Graduate Hospital

Though the large medical institution that gave this south-of–Center City swath its name is no longer in operation, Graduate Hospital has solidified a reputation independent of its common moniker.

South Street West is the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare. It’s clean, well-lit and extremely pedestrian-friendly thanks to a vibrant entrepreneurial energy coming from the neighborhood’s restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and more.

The stretch of South Street east of Broad has long been considered a draw for out-of-towners, but Graduate Hospital’s western half is on the serious come-up thanks to ambitious restaurateurs and shop owners.

Characterized by a mix of single-family homes, new and old, and thriving places of worship, Graduate Hospital is a remarkably kid-friendly place (hence the stroller-filled sidewalks). It also distinctively possesses some of the best neighborhood bars in the area, from long-established institutions to gastropubby newcomers. An under-the-radar aspect of Graduate Hospital’s personality is its handmade-arts scene, which draws wide acclaim.

The Odunde Festival celebrates African culture each year, continuing a more-than-40-year tradition. Area streets shut down to automobile traffic for this massive outdoor party, which features food, dancing and vendors. Each October, Bloktoberfest offers food, drink and outdoor music along South Street West. Lining the streets, food trucks, craft tents and local businesses show off their wares amid the revelry.

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Bryant and Wilde's top restaurant picks

Lazaro's Pizza House 
Lazaros Pizza House serves up some of the best pizza in the entire city of Philadelphia. This South Street eatery’s strength lies in its pepperoni and cheese pizzas, but offers a variety of other menu items such as chicken wings and hoagies. Pizza is sold by the slice and in whole pies with daily deals that are hard to beat.
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Govinda's Gourmet Vegetarian
Govinda's has established itself as a haven for all vegan and vegetarian guests by offering substitutes for all meat or animals products. The soy chicken cheesesteak is their bestselling item and is extremely popular among regulars. Govinda’s also offers gluten free products, and the dessert menu is 100 per cent vegan.
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The Sidecar Bar & Grill
The Sidecar Bar & Grill is one of the main catalysts for the revitalization of the Graduate Hospital section of Philadelphia. Sidecar is consistently busy, and has the perfect mix of locals and tourists, plus, they appeal to a wide array of customers by offering vegetarian options of each dish. This gastropub offers outdoor seating in the warmer months, and creative dishes such as Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Fingers and Beer Can Chicken.
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