Local eateries provide dining hall alternatives

From French delicacies to custom-made ice cream, Philly has a lot more to offer hungry college students than cheesesteaks and pretzels.

Whether looking to explore the city's offerings or searching for a quick on-campus snack, dining options abound around the city and right here at Penn.

• Reading Terminal Market (12th and Arch streets): A historical landmark and Philadelphia tradition, this super-sized indoor food court and farmer's market is the place to go for fresh groceries and made-to-order lunches. While you'll be wooed by the smells and overwhelmed by the variety, you will also be stunned by the crowds, so give yourself some extra time to maneuver.

• Scoop De Ville (107 S. 18th Street): Home of the design-your-own-flavor ice cream cone, Scoop's is the perfect destination for everything from fat-free frozen yogurt to sinful sundaes. Though the shop's hours are irregular, the fresh toppings and homemade ice cream are well worth the walk downtown. With everything from fresh peaches to gourmet peanut butter cups as blend-in options, you can design your own flavor and have the friendly staff whip it up for you in seconds. Plus, rumor has it they are looking to hire student Scoopers... just imagine the free samples!

• South Philly: Home to Philadelphia's best Italian restaurants, South Philly eateries offer gourmet pizza and perfect pasta dishes. Some favorites include Tre Scalini, Villa DiRoma and Mamma Maria. Early risers should also check out the Italian Market, where vendors sell fresh produce and delicacies from shops and carts on weekend mornings.

• Simsum (222 S. 40th Street): For a sophisticated sit-down lunch for under $10, check out the Mediterranean fare at Simsum, owned by the folks who run the Middle Eastern chain, Bitar's. Though dinners aren't quite as cheap, the unique decor and friendly waitstaff make Simsum a fine choice for evening dining as well.

• La Terrasse (3432 Sansom Street): Looking for the best way to spend $20? Make a brunch reservation at Penn's swanky French bistro and feast on unlimited pastries, French toast, made-to-order omelettes and some of the best desserts on campus. On weeknights, take a study break at LT's, featuring the restaurant's inexpensive bar menu.

• Pattaya Grill (4006 Chestnut Street): Feeling adventurous? The area around Penn's campus hosts several Thai restaurants, but the early-bird special at Pattaya Grill -- delicate Pad Thai and refreshing Thai iced coffee -- makes it your best bet. With a menu that boasts several vegetarian and fish options, Pattaya Grill is also a perfect choice for the health-conscious eater. And if you feel like leaving behind the city atmosphere when you dine, ask to sit in the year-round indoor garden.

• And lastly, Penn's campus is surrounded by spots offering quick and easy snacks. In between classes, try out the food carts in front of the Quadrangle or next to Pottruck Health and Fitness Center. Houston Market is a popular lunchtime meeting place, and several Au Bon Pains dot the campus.

Penn is also home to Chili's, McDonalds, Subway, Starbucks, Cosi and Ben & Jerry's, so you can be sure that you'll never go hungry.

And when in doubt, you can always go to Pat's or Gino's downtown for that famous Philly cheesesteak.

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