25 Essential Philadelphia Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Philadelphia.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Pennsylvania
Upscale Brazilian chain for all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside plus an extensive salad bar.
The Tomato Shack salad & pizza co, Manayunk
Pennsylvania
Fresh American bites plus gourmet pizza & salad are washed down with wine & craft beers.
Barcelona Wine Bar
Pennsylvania
Extensive array of Spanish-centric small plates & wine with an outdoor patio.
Momoyama Ramen & Hawaiian BBQ
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Japanese noodle soups & Hawaiian-style BBQ dishes are the draw at this unassuming restaurant.
Holy Guacamoly
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Live music. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Offerings.
Dagwood's Pub
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This unpretentious, family-owned standby offers a menu of sandwiches & classic American entrees.
Indian Kitchen Lovash
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Dishes feature traditional flavors & pack a spicy punch at this spot serving lunch only on weekends.
Red Poke Express
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Informal counter-serve stop for create-your-own & signature poke bowls with bases, veggies & sauces.
Asad's Hot Chicken
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Offerings: Late-night food.
Sweet Lucy's Smokehouse
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Rustic BBQ joint offering hickory-smoked ribs & chicken, plus traditional sides.
Sullivan's Steakhouse
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Steakhouse chain serving beef, seafood & cocktails in swanky surrounds with live music.
Zorba's Tavern
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This Greek tavern serves traditional cuisine in a homey space decorated with old-country paintings.
Maggie's Waterfront Cafe
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Local hangout with a sports bar atmosphere & American pub grub menu on the Delaware River shore.
Cafe Lift
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Popular American brunch/lunch cafe offering a chill vibe & art on the walls in an industrial space.
Talula's Garden
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
High-end charmer crafts seasonal American cuisine in a chic farmhouse setting with a summer garden.
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Mexican handcrafts decorate this chain serving tacos, enchiladas, margaritas & other classics.
PrimoHoagies
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philly-born counter-serve sandwich chain known for its hefty hoagies built on sesame-seed rolls.
Cantina "Calaca" Feliz
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This contemporary Mexican cantina serves creative takes on traditional cuisine amid whimsical decor.
Smashburger
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Counter-serve chain featuring signature smashed burgers, plus sides & shakes.
Kanella
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Easygoing Greek BYO from the Kanella team specializing in kebabs, to eat in or take out.
Dattilo's Delicatessen
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Family-run Italian deli offering fresh & cooked meats, cheeses & hearty sandwiches, plus groceries.
Cook and Shaker
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Inviting local gastropub serving American grub, cocktails & craft beer in a lively space.
Vedge
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Restaurant serving inventive vegan & vegetarian small plates in a charming old mansion.
Hi-Lo Taco Co.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great cocktails, Sports. Popular for: Lunch.
Jem Restaurant
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This long-running American eatery with a 1950s theme serves breakfast, burgers & sandwiches.