As one of the oldest cities in America, Philadelphia is brimming with historical sights alongside modern charm and entertainment. It boasts a world-class food scene and there are endless restaurants to explore with every taste and budget in mind.
Whether you want a quick Philly cheesesteak from a local joint or a five-star meal in an upscale bistro, this guide will help you discover the top 10 restaurants in Philadelphia to choose from your next vacation.
1. Dalessandro’s Steaks
• Address: 600 Wendover St, Philadelphia, PA 19128
• Cuisine: American
If there’s one thing you should try in Philadelphia, it’s the iconic Philly cheesesteak.
With thin slices of juicy beefsteak along with melted cheese, plus onions and other personalized toppings in a huge hoagie roll, it’s a simple yet hearty meal. Locals will defend and fiercely debate why their preferred location to get a cheesesteak is the best one in the city.
However, you can’t go wrong at Dalessandro's Steaks, which is known to have some of the best cheesesteaks in the city today. This is a casual place that focuses on to-go orders and there are only a few small tables inside, but it’s the place to be if you want an authentic and mouthwatering cheesesteak on your next vacation.
2. Jim’s South St.
• Address: 400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
• Cuisine: American
Jim’s South St. is another restaurant that many locals say has the best cheesesteak in town and it’s been serving homemade sandwiches in this now historical building since 1939.
With a charming retro aesthetic along with intricate mosaic designs, this is a great place to relax and enjoy a hearty meal during your trip. It also has the benefit of being open until 1am which can help to satisfy any late-night carvings you may have after a busy day exploring the town.
3. The Dandelion
• Address: 124 South 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• Cuisine: America, British, Gastro Pub
The Dandelion is a centrally located British-style pub with a historical aesthetic and charming atmosphere. Both casual and upscale, this AAA Diamond Approved pub features classic dishes like fish and chips along with other tasty options like pasta and seafood.
With a great drink menu and welcoming vibe, The Dandelion is great for a casual lunch or as a date night hangout spot after touring Philadelphia.
4. The Love
• Address: 130 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• Cuisine: American, Farm-to-table
The Love is a modern and contemporary AAA Three Diamond designated restaurant focusing on farm-to-table dishes, from large and tasty salads to oysters, filet mignon and comfort foods like fried chicken.
The seasonal offerings rotate regularly, but you can’t go wrong with any of these fresh and unique takes on classic American cuisine.
Reservations are recommended on weekends.
5. Vedge
• Address: 1221 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
• Cuisine: American, Vegan
Vegans and non-vegans alike will find tons to love about Vedge, which is one of Philadelphia top restaurants and its most acclaimed vegan restaurants open today.
With a AAA Three Diamond designation and unique seasonal offerings, you’ll always find new and creative dishes that will leave you full and ready to come back for more.
Reservations are recommended on weekends.
6. Parc
• Address: 227 South 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• Cuisine: French, Bistro
Parc is a cozy and upscale AAA Three Diamond designated restaurant designed after Parisian bistros and it exceeds beautifully in both presentation and taste.
The European decor has an air of elegance and the food is expertly prepared in a traditional French style. From beef bourguignon to pasta and even escargot, Parc is a great place to dine when visiting Philadelphia.
Reservations are recommended in the evenings; outdoor patio seating is available as well.
7. Barclay Prime
• Address: 327 South 18th St., Philadelphia, PA 19103
• Cuisine: American, Steak, Seafood
With a AAA Four Diamond designation, Barclay Prime is one of Philadelphia’s top steakhouses and it provides an upscale dining experience that will likely be one of the highlights of your vacation.
With gorgeous architecture and a sleek, classical design, everything here is prepared to elevate your evening from the atmosphere to the food itself.
While the steak is the most celebrated option, you can also order seasonal seafood dishes along with vegetarian meals to ensure everyone has something to savor and enjoy.
Reservations are highly encouraged and casual attire is not recommended.
8. Talula’s Garden
• Address: 210 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Cuisine: American, Farm-to-table
Serving both brunch and dinner, the AAA Three Diamond designated Talula’s Garden is a gorgeously decorated restaurant that features expertly crafted and super fresh seasonal foods.
From expertly curated meat and cheese boards to seafood, chicken and steak, there’s always something exciting to try at Talula’s.
The fresh garden atmosphere, complete with plants and branches adorned around the tables and bar make this a lively place for a group dinner or date night in Philadelphia.
Reservations are highly recommended; indoor and outdoor patio dining are available as well.
9. Tradesman’s Barbecue
• Address: 1322 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
• Cuisine: American, Barbecue
Tradesman’s Barbecue is a spacious pub-style restaurant featuring delectable smoked meats along with hearty American breakfasts served in the morning.
With indoor and outdoor dining available, plus a huge craft beer selection and a late closing time, Tradesman’s is a great casual restaurant that’ll satisfy your hunger after a day of exploring downtown Philly.
Reservations are generally not needed.
10. Kook Burger & Bar
• Address: 2102 Market St Floor 1, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• Cuisine: American, Burgers, Bar
Kook Burger & Bar has some of the tastiest burgers in all of Philly and it's a great hangout spot for locals and visitors alike.
With a spacious interior, relaxing and colorful decor, plus tons of TVs to watch live sports throughout the day and night, Kook’s is a great place for groups of all ages to unwind and enjoy classic American burgers and cuisine.
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