8 Must-Try Places to Eat in Philly (You’ll Dream About Later)
Philadelphia’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors that goes way beyond the famous cheesesteak. From cozy brunch spots to upscale steakhouses, the city offers something for every palate and occasion. These eight restaurants showcase the best of Philly’s diverse culinary landscape, serving up unforgettable meals that will have you planning your next visit before you’ve even paid the check.
1. The Dandelion
Stepping into The Dandelion feels like being transported to a charming British pub, complete with dark wood paneling and a crackling fireplace. The restaurant’s fish and chips might be the best this side of the Atlantic, with perfectly crispy batter and flaky white fish that melts in your mouth.
Weekend brunch here is legendary among locals, featuring dishes like the full English breakfast and sticky toffee pudding. The second-floor tea salon offers a proper afternoon tea service with delicate finger sandwiches and fresh-baked scones.
2. Wilder
Tucked away in Rittenhouse Square, Wilder stands out for its seasonal American cuisine with a creative twist. The restaurant’s airy, plant-filled interior creates a refreshing escape from the city bustle, while the open kitchen adds theatrical flair to your dining experience.
Chef Brett Naylor’s menu changes regularly, showcasing the freshest local ingredients. The handmade pasta dishes are particularly noteworthy, especially the ricotta gnocchi that practically floats off the plate. Don’t miss their inventive cocktail program featuring house-infused spirits and garden-fresh herbs.
3. Butcher and Singer
Old Hollywood glamour meets prime steakhouse at Stephen Starr’s Butcher and Singer. Housed in a former bank building with soaring ceilings and leather booths, the atmosphere alone is worth the visit. The waitstaff, dressed in crisp white jackets, delivers impeccable service that makes you feel like royalty.
Their 28-day dry-aged steaks are the stars of the show, seared to perfection and butter-soft inside. The shellfish platter makes for a spectacular starter, piled high with fresh oysters, jumbo shrimp, and lobster. Save room for their signature baked Alaska, dramatically flamed tableside.
4. Grandma’s Philly
Family recipes passed down through generations are the heart and soul of Grandma’s Philly. This unassuming South Philly gem serves comfort food that genuinely tastes like someone’s grandmother made it with love. The walls are adorned with vintage family photos, creating a homey atmosphere that matches the food.
Their meatballs, simmered for hours in a rich tomato gravy, have a cult following among locals. The homemade lasagna, layered with creamy ricotta and that same incredible sauce, could feed an army. For dessert, the cannoli are filled to order, ensuring the shell stays perfectly crisp.
5. Cafe La Maude
Morning magic happens at Cafe La Maude, where French-Lebanese fusion creates breakfast dishes you won’t find anywhere else in the city. The Northern Liberties bistro buzzes with energy as stylish locals crowd in for weekend brunch, though it’s worth visiting any day of the week.
Their shakshuka—eggs poached in spiced tomato sauce—comes with a side of crusty bread perfect for sopping up every last bit of flavor. The pain perdu (French toast) is soaked overnight in orange blossom custard before being grilled to golden perfection. Pair your meal with their cardamom-infused Lebanese coffee for the full experience.
6. El Vez
Flashy and fun, El Vez delivers Mexican cuisine with Philadelphia swagger. The restaurant’s centerpiece—a rotating gold lowrider bike—sets the tone for this anything-but-ordinary dining experience. Colorful Day of the Dead artwork and vintage photos create a vibrant backdrop for your meal.
The guacamole, prepared tableside in a traditional molcajete, is some of the freshest in town. Their creative tacos range from traditional carnitas to fusion creations like the Korean-inspired short rib variety. The margaritas deserve special mention—try the frozen blood orange version rimmed with chile salt for a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy.
7. SOUTH Restaurant & Jazz Club
Southern hospitality meets Philadelphia cool at SOUTH, where the food is as soulful as the live jazz that fills the room. The elegant space, with its subtle nods to New Orleans decor, creates the perfect backdrop for both special occasions and casual nights out.
Chef Paul Martin’s menu celebrates the diverse flavors of Southern cuisine, from Low Country to Creole. The shrimp and grits, made with stone-ground corn and topped with a smoky andouille sausage gravy, exemplifies comfort food elevated to art form. Their fried chicken, brined for 24 hours before being dredged in a secret spice blend, achieves the perfect crunch-to-juiciness ratio.
8. Sabrina’s Cafe
Lines form early at Sabrina’s Cafe, and one bite of their stuffed challah French toast explains why this brunch institution has expanded to multiple locations across the city. The original Italian Market spot maintains its cozy charm with mismatched furniture and local artwork on the walls.
Portions here are legendarily generous—the pancakes practically hang off the plate. Their creative weekly specials often reference pop culture, like the “May the Fourth Be With You” breakfast burrito that appears annually. Even simple dishes like scrambled eggs come elevated with fresh herbs and perfectly crispy home fries.
