re gathering with friends or colleagues, we strive to provide the perfect mix of taste and fun.

Raise a Toast to Your Closest Friends

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for the couples either! Take a moment to celebrate your friendships and the people who bring joy to your life. Something as simple as sending a sweet message can be enough to let them know you appreciate them. But, if you’re looking to make your message that much clearer, invite them to our Galentine’s Day Social, complete with bubbles, charcuterie, raffles, and a Keynote by Olympian Priscilla Loomis! Learn more here.

Give Something Personal

Thoughtful gestures can often mean more than extravagant gifts. Something as simple as writing a heartfelt note, creating a playlist of songs that remind you of your favorite memories together, or framing your favorite photo goes a long way.Gifts don’t have to cost an arm and a leg—what matters most is the intention behind it.

Self-Love is Just as Important

Don’t forget to show appreciation for yourself! Take the time for reflection and gratitude this Valentine’s Day. After all, self-love is the foundation of all other types of love!

New Year, Same Fresh Flavors

January 7, 2025

The New Year brings a sense of renewal and excitement—and what better way to embrace it than with dining options that balance flavor and wellness. At Walnut Street Café, we’re proud to offer a menu that celebrates fresh choices, making it easier than ever to start the year on a tasty and mindful note. Whether you're searching for "healthy restaurants near me," exploring Dry January ideas, or simply looking for something light and delicious, we’ve got you covered!

Embrace Our Fresh Selection

Our menu is designed to include options that cater to a variety of dietary preferences and wellness goals. From crisp, market-fresh salads to creative zero-proof cocktails, every dish and drink is made with care, focusing on ingredients that nourish and satisfy—like our Beet & Strawberry Salad, made with red leaf lettuce, Castelfranco radicchio, goat cheese, candied pepitas, and balsamic vinaigrette.

A Toast to Flavorful Sips

Our zero-proof cocktails are designed to elevate your dining experience without the buzz. They bring together refreshing flavors, making them perfect for those opting for alcohol-free alternatives this season. They’re an ideal complement to your meal or a delicious choice on their own as you toast to new beginnings. Be sure to ask about our Blood Orange Ginger Spritz or Cherry Limeade on your next visit.

Share The Experience

Dining is about more than just food—it’s about sharing the experience with others. Our happy hour menu features shareable bites, from light, flavorful options like our Heirloom Tomato Toast to White Bean Hummus. Whether you’re gathering with friends or colleagues, we strive to provide the perfect mix of taste and fun.

Start The Year Deliciously

We believe that starting the New Year with fresh choices can set the tone for months to come. With options for health-focused individuals and indulgent, alcohol-free drinks, our menu strives to have something for everyone. Join us and discover how healthy dining can be the most delicious way to begin your year.

Family Friendly Dining at WSC

December 17, 2024

At Walnut Street Café

We want to make family dining simple, enjoyable, and delicious. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, dinner, or a quick bite in between activities, we’ve created an environment that’s welcoming for both kids and adults.

Our Menus

We know that feeding a family means catering to different tastes. That’s why our menu balances elevated flavors with familiar comforts. Picture this: the little ones eagerly munching on buttery pasta or cheesy pizza while parents savor seasonal dishes. And be sure to save room for dessert!

Comfortable Dining

We know dining with kids means needing a little extra room—and we’re here to make it as easy as possible. Our spacious seating accommodates strollers, high chairs, and booster seats, ensuring everyone has a comfortable place at the table. Plus, our bathroom includes a baby changing station for added convenience. Be it you’re gathering for a laid-back Sunday brunch or a relaxed family dinner, our cozy environment helps make dining out a stress-free experience for the whole family.

Located in University City

Planning a day in Philadelphia? Walnut Street Café is conveniently located at 30th and Walnut, just across the Schuylkill River. While we offer a retreat from the bustle of Center City, it’s still a quick trip from the nearby museums, parks, and local landmarks. From exploring the city or enjoying a day outdoors, we’re the perfect spot to recharge. Plus, with nearby public transit and parking options, visiting us is simple and convenient.

Between a quick weekday dinner, a celebratory outing, or a post-adventure feast, Walnut Street Café is here to make family dining simple, delicious, and memorable.

What To Expect When Dining at WSC

December 3, 2024

Welcome to Walnut Street Café

Dining at Walnut Street Café is about more than just great food—it’s about feeling at home. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by our friendly team, the smells of our open kitchen, and the buzz of good conversation. It’s the kind of place where comfort and great company come together.

Our Space

Walnut Street Café is designed to feel welcoming and versatile. With a mix of mid-century charm and modern touches, it’s a space that works whether you’re grabbing lunch, having a quiet dinner, or enjoying a lively night out. The open kitchen adds to the experience, giving you a peek at the action behind every dish.

Our Menu

Our menu, created by Chef Michael G, is all about bold flavors and fresh ideas. From crispy pizzas to housemade pastas, we focus on seasonal ingredients and dishes that hit the spot. As the colder months set in, favorites like Pumpkin Basque Cheesecake and Apple Cider Doughnuts are must-tries.

Our Service

We want your time with us to feel special from start to finish. Whether you’re curious about a dish, need a wine pairing, or have dietary preferences, our team is here to make it happen. We aim to make every visit smooth, enjoyable, and tailored to your needs.

Private Events

Have a reason to celebrate? Walnut Street Café is ready to make it unforgettable. Whether it’s a birthday, a work dinner, or just a night out with friends, we’ll help make the planning easy. You bring the people, we’ll handle the rest.