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Best Restaurants with a Vibrant Bar Scene in Old City

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39 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Buddakan - Philadelphia restaurant
1. Buddakan - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(11484)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Old City
Booked 89 times today
Stephen Starr’s Buddakan is a spectacular restaurant featuring exotic flavors of modern Asian cuisine with creativity and drama. Bon Appetit notes, "The mostly white space is striking, with a lit-from-within communal table in the middle of the room, a waterfall & a ten-foot, candle-bedecked Buddha. The religious icon watches over hip customers indulging in pan-Asian cuisine that far surpasses the fare usually found at hot spots like this." Newsweek reports, "Design also serves as a signifier for cuisine. You walk into Buddakan, one of the hottest new restaurants in Philadelphia, past a shimmering waterfall & Japanese river stones & you say to yourself, 'ginger-miso everything' even before you see the magnificent 10-foot Buddha dominating the dining room." Named one of “America's Top 50 Restaurants" by Travel & Leisure and 'Top Restaurant for Fun' by Gourmet, Buddakan has become one of the country's most talked about restaurants.
A photo of Amada PHL restaurant
2. Amada PHL
4.6
Exceptional(8785)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Old City
Booked 52 times today
Amada is an Andalusian tapas bar & restaurant where Chef Jose Garces embraces the rich traditions of Spanish gastronomy while incorporating avant-garde cooking techniques in a gorgeous rustic-chic settingSpecialties of the HouseSpanish Octopus, Garlic Shrimp, Tortilla Española, Paella Valenciana, Whole Roasted Suckling Pig (Call to order 72 hours in advance, excluding Sundays), Seasonal Sangrías, Cocktails, and Wine.Private Parties: Amada welcomes groups of all sizes. Festive settings, service and menus are perfect for intimate dinners with friends, special occasions and holidays, corporate meetings and staff parties. Events can be booked throughout the restaurant and in our private dining rooms seven days a week. For parties of 10 or more, please call our private events team at 267-284-7979 or email events@garcesgroup.com
A photo of Red Owl Tavern restaurant
3. Red Owl Tavern
4.6
Exceptional(1515)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old City
Booked 11 times today
Neighborly meets sophisticated at Red Owl, a modern tavern in the heart of Old City, just across from the Liberty Bell. Among soaring windows and cozy tables, the kitchen serves up smart, stylish takes on American staples (a cheesesteak never tasted as good as ours, made with premium shaved rib-eye). When paired with craft beers and classic cocktails, it’s a clever balance of fancy and familiar, with a dash of Philly flair.We look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of Spasso Italian Grill - Philadelphia restaurant
4. Spasso Italian Grill - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(2636)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Old City
Booked 14 times today
Spasso Italian Grill has been a neighborhood favorite for 23 years, specializing in homemade pasta, fresh daily seafood and tender veal all served at reasonable prices. Our relaxed atmosphere, personalized service & great food are sure to make you a regular. We have delivery options with Door Dash.
A photo of Barclay Prime restaurant
5. Barclay Prime
4.8
Exceptional(5553)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 56 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of Talula’s Garden restaurant
6. Talula’s Garden
4.9
Exceptional(13499)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Washington Square
Booked 149 times today
Behind the wrought iron gate, past the herbaceous patio and through the atrium is Talula's Garden, the warm and elegant Washington Square eatery from Aimee Olexy and Starr Restaurants. The modern menu, prepared with carefully-sourced ingredients and a light European touch, changes with the seasons. The artful cuisine, hospitable staff, sustainable spirits, and a focus on cheese make the dining experience here incredibly memorable.
A photo of Tuna Bar restaurant
7. Tuna Bar
4.9
Exceptional(998)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Old City
Booked 46 times today
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW PRIOR TO BOOKING Outdoor reservations are weather permitting and must be specified upon booking the reservation. Specific table requests are considered but not guaranteed. Tuna Bar is a Japanese Raw Bar and Grill concept created by Owner and Chef Kenneth Sze. Located in Old City Philadelphia, Tuna Bar boasts a relaxing, upscale atmosphere serving fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The diverse menu offers traditional and specialty sushi rolls, raw oysters, scallops, hand-selected fish, and shareable entrees. Tuna Bar offers a fully stocked bar of wine, sake, and spirits. There are no outside food and beverages allowed. There is a $40 dessert/cake fee for guests that wish to bring in a dessert/cake for their special occasion.
A photo of Saloon Restaurant restaurant
8. Saloon Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2689)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 51 times today
Entering the Saloon, a family owned restaurant since it opened in 1967 is a bit like stepping into Philadelphia's past. Dark oak paneling, shiny brass and authentic local antiques create a warm congenial and casual atmosphere. The choice of two comfortable dining rooms each with its own vintage bars make dining and conversation a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Both bars feature a delicious and moderately priced food menu. The menu is Italian with seafood specials such as grilled octopus and dover sole. Saloon steaks and veal chops are legendary. Many prefer a plate of fried long hot peppers to compliment the steaks. All desserts and gelatos are made on the premises daily. The Saloon is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar and restaurant with a national reputation. And the parking is FREE!
A photo of The Love restaurant
9. The Love
4.8
Exceptional(7728)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 144 times today
Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr's The Love is a bi-level sanctuary features 150 seats, split between the main dining room, sidewalk seating, and an upper-level loft. The restaurant is a spirited and carefree neighborhood café celebrating everyday American cuisine. The menu is crafted around what’s truly seasonal and local, while the beverage program reflects the best of the region. This creative energy is matched by a front-of-house service staff passionate about providing homey hospitality morning, noon and night.
A photo of The Dandelion restaurant
10. The Dandelion
4.8
Exceptional(8269)
Price: Moderate
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 136 times today
London's culinary revolution comes to Philadelphia with this unique gastro-pub. Cozy rooms and intimate bars create a storied, Old World aura, while updated seasonal takes on British food make up the menu. In keeping with tradition, our casks and tap craft beers are always rotating and classic family-style roasts are served on Sundays.

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