Hungry for a taste of summer? This season is the perfect time to take a quick trip across the Schuylkill River, venturing due west of Center City to explore the dynamic cultural melting pot thriving in University City.

Thanks to the thousands of students of The University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University and the University of the Sciences, the dining scene in University City is as diverse and delicious.

This summer, University City District makes sampling the wide array of flavors in the neighborhood a cinch with the return of University City Dining Days, now celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Beginning on Thursday, July 17 and running through Sunday, July 27, more than two dozen University City restaurants open their doors to serve discounted dinners for the annual University City event. At each participating restaurant, three-course feasts are dished for $15, $25 or $35 depending on the restaurant. Cocktails, wine and beer are available for an additional cost.

But this week, on Thursday, June 12, get a sneak peek of the smorgasbord to come at a Taste of University City Dining Days event at The Porch at 30th Street Station.

From 4 to 7 p.m., roll over to the alfresco public space for a smattering of samples from key Dining Days participants. For $10, get 10 food, beer or wine samples to try out restaurants before making a Dining Days reservation.

Tickets for samples will be available onsite and are cash only. In addition to the sips and snacks, guests can enter a raffle and hear some live music.

Come July, the full-fledged University City Dining Days event will launch. Check right here for the full list of participating restaurants, to make a reservation and see complete Dining Days menus.

Hope you’re hungry for a taste of University City.

Taste of University City Dining Days

When: Thursday, June 12, 4-7 p.m.

Where: The Porch at 30th Street Station, 30th and Market streets

Cost: $10

More info: www.universitycity.org

University City Dining Days

When: July 17-27

Where: Participating restaurants

Cost: $15-$35 plus tax and gratuity

More info: www.universitycity.org