Philadelphia or “Philly” as we called it locally is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the six most populous cities in the United States. With over 1.57 million people, Philadelphia’s food scene is diverse, vibrant, and rooted in the city’s history and multicultural heritage.
Philly is known for its iconic dishes like cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and hoagies. However, the food scene extends far beyond these classics. The city boasts a rich variety of ethnic cuisines, reflecting its diverse population. You can find excellent Italian, Asian, Mexican, Liberian and many other international flavors throughout the city.
The city’s food culture is characterized by its neighborhood-centric approach. Each area has its own culinary identity, from the historic Italian Market in South Philly to the broad offerings in Center City.
Philadelphia is also known for its BYOB (bring-your-own-bottle) restaurants, which allow talented chefs to open small eateries without the expense of liquor licenses.
One of the great things about the city’s food scene is its strong farm to table ethos. Many restaurants source ingredients from nearby farms and urban gardens, ensuring fresh, locally sourced produce. The city is home to numerous farmers markets, with popular ones in Rittenhouse Square and Headhouse Square.
Philly offers different dining experiences, from food trucks and street vendors to trendy spots and fine dining establishments. Reading Terminal Market, an indoor public market established in 1893, is a must-visit destination for food lovers, offering a wide variety of local specialties and international cuisines.
The city’s culinary landscape also includes a thriving vegan and vegetarian scene, with restaurants like Vedge and HipCityVeg catering to plant-based diets.
The city’s food halls, such as Chinatown and The Bourse, offer many dining options under one roof.
In recent years, Philadelphia has gained recognition as one of the best food cities on the East Coast, attracting both locals and tourists with its culinary offerings.
From casual brunch spots to high-end date night restaurants, Philadelphia’s food scene continues to evolve and impress.
As Philadelphians (or former Philadelphians), we have had the pleasure of exploring a wide variety of both renowned and hidden gem restaurants over the years. Here are 7 of our favorite go-to eateries in and around Philly, listed in no particular order. Please note that these reviews reflect our honest opinions and suggestions; we were not sponsored. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Bubblefish
Located in the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood of Philadelphia, Bubblefish is one of our favorite spots for dates, meetups with family and friends, or simply to relax with a drink. Surrounded by numerous restaurants, Bubblefish stands out with its delectable offerings, including sushi, ramen, Taiwanese snacks, bubble tea, and more. Some of our top choices are the spicy salmon and tuna rolls, sushi burger, spicy veggie ramen, seafood don, and takoyaki.
Atmosphere: Friendly and welcoming atmosphere with excellent service, you can choose to dine-in or order take-out.
Price: $20 – $35
Address: 909 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Welcome Home Cafe
Welcome Home Cafe is a charming breakfast and brunch spot in Jenkintown, PA, that we discovered by chance, and we’re so glad we did. Specializing in delicious homestyle foods with a healthy twist on breakfast and lunch items. The cafe offers popular dishes like avocado toast, chicken and waffles, and fish and grits. Upon entering, we were greeted with a cheerful “Welcome home!” which added to the cozy atmosphere. Highlights include the seafood omelet with breakfast potatoes, english muffin and the shrimp and grits; both of which are finger-licking good. The homemade ginger ale and ginger lemon ice tea are also incredibly refreshing.
Note: There is usually a bit of a wait for your food once your order is placed.
Atmosphere: The restaurant has a friendly and cozy ambiance, with tight but comfortable seating.
Price: $10 – $25
Address: 307 Old York Rd, Jenkintown, PA 19046
Green Eggs Café
With multiple locations throughout the city, Green Eggs Café is a beloved brunch spot popular with both locals and tourists. This creative eatery is renowned for its signature dishes, such as the Crème Brûlée French Toast and Red Velvet Pancakes, which are two of our favorites. Another standout is “The Kitchen Sink,” a hearty skillet with eggs, sausage, cheese, and potatoes, topped with a biscuit and gravy. The café also offers a variety of benedicts, omelets, and savory options like Chicken & Waffles and Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. The food presentation is not only visually appealing but also tastes amazing. Be sure to bring an empty stomach, as the portions are quite generous.
Note: The café is often busy, especially on weekends, so be prepared for a potential wait during peak hours.
Atmosphere: The atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
Price: $20 – $50
Address: 1301 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Sampan
Located in the heart of Center City right next to Double Knot, Sampan is a delicious Pan-Asian restaurant. There are a variety of small and large plates items to choose from the menu. The kimchi fried rice is a must-try, I literally craved it for days. Other standout dishes include the Korean BBQ beef satay ribs, kung pao chicken wing and crispy brussels sprouts. The cocktail menu has lots of great options. As a lover of moscow mule I had to try the ming mule, it did not disappoint. Happy Hour is available daily from 4 PM to 7 PM. Don’t miss the outdoor Graffiti Bar, an artistic and cozy spot. The food, ambiance and music is a full sensory experience.
Atmosphere: Vibrant and artistic
Price: $30 – $90+
Address: 124 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Cafe Soho
Located in the East Oak Lane neighborhood of Philadelphia,Café Soho opened its doors in 2016 and quickly became a popular destination for Korean cuisine. It is one of our favorite spots for a quick meal or family celebrations. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse menu. Highlights include their chicken wings, seafood rice cake, kimchi fried rice, seafood pancake, and pineapple soju which is really good.
Note: Café Soho also provides delivery through platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Atmosphere: Casual and inviting
Price: $20 – $50
Address: 468 W Cheltenham Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19126
Little Thai Market
Little Thai Market, a gem in Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market since 1982, offers authentic Thai cuisine that consistently draws crowds. This modest stand is renowned for its flavorful dishes, particularly the salmon curry and shrimp pad thai. Although it’s small in size, Little Thai Market delivers big on taste, with their salmon and shrimp curry being a must-try dish. Something about the balance of the sweet and savory flavors is just so satisfying.
Atmosphere: Bustling market stall
Price: $10 – $20
Address: 51 N 12th St #39, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar
This restaurant has been serving Cuban cuisine for 24 years, since it first opened its door in Old City, Philadelphia back in 2000. Get a taste of Havana right in Philly. Enjoy authentic Cuban food and lively Latin music.
In search of a local Cuban eatery to celebrate our 8th anniversary, I was happy when Oscar discovered Cuba Libre. After our visit, we are excited to declare it our new favorite Cuban restaurant in Philadelphia, coming close to our beloved spots in Florida and abroad.
Our Top Picks:
Mango Butter and Cuban Pressed Bread ($4.50), A delightful starter with whipped mango butter perfectly complementing the toast. The first one is on the house, but we liked it so much that we had to order seconds.
Seafood Paella Marinera ($41.50), One of the most expensive paella we’ve ever had but worth the price. As it had a generous amount of fresh seafood medley including lobster, shrimp, clams, mussels, and squid on top of perfectly cooked rice.
Pargo Baracoa ($34), Pan-roasted red snapper with shrimp, scallops, crabmeat, and mussels in a flavorful Chino-Cubano coconut milk broth, served with white rice and green papaya.The pan roasted red snapper had a bite on the outside but was soft on the inside.
Coconut Mojitos ($14.50 for half pitcher), A refreshing twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. This was so good that we wished we got the full pitcher instead.
Atmosphere: Open air setting, vintage tropical decor and upbeat.
Price: $20 – $100
Address: 10 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Pro Tip: Monday is Mojito Mondays so mojitos are half off all day. And on the weekends after dinner Cuba Libre transforms into a nightclub featuring Latin DJs, light shows, and live acts until 3 AM.
Fun Facts About Philadelphia:
Location: Philadelphia is located in the southeastern part of Pennsylvania. It is bordered by the state of New Jersey to the east across the Delaware River, and it is situated between the Schuylkill and Delaware rivers.
Significant Events: Philadelphia played a crucial role in American history, serving as the nation’s capital until 1800 and hosting significant events like the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
Historical Landmarks: It is home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, and the Liberty Bell.
Museums: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, known for its “Rocky Steps” and the Franklin Institute, a prominent science museum.
Cuisine: Famous for Philly cheesesteak, hoagies and soft pretzels.
Sports: Passionate sports culture with teams like the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Phillies (MLB), 76ers (NBA), and Flyers (NHL).
This post may contain affiliate links which means we may receive a commission for purchases made through links. We will only recommend products that we have personally used! Learn more on our Privacy Policy page.
