Philly Bites: Tasting the City, One Neighborhood at a Time
- eileen strauss
- Apr 1
- 9 min read
Updated: Apr 1
Beyond the iconic Philly cheesesteak, soft pretzel, and Italian Water Ice, the City of Brother Love's culinary landscape bursts with diversity, thriving in neighborhoods like Fishtown, South Philly, and Old City, each offering its own unique flavors and dining experiences.
With a wide range of cuisines and eateries, every Philly neighborhood is a foodie haven. From Passyunk Square’s iconic Pats King of Steaks to Washington Square West’s upscale Vetri Cucina, the city offers a restaurant for every palate, budget, and taste.
To get started down our walk through the streets of Philadelphia, we broke down our favorite restaurants by neighborhood.
Rittenhouse Square
One of Philadelphia's most fashionable neighborhoods, Rittenhouse Square is an upscale, vibrant culinary hub that draws both tourists and locals in search of exceptional dining experiences. Nestled around its namesake park, Rittenhouse is a mix of fine dining establishments, cozy cafes, and artisanal bistros that cater to every taste preference.
Parc - Paying tribute to the beloved French bistro, where good food, good wine and better company commingle, Parc is one of the most famous restaurants in the city.
Kfar Cafe - modern yet retro cafe serves Israeli style pastries, small plates, coffees and more
Rouge - great restaurant sitting right on the park with a great outdoor seating area that’s decorated for the season
The Love: a new bilevel sanctuary set on 18th Street, The Love offers a one-of-a-kind beverage program, a homey vibe, and an upscale menu developed by restaurateur Aimee Olexy, one of the most recognized personalities in Philadelphia dining.
Northern Liberties
A former industrialized area, Northern Liberties has become one of Philadelphia’s most exciting foodie neighborhoods. Offering a mix of innovative restaurants, craft breweries, and casual eateries, this vibrant neighborhood is a hotspot for lovers of all things food.
From upscale gastropubs serving inventive dishes to laid-back spots offering gourmet pizza, Northern Liberties delivers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its artistic and youthful energy. The area’s outdoor cafes and lively food markets add to the neighborhood's charm, making it a must-try for anyone eager to explore Philadelphia's dynamic food culture.
Silk City Diner: renovated vintage diner that serves up classic comfort and diner fare like fried chicken, meatloaf, and fish & chips.
Cafe La Maude: incredible brunch spot that feels like a true Parisian cafe
Añejo: Mexican restaurant with a fun ambiance
Dolce&Cafe : Italian cafe with an espresso bar, pastry shop and food venue
Urban Village - brew pub and outdoor lounge with great beer and pizza
Hello Vietnam - delicious Vietnamese food
Passyunk Square, South Philly
A lively and eclectic neighborhood in South Philadelphia, Passyunk Square has become a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking a mix of traditional comfort food and exciting culinary innovations.
Known for its rich Italian heritage, the area is home to a number of beloved Italian restaurants, delis, and bakeries, where classic dishes like pizza, pasta, and cannoli reign supreme. But Passyunk Square’s food scene has evolved beyond its roots, now offering a diverse array of eateries that feature everything from modern Asian fare to Latin-inspired flavors.
Pats King of Steaks and Genos - two famous cheesesteak spots right across the street from each other, these iconic South Philly steak joints are popular with tourists and locals alike.
Pro Tip: When ordering, be sure to say "Cheesesteak With" which will get you a Cheesesteak with Cheese whiz and fried onions.
Cantina Los Caballetios - great Mexican food and margaritas with a lively vibe & outdoor seating
Mikes BBQ - classic barbecue spot that also does catering and events
Ember & Ash: a neighborhood spot offering three distinct dining spaces: a cozy bar and lounge, a candlelit dining room with a front-row view of the open kitchen and 8 foot wood-burning hearth, and a lively second-floor space overlooking the avenue
Victor Café: a former Gramophone Shop, this South Philly Italian landmark has been serving guests delicious cuisine with a side of living history since 1918.
The Italian Market Made famous by the movie, Rocky, the Italian Market is one of the city's most iconic and historic food destinations, offering a vibrant mix of Italian-American specialties, fresh produce, and unique local finds. Stretching along 9th Street in South Philadelphia, this bustling outdoor market has been a staple of the city's culinary landscape for over a century.
The market features beloved delis, bakeries, and eateries serving up Italian classics like cannoli, pizza, and hoagies. More than just a place to shop, a visit to the Italian Market is an experience that celebrates Philadelphia’s diverse food culture and immigrant heritage, making it a must-visit for food lovers and locals alike.
Fishtown
A once thriving fishing community that fell victim to crime, leaving its commercial corridors in ruins during the 1980s, today’s Fishtown is a far cry from its past. Now one of Philly’s trendiest and most dynamic neighborhoods, emblematic of the city’s transformation, Fishtown is known for its industrial charm and vibrant arts scene, and is rapidly becoming a culinary hotspot.
Offering an eclectic mix of dining options, from mouthwatering craft pizza joints to modern gastropubs, Fishtown’s food scene reflects the area's diversity, energy, and growth. As new eateries continue to pop up, the neighborhood’s youthful vibe is a clear sign of Philadelphia’s ongoing growth and gentrification.
Suraya - Lebanese cafe, market & restaurant with bar & outdoor garden
W.M. Mulherin’s Sons - rustic Italian-influenced neighborhood joint, with a focus on pizza and other wood-fired fare
Middle Child Clubhouse - a friendly neighborhood bar, restaurant and hangout
Society Hill
Known for its cobblestone streets and elegant townhomes, Society Hill is home to a range of sophisticated eateries, from upscale fine dining establishments to charming cafes and intimate bistros.
The nearby Headhouse Square, with its bustling outdoor market and vibrant atmosphere, enhances the area’s culinary appeal, offering a mix of local farm-to-table restaurants and trendy spots. Whether you're savoring a gourmet meal or enjoying a casual brunch, Society Hill and Headhouse Square provide a dining experience that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor.
Pizzeria Stella - Stephen Star restaurant serving gourmet wood-fired pizza
Zahav - world renowned restaurant that brings the flavors of Israel to Philadelphia in an unforgettable dining experience
Malbec Argentine Steakhouse - South American steakhouse featuring grilled meats & craft cocktails
Talula’s Garden - seasonal American cuisine in a chic farmhouse setting with a summer garden
South Street
Once known for the place where “all the hippies meet,” South Street is a melting pot of diverse cuisines, international flavors, and a food culture that reflects Philadelphia’s love for diverse, flavorful food. From casual street snacks to creative restaurant offerings, South Street’s food culture goes far beyond just Philly cheesesteaks, offering flavors from all over the world.
Jim’s Steaks: an authentic cheesesteak experience located on the main thoroughfare.
El Vez: a lively Mexican spot serving up tacos, guacamole, and margaritas
South Street Souvlaki: offering delicious Greek-inspired dishes like gyros and souvlaki.
HipCityVeg: a vegan fast-food restaurant, offers everything from crispy tofu wraps to vegan milkshakes
Queen Village
Queen Village, one of Philadelphia's most charming and historic neighborhoods, has become a bustling destination for food enthusiasts. This vibrant area is home to a diverse array of restaurants, cozy cafes, and intimate dining spots that offer a mix of classic comfort food and innovative dishes.
With its cobblestone streets and a blend of old-world charm and modern flair, Queen Village delivers a delightful culinary journey that spans from traditional Italian to contemporary American fare. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a refined dining experience, Queen Village promises an unforgettable taste of Philadelphia’s ever-evolving food scene.
Cry Baby Pasta - cozy corner eatery serving Italian dishes and cocktails
Famous 4th Street Delicatessen - local deli specializing in great sandwiches for more than 25 years
Emmy Squared - Detroit-style pizza in an upscale restaurant with a great rooftop
Marrakesh - Moroccan spot serving multiple courses of shared plates
Mustard Greens - contemporary take on Cantonese Chinese cuisine
Keshet Kitchen - relaxed and warm restaurant serving recipes with healthy and natural ingredients
Fairmount
Known for its scenic, tree-lined streets and proximity to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Fairmount has blossomed into a vibrant food destination that seamlessly blends classic charm with modern culinary innovation.
From casual brunches at cozy local cafes to indulgent gourmet meals, Fairmount’s dining scene offers something for every taste and occasion. Set against the backdrop of one of Philadelphia's most picturesque and historic neighborhoods, the area’s diverse eateries provide a perfect mix of comfort, creativity, and flavor.
Osteria - Seasonal Italian menu of homemade pastas, thin-crust pizzas & wood-grilled meats
Bar Hygge - Cozy industrial-style brewpub serving brunch, lunch and dinner
Tela’s Market and Kitchen - locally-sourced ingredients at this neighborhood grocer & cafe
The Fairview - vibrant neighborhood restaurant serving cocktails and delicious eats
La Cantina “Calaca” Feliz - contemporary Mexican cantina with traditional cuisine amid whimsical decor
Old City
The birthplace of American independence, this now modern neighborhood is best knownfor its major Colonial-era sites: Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Betsy Ross House. Today, Old City is a mecca for food enthusiasts, catering to fashionable crowds that can be seen dining along South 2nd Street until long past midnight at its span of trendy eateries and nightspots.
Tuna Bar - Chic sushi & raw bar in a modern atmosphere
Buddakan - upscale Asian fusion dishes in a swanky setting
Cuba Libre - Cuban cuisine in an open-air setting with tropical ambiance, vintage décor, and upbeat Latin music
Royal Bucherie - French-inspired brasserie with outdoor dining space, plus a bar & a tavern area
Plough and the Stars - wide variety of pints & traditional fare like fish 'n' chips in an airy, former bank
Reading Terminal Market, a Philadelphia institution since 1893, is a food lover’s paradise that showcases the city’s rich culinary diversity. Located in the heart of downtown, this bustling indoor market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, local meats, cheeses, and prepared foods, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Philadelphia flavors.
Washington Square West
Home to a dynamic and diverse food scene, offering everything from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences, Washington Square is a vibrant neighborhood known for its blend of contemporary restaurants and classic gems. A mix of international flavors and local favorites, the area reflects the city’s rich culinary diversity in a charming, bustling setting.
Vetri Cucina - rustic fare, handcrafted pastas, innovative flavor combinations, and artful presentations inspired by traditional Italian cuisine
Barbuzzo - farm-fresh ingredients star at this Mediterranean joint set in a chic, compact space
El Vez - trendy Mexican joint serving upscale eats and innovative cocktails
Giorgio on Pine - cute BYOB spot offering classic Italian eats and gluten-free options
Middle Child - Casual daytime spot inspired by classic Philadelphia diner and food
Bud and Marilyn’s - retro-chic corner spot serving American classics
Northeast Philly
While Northeast Philadelphia may not always grab the same attention as the city’s trendier neighborhoods, its dining scene is a hidden gem brimming with a rich diversity of flavors. Though Philadelphia isn’t exactly a 24-hour city, some beloved Northeast diners continue to serve hearty meals around the clock.
While many classics have faded in recent years, several enduring landmarks remain, evoking nostalgia and inspiring loyal followings.
Here’s a look at some of Northeast Philly’s essential diners that keep the tradition alive, while adding their own unique twist.
Tiffany on the Blvd: 9010 Roosevelt Blvd
Mayfair Diner: 7373 Frankford Ave.
Country Club Diner: 1717 Cottman Ave.
New Olympia House: 7242 Castor Ave
Liberty Bell Diner: 8445 Frankford Ave
Four Seasons Diner: 2811 Cottman Ave.
Take Away
Philadelphia’s food neighborhoods are a true reflection of the city’s vibrant and ever-evolving culinary scene. From the historic charm of Society Hill to the trendy vibes of Fishtown, each neighborhood offers its own distinct flavors, dining experiences, and hidden gems. Whether you're enjoying a classic Philly cheesesteak, exploring global cuisines, or indulging in farm-to-table freshness, Philadelphia’s diverse food culture caters to every taste and craving. The city’s culinary neighborhoods continue to grow, inviting food lovers from near and far to explore, savor, and celebrate the rich tapestry of flavors that make Philly a top destination for dining.
FAQs
What is Philadelphia’s most famous dish?
Philadelphia’s most iconic dish is the Philly cheesesteak, a sandwich made with thinly sliced ribeye beef, melted cheese (typically Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American), and served on a hoagie roll.
Is Philadelphia a good city for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes! Philadelphia has a growing number of vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants, including places like HipCityVeg and Vegan Commissary.
What are some must-try food markets in Philadelphia?
Reading Terminal Market is a must-visit, offering a mix of local specialties, fresh produce, and international food stalls. Other notable markets include the Italian Market and the Franklin Flea for food-focused shopping and unique food experiences.
What are some great food festivals in Philadelphia?
Philly hosts several food festivals throughout the year, such as the Philadelphia Food and Wine Festival, Northern Liberties Night Market, The Philadelphia Folk Festival, and The Philadelphia Burger Brawl. These festivals celebrate the city's vibrant food culture and offer an opportunity to try a variety of local bites in one place.
What’s the best time to visit for food lovers?
Philadelphia is a great city for food year-round, but visiting during the spring and fall can be especially pleasant as outdoor dining options increase. Additionally, the Philadelphia Restaurant Week (held twice a year) offers a chance to experience some of the city’s best eateries at discounted prices.
By Eileen Strauss
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