Diners' Choice: Contemporary American restaurants in Philadelphia

OpenTable

Updated November 05, 2024

Looking for restaurants with the best overall Contemporary American cuisine in Philadelphia? You’re in the right place. Each month OpenTable analyzes more than 400,000 new diner reviews. We sort the results by category to help you discover new favorites. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

White Dog Cafe - University City

4.7

4.7 (5469)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

University City

About the restaurant

An iconic restaurant in University City since 1983, White Dog Cafe is a leader in using environmentally sustainable, organic, and local foods from farms within 50 miles. Known for warm hospitality, and inspiring award-winning food, the White Dog's historic three brownstones offer charming and whimsical dog décor and artwork in its many unique dining spaces and outdoor dining on the sidewalk.

Top review

Marinellavip

Dined 5 days ago

Highly recommend, High quality ingredients and a nice atmosphere!

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Popular dish

Goat Cheese Whipped Ricotta

Popular dish

Kennett Square Mushroom Soup

Popular dish

Pork Belly Benedict

Fork - Philadelphia

4.7

4.7 (5107)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Old City

About the restaurant

Fork has been part of Philadelphia's exciting dining scene for over 25 years. Always evolving , Fork has stayed true to its mission, with a commitment to seasonality, carefully sourced local ingredients grown and produced by local farmers, producers and fishermen. Located in Old City, a neighborhood of art galleries, shops and independent small businesses, Fork is completely consistent with that spirit. The dining room includes gorgeous contemporary murals and a newly updated central bar where you can watch the action in our open kitchen or relax and enjoy the warm hospitality offered by our team.
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James Beard Winner-Outstanding Restaurateur, Ellen Yin, 2024
James Beard Foundation Finalist - Outstanding Restaurateur, Ellen Yin, 2018, 2019, 2021; Best Chef Mid-Atlantic, Eli Kulp 2016
Esquire - "100 Restaurants We Can't Afford to Lose"

20% service fee added to all checks

Top review

Emily

Dined 1 day ago

My partner and I had an amazing time at Fork. They have a nice selection of food and drink, and the quality is top tier. We had two superb waitresses who gave great suggestions and made the night enjoyable. We’ll definitely be stopping back here next time we’re in Philly.

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Experience

2024 Christmas Eve- Feast of the Seven Fishes

Experience

New Year's Eve 2024

Moshulu

4.6

4.6 (8699)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Penn's Landing

About the restaurant

Moshulu is one of the most unique dining experiences in Philadelphia aboard a ship. Dine indoors in our newly remodeled dining rooms or outdoors in the open-air or covered decks. Our menu features modern American fare including the freshest seafood, steaks, and sushi. Paired with seasonal craft cocktails, canned beer, and an extensive wine list. Reservations are recommended and available for indoor tables and outdoor dining under the covered tent. We look forward to seeing you!

Top review

Anna

Dined 2 days ago

It was amazing. The ambiance was perfect for celebrating our 1st anniversary.

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Popular dish

Warm Ricotta Donuts

Popular dish

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée

Popular dish

Lobster Bisque

Little Water

4.6

4.6 (58)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Center City

About the restaurant

Located in the historic neighborhood of Rittenhouse Square, Little Water is the latest restaurant from husband-and-wife team, Chef Randy Rucker and Amanda Rucker. Inspired by the Ruckers' experiences living along the Gulf Coast, New England, and Mid-Atlantic regions, Little Water is a contemporary coastal restaurant that celebrates the ecological diversity of life by the sea.

The sister restaurant to the acclaimed East Passyunk Avenue gem, River Twice—which has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer and The New York Times, and has earned Chef Randy’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently, a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic—Little Water continues the Ruckers' dedication to sustainability and local sourcing. With an a la carte menu inspired by the dynamic ecosystem of tranquil marshes, expansive bays, and secluded coves, Little Water captures the coastal spirit in a warm and lively atmosphere.

Top review

Jake

Dined 4 days ago

Kia was the best server and we loved it every bit of our experience!

Moonshine Philly

4.5

4.5 (529)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

South Philly

About the restaurant

Moonshine is a craft beer restaurant located in the heart of the Pennsport section of South Philadelphia. We focus on a fresh menu and a friendly atmosphere. With over 10 crafts on draught, a wide variety of bottled and canned beer, multiple selections of wine, and a menu consisting of old classics with a twist and some unique creations, Moonshine is sure to please any palate.

Top review

Joanvip

Dined on Sep 25, 2024

Always a great place to dine with friends. Thanks for another great meal.

Revolution House

4.4

4.4 (123)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Old City

About the restaurant

If you would like to make a reservation for a group of 10 or more, please call us at (215) 625-4566 Wed-Sun after 2pm. Thank you.

In the heart of Old City, with historic features tastefully presented throughout our two-level restaurant & bar, Revolution House truly has Philadelphia running through its veins. We are so eager for you to try our completely reimagined menu of elevated yet affordable tapas-style international cuisine crafted with the utmost care. Our signature dishes by Chef Evan Barghout, such as our sesame saku tuna or our Korean rib tacos pair perfectly with new, inspired cocktails, like our Eternal Springtime, as well as our carefully curated fine wines and local craft draught beers.

Make your reservation today to claim your stake in the revolution!

Top review

Danielle

Dined 3 days ago

This was an amazing dinner! The fastest service on everything… drinks, dinner, dessert. What a treat!

Fia Philadelphia

4.3

4.3 (52)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Center City

About the restaurant

Located in Midtown Village, Libertine is Derek Davis’s contribution to the Philadelphia food scene and celebrates the history and future of our great city. Chic, sophisticated and playful, the indoor dining and bar area with seasonal outdoor seating running along the entire length of the property at Spruce and 13th Streets. The contemporary American menu is planned seasonally around what is available and freshest at the markets and complimented by scratch specialty concoctions, 20 wines by the glass, and a significant handful of local craft beer. “Good Eating, Drinking and Fine Hospitality” is served every night of the week and brunch on the weekends.

Top review

Aminah

Dined 5 days ago

Hubby and I went for date night the day after Thanksgiving and the experience was amazing!

SOMO

4.4

4.4 (1406)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Manayunk

About the restaurant

SOMO is located in the heart of the Manayunk neighborhood of Philadelphia right on Main Street. We are an American restaurant & bar featuring friendly service, delicious seasonal dishes and a wide assortment of craft beer, craft cocktails and wine. SOMO offers indoor & heated outdoor dining. Our outdoor dining is all covered & heated to keep you warm during your dining experience.

Top review

Kierra

Dined 3 days ago

Great experience and great customer service loved it shrimp scampi 10/10

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Popular dish

French Toast

Popular dish

Fried Chicken French Toast

Popular dish

Lobster Ravioli

Wood + Slate

2.0

2 (0)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Center City

About the restaurant

Welcome to Wood + Slate, a charming dining destination nestled in Midtown Village, Philadelphia, at 112 South 11th Street. We specialize in enticing small plates and expertly crafted cocktail & wine flights tailored to please every taste. Our weekend brunch offers classic favorites as well as creative dishes that are sure to elevate your mornings. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, Wood + Slate serves as the perfect venue for private events and corporate happy hours, offering a unique setting for any gathering. Join us to experience the ideal fusion of flavors and ambiance at Wood + Slate!

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Experience

Wood + Slate Brunch

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