Victor Cafe

This classic Italian eatery is decorated with red-checked tablecloths set against dark walls that are covered with photos of musicians and celebrities. Open since 1933, Victor Cafe was originally a gramophone shop and was known as a “music-lovers’ rendezvous” serving only spumoni and espresso. It now boasts a full menu complete with a zuppa del giorno (soup of the day) and a spicy fra diavolo that diners rave about. The real draw here, perhaps, is the waitstaff—many of whom are trained opera singers who sing to diners throughout each meal shift. Dinner here is one of those classic Philly experiences.