The Top Restaurants in Philadelphia, PA
When we think Philly, we think LOVE. Philadelphians love a night out on the town. They love to be active around the city. And they LOVE food. And not just Philadelphia Cheesesteaks, either. Philadelphia is a culinary capital in the US thanks to talented chefs from Philly and the mid-Atlantic region, along with its proximity to culinary talent from NYC. No matter where you dine in Philadelphia, your meal is going to be handled by a PRO.
If you’re a sports fan, then you know Philadelphia fans are some of the most passionate in the country, whether they’re rooting for the 76’ers on the court, the Eagles on the field, the Union on the pitch, or the Phillies on the diamond. Join up with them on game night at any of the great dining options near the stadium, or check out some of Philly’s incredible local microbreweries and catch a game on TV. They’ve got more than Yuengling in this region of the country – microbreweries like Yards Brewing, Iron Hill, and Evil Genius have gotten distribution all across the East Coast. Plus they have up-and-comers like Urban Village, Crime and Punishment, and Brewery ARS – all with great menus so you can fill up in more ways than one.
Finally, we can’t talk about Philly without mentioning how many great institutes of higher education lie in the city limits – and how many great restaurants you can find near all of them. Whether you’re in the suburbs by Bryn Mar and Villanova, or in-town by UPenn and Drexel, there are dozens of options for your next meal, college budget and up! Colleges like these keep Philadelphia young, vibrant and primed for the next great restaurant – and we’ll be ready to cover them all. Discover the best in Philadelphia restaurants – no matter what your budget is or what you’re in the mood for – with our guides below. Check out this list of our absolute favorite restaurants in Philadelphia, PA.
1. Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti
212 Walnut St Fl 2 Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 238-0499
For a bottomless brunch that transports you to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Positano is the place. Philadelphians flock to Lamberti’s stunning Positano Coast for their weekend fix of mimosas, sangria and traditional brunch favorites all set to the sounds of a local DJ. But the brunch menu at Positano also includes Italian seaside delights like a seafood salad, spicy calamari, zucchini crab cakes and a smoked salmon flatbread. The gorgeous interior instantly transports you to the Mediterranean coast and guests at Positano will love the view of the Old City from the upstairs patio.
2. Pizza Jawn
4330 Main St, Philadelphia, PA 19127
(610) 291-6779
If you live in Philly, you learned pretty quick what a Jawn is (translation for the non Philly folks – jawn is basically a person/place/thing). But unless you’ve been out to Manayunk lately, you haven’t had a chance to try Pizza Jawn. After 10 years of experimenting with pizza recipes and 2 years operating as a mobile food truck, that jawn is now locked in place as one of Philly’s best pies – and maybe Philly’s best pepperoni altogether! Everything here hits the spot from their delicious pizza to the insane sandwiches.
3. Assembly
1840 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 783-4171
Grab a seat by the fire pit on Assembly’s rooftop and take in the panoramic views at this Logan Square spot. This classy, elevated experience with inventive cocktails and small bites menus has so much to offer. With cozy and spacious seating that invites you to sit back and enjoy life for a while, it’s easy to lose track of time when you’re hanging out here with good company. If you need a little something to eat, their small bites menu offers items like four cheese fondue, carbonnade valdostana, and arugula salad. If you have a sweet tooth try their dark chocolate fondue that comes with asian pears, housemade marshmallows, strawberries, and pound cake. Try some of their original cocktails and you’re in for a good time.
4. Love & Honey
1100 North Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 789-7878
Owners Laura & Todd met at the Culinary Institute of America and have been inseparable ever since, a relationship culminating in their marriage and opening up this fried chicken haven. The chicken, brined for eight hours, coated in buttermilk and seasoned flour, deep fried, and topped with honey, has been consistently named the best in the city, state, and country. To go along with your fried chicken, you’ve got to check out the Nashville style tots (crispy tots tossed with Nashville-style spices and served with homemade ranch). For dessert, if you can handle it, go for the fresh cookie of the day or the homemade ice cream sandwich, rolled in crushed Oreo pieces.
5. Ralph’s Italian Restaurant
760 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
215-627-6011
Now, your Italian food experience in Philly is never complete until you dine at Ralph’s Italian Restaurant, America’s oldest Italian spot. For the last four generations, this family-owned restaurant has served traditional red gravy, mussels, sausages, and other Italian dishes attracting local and international tourists all year round. Over the years, this iconic spot has seen the likes of Taylor Swift, Frank Sinatra and other huge names. They’re serving up big portion meals here so don’t be afraid to take the rest home and save those leftovers for later. Come and discover the secrets that have kept this restaurant standing since the 1900’s. It will be a memorable experience!
6. McGillin’s Olde Ale House
1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 735-5562
If you’re looking for a hearty helping of wings, head to Philly’s oldest tavern. This beloved spot has been open since 1860 and is still going strong and serving up great food and good times. They’ve got plenty of delicious wings to keep you satisfied along with other menu items as well like some killer appetizers along with corned beef sandwiches, shepherds pie and more. McGillin’s stays open until 2 AM everyday so there’s plenty of time to get your fix.
7. Louie Louie
3611 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
(267) 805-8585
This French restaurant is just stunning, inside and out. When you walk up, you’ll immediately notice the black and white striped awning giving a very casual, European vibe. Inside, the checkered floors, beautiful light fixtures, and comfortable booths are part of what makes this spot so photogenic. Now that we’ve set the mood, let’s talk food. Serving brunch, lunch and dinner, there’s never a bad time to check out Louie Louie. Start out with oysters, tuna crudo, or a cheese plate. For the main course, you can never go wrong with the pappardelle ratatouille or the broiled lobster. Finish it all off with the French apple cake and you are in for a good time.
8. The Dandelion
124 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Marekani
(215) 558-2500
The Dandelion is a sophisticated British pub that focuses on serving its customers updated seasonal British cuisines. It is just a few steps away from Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square. The restaurant has a whirlwind of significant seating areas, hallways, nooks, rooms, and bars. These places have been impeccably decorated to bring out their unique personality. You can have a chill day by the brick fireplace, enjoy your afternoon tea in the dining room taking in the Victorian style, or dine with the famous burger in the Dog Room. The menu contains classics such as shepherd’s pie, UK cheese board, fish & chips, welsh rabbit, and various other unique items. This is a great spot to bring the family and celebrate something good.
9. John’s Water Ice
701 Christian Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19147
(215) 925 6955
There is no fake flavor or artificial syrups in the water ice at John’s, they’re selling all-natural flavors only. Serving south Philly since 1945, John’s Water Ice has managed to maintain the authenticity with their delicious homemade water ice with a secret family recipe that sets them apart. You can order water ice, ice cream, or combine both and have a special treat. The classic flavors are chocolate, lemon, cherry, and pineapple, and they have special flavors that rotate every week, as well.
10. Don Barriga
4443 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(267) 292-5741
There’s more to authentic Mexican cuisine than tacos and salsa. You’ll find many top Mexican delicacies at Don Barriga’s, including churros, flautas, fajitas, soups, barbacoa, posole, and more. We suggest washing down your meal with classic Mexican drinks like Jarrito or a Horchata. If you have room for dessert, try some of the restaurant’s dessert specialties– Tiramisu, Flan Napolitano, and Churros!
