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17 restaurants that define Philadelphia dining

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by Maddy Sweitzer-Lamme
Updated March 30, 2023

Philadelphia’s vibrant dining scene is right up there with historical landmarks on the list of reasons visitors come to town. The Philly food world just as important as the city’s renowned museums and concert halls, and chefs are some of our biggest celebrities.

A Top Chef winner in East Passyunk serves French American fare in a jewel box-like space. A group-friendly Chinatown favorite dishes up some of the city’s best—and spiciest—Sichuan fare. In Cedar Park, a soul food joint doubles as a beloved community hangout.

The city’s matrix of outstanding restaurants is as diverse as the people who live here, ranging from chef-driven, fine-dining spots to laid-back sports bars and cafes. Read on for a guide to 17 restaurants essential to Philadelphia.

Parc
4.8 (17842)
$31 to $50
French
Rittenhouse Square
Prolific restaurateur Stephen Starr—known for hits such as Buddakan and Le Coucou around the country—got his start in Philadelphia. His flair for designing the full dining experience is best showcased at Parc, a Parisian restaurant literally built from pieces of restaurants imported from France. The atmosphere, both inside and outside, is spectacular: Parc’s bustling sidewalk tables sit across the street from Rittenhouse Square Park, and the restaurant takes full advantage of its lush setting. There’s no better place to enjoy a flawlessly cooked French omelet or steak frites while getting in some people-watching. Be sure to grab a baguette on the way out; Parc’s onsite bakery is one of the best in the city.
Top review
DavidVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Pretty authentic French experience - good food and service
Prolific restaurateur Stephen Starr—known for hits such as Buddakan and Le Coucou around the country—got his start in Philadelphia. His flair for designing the full dining experience is best showcased at Parc, a Parisian restaurant literally built from pieces of restaurants imported from France. The atmosphere, both inside and outside, is spectacular: Parc’s bustling sidewalk tables sit across the street from Rittenhouse Square Park, and the restaurant takes full advantage of its lush setting. There’s no better place to enjoy a flawlessly cooked French omelet or steak frites while getting in some people-watching. Be sure to grab a baguette on the way out; Parc’s onsite bakery is one of the best in the city.
Top review
DavidVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Pretty authentic French experience - good food and service
Morimoto
4.8 (6845)
$50 and over
Japanese
Center City
Philly doesn’t tolerate celebrity chef outposts unless they can back up their name with some serious game. Morimoto has impressed sushi connoisseurs from its early days when the Iron Chef himself sometimes appeared behind the Old City sushi bar. Thankfully, the kitchen is on point whether or not the headlining chef is in the house. That means Morimoto’s omakase—the chef’s choice menu, known to feature dishes such as whitefish carpaccio and black cod miso—is worth the splurge.
Top review
ErinVIP
Dined 4 days ago
It was incredible! The Tuna Pizza is a must have but every bite was delicious as always.
Philly doesn’t tolerate celebrity chef outposts unless they can back up their name with some serious game. Morimoto has impressed sushi connoisseurs from its early days when the Iron Chef himself sometimes appeared behind the Old City sushi bar. Thankfully, the kitchen is on point whether or not the headlining chef is in the house. That means Morimoto’s omakase—the chef’s choice menu, known to feature dishes such as whitefish carpaccio and black cod miso—is worth the splurge.
Top review
ErinVIP
Dined 4 days ago
It was incredible! The Tuna Pizza is a must have but every bite was delicious as always.
Chickie's & Pete's - South Philadelphia
4.8 (694)
$30 and under
Seafood
South Philly
Chickie’s and Pete’s is a classic pre-game and post-game stop for beers, cheesesteaks, and tomato pie in the shadow of South Philly’s sports stadiums. Its sprawling bar food menu offers something for everyone, but no visit here is complete without the restaurant’s famous crab fries. There’s no actual crab on these crinkle-cut fries. Instead, the irresistible cheese sauce on top is generously seasoned with Old Bay.
Top review
Andi
Dined on Apr 26, 2025
Happy hour with the cousins was a great night! Service slowed down a bit towards the end and the QR code for the check was a little cumbersome but overall a GREAT night!
Chickie’s and Pete’s is a classic pre-game and post-game stop for beers, cheesesteaks, and tomato pie in the shadow of South Philly’s sports stadiums. Its sprawling bar food menu offers something for everyone, but no visit here is complete without the restaurant’s famous crab fries. There’s no actual crab on these crinkle-cut fries. Instead, the irresistible cheese sauce on top is generously seasoned with Old Bay.
Top review
Andi
Dined on Apr 26, 2025
Happy hour with the cousins was a great night! Service slowed down a bit towards the end and the QR code for the check was a little cumbersome but overall a GREAT night!
SkyHigh
4.8 (2995)
$30 and under
Cocktail Bar
Center City
JG SkyHigh, one of celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Philadelphia outposts, is among the city’s most dramatic restaurant spaces. Diners are whisked up from the street to the top of the Four Seasons Hotel in Center City in a glass elevator that offers panoramic city views. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an unforgettable backdrop for celebratory cocktails or a special occasion meal. It’s a fitting atmosphere to splurge on Osetra caviar, or you could go for something more casual but equally good, such as spicy sausage, kale, and pecorino pizza.
Top review
Gabrielle
Dined 1 day ago
Great place to dine. Loved it. We enjoyed ourselves
JG SkyHigh, one of celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Philadelphia outposts, is among the city’s most dramatic restaurant spaces. Diners are whisked up from the street to the top of the Four Seasons Hotel in Center City in a glass elevator that offers panoramic city views. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an unforgettable backdrop for celebratory cocktails or a special occasion meal. It’s a fitting atmosphere to splurge on Osetra caviar, or you could go for something more casual but equally good, such as spicy sausage, kale, and pecorino pizza.
Top review
Gabrielle
Dined 1 day ago
Great place to dine. Loved it. We enjoyed ourselves
Charlie was a sinner.
4.7 (2634)
$31 to $50
Tapas / Small Plates
Center City
Charlie was a sinner. is the creation of plant-based chef and restaurateur Nicole Marquis. Her dark and cozy vegan cocktail lair serves up some of Philadelphia’s freshest drinks, thanks to ingredients such as hibiscus and mint, plus the city’s most inventive dishes. The zucchini “crab cake” sliders are a menu mainstay, along with a “ricotta” toast that could charm even the most ardent dairy lover. Enjoy it all against the backdrop of black-and-white movies, which flicker on the walls.
Top review
Jayne
Dined 6 days ago
The veg/vegan food here is inventive and delicious. Their new spring menu had some delicious options, and the tapas style of servings meant that we could try a bunch of different items. We had the mushroom tacos (AMAZING and our favorite), the "lamb" kofka (so delicious), the charred broccolini (so flavorful), the Korean tofu (a bit too sweet of a sauce for my taste, but good), and the beet salad (a VERY different flavor profile from the rest of our choices, and was an interesting balance for the meal). The ambience makes this a place that's VERY hard to have a conversation - it's super dark and very loud, with cramped tables. So, just know that going in. The service was great. The mint-infused water was refreshing, and they have a great zero proof/mocktail selection!
Charlie was a sinner. is the creation of plant-based chef and restaurateur Nicole Marquis. Her dark and cozy vegan cocktail lair serves up some of Philadelphia’s freshest drinks, thanks to ingredients such as hibiscus and mint, plus the city’s most inventive dishes. The zucchini “crab cake” sliders are a menu mainstay, along with a “ricotta” toast that could charm even the most ardent dairy lover. Enjoy it all against the backdrop of black-and-white movies, which flicker on the walls.
Top review
Jayne
Dined 6 days ago
The veg/vegan food here is inventive and delicious. Their new spring menu had some delicious options, and the tapas style of servings meant that we could try a bunch of different items. We had the mushroom tacos (AMAZING and our favorite), the "lamb" kofka (so delicious), the charred broccolini (so flavorful), the Korean tofu (a bit too sweet of a sauce for my taste, but good), and the beet salad (a VERY different flavor profile from the rest of our choices, and was an interesting balance for the meal). The ambience makes this a place that's VERY hard to have a conversation - it's super dark and very loud, with cramped tables. So, just know that going in. The service was great. The mint-infused water was refreshing, and they have a great zero proof/mocktail selection!
White Dog Cafe - University City
4.6 (5557)
$31 to $50
American
University City
The White Dog Cafe has been an icon of the local food movement in Philadelphia since opening its original West Philly location in 1983 as one of the first restaurants to celebrate seasonal ingredients from the region’s farms. When founder and farm-to-table pioneer Judy Wicks sold the business in 2009, she preserved the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability. White Dog serves as an unofficial hub for the college campuses of University City and always attracts a diverse range of diners, from students to West Philly elders. Salads showcase the farm-fresh produce and local cheeses, and the mushroom soup, made with produce from nearby Kennett Square (the self-proclaimed mushroom capital of the world) is a must.
Top review
RachelVIP
Dined on Apr 30, 2025
Always great for lunch meetings on campus great food, great staff.
The White Dog Cafe has been an icon of the local food movement in Philadelphia since opening its original West Philly location in 1983 as one of the first restaurants to celebrate seasonal ingredients from the region’s farms. When founder and farm-to-table pioneer Judy Wicks sold the business in 2009, she preserved the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability. White Dog serves as an unofficial hub for the college campuses of University City and always attracts a diverse range of diners, from students to West Philly elders. Salads showcase the farm-fresh produce and local cheeses, and the mushroom soup, made with produce from nearby Kennett Square (the self-proclaimed mushroom capital of the world) is a must.
Top review
RachelVIP
Dined on Apr 30, 2025
Always great for lunch meetings on campus great food, great staff.
EMei
4.6 (368)
$30 and under
Sichuan
Chinatown
With a dining room full of large round tables topped with rotating trays, Emei resembles other Chinatown restaurants. But its bold, regional flavors make it stand out from its neighbors. The restaurant has served some of the Philadelphia area’s spiciest and best Sichuan food since 2011. Chef Yongcheng Zhao has focused on the food of this Chinese province for his 40-year career. Whether your tastes run in the direction of pork intestine or Chongqing spicy chicken, a stir-fried dish spiked with dried Sichuan chile peppers, you’ll find appealing options on the large menu. Emei is at its most fun when you can order lots of dishes to share, so it’s great for groups.
Top review
Anais
Dined 4 days ago
This was amazing! Wonderful food and service, and great value for money. We got stuck in a storm and were delayed, but they were very kind and accommodated us. Will come back and recommend it to everyone!!
With a dining room full of large round tables topped with rotating trays, Emei resembles other Chinatown restaurants. But its bold, regional flavors make it stand out from its neighbors. The restaurant has served some of the Philadelphia area’s spiciest and best Sichuan food since 2011. Chef Yongcheng Zhao has focused on the food of this Chinese province for his 40-year career. Whether your tastes run in the direction of pork intestine or Chongqing spicy chicken, a stir-fried dish spiked with dried Sichuan chile peppers, you’ll find appealing options on the large menu. Emei is at its most fun when you can order lots of dishes to share, so it’s great for groups.
Top review
Anais
Dined 4 days ago
This was amazing! Wonderful food and service, and great value for money. We got stuck in a storm and were delayed, but they were very kind and accommodated us. Will come back and recommend it to everyone!!
Amada PHL
4.6 (8777)
$31 to $50
Spanish
Old City
When James Beard Award winner Jose Garces left Stephen Starr’s nest in 2005 to launch his own splashy restaurant in Old City, it was a seismic event in the Philadelphia food world. For years, Amada was the buzziest, most sought-after reservation in town. And though newer, shinier restaurants have since arrived, the joy of a Spanish tapas night at Amada hasn’t faded. Start with a spread of charcuterie and cheeses before moving on to small plates such as garlic shrimp and albondigas (meatballs) that have been on the menu from the beginning. The Garces restaurant group has grown quite a bit since 2005, but Amada still holds up as its flagship.
Top review
Courtney
Dined 7 days ago
Consistently one of the best in Philly. Server was exactly what you would hope to have.
When James Beard Award winner Jose Garces left Stephen Starr’s nest in 2005 to launch his own splashy restaurant in Old City, it was a seismic event in the Philadelphia food world. For years, Amada was the buzziest, most sought-after reservation in town. And though newer, shinier restaurants have since arrived, the joy of a Spanish tapas night at Amada hasn’t faded. Start with a spread of charcuterie and cheeses before moving on to small plates such as garlic shrimp and albondigas (meatballs) that have been on the menu from the beginning. The Garces restaurant group has grown quite a bit since 2005, but Amada still holds up as its flagship.
Top review
Courtney
Dined 7 days ago
Consistently one of the best in Philly. Server was exactly what you would hope to have.
Bud & Marilyn's
4.7 (5146)
$30 and under
American
Center City
Chef Marcie Turney descends from restaurant people; her grandparents (the titular Bud and Marilyn) owned a restaurant in Ripon, Wisconsin, where Turney grew up. This restaurant celebrates her family, Midwestern hospitality, and classic American comfort foods. Vinyl booths, vintage-inspired tableware, and retro TVs all add to the throwback theme. Crispy cheese curds made from Wisconsin cheddar and the housemade funfetti cake are the must-order menu items for a classic American experience.
Top review
JeffVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Great night out while in town for a conference. Stumbled on the gem and had outstanding service and amazing food. Dont sleep on the Fried Chicken!
Chef Marcie Turney descends from restaurant people; her grandparents (the titular Bud and Marilyn) owned a restaurant in Ripon, Wisconsin, where Turney grew up. This restaurant celebrates her family, Midwestern hospitality, and classic American comfort foods. Vinyl booths, vintage-inspired tableware, and retro TVs all add to the throwback theme. Crispy cheese curds made from Wisconsin cheddar and the housemade funfetti cake are the must-order menu items for a classic American experience.
Top review
JeffVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Great night out while in town for a conference. Stumbled on the gem and had outstanding service and amazing food. Dont sleep on the Fried Chicken!
Fork - Philadelphia
4.8 (5209)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Old City
For 25 years, Fork restaurant has set the standards in Philadelphia. Visionary restaurateur Ellen Yin has guided the restaurant through numerous incarnations, anticipating ever-shifting culinary moods and trends. One thing unites all of Fork’s eras: From the beginning, there’s been a focus on working with local farmers and doing sustainable business. The current menu offers a mix of creative and familiar plates. Look for Brussels sprouts topped with smoked grapes and sliced pistachios, as well as a leveled-up cheeseburger (topped with raclette and caramelized onions) with fries. It’s a chameleon of a place that’s somehow perfect for both celebrating a special occasion or grabbing a bite at the bar on a random weeknight.
Top review
MerleVIP
Dined 1 day ago
Usually a dinner spot for us, but we were delighted to enjoy a wonderful lunch too! Same high quality food at service -- just in the daytime!
For 25 years, Fork restaurant has set the standards in Philadelphia. Visionary restaurateur Ellen Yin has guided the restaurant through numerous incarnations, anticipating ever-shifting culinary moods and trends. One thing unites all of Fork’s eras: From the beginning, there’s been a focus on working with local farmers and doing sustainable business. The current menu offers a mix of creative and familiar plates. Look for Brussels sprouts topped with smoked grapes and sliced pistachios, as well as a leveled-up cheeseburger (topped with raclette and caramelized onions) with fries. It’s a chameleon of a place that’s somehow perfect for both celebrating a special occasion or grabbing a bite at the bar on a random weeknight.
Top review
MerleVIP
Dined 1 day ago
Usually a dinner spot for us, but we were delighted to enjoy a wonderful lunch too! Same high quality food at service -- just in the daytime!
Tria Rittenhouse
4.8 (440)
$30 and under
Wine Bar
Rittenhouse Square
This laidback wine bar was built as a place to celebrate all things fermented—especially the trio of wine, beer, and cheese. Tria has been the place to discover the most compelling vintages and unusual cheeses in town since its inception. Cheese boards are created by Tenaya Darlington, aka “Madame Fromage,” a local cheese expert, author, and educator. There are also ample soups, snacks, salads, and sandwiches. The bustling scene and people-watching opportunities—the restaurant and sidewalk seats are perched on one of the neighborhood’s liveliest corners—are almost as big of a draw as the food and drink.
Top review
sonyaVIP
Dined on Apr 20, 2025
We were in town for a volleyball tournament and ate here for lunch on Easter. It was a quaint lunch spot and delicious! We will come back again next year for sure! 5*
This laidback wine bar was built as a place to celebrate all things fermented—especially the trio of wine, beer, and cheese. Tria has been the place to discover the most compelling vintages and unusual cheeses in town since its inception. Cheese boards are created by Tenaya Darlington, aka “Madame Fromage,” a local cheese expert, author, and educator. There are also ample soups, snacks, salads, and sandwiches. The bustling scene and people-watching opportunities—the restaurant and sidewalk seats are perched on one of the neighborhood’s liveliest corners—are almost as big of a draw as the food and drink.
Top review
sonyaVIP
Dined on Apr 20, 2025
We were in town for a volleyball tournament and ate here for lunch on Easter. It was a quaint lunch spot and delicious! We will come back again next year for sure! 5*
El Vez
4.8 (7148)
$30 and under
Mexican / Southwestern
Center City
El Vez, another Stephen Starr stunner, has been a popular spot for happy hours that become nights out since opening in 2003. Large booths accommodate groups of friends and colleagues who gather over platters of nachos, bowls of guacamole, Mexican chopped salads, and taco plates. The real draw here, though, is the drinks menu, which includes a variety of margaritas, all balanced and strong. Don’t miss the large selection of agave spirits, including flights for those who’d like to sample a variety of options.
Top review
Brett
Dined 4 days ago
Always a great time. And the food is always consistent.
El Vez, another Stephen Starr stunner, has been a popular spot for happy hours that become nights out since opening in 2003. Large booths accommodate groups of friends and colleagues who gather over platters of nachos, bowls of guacamole, Mexican chopped salads, and taco plates. The real draw here, though, is the drinks menu, which includes a variety of margaritas, all balanced and strong. Don’t miss the large selection of agave spirits, including flights for those who’d like to sample a variety of options.
Top review
Brett
Dined 4 days ago
Always a great time. And the food is always consistent.

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