When you think of Philadelphia food, you think of a Philly cheesesteak… and it’s no surprise when this moreish treat is the city’s biggest contribution to global cuisine. But Philadelphia is also an up-and-coming food destination, with a huge array of culinary options.
Check out our list of the best places to eat in Philadelphia below…
KENSINGTON QUARTERS
Part restaurant, part grocer, part classroom, part butchers (don’t worry, it’s all properly separated) this is one of the city’s most unique eateries. You’ll find it in the growing Fishtown neighborhood and you can expect some great creative cooking here. Check out the schedule for the food courses too, with butchery, pasta making and wine tasting classes on offer.
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REX 1516
Experience the Southern charm and simple soul food of Rex 1516. Eat surrounded by faded mansion décor and reclaimed wood. You’ll be treated to classics like the crawfish potpie and cocktails including the mint julep and lime rickey. It’s the perfect place for a cozy meal out – without the formality of some of Philadelphia’s other top restaurants.
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Blue Route, Stop: South Street/Head House Square
BING BING DIM SUM
Asian fusion cooking that chucks the rulebook out the window. This is a sharing experience, with all plates designed for two or more. Crowd your table with a selection of delicious and unusual treats – from crispy cumin lamb rolls to chimichurri. They don’t take too many reservations so arrive early and get your name on the list at the door.
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LA FAMIGLIA
This classic Italian is located in the heart of the Old City. Expect a more formal affair with an extensive wine list and rich, sumptuous dishes. The lamb is the specialty and then finish the meal off with a rum and mascarpone tart. You really can’t go wrong with anything you order from the menu at one of the best Italian restaurants in Philadelphia.
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HUNGRY PIGEON
In the mood for something a little unusual? Then this is the place for you. With an endlessly creative and ever-changing specials board you never know what you’re going to get. Previous offerings have included squash and radish tops with squab liver sauce. But don’t worry, because the chefs here really know what they’re doing. They’re renowned for their pastries too, so stick around for pudding. It’s a buzzing kind of place with a lively atmosphere and some great cocktails to sample if you have to wait for a table.
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Blue Route, Stop: South Street/Head House Square
LAUREL
Like eating out in style? Maybe the toughest place in town to get a table is Laurel. It’s been voted number one on Philadelphia Magazine’s 50 Best Restaurants list twice - and for good reason. But that does mean it’s a popular spot, and with only 26 seats, space is limited. If you’re willing to wait, then sample the chef’s famous duck breast with roasted quince. This is one of the best places for fine dining in Philadelphia.
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VERNICK FOOD AND DRINK
If you’re a little put off by fancy fusion or unusual ingredients, check out the classics on offer here. Everything on the menu is a good choice – with lamb racks, cod in oxtail broth and perfectly roasted chicken all ticking the happy box. A relaxed and comfortable atmosphere with no airs and graces makes this an even more pleasant dining experience. Go here for delicious food at a welcoming family-friendly restaurant in Philly.
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Blue Route, Stop: The Bellevue/Rittenhouse Square
FORK
A simplified and streamlined menu walks a fine line between innovation and firm favourites. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the smoked beetroot with poached oysters, or keep it simple with the handmade chicken liver ravioli. Whatever you choose, it will be cooked with skill and precision.
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Blue Route, Stop: One Liberty Observation Deck Philly From The Top
VEDGE
Okay, we felt a bit bad about the vegetarians missing out on the cheesesteak, so this one is just for you. There’s an incredible seasonal vegetable menu with some incredible flavors from ingredients you never knew could taste that good, like cabbage. Yes cabbage. If you’ve cut out the meat from your diet, then this is the place for you. Head to Vedge to eat at one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Philadelphia.
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Blue Route, Stop: Academy of Music/Broad Street
You can easily spend the duration of your time in Philadelphia eating your way around the city at our delicious picks. When you’ve had your fill and are looking for a way to burn off a few calories, why not explore the rest of Philly with our guide to the top Things to do in Philadelphia?
