Philadelphia is a food haven buzzing with vendors serving hoagies, cheesesteaks, and soft pretzels. However, here’s a little-known fact – Philadelphia boasts of Michelin-starred restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. Within the city of Brotherly Love, you’ll find amazing restaurants ranging from low key must eat to well-known chefs creating meccas for luxurious dining.
A big part of traveling is getting to know a city through the cuisine and in most cases, you want something that is unique to the destination! Below are a mix of different options including places that have vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other food allergies. This guide will help you find the best spots to eat in Philadelphia.
City Taphouse
If you just got off the plane, and are looking for some traditional American food coupled with a cold beer, City Taphouse is a great option. There are a few locations within the city, one on Walnut Street and one in Logan Square, both with outdoor terrace seating. Not only does this restaurant offer one of the most extensive beer-lists in Philadelphia, but it is also a great place to eat lunch, dinner, or even just socialize during happy hour. The 60 draft beers offered here attract a great crowd, especially during a game.
Visit their website for more information and check out their Instagram account for more pictures: @citytapucity & @citytaplogan
Talula’s Garden
Known as having one of the best atmospheres, Washington Square’s Talula’s Garden strives to provide amazing hospitality to patrons enjoying their healthy food. They offer seasonal menus in a farmhouse setting that is sure to put you at ease. Their menus are fair in price, featuring high-quality meals and freshly sourced local options. You can’t go wrong sitting inside or out!
Check out their website to view their ever-changing seasonal menu: http://www.talulasgarden.com/
Bistro Romano
Bistro Romano, located right off the South Street, features high end, rustic, romantic dining. This Italian restaurant has been around since the early 1700’s and has been recognized for their high-quality experiences and, of course, delicious food. Their award-winning interiors feature exposed brick, dim lighting, and amazing cuisine. Bistro Romano is known for their famous Caesar salad, which they make fresh, right in front of you at your table. Many of their dishes vary depending on the season and special holidays, but their seafood pasta is definitely a must try!
Check out their website for their full menu and reservations http://www.bistroromano.com/
Mission Taqueria
One of the best happy hours in Center City is at Mission Taqueria. It’s great for couples, big groups of people, and even those traveling alone looking for a quick drink and bite to eat. Potted plants integrated into the rest of the decor give the place an outdoorsy vibe indoors. The natural light illuminates each room lending it a bright and relaxing ambiance. Their menu offers healthy and locally sourced items, while their tortillas and fresh ground masa are made right in their kitchen. They offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, and they also cater to other sensitive food allergies. Their sangrias made with fresh in-season fruits are definitely their most popular drinks!
Follow their Instagram: @missiontaqueria for more pictures of food, drinks, and the organic atmosphere!
El Vez
Located on South Street, El Vez is another Mexican restaurant that provides a high-end dining experience. This well-known Mexican restaurant serves family style and provides an extensive margarita/tequila list. Offering a perfect social atmosphere, especially for large groups, El Vez is upscale with the eye-catching flashy decor. If you are looking for a place to meet your friends, this is one of the best places to do so. It’s no surprise that you will need to make reservations well in advance.
Be sure to follow their Instagram: @ElVez for more pictures and new menu items.
Buddakan
Buddakan, a modern-Asian restaurant offers one of the most enjoyable dining experiences in Philadelphia. Drawing from different cooking techniques from Korea, China, Japan, and Thailand, the chef designs ambitious entrees that marry daring influences from East, West and beyond. Appetizers are delicious, while it’s suited for families, friends, and even a romantic date night. If you have room in your stomach for dessert one of their most popular items is their “Dip Sum” Doughnuts that come with a variety of sweet sauces for dipping!
Pod
One of our go-to restaurants in Philadelphia for a modern dining experience is Pod, which focuses on family-style shareable plates, unique sushi rolls, and fun cocktails and drinks. Their atmosphere, with chic interiors that include neon accents and booths, is one of the best in the area. Their namesake Pods can only be reserved in advance and for large groups but make for a truly unique experience.
Hai Street Kitchen
Have you ever had a sushi burrito? If not,Hai Street Kitchen is the place to do so!. This quick dining experience is a great way to grab food on the go. All of their items are made in-house daily. Not only do they serve sushi burritos, but also sushi bowls and salads. All the food is made with natural ingredients, and now the restaurant is one of the most popular spots in Philadelphia!
Check out their Instagram for some of the best items on the menu: @haistkitchenus
Parc
In need of a French twist? Parc is your place! They serve food from brunch to dinner and have a great outdoor seating area. Parc is located in a beautiful spot in Rittenhouse Square, offering a traditional Parisian bistro vibe, providing you with the best views for people watching. Positioned right off Walnut Street, where some of the best shopping in the city is, itis easy to go shopping before enjoying some food and great views. Their menu is elegant and delicious.
Green Eggs Cafe
Green Eggs Cafe is an American craft restaurant perfect for brunch. Located in multiple locations throughout the city, this Philadelphia hot spot offers a wide variety of breakfast options. Their menu is broken down from “Eggs” to “Sweet”( which includes their to-die-for french toast), and “Skillets” to “Savory”. They feature the best options for a long night out, classic comfort food, or an effective pick-me-up. The food is inspired to reflect the current mood of Philadelphia. For example, red pancakes for Christmas, green french toast for the Eagles, and much more!
Check out their Instagram for their up to date menu posts: @greeneggscafe
Urban Farmer Steakhouse
Located in Logan Square, the Urban Farmer Philadelphia Steakhouse is one of the most interesting restaurants in the city. This steakhouse brings “rural chic” in a sophisticated, classy way. Their locally sourced ingredients and authentic food preparations create an ambience that remains unique and luxurious. You can find their local partners on their website and learn exactly where the food you are eating is sourced from. Their menu contains seafood, cheeses, soups & salads, and of course their different variety of steaks.
Oyster House
Finding the most trustworthy seafood can be difficult, but in Philadelphia, Oyster House provides the freshest fish from the sea. Sitting at their raw bar, where they serve the most extensive selection of oysters on the half-shell is an enviable experience. The menu varies depending on the time of year and seasonal offerings, but their seafood selection is not all they have. Oyster House offers wonderful wine and craft beers that make your experience even better!
Check out their website for what is in season now: http://oysterhousephilly.com/
Let us know which ones you enjoyed the most!
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