Root and Sprig Brings “Hospitality with Heart” and Chef-Crafted Seasonal Flavors to SHOP PENN Retail District
Media Relations Contact:
Jennifer Rizzi, Communications Director
Penn Facilities & Real Estate Services
215.573.6107, rizzi@upenn.edu
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Shop Penn is thrilled to announce the upcoming arrival of Root and Sprig, a fast-casual concept by acclaimed Chef Tom Colicchio, to the University of Pennsylvania’s retail district. Known for its chef-driven creativity, inspiring meals, and memorable hospitality experience, Root and Sprig is redefining healthy eating for busy lifestyles.
Located at 421 Curie Boulevard, on the ground floor of the Perelman School of Medicine’s Kelley Research Building, the new Root and Sprig concept will be their largest to date. "We’re incredibly excited about our partnership and upcoming location at Penn," said Daniel Guaricci, Co-Founder of Root & Sprig. "As our first location featuring a fully designated dining space, the opportunity allows us to optimize the guest experience by offering chef-inspired meals alongside a space designed for rest, conversation and connection. We look forward to serving students, educators, administrators, and the broader community with an experience they truly deserve."
Founded in 2019, Root and Sprig’s philosophy is simple — food is medicine, and hospitality should be felt. “Many school and healthcare systems fall short in delivering nutritious meals and attentive, compassionate service,” said Chef Tom Colicchio, Co-Founder of Root & Sprig. “A meal should do more than simply meet basic needs—it should nourish the body and support overall well-being. We’re here to provide inspiring food, thoughtful experiences, and a comforting space where every person feels seen, valued, and cared for.”
Expanding on their success at the Health System’s Clifton Center for Medical Breakthroughs, Root and Sprig’s new location within the Shop Penn Retail District, will feature something for every moment of the day, including breakfast favorites and wraps, sandwiches, açaí bowls, salads, and soups—with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Patrons will also be able to pair their meals with specialty coffee, smoothies, and handcrafted teas. Dine in, pick up, catering, and delivery options will also be available at their new location. In addition, coffee subscriptions will be offered as well as grab-and-go options —so even when time is limited, a great meal isn’t. “At Penn, we’re dedicated to curating a blend of dining and retail experiences that enrich both our campus and surrounding community,” said Ed Datz, Executive Director of Real Estate at Penn. “Root and Sprig’s commitment to delivering chef-inspired, health-conscious meals in a warm, inviting setting perfectly complements our vision for Shop Penn.”
We are excited to welcome Root and Sprig’s second University City location later this Spring in our district. To see the full menu and learn more about Root and Sprig’s commitment to heartfelt hospitality, visit Root and Sprig’s website and watch for more details around the opening by following @shopsatpenn and @rootandsprig on social media.
MSC Retail represented the University of Pennsylvania in the transaction.
About Root and Sprig
Founded in 2019 by James Beard Award winner Chef Tom Colicchio and his team at One Goal Hospitality, Root & Sprig is a fine fast-casual food concept created for healthcare environments. Led by co-founders Dan Guaricci and Maryrose Galvez, the brand delivers nutritious, thoughtfully prepared meals and genuine hospitality to hospitals, research centers, and medical schools. Backed by decades of hospitality expertise and deep healthcare relationships, Root & Sprig brings an experience-driven approach to food service where it matters most.
About SHOP PENN Retail District
Penn’s retail district offers an inspired, contemporary shopping and dining experience, open to all. Spanning ten city blocks from 30th to 40th Streets and across Spruce, Walnut, and Chestnut Streets, the district features more than 65 curated shopping, dining, and entertainment outlets immersed in the region’s most beautiful and historic university campus. The diverse collection of retail offerings—including national brands and independent shops—provides the highest quality options at every price point for the Penn community, surrounding neighborhoods, and beyond.
Visit the SHOP PENN website for a full listing of retailers.