The 40 Best Philadelphia Restaurants

With its historic food markets, distinct and diverse neighborhoods, and vast network of eateries from old-world taverns to upscale chophouses, Philadelphia is one of America's best food destinations. Whether you consider yourself an avid foodie who's always ready to try the most unique menu item, are more of an experience-oriented diner, or like to try authentic foreign dishes, The Birthplace of America has it in spades.

From hoagies and cheesesteaks to Pennsylvania Dutch chicken pot pie, there's a whole roster of food to try in Philadelphia. The city's food scene is a wonderful mishmash of original dishes from The City of Brotherly Love and also highlights several world cuisines and dining styles, ranging from dim sum hideaways in Chinatown to bustling Ethiopian-Eritrean eateries, Old World trattorias, and charming French bistros. Not to mention the annual food fests like Philly Taste Fest and Fishtown Feastavale that give the town even more taste appeal. As such, choosing where to eat, whether you're a local or out-of-towner, can feel like quite the task. That's why we've put together this list of the best restaurants in Philadelphia that includes classic joints like Dalessandro's Steaks and more unique finds like Black Sea delights at Georgian Bread and the Gatsby-esque Palizzi Social Club.

This restaurant is named after the best three days of the week and can be summed up in four words: eight-course tasting menu. Friday Saturday Sunday is a Rittenhouse favorite known and loved for its intimate atmosphere and inventive seasonal dishes that earned it the James Beard Outstanding Restaurant Award for 2023.

Make a dinner reservation and prepare to dine on a spread of Friday Saturday Sunday's signature dishes, which currently include delights like grilled quail and goat milk tres leches. Be sure to take a pick from any of their world-class cocktails, such as the Orange Catholic.

Eating in The City of Brotherly Love just isn't complete without at least one Philly cheesesteak. Thinly sliced ribeye in a cheesy goo with crunchy onions and peppers all smashed between lightly toasted bread is the city's most iconic food, and no place does it better than Dalessandro's Steaks. And we would know — we ranked it number one in Philadelphia's best Philly cheesesteaks.

Slip into this Roxborough gem for a lunchtime feast on a classic Philly cheesesteak and load up on extra roasted green peppers. Be sure to save room for a beer on the side and a slice of carrot cake for a sweet finish.

In the heart of Logan Square lies Vernick Fish, the be-all-end-all of swanky oyster bars. Complete with an impressive wine list, delectable crudo selections, top-notch choices from the grill, and an elegant atmosphere to match, Vernick Fish is the perfect place to slurp oysters with a special someone.

Go for dinner and indulge in any of their raw bar options like the snapper ceviche or East Coast oysters. Then create your own feast with their small plates that include delights like blue crab spaghetti and broiled "oysters Philadelphia."

White Yak in Roxborough brings a little bit of Tibet to Philly with its traditional and carefully curated menu (don't miss the momos) bring to life the restaurant's philosophy of flavorful Tibetan dishes. The name is a nod to the burly yaks found in Tibet's mountains, while the scrumptious curries will make you feel as if you're actually there.

Grab a table and load up on some juicy Tibetan satay for a starter before moving on to Thenthuk, a traditional soup made with hand-pulled noodles and a rich broth. Seal the meal with a hot cup of butter tea.

Cute little candlelit tables topped with red checkered tablecloths and lined with bistro chairs help set the scene at this old-school Italian restaurant in South Philly, The Victor Cafe. It's not just the atmosphere here — which includes singing servers — it's the fantastic Italian fares that bring it all together.

Opt for the spaghetti rusticana made with their signature roulade, hearty meatballs, and sweet sausage all slopped together in a mess of spaghetti noodles. Don't forget a glass or two of chianti to match.

What started as a humble South Philly grocery store in 1932 is now one of the best delis in the city. We're talking about Cosmi's Deli, where the portions are big, the bread soft, and the meats fresh.

Skip breakfast and plan for a big lunch. We recommend the Cheesesteak Diavolo made with long hots and pepperjack cheese or the Cosmi Special with grilled chicken, bacon, avocado, and ranch. Don't miss a side of the Mega Fries made smothered in marinara and the ever-ubiquitous Cheese Whiz.

Hebrew for "gold," Zahav sets the standard for delicious modern Israeli food in this prime Society Hill establishment. A wide-open kitchen with a traditional wood-burning oven known as a taboon, and a rustic but chic, intimate interior are what lure you in, but the creative spins on Israeli and other Middle Eastern dishes are what will keep you coming back.

Make a reservation for dinner and dine on the pomegranate lamb shoulder with a bed of mint-infused chickpeas, but only after you've indulged in a mezze option like the phyllo-wrapped halloumi.

South Philly Barbacoa is the place to be for saucy, spicy, melt-in-your-mouth Mexican barbecue. Tucked inside South Philly's Italian Market, this bustling barbecue joint often has lines out the door of eager patrons looking to feast on the legendary slow-cooked lamb of chef Cristina Martinez.

Pop in for tacos made with homemade corn tortillas and roasted lamb done Capulhuac style, the Mexican State where barbacoa originates. Be sure to grab a cold glass of creamy horchata and some tamales to-go that your future self will thank you for.

Tucked away in a charming Midtown Village mansion, Vedge is a fine-dining vegan restaurant that will convert even the strongest of carnivores. Known for its locally sourced and seasonal signature dishes, plus a phenomenal range of natural wines and craft beers, this swanky veg spot is the perfect splurge.

Make a reservation for dinner and choose from their range of dishes like smoked portabello carpaccio, grilled avocado with hearts of palm, and charred Florentino with BBQ lentils. Wash it all down with a local pint or a bubbly pet-nat.

Few things hit the spot like a big ol' bowl of steaming, brothy noodles with an ice-cold beer, and at Cheau Fishtown, you'll find all that and more. This buzzing neighborhood noodle joint wins food, service, location, and atmosphere.

Grab a stool, a lager, and choose from any of their noodle bowls like the brisket ramen loaded up with matzo ball and kimchi that swim in its red chili broth or the coconut curry noodles with spicy carrot pickles, peanut sambal, and the works. Don't forget a polenta crumble for something sweet.

Set in one of Philly's most premier hotels, The Rittenhouse, upscale global dishes and fine wines are the name of the game at Lacroix Restaurant at The Rittenhouse. Just across from the famed Rittenhouse Square, its leafy patio area and elegant yet understated indoor seating area help make it one of Philly's best fine dining destinations.

Call ahead for a dinner reservation and request a patio table. Begin with the bluefin tuna toro and a suggested wine pairing from their award-wining wine selection that features labels from all corners of the world before moving on to the main.

Quality Taste Jamaican Restaurant & Jerk Hut off Lancaster Ave will have you feeling like you're feasting in Montego Bay. Juicy jerk pork platters, pepper shrimp, rasta pasta, and stew peas with pigtails are just a few of the culprits that make Quality Taste one of the best restaurants in Philly.

Come hungry and order the classic jerk chicken or goat curry with a side of sweet corn or pumpkin rice. Feeling seafood? The seafood platter with snow crab, shrimp, and more is just the thing.

This romantic mezzanine cocktail lounge with intimate seating and elevated southern cuisine is the perfect place to spend the evening. Housed in the historic Royal Theater building, Rex at the Royal is as much about the experience as it is about the food.

While Rex is certainly posh, its menu is all about homestyle cooking with favorites like fried green tomatoes, pimento mac and cheese, and slow-smoked brisket; not to mention the crafty cocktails. Reserve a table for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and be sure to check their schedule for live music.

There's just something about a classic French bistro. Parc checks all the boxes with its vintage accents, cozy tables for two, warm lighting, and a grand mahogany bar — not to mention its incredible lineup of French classics from steak frites to escargot.

Go for lunch and begin with the lemony sardines and bordier butter with a crispy baguette before enjoying a plate of classic moules frites with a pinot grigio, or the croque monsieur complete with Philly's finest bechamel sauce.

Head to Kim's Restaurant in Olney, and you'll find some of the best Korean barbecue money can buy. Sizzling self-grilled meats, juicy steamed dumplings, hearty stews, and crispy pork belly are just a few of the things on offer at this Little Korea gem that exclusively uses 100% natural hardwood charcoal to give its dishes their signature taste.

Spend an evening lingering over a bubbling hotpot and mouthwatering barbecue like kalbi (short beef ribs in mild sauce) and o-jinguh gui (spicy sliced squid). Don't forget to also load up on a few side dishes, such as the steamed eggs or seafood pancakes.

Le Virtu is an East Passayunk darling famed for its fresh spins on Italian classics and top-notch service. Whether you're after a tasty lunch on their sun-drenched patio or a romantic dinner under string lights, Le Virtu does both with ease.

For a supper spread, you'll want to make a reservation in advance. Be sure to start with a classic antipasti like the burrata with prosciutto di parma and then load up on any of their specialties like the Taccozzelle pasta with Abruzzese sausage, black truffle, and saffron, or the Bombette roasted pork loin.

Georgian food — that's Georgia the country, not the state — is known for its heavy breads stuffed with cheese, juicy dumplings, and inventive appetizers like eggplants with garlicky walnut paste — and there's no better place to indulge in it all than Georgian Bread and Cuisine, a cozy little hideaway in Somerton.

Start off with an Adjaruli khachapuri, an iconic bread boat of molten cheese, butter, and egg. Then, feast on an uber creamy, garlicky chicken dish known as shkmeruli, and lobio, a humble dish of spiced and stewed beans with cilantro and onion.

Dahlak Paradise has been doling out some of West Philly's finest Ethiopian and Eritrean specialties for 30 years running. Family-owned and community-centered, Dahlak's meals are all about sharing and are meant to be enjoyed with those you love — and by hand — the food here is quite literally finger-licking good.

Come with some company and order a series of entrees to share. We recommend the Yemisir Wat, stewed lentils in a rich, tomato-ey berbere sauce, and the Dahlak Tibs, a dish of flavorful beef sirloin stir-fry with charred peppers and tomatoes. Whatever you order, don't skip the house injera.

A hop and a skip away from the Girard metro stop, you'll find Middle Child Clubhouse, a super fun, super cool, American-style bistro with a great playlist and even greater food. A sandwich joint by day and full-blown diner by night, Middle Child Clubhouse fits pretty much any occasion — come with a friend to feast on a lunch of BLTs and hoagies or chow down on a dinner of Okonomiyaki style latkes and bone-in pork chops. Then, of course, there's the dessert. We're talking big ol' slices of key lime pie, cinnamon-y caramel apple cake, classic soft-serve, and more.

With a name like South Jazz Kitchen, you just know you're in for a treat. This super Southern favorite in Spring Garden is known and loved for its homestyle country dishes, swoon-worthy whiskey list, and, of course, jazz.

Make a reservation in their Jazz Club seating area to enjoy soulful tunes with Southern classics like skillet cornbread and creole deviled eggs. Each of their eight main entrees is stellar, but the Low Country Catfish and Gulf Shrimp with corn macque choux and tomato-okra sauce will have you coming back for seconds.

Hidden behind a blue door with a red Japanese lantern in Queen Village, is Royal Izakaya, aka the swanky sushi hideaway of your dreams. Part izakaya, part omakase, there's no better place in Philadelphia for topnotch Japanese whisky and meticulously crafted sushi.

This place is walk-in only, no reservations, but if you can, grab a seat at the chef's table to watch the magic happen. The sushi is the real star of the show, but the other menu items, like the zingy karaage wings and chashu bun with slow-roasted pork belly, are also worthwhile.

Jezabel's is a Spruce Hill institution that knows its way around Argentinian flare and flavors, more specifically, modernized takes on traditional Northwest Argentinian dishes. Whether it be the warm aromas that come from the onsite cafe or the fun experience of the empanada cooking classes, Jezabel's is the place to be.

Make a reservation and prepare to enjoy an evening of artisanal empanadas and pillowy medialuna pastries in the cute and cozy dining area. Go for the Tabla Criola, which consists of eight empanadas and three seasonal sides that pull the whole meal together.

Located in Midtown Village, Alpen Rose woos with its gaudy chandeliers, cushy leather booths, and chestnut paneling throughout. A classic steakhouse throughout and through, you can expect fine appetizers like oysters Rockefeller and bone marrow toast, and a top-of-the-line dry-aged tomahawks, ribeyes, and more.

Reserve a table and start with a glass of bubbly before deciding between chilled beef tartare or hot charred octopus — or both — for an appetizer. Any of their beef options are sure to please, but Berkshire pork chop with a sherry-honey glaze is a great runner-up.

Antique lighting, dainty floral wallpaper, and foggy mirrors are just a few of the details that make Harp & Crown one of the most atmospheric restaurants in Philly. Beyond the charm though, the food is superb. Expect modern American dishes and plan to stay a while, there's a bowling alley in the basement and an enviable cocktail list.

Go for a weekend brunch and indulge in their DIY donut station, artisanal pastries, and bagels galore. Not only will the breakfast quiche hit the spot, but the freshly squeezed juices and stout drip coffee will too.

Dante and Luigi's has been an Italian Market mainstay for 124 years. As the oldest Italian restaurant in Philly, and one of the oldest in the country, Dante and Luigi's has a big reputation to live up to, and boy do they.

Family recipes that span generations, signature "gravies" galore, and impeccable al fresco dining, this place is Italian dining at its finest. It'll be hard to choose just one entree, but the baked gnocchi or veal parmigiana both make excellent options.

Starting as a humble lunch spot for tired streetcar workers in 1921, McNally's Tavern has since turned into one of Philly's most beloved taverns. Tucked away in Chestnut Hill, the historic charm of McNally's Tavern only adds to its appeal, while the roster of daily specials and beers on tap don't hurt, either.

Go for a late lunch and chow on any of their famous sandwiches, like The Dickens. Piled up with roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry jelly, it takes like Thanksgiving on a bun.

Some days you want a sit-down dinner with candles and fine wines; other days you want a sloppy best of roast beef and gravy fries. And for that, there's Old Original Nick's Roast Beef in South Philadelphia.

Come hungry to this 85-year-old outpost where you'll smell the savory aromas a block away. You'll find other roast meat options aside from beef, like ham, pork, and turkey, but the roast beef is really its forte, as are the Italian hots and gravy fries.

If you arrive at Valley Green Inn and think, "woah, this place is beautiful, it could be a wedding venue!" You're not wrong. A Chestnut Hill darling, Valley Green Inn is known as much for its serene atmosphere as it is for its creative New American dishes.

Start with the goat cheese empanadas before moving on to the out-of-this-world roasted maple chicken with a medley of brussel spouts, butter squash, and bacon. And don't forget a molten chocolate lava cake for dessert.

The passion project of a family of Polish immigrants, Pierogi Factory is the ultimate destination for Poland's most comforting dishes. Think heaping plates of potato dumplings with caramelized onions and tangy sour cream, and dense, beautifully braided babka.

While traditional pierogis are the specialty here, you'll find a range of creative spins such as Cajun and buffalo chicken varieties, too. The original pierogis are a must, but so is the grilled kielbasa, and hearty stuffed cabbage rolls known as golabki.

Tucked away in a cute little row home of South Philly, Palizzi Social Club does charm right. Since 1918, this intimate, 30-seat, authentic Italian-American social club has been a gathering place for gourmands and cocktail connoisseurs alike.

Plan for a sophisticated evening that's every bit worth the $20 membership fee — part of Palizzi's exclusive appeal is that it stays booked. The House Specialties like the Fritto Misto with baccala and gianchetti tossed in roasted garlic olive oil and dessert of Mom's Ricotta Cheese Pie are musts.

Talula's Garden is a Washington Square extraordinaire known for its philosophy of true farm-to-table cooking and seasonal American bites. Sat in a chic farmhouse decked out with a leafy summer garden and rustic touches, Talula's Garden feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia.

Start with the cheddar-chive biscuits before moving on to the smoked pork belly with roasted cabbage and peaches. Save time for cocktails, too, like the peach and bourbon The Graduate and sparkling paloma, The Artist.

Rittenhouse's The Dandelion feels more London than Philadelphia. It makes sense — rich cask ales, afternoon teas, and creative British plates are its thing.

Reserve a table in their Victorian-style dining room to enjoy the shepherd's pie made with lamb mince and English cheddar cheese, or a plate of the cider steamed mussels that come with rich bearnaise butter. For the real experience, go on a Sunday afternoon for a traditional English roast that goes great with the Wells Bombardier English bitter.

With a name like Little Nonna's, you just know you're in for a real treat. Situated in Midtown Village, Little Nonna's whips up Italian-American favorites with plenty of Italian wines, beers, and sodas to match.

Start with a refreshing glass of Venetian pinot grigio and the stracciatella made with hand-pulled burrata and charred artichokes. Then move on to the braised short rib lumache with its rich ragu, whipped ricotta, and fresh horseradish before ordering the tiramisu of your life for dessert.

Located on the 59th floor of the Four Seasons and run by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Jean-Georges Philadelphia is the definition of fine dining. Combining local, seasonal ingredients with global cooking techniques and inspiration, the menu itself is a work of art.

Choose between their six-course tasting menus offered in both meat and vegetarian options, the former of which includes caviar with smoked egg yolk dressing and Black Sea bass with tomato confit. The added guidance of Jean-Georges' sommelier pairing experience is also next to none.

A vibrant scene of dogs dining in tweed sports coats, split-tail tuxedos, and mink shawls is one of the focal points in one of Philadelphia's finest steakhouses, Butcher & Singer. Oozing art deco style that feels like stepping back in time to Old Hollywood, this warm and romantic restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy an evening of fine wines and prime steaks and chops.

Come early for cocktails such as the Blackberry Cosmopolitan or Butcher Old Fashioned. Start with a plate of oysters Rockefeller or shrimp and crab Louie before moving on to your meat selection and wine pairing.

Situated inside a historic Center City townhouse that seats just 30 and change, Vetri Cucina is all things vintage charm and decadent Italian pastas. From the trofie with buffalo butter and bottarga to the fettuccine with chanterelle mushrooms and plums, it's easy to see why it's hailed as one of the best restaurants in Philly.

The Degustazione menu consists of five courses that begin with your choice of house-cured salami or foie gras pastrami and end with a generous dessert selection that includes limoncello baba. Take your experience one step further with the Vetri Cucina Wine Pairing menu.

Asian fusion, top-notch techno, and Buddha are the trifecta that make Buddakan one of Center City's best places to eat. The first thing you'll notice is the ten-foot Buddha illuminated with candles, but the real attention-grabber is the food.

Go early for a cocktail or two and clink a glass of their Honor made with Japanese vodka or the Szechuan Sour with bourbon, yuzu, and Szechuan peppercorn syrup. For food, don't miss any of the dim sum that includes classic variations like chicken and ginger and creative spins like lobster egg rolls.

Located in Queen Village, Bistrot La Minette is an old-timey, classy French bistro that draws inspiration from France's many regional dishes and culinary techniques. La Minette prides itself on using only the freshest seasonal ingredients and an ever-changing menu that reflects the seasonal specialties from Alsace to Isere and beyond.

Enjoy a plate of the mustard braised rabbit with house-made tagliatelle and jus, and a selection from the wine menu that is as regionally diverse as the food menu. For dessert, the mille feuille or creme brulee both make excellent choices.

As the name suggests, El Mezcal Cantina is known for, well, mezcal. And what goes better with Mexico's beloved agave spirit than tacos? At El Mezcal, you'll find the best of both.

Start off with a cold Modelo and the fundido piled with Chihuahuan cheese, poblanos, and chorizo. Then chow down on the asada tacos made with tender steak or the trompo tacos made with adobo marinated pork and topped with cilantro, onion, and pineapple.

Chinatown's Sang Kee Peking Duck House has been doling out the city's richest soups, tastiest wontons, and juiciest roast meat dishes for decades. The specialty is, of course, Peking duck, but you'll find other meaty delights too, like crispy roast pig and honey-coated ribs.

Opt for any of the roast meat options, but be sure to leave room for their other unique specialties like the salt-baked dishes and wide array of wonton soups. Dining with friends? Choose from any of their six sharing platters.