The 25 best restaurants in Philadelphia to visit ASAP

What is it? An immigrant-owned Vietnamese restaurant off the main drag (Baltimore Avenue) of Cedar Park.

Why we love it: This is one of *those* West Philly staples that consistently feels cozy and unpretentious yet special. You can always score a table (despite it always being busy), and the service is equal parts speedy and warm. There are tons of shareable appetizers to split with friends or a date, like crispy pork spring rolls with a zingy chili vinegar dip and grilled meatball rolls with hoisin peanut sauce. For mains, I recommend the grilled pork vermicelli noodles with pickled daikon and cucumbers, the five spice-marinated crispy duck leg with chili pineapple sauce, or the truly revelatory beef lemongrass soup, starring a tangy, spicy broth that you’ll long for in the cold months. There are also plenty of seafood- and tofu-based dishes for pescatarians and vegetarians. Just as essential are the cocktails, which include a range of fruity, notoriously potent Polynesian libations in fun glassware. If mocktails are more your style, I suggest the supremely refreshing Vietnamese limeade, made with fresh citrus juice, sugar, and club soda.

Time Out tip: The Flaming Volcano cocktail is not to be missed—but it is to be shared. Called “the fantastic drink for passion lovers” on the menu, the concoction of four spirits, grenadine, and fruit juice is crowned with a shot of Bacardi 151 that’s set ablaze just before it’s brought to the table. 

Address: 816 S 47th St, Philadelphia, PA 19143

Opening hours: Daily 11:30am–8pm

Expect to pay: $15 to $20 for an entrée

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What is it? A laid-back, bustling Chinese restaurant famous for hand-drawn and shaved noodles and soup.

Why we love it: No matter what kind of food you like or where in Philly you live, Chinatown’s limitlessly rich culinary scene is bound to win you over at first bite. For authentic, supremely flavorful Chinese food that will coax you beyond the confines of your usual takeout spot, Nan Zhou is the move. The menu is pages long and runs the gamut from dishes familiar to the American palate, like mapo tofu and roast pork fried rice, to more unusual fare, like cold jellyfish in sauce, spicy pig ears, and ox stomach noodle soup.

Speaking of soup, it’s arguably the main event there. You can pair your choice of hand-pulled or shaved noodles (FYI, hand-pulled noodles are manually stretched to be long and thin, while knife-cut or shaved noodles are shaped more like ribbons and sliced directly into boiling water to cook) with everything from lamb, fish balls, or pork chops to roast duck, beef tripe, or clams. All the broths are topped with spinach, cilantro, scallions, and pickles, plus you can add a marinated or fried egg to your bowl for about $2 more. 

You can also opt for noodles sans-broth. I recommend the peanut noodles with chili oil, topped with scallions and a thick peanut sauce, or the Szechuan cold noodles, which come crowned with peanuts, scallions, and lettuce. (You can also ask for them to be made extra spicy, or add a protein; I’m partial to pork.) If it’s Americanized Chinese food you’re craving, there are, of course, standards like General Tso’s and sesame chicken on the menu, but there’s truly no better place in the city to branch out from your usual, if you ask me. 

Time Out tip: I know buns, dumplings, and scallion pancakes usually steal the show in terms of appetizers, but you’ll want to order the diced cucumber in sauce as well. It’s zingy, refreshing, and offers a cool reprieve between bites of hot soup, spicy proteins, and fluffy white rice. 

Address: 1022 Race St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Opening Hours: Sun–Thu 11am–10pm; Fri, Sat 11am–10:30pm

Expect to pay: $20 for a main and an appetizer

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What is it? A Chinese-American takeout spot with a menu inspired by Black American food.

Why we love it: If you’re surprised to see a takeout joint with limited seating on this list, that’s likely because you haven’t actually tasted Black Dragon’s fare. Its fusion of Chinese-American takeout and soul food is nothing short of revelatory, and it’s designed to combat the closures of Chinese-owned takeout spots around the city that leave local food-desert communities with even less access to quality meals than before. The edible collaborations feel so natural that you’ll wonder why it hadn’t been done in Philly before. 

Take the three types of rangoon on the appetizer list—one with jerk chicken and sweet plantain, one with sweet potato cream cheese and braised oxtail, and another that’s a nod to the O.G., made with Maryland crab, pimento cheese, and sweet potato chili sauce. You can also try jerk chicken and curry beef skewers with dirty rice and cabbage, which take over for the expected teriyaki chicken or beef on a stick. There are also a bunch of creative egg rolls to sample. The Soul Food eggroll is a great first-time order, since it allows you to taste the mac and cheese, collards, BBQ chicken, and house-made BBQ sauce in one bite without ordering each individual item. 

In my opinion though, the noodles, fried rice, and entrées are where the menu really shines. Think gumbo lo mein, teeming with chicken sausage, shrimp, and crab in Creole-style soup, or pecan shrimp, fried with candied pecans and a sweet honey-bourbon mayo sauce. Most importantly, you can order fried chicken wings and fried shrimp, like at a standard takeout spot, with a variety of sauces. I recommend the sweet and spicy General Roscoe’s St. Louis-style BBQ sauce. 

Time Out tip: Don’t sleep on dessert. You’ll want to save room for fluffy, impossibly moist sweet potato doughnuts and fruity peach cobbler wontons. 

Address: 5260 Rodman St, Philadelphia, PA 19143

Opening Hours: Noon–9pm

Expect to pay: $30 for a main and a side or appetizer

What is it? A buzzy, no-frills taco spot in Passyunk Square that specializes in lamb.

Why we love it: Real-deal Mexican food can be hard to find in Philadelphia (or on the East Coast in general). But this South Philly joint, run by James Beard Award winner and immigrant Chef Cristina Martinez, delivers on all fronts. In fact, they’re so confident in their signature dish—slow-cooked, Capulhuac-style lamb barbacoa—that the menu doesn’t offer much more. However, it’s well worth a meal, whether you order tacos with barbacoa, pancita (aka spicy lamb offal sausage), or steamed root vegetables in green chile sauce. You can also try sweet tamales and quesadillas, or stock up on fresh tortillas or masa, in case you feel like pressing your own at home. Consomé, a soup made from barbacoa drippings with rice and garbanzos, is also on the menu. Order it “con pata,” meaning with the lamb’s foot, for $3 more, if you’d like even more meat. It’s cash only, so load up your wallet before heading over.

Time Out tip: You can order tacos for a crowd by the half, three-quarters or whole kilo. The meat comes with tortillas, consomé, and toppings. 

Address: 1140 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 11am–8pm; Mon–Fri 9am–8pm; Sat, Sun 6am–8pm.

Expect to pay: $6 per taco.

What is it? A French-American bistro with a raw bar and top-tier steaks.

Why we love it: Need a fancy-ish place for a special date night or birthday celebration? Maybe your parents are coming into town and you want to show them an unforgettable meal. Louie Louie is sure to deliver with its dreamy, French café-like ambiance and delectable food. Nestled in the heart of University City, this Euro-inspired gem is best known for its raw bar, cocktails, and steaks, all of which will make any foodie swoon.

The menu rotates seasonally, but you can count on stellar shellfish (like oysters on the half shell with black pepper-Champagne mignonette), impeccably fresh seafood (hi, tuna tartare in a tomato emulsion), and timely salads (ooh, spring peas and goat cheese?). Before you dig into seafood and starters, though, I recommend the house brioche, complete with everything seasoning, sesame seeds, and an assortment of butters, and the artisan cheese plate, which comes equipped with all the crucial accompaniments. 

As for mains, it’s impossible to make a bad choice. Full disclosure: The best thing I’ve ever eaten here was a short rib stroganoff. While it’s not currently on the menu, I wholeheartedly suggest trying another house pasta (like the clam spaghetti, crowned with gremolata) or going straight for the meat with the braised beef short ribs in red wine jus. On that note, the steak is great for beef devotees or anyone who can’t decide what to order. Choose between the filet au poivre in brandy cream (the fingerling potatoes just might steal the spotlight, honestly) or the ribeye in red wine shallot butter with pommes frites. 

You’ll also find plenty of photo-worthy cocktails, local beers, and diverse wines on the drink list. Personally, I’d go with the Parfum, a mix of gin, pear juice, hibiscus-juniper simple syrup, and fresh lemon. If you prefer a more potent bev, try the Smoking Oaxacan, a twist on an old fashioned that’s smoked table-side and made with tequila, mezcal, and lavender simple syrup. You can also ask about their selection of mocktails, if you want something fancier than water but without booze.

 Time Out tip: If you’re clinking glasses with friends, the espresso martini tower may be the ultimate move in terms of cocktails. It comes with five potent, caffeinated libations that are sure to get the evening rolling. 

Address: 3611 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Opening Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–9pm; Fri 11am–9:30pm; Sat 10am–9:30pm; Sun 10am–8pm

Expect to pay: $20 per appetizer, $35 to $60 per entrée

What is it? a French-Korean fine dining restaurant with an ever-evolving tasting menu.

Why we love it: With only two reservation-only seatings per night and Chef Nich Bazik at the helm, this Michelin-caliber spot in Headhouse Square is worth the hype—and splurge. It’s only the latest project on Bazik’s impressive resume, which includes Philly landmarks like The Good King Tavern and Fork. But it’s already made major waves since opening in summer 2024, as Philadelphia Magazine called it “Philly’s most ambitious restaurant.” There are no a la carte offerings, but rather a seasonally inspired, four-course tasting menu that features 20 to 25 dishes. You’ll start with plates of raw bar-inspired canapés and seasonal produce, then work your way up to partially cooked and cooked seafood, then an entree, salad, and a series of desserts. The cuisine is French at its roots with Korean flourishes. (Dishes like sweet adzuki soufflé and samgwang rice with lamb belly, truffle, and aged Parmesan highlight the seamless collaboration between the two.) If you’re feeling like treating yourself, you can spring for a sommelier-curated wine pairing, or alternatively, a non-alcoholic pairing or something from the bar. 

Time Out tip: Getting a table can be tricky some nights, but it’s not impossible. Reservations are released on the first of every month at noon, so head to Resy to book for the following month. 

Address: 408 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Opening hours: Wed–Sat 5-11pm

Expect to pay: $225 per person, plus taxes and a 20 percent service charge

What is it? a family-owned Lao-Thai restaurant with locations in University City and Kensington.

Why we love it: Beloved by soup stans, curry lovers, and noodle fans alike, Vientiane Café was opened in 2002 by immigrant Chef Daovy Phanthavong and her family. She got her start selling $3 servings of pad Thai and curry outside her home. After rave reviews spreading among locals, she eventually opened two brick-and-mortar outposts, one on Baltimore Ave. in West and one in Kensington. Of course, the O.G. beloved dishes are on the menu, but my go-to is the startlingly sour, herbaceous beef laab, marinated in roasted rice powder, kalanga, fresh herbs, and a generous dose of fresh lime juice. When the weather is cold, the king’s soup is my favorite, as it’s loaded with rice noodles, herbs, and produce in a soul-warming red curry coconut broth. As far as appetizers go, don’t let classics like satay, spring rolls, and fish cakes distract you from the sweet-tart, sticky tamarind tofu, which comes with chili, lemongrass, and kaffir leaves for good measure. Oh, and did I mention it’s BYOB?

Time Out tip: The Baltimore Avenue location is cash only, but don’t worry if you can’t get money in advance—there’s an ATM on site.

Address: 4728 Baltimore Avenue (University City); 2537 Kensington Avenue (Kensington)

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 4–9pm (University City); Mon–Thu 12:30–8pm, Fri, Sat noon–9pm

Expect to pay: $10 to $14 for soup or appetizers, at least $18 for noodles, soup, fried rice, or other mains

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What is it? A worth-the-drive Kennett Square destination that offers elegant garden-to-table eats against the stunning, world-famous backdrop of Longwood Gardens.

Why we love it: There’s been a restaurant called 1906 at Longwood Gardens since 1985, but the fine-dining concept got a reboot in fall 2024 as part of a $250 million development project throughout the Chester County public garden, which comprises 1,100 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows in the Brandywine Creek Valley. Reopened this past October on the conservatory’s lower level, with fountain views through nearly floor-to-ceiling arched windows, the 6,100-square-foot restaurant space has been dressed in mid century-modern style, with plush sage-green banquettes, sleek tables made from the gardens’ eponymous wood, and a private dining room that glows with growing cabinets filled with herbs and microgreens.

Overseen by Executive Chef George Murkowicz, the menu highlights the flora, fauna and fungi found throughout the gardens’ lush landscape—some items crossed mere yards to make it onto your dish. Spotlighting seasonality and sustainability, you can kick off your meal with items like a light and fresh flower salad jazzed up with bee pollen and honey vinegar; thin layers of savory beef carpaccio dabbed with burrata and black lime; and smooth pâté topped with pickled shallots and crispy enoki on a slice of toasted brioche that’s been cutely formed into a mushroom shape.

Entrées are equally artful, from the beautifully latticed mushroom Wellington fitted with porcinis and petite greens, to the whole-roasted chicken, which is presented tableside with springy accoutrements such as garden lavender, wildflower honey and panzanella salad. Of course, that very seasonality means that you can dine at the restaurant a mere month or two later and have an entirely different experience—but isn’t that the fun of it?

Time Out tip: Make a reservation during one of the designated “1906 Nights” (from 4pm to 8pm on select dates) to enjoy dinner at the 1906 restaurant and garden admission for the evening. Plan your meal for pre-sunset so that you can have a particularly stunning post-dinner stroll during golden hour.

Address: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348

Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 11am–4pm; Fri–Sun 11am–9pm

Expect to pay: $32 to $90 for an entrée

What is it? A farm-to-table eatery and bar housed in a uniquely decorated brownstone.

Why we love it: Farm-to-table fare may seem like a post-2000s trend, but White Dog has been doing it since 1983. It was one of the first of its kind in the city, dedicated to sourcing sustainable, organic and local ingredients from nearby farms. Nestled in the heart of University City (the Philadelphia location, anyway), this cozy bar and resto feels nostalgic and chic all at once with an industrial-lite bar decked out with wood and brick, chairs with crimson velvet backs, and a ton of pop art-adjacent dog paintings just steps apart. Lunch and dinner options range from the fan-favorite White Dog double cheddar burger, slathered with bacon mayo, to the simplistically exquisite goat cheese whipped ricotta, finished with rotating seasonal accompaniments (like balsamic strawberries and spiced hazelnuts in the summer, for instance). But brunch is the real gem, if you ask me. The pork belly benedict, complete with pickled onions and rosemary-maple cream sauce, will keep you full for the day. But TBH, the house-made banana bread with seasonal jam and whipped butter alone is worth making a reservation. 

Time Out tip: If you go for brunch, keep an eye out for the always-scrumptious stuffed French toast. It changes from season to season, but past varieties include pumpkin cheesecake, s’mores, and peach.

Address: 3420 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11am–9pm; Fri 11am–9:30pm; Sat 9am–9:30pm; Sun 9am–8pm

Expect to pay: $20 to $40 for a main, $20 for shared appetizers

What is it? An innovative sit-down with a comforting, throwback vibe offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, and dessert.

Why we love it: Middle Child, a cult-favorite sandwich shop in Old City, is always packed with hoagie-loving patrons. If you want to avoid the crowds to try the goods, head to the Clubhouse in Fishtown, which offers a few of the core sammies (I’m partial to the duck fat Cubano with house-pulled pernil, smoked heritage ham, Swiss cheese, sour pickles, yellow mustard, and mayo on ciabatta, as well as the Shopsin Club, piled high with house-made turkey, bacon, and cranberry-miso mayo), in addition to brunch and dinner exclusives you won’t find at the flagship store. And phew, is the breakfast incredible. If you’re feeling savory, you can’t go wrong with the pastrami egg and cheese, which was named the Best Breakfast in America on Good Morning America. But if you lean sweet, the big-as-your-face Olivia’s Pancake—which is malted and slathered in citrusy honey butter—will win you over at first bite. No matter what time of day you go, do yourself a favor by ordering the latke-inspired hash browns, complete with dill cream and a verdant herb oil. Bonus points for paying an extra $5 to top them with trout roe. 

Time Out tip: Breakfast and lunch are served until 2pm and dinner service starts at 5pm, so be sure not to go when kitchen service is paused. 

Address: 1231 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19122

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 8am–10pm; Fri 8am–midnight; Sat 9am–midnight; Sun 9am–10pm

Expect to pay: $13 or less for breakfast, ~$15 for a famous sandwich, $20 to $40 for dinner, not including drinks

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What is it? An award-winning Indian restaurant with four locations across Philadelphia.

Why we love it: Its feel is so understated that you may doubt how special the food is at first. But if you ask around, Philadelphians are very aware of the edible bounty Ekta has to offer. (The fact that the resto has four locations in Fishtown, Bryn Mawr, Manayunk/Roxborough, and, my favorite, University City, makes it even more well-known.) Behind lively music, colorful artwork, and ornate tapestries awaits real-deal Indian food that’s competitively priced, authentic, and varied.

My favorites include the South Indian-style lamb chettinad, cooked in fresh coconut, fragrant curry leaves, and potent mustard seed, and the tandoori shrimp, bright and slightly spicy due to a marinade of green chiles, fresh ginger, and tangy sour cream. Of course, there are also beginner favorites, like butter chicken, as well as a slew of vegetarian mains for folks who don’t eat meat, like saag paneer.

I’d also be remiss not to mention the staggering number of breads on the menu, which are ideal for scooping up rice, meat, and every drop of sauce on your plate. My go-to is the Ekta naan, stuffed with nutty sesame seeds, lightly sweet dried fruit, and earthy chopped nuts. But you can’t go wrong with options like methi ka paratha, made with whole wheat flour and fenugreek leaf, or vegan roti, cooked in a tandoor oven for optimal char. I’m also partial to the mango chutney, which is ridiculously thick and jammy without being cloying. 

As for drinks, Ekta is a BYOB, so you can tote your own wine or beer to pair with your meal. If you’re not interested in a nightcap, you can choose from one of six lassi drinks instead, made with a tangy yogurt base and a variety of fruits. (Think mango, strawberry, pomegranate, and guava.)

Time Out tip: Sides are everything, if you ask me. Whether you opt for lip-smackingly tangy raita, decadent mango chutney, or the house pickles (which are *not* for the faint of heart, given their intensely sour brine), they’re the easiest—and cheapest—way to upgrade your meal. 

Address: 106 S 40th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Opening Hours: Daily 11am–9pm

Expect to pay: $7 to $11 per appetizer, $15 to $20 per entrée

What is it? a French-Canadian upscale eatery beloved for cocktails and a menu of (mostly) small plates that rotates daily.

Why we love it: Anyone with their finger on the pulse of Philly’s food scene knows My Loup. Opened in 2023 by chef-owners Alex Kemp and Amanda Shulman, the French eatery is just steps away from Rittenhouse Square. Not only is there a full bar and stacked wine list, but most importantly, the menu of chic, photogenic small plates puts precedence on peak-delicious seasonal ingredients and raw seafood. Dishes are constantly rotating, but recent hits include hiramasa with pickled ramps and dill, fried skate cheeks with pepper relish and horseradish, and foie gras mousse with peaches and brioche. There are also a few larger plates on the menu if you’re feeling like a full main, like half roast chicken with roasted carrots, pork chop with cabbage, spaetzle, and apple butter cidre jus, or côte de boeuf for two. The bar program keeps the party going with an ever-rotating cocktail menu that features both zhuzhed classics and new-school libations (see the My Loup Caesar, made with vodka, Clamato, horseradish, maggi, and hot sauce). 

Time Out tip: If you’re visiting with a party of six or more, opt for the four-course menu instead of ordering individual dishes. It can be tweaked for allergies and dietary restrictions and costs $110 per head. 

Address: 2005 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5–9:45pm

Expect to pay: at least $100 for a sampling of raw bar dishes and small plates

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What is it? A bar and restaurant with house-brewed beer and a modest luncheonette menu.

Why we love it: It’s a casual pub that offers laidback food and drink with a retro, sophisticated spin. Located in what was formerly Memphis Taproom, a Kensington watering hole that was a cornerstone of the neighborhood since 1935, Meetinghouse has made quite the mark on Philly since its 2023 opening. According to Philadelphia Magazine, “having a chill, come-as-you-are hangout to casually gather with friends is getting more difficult to come by,” and this gem is trying to keep the practice alive. Collaborations with breweries and food makers (typically every Monday) keep the menu fresh and allow other local purveyors to get some love. The house beers are varied but simple: the pale Morning Swim, the dark Living Thing, and the hoppy Mount Pleasant. (You can also order wine, cider, and a few classic cocktails, like a gin martini or old fashioned, as well.) As for food, spring for the hot roast beef sandwich, complete with horseradish and a pickle, or the broiled cod with white wine sauce, if you’re feeling fancy. Also, don’t sleep on the desserts, which range from chocolate pot de crème to caramel toast. 

Time Out tip: Some folks don’t know that Meetinghouse offers a small brunch menu from 11am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Past options include creamed chipped beef, waffles, and breakfast sandwiches, along with brunch cocktails, like Bloody Marys, Irish coffees, and mimosas. 

Address: 2331 E Cumberland St, Lebanon, PA 17042

Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 4–11pm; Fri 4pm–midnight; Sat 11am–midnight; Sun 11am–10pm

Expect to pay: $6 to $11 for a drink, $10 to $20 for food, $6 to $9 for dessert

What is it? A cozy-yet-chic new American resto in a Rittenhouse brownstone.

Why we love it: Vernick Food & Drink remains a decidedly influential restaurant for many local chefs. This cozy, two-level space boasts one of the most knowledgeable and hospitable teams (ask about a wine club membership from their shop next door). In fact, Chef Greg Vernick was named Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic by the James Beard Foundation in 2017. The menu is constantly changing with seasonality in mind, but dishes like sea urchin with scrambled eggs, wood-fired roast chicken with lemon and herb jus, and foie gras and persimmon jam toast remain legendary for a reason. There are at least six specialty toasts on the menu at all times, as well as an impressive selection of raw seafood, ranging from oysters with ginger mignonette to tuna in miso-ginger dressing. Split a few small plates with friends, or splurge on a large plate (hello, braised veal cheeks with crispy polenta?!) or the whole fish du jour. As for drinks, there are plenty of artisanal cocktails to consider, along with craft beers and vinos of all kinds. 

Time Out tip: If you visit and enjoy your meal, head to Vernick Fish (specifically for oysters) or Vernick Coffee Bar at Logan Square next. 

Address: 2031 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Opening hours: Tue–Sun 5–11pm

Expect to pay: At least $100 for a main and something from the raw bar or a small plate

What is it? A prix-fixe Italian eatery in Queen Village serving four courses with a wine pairing.

Why we love it: For a splurge-worthy dinner that feels like a special occasion, look no further. Ambra feels exclusive, since the resto is only open three days a week and offers only one seating a night. But small details also add to the tight-knit charm: For instance, the nightly menu is written by hand and co-owner Marina de Oliveira crafts the flower arrangements. The tasting begins with shared light bites and an apertivo. Then, you’ll sample eight to ten courses and end with dessert and amaro. The whole experience will take about three hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to relish every dish and the accompanying wines. Past courses include pheasant meatballs with local chestnuts and agnolotti, olive oil cake and sorbetto with plums and candied fennel, and mangalitsa pork with bacon-wrapped loin and ’nduja braised escarole.

Time Out tip: If you want to grab additional drinks before or after dinner, head to the sister restaurant, Southwark, next door. 

Address: 705 S 4th St, Allentown, PA 18103

Opening hours: Thu–Sat, 6:15–10pm

Expect to pay: $300 per person

What is it? A contemporary Mediterranean restaurant.

Why we love it: A trip to East Passyunk can stand in for a European vacay if you have a res here. The menu is subject to daily updates, but so you get the vibe, past dishes include steak tartare with capers, black garlic, and saltines, braised celery with brown butter almonds, Asian pears and Comté, and slow-roasted salmon in arak butter with smoked beets, English peas and trout roe. (The fried string cheese is also a can’t-miss.) There are also a handful of Middle Eastern flourishes, like lamb kofta or Aleppo pepper, a nod to restaurateur Alex Tewfik’s half-Egyptian upbringing. The drink menu is just as cool and chic, teeming with French and Spanish wines and variations of classic cocktails (like the off-white negroni with white vermouth or the rum and Coke, made with two top-shelf rums, Averna, and Mexican Coca-Cola). 

Time Out tip: Don’t miss Sunshine Hour when the weather’s nice from 5 to 7pm for $8 small plates and $11 wines from across the Mediterranean. Sip to your heart’s content while people-watching.

Address: 1046 Tasker St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Opening hours: Sun, Mon, Thu 5–9pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm

Expect to pay: Less than $20 for small plates and veggies; $25 to $40+ for mains

What is it? a French-inspired American bistro with a knack for wine.

Why we love it: As if you needed another reason to spend the day in Rittenhouse Square, a.kitchen’s food and drink are well worth the trip. Operated by High Street Hospitality Group, which was founded by James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Ellen Yin, and led by award-winning executive Chef Eli Collins, the resto has been a local favorite for more than a decade. There’s something for serious foodies and newbies alike to enjoy on the menu. They do everything from breakfast to dinner, and I especially appreciate how they dress up the basics. (I’m talking cornmeal pancakes with lemon curd and maple syrup, a chili dog with smoked lamb sausage and lamb chili on a milk bun, and the house cheeseburger, slathered in Dijonnaise and crowned with cornichon.) Wine lovers will adore perusing the list, but there are plenty of next-level cocktails and a few local beers to consider as well. 

Time Out tip: Save room for a glass of natural wine specifically—this restaurant has one of the most impressive collections in the country. 

Address: 135 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Opening hours: Mon 4:30–9pm; Tue–Fri 8am–3pm and 4:30-10pm; Sat 10am–3pm and 4:30-10pm; Sun 10am–3pm and 4:30–9pm

Expect to pay: At least $80 on dinner or $60 on brunch

What is it? A cool, moody sushi spot for sashimi, buns, and cocktails.

Why we love it: Chef Jessie Ito was a 2024 James Beard Awards finalist for his Old City resto for good reason. With its packed sushi/sashimi bar in the front and posh, reservation-only omakase suite in the back, you can get the best of both worlds at this beloved sushi joint. Reviewers rave about the Royal Chirashi box ($155), which comes complete with fish, uni, scallop, and caviar. But if you really want to go all out, spring for the 17-course, $300 omakase. If it’s warm apps you’re after, consider broiled Japanese eggplant with sweet miso glaze or karaage wings with soy chili vinegar sauce, red onion, and scallions. For drinks, you’ll want to read over the cheeky, fun cocktail list (including Poor Impulse Control, a mix of mezcal, yuzu kosho, shiso liqueur, and lime) and take in the extensive sake selection, whether you’re in the market for a glass or a bottle. 

Time Out tip: If you’re not sure what to drink and want to invest in the experience, ask your waiter for a sake pairing to go with your food.

Address: 780 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Opening hours: Tue–Thur 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–11pm

Expect to pay: $10 to $15 for individual rolls, $20 to 60 for sashimi or chirashi combos, $10+ per starter or bun

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What is it? A casual Filipino restaurant in Bella Vista.

Why we love it: Filipino food is taking off in Philly (and everywhere else, according to The Food Institute), thanks to hit restaurants like Tabachoy. Chef Chance Anies brings his favorite childhood dishes to Italian Market, like soy- and citrus-marinated beef steak with lemony onions and scallions, pancit palabok, made with traditional boiled rice noodles and topped with a soft-boiled egg, poached shrimp, and chicharrones, and pork sisig with minced pork belly, lime, bell pepper, chili, and a fried egg. First-timers should spring for the starter sampler to try the lumpia (pork spring rolls with chili gastrique), house Caesar (made with cured duck yolk, chili, and fried shallots) and fried chicken wings with herby soy vinaigrette. The whole menu is family-style, so bring your appetite and a crowd to dig into as many dishes as possible. And most importantly, save room for dessert (personally, I can’t decide between the pandan Basque cheesecake with coconut caramel and the ube soft serve sundae, finished with puffed rice and turon).

Time Out tip: Parties of six or more will need to order the Chef’s Tasting Menu for $50 per person. 

Address: 932 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Opening hours: Wed–Sun 5–9pm

Expect to pay: $50 to $60 for a main and one to two appetizers

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What is it? a Latin-American eatery famous for ceviche and mojitos.

Why we love it: Thanks to chef Yun Fuentes, who was a semifinalist for Best Emerging Chef in the 2024 James Beard Awards, Puerto Rican and Latin American food isn’t just in North Philly anymore. At this casita-style Rittenhouse restaurant, you can snack on cuchifritos, like skewers of fish and pork belly with fried and sweet plantains, during happy hour or share a whole suckling pig (aka slow-roasted lechón), marinated in achiote oregano, garlic, and sour orange, alongside traditional and seasonal accompaniments for $65 per person. No matter how the meal ends though, you’ll want to start with ceviche. Options range from tuna in coconut salsa to snapper in key lime-ponzu, but you can avoid choosing by opting for a tasting flight of three for $35. Oh, and nothing beats drinking a rum cocktail at the ventanita on a warm, sunny day. Might I recommend a classic minty mojito or a bittersweet Hemingway?

Time Out tip: If you can’t score a table, eat your way through the rum bar menu instead, which features everything from smoked mussels in escabeche to a life-changing Cuban sandwich. 

Address: 2025 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5pm–midnight; Sun 4–9pm

Expect to pay: $80 to $100 for a main and a few drinks

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What is it? A seafood BYOB offering a la carte and prix fixe, five-course tastings on the weekend.

Why we love it: Chef Alex Yoon’s tiny seafood eatery in Bella Vista is supremely charming with its handwritten menus and two-person kitchen that cranks out fresh, expertly prepared fish and shellfish dishes. Open since the ’90s, it’s developed quite a following over the years. Big eye tuna crudo with miso radish and crispy ginger, shaved raw scallops over buttery sesame toast with tons of chives, grilled branzino with cannellini beans and escarole, and uni and crab tagliatelle with chili breadcrumbs are just a few of folks’ favorite dishes. You’ll have to bring your own booze, though. Luckily, there are two local wine shops nearby, so you won’t need to tote something from home if you don’t want to. (PLCB is a liquor store with the basics, but if you’re looking for a higher quality wine, opt for Bloomsday Café instead.)

Time Out tip: The prix fixe menu is $20 cheaper if you go Monday through Thursday. If you go Friday or Saturday, it’ll cost you $110 per head instead of $90. 

Address: 746 S 6th St, Lebanon, PA 17042

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5:30–9:30pm; Fri 6–8:15pm; Sat 5-9pm

Expect to pay: $30+ for a warm entree, ~$20 for cold entrees or a few oysters

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What is it? A casual Mexican BYOB in Passyunk Square.

Why we love it: Chef Carlos Aparicio has gained national recognition for cultivating traditional cooking styles and flavor-packed recipes from across Mexico in Philadelphia. (El Chingón was named one of the best restaurants of 2023 by The New York Times and was a James Beard Award semifinalist in 2024 and 2025.) Expect cemitas (those are Puebla-style sandwiches, for the uninitiated) stacked with a variety of meats and veggies on delightfully fluffy bread, carpaccio-style beef tenderloin with ancho chile and avocado leaves, aguachile with peppers, lime, garlic, and hominy, and tacos served on house-made sourdough tortillas. Options for the latter range from ever-trendy quesabirria, complete with house cheese, to Yucatán-style cochinita pibil, made from pork shank and finished with red onion curtido. Don’t sleep on brunch either, which offers Mexican staples like huevos rancheros, molletes with ayocote beans and chihuahua cheese, chilaquiles with your choice of protein, and concha French toast in chocolate-tahini batter with salted dulce de leche. 

Time Out tip: There are a few mocktails on the menu (like horchata), but you should know that it’s a BYOB…or a BYOT, rather. Bring your own bottle of tequila to add to one of the alcohol-free drink mixes for easy (and cheaper) cocktails.

Address: 1524 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Opening hours: Tue–Thu, Sun 11am–9pm; Fri, Sat 11am–10pm

Expect to pay: ~$50 for a main and appetizer

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What is it? A buzzy Fishtown Thai restaurant.

Why we love it: Chef Nok Suntaranon, winner of the 2023 James Beard award for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic, moved her beloved Italian Market BYOB to a spacious, tropical-inspired spot in Fishtown that’s even more vibrant than its first iteration. The concept is the same—preparing wonderfully flavorful dishes the way she saw her mom do it when she was growing up in Southern Thailand—but now, you can dine there for dinner and lunch on the weekends. You can’t go wrong with a crowd-pleasing starter like gui chai, crispy garlic-chive rice cakes with spicy sweet soy sauce. For salad, I have my eye on the laab ped, made with ground duck and crispy duck skin, chilis, and fish sauce, all served with sticky rice. For the main event, consider massaman lamb shank curry with pearl onions, tamarind and coriander-glazed mangalitsa pork chop, wok-fried prawns in brown butter, or the khao pad pu, fried rice with colossal crab and all the essentials. 

Time Out tip: There’s a full bar cranking out innovative tropical cocktails and beer slushies, as well as a full list of whites, reds, rosés, and oranges for good measure. 

Address: 4 W Palmer St, Philadelphia, PA 19125

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5–10pm; Fri 5–11pm; Sat 11am–2pm and 5–11pm; Sun 11 am-2pm

Expect to pay: $15 to $20 per appetizer, $30 to $40+ for entrees and curries

What is it? A mod American bar and restaurant with fresh pasta and sourdough pizza.

Why we love it: The newly reopened High Street 2.0 on Ninth Street is all about artisanal pizzas, pasta, breads, and salads. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, it’s a comfortable neighborhood restaurant to stop at any time of the day. Check out their morning pastries, the house Reuben with pastrami for lunch, the tahini Caesar salad with boquerones and baguette crisps for dinner, and any of the seasonal pies for dessert. Of course, the pizza is one of the main draws. The delicata squash pizza with burrata, Calabrian chili oil, and honey is among the best, but the Jersey tomato with fresh mozz and basil is a classic, while the anchovy and Castelvetrano salad is a solid choice for seafood lovers. Opt for the $75 “Leave It To Us” four-course prix fixe dinner menu, served family-style, if you can’t make up your mind. 

Time Out tip: If you skip the assorted pastries at brunch, you’re doing it wrong. Locals say High Street has some of the best bread in all of Philadelphia. 

Address: 101 S 9th St, Lebanon, PA 17042

Opening hours: Tue, Wed 11:30am–3pm; Fri 11:30am–3pm and 4:30–9:30pm; Saturday 10am–3pm and 4:30–9:30pm; Sun 10am–3pm

Expect to pay: ~$10 to $40 for pizza, pasta, or mains, $13 to $16 for cocktails

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What is it? A vegan, tapas-style BYOB in Northern Liberties.

Why we love it: Philly has long flourished as a vegan hotspot, and Pietramala is one of the more exciting mainstays of the plant-based scene. The resto sources a stunning number of ingredients—like vegan cheese, grains, miso, and even sea salt—from local farms in Pennsylvania (including Philly proper), New Jersey, and Delaware. Inventive dishes, like durum tortelloni with cultured cashew ricotta, zuccuri squash, and black walnut chili oil and braised comb tooth mushrooms with piennolo tomatoes, heirloom polenta, and cured tofu, showcase produce-forward takes on Italian basics. There are also veg-based alternatives to traditionally meaty dishes, like parsnip Milanese with fennel, lemon, and baby arugula and cremini carpaccio with pine nuts and Meyer lemon. Save room for dessert; there are plenty of dairy-free options to savor, like roasted chicory gelato with wet walnuts and satsuma or sweet potato pie with Appalachian allspice. 

Time Out tip: You can bring your own wine or beer, but there are a few particularly intriguing non-alcoholic bevs on the menu to consider, like white pine needle soda with juniper and lemon and parsnip “horchata,” made with parsnip milk and cinnamon. 

Address: 614 N 2nd St, Harrisburg, PA 17101

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 5–9pm

Expect to pay: ~$60 to $75 for your entire meal