$$$Thai
First established in South Philly and now blossoming in Fishtown, Kalaya is the creation of Chutatip "Nok" Suntaranon. Named after her mother, the restaurant is a celebration of Southern Thai cuisine and of her formative years spent in the coastal province of Trang. You can expect authentic levels of heat, homemade pastes and quality ingredients, in dishes whose flavors are deep and satisfying. Start with Gui chai – a crispy rice cake with sweet soy sauce that shows the Chinese influence in the south. Turmeric features in dishes like pla tod kamin (wok-fried barramundi), while prawns and pork
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 64 reviews
Kalaya, located in Rosedale, Philadelphia, offers Thai cuisine with generally positive reception. Food quality is frequently praised for its outstanding flavors and freshness, though some diners note excessive saltiness and MSG, alongside overwhelming portion sizes that lead to waste or rushed pacing. Service is largely commended for being coordinated and attentive, yet several reviews criticize the rapid delivery of dishes, which disrupts a relaxed dining experience. The atmosphere is described as unique but often noisy, with some seating arrangements deemed uncomfortable. Despite mixed feedback on value and noise levels, the restaurant maintains a strong reputation for its distinctive culinary offerings. Visitors are advised to plan for parking and manage their ordering pace to fully enjoy the meal.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic flavors who can tolerate fast pacing and a noisy environment.
$$$Lebanese
The bustling, colorful and inclusive Suraya found its ideal neighborhood in the creative hub that is Fishtown. Named after their grandmother in Beirut, the owners created a vast space to celebrate the cuisine of the Middle East and Levant. The first section is a bakery and shop selling produce and homewares; an open kitchen forms the centerpiece of the main restaurant; and this leads out into a charming and equally capacious rear garden. Nothing’s more classic than man’oushe and the lunch menu offers a variety; at dinner the menu is more extensive, with a full choice from mezza to mashawi. You
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Suraya, a Lebanese restaurant in Rosedale, holds an average rating of 4.2/5. Reviewers frequently praise the high food quality, highlighting fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and standout mezze, hummus, and grilled meats. The ambiance is often described as exceptional, with a beautiful outdoor courtyard and bar area evoking a Mediterranean feel, alongside clean facilities. However, criticisms focus on inconsistent service and value. Some guests reported poor meal pacing, inattentive or rude staff, and forgotten orders. Others found the portions excessive for the price, labeling the restaurant overpriced despite its hype. While the culinary experience is generally positive, service reliability varies significantly.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic flavors and elegant ambiance, but verify service attentiveness and portion sizes beforehand.
$$$$Japanese, Sushi
Kyoto-born Executive Chef Hiroki Fujiyama was inspired by the machiya of his hometown when creating this stylish and discreet Fishtown spot. From the understated façade to the custom-designed furnishings, it feels authentic but also contemporary; just be sure to book a place at the 12-seater counter rather than at one of the tables. The omakase is also a blend of the modern and the traditional. You can expect around 20 courses, starting with delicate snacks like firefly squid and Japanese snow crab, followed by grilled black cod and red miso wagyu. The nigiri is sized quite small, which means
$$Middle Eastern
This Philadelphia skewer shop is the original (there's a sister spot in Brooklyn). This hipster chic spot, where industrial design elements are softened by lush greenery and lanterns suspended from the ceiling, is perfect for a group. The vibe is buzzy with a menu built around charcoal-grilled meat, fish and vegetable skewers sided by a generous spread of salatim, a variety of mezze and warm pita. It's a place that begs for sharing, with everything from hummus and muhammara to tabouleh, Moroccan carrots, Yemenite pickles and more. As if that's not enough, fries and grilled halloumi are on offe
$$$Vegan, Vegetarian
“Plants on a pedestal” is the tagline of this cozy vegan restaurant in Northern Liberties. Largely self-taught, Chef Ian Graye seeks out foragers and small local suppliers for those plants, herbs and fruits and also does his own fermenting and preserving. His menu offers a selection of around 10 dishes designed for sharing – around three per person should more than suffice when ordering – and his cooking comes with a slight Italian accent. "Golden beets" is a clever riff on a New York deli, while the pappardelle with morels impresses with its creaminess. The open kitchen takes up half the spac
$$$$American, African
There is no exact right way to experience Omar and Cybille St. Aude-Tate’s darling restaurant on North Broad. You could post up at the big bar or hold court on a large communal table or ease into the couches. In this airy, industrial space, you have choices, just as you do with their wonderful, Afro-centric prix fixe. Hush puppies come crowned with country ham and paired with smoked bacon aioli. You’ve never seen a potato salad like this one or had fried fish with crème fraîche and chive-dill sauce. How about wagyu beef cheek and oxtail tamales? Course after course, find refinement and imagina
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 53 reviews
Honeysuckle Gelato, located in venues like Ponce City Market and West End, offers a wide variety of unique flavors. Reviews highlight creamy textures and delicious options such as candy cane, cinnamon roll, peanut butter, and pumpkin pie. However, experiences vary significantly. While many praise the taste and reasonable value, others report unfriendly service, particularly at the Fayetteville location, or criticize the texture as being too hard, resembling ice milk rather than traditional gelato. Some customers found the flavors uninteresting compared to other local brands. Overall, it serves as a distinctive dessert stop, though quality and service depend heavily on the specific branch and flavor choice.
Suitable for tourists seeking unique dessert flavors, with advice to check specific branch reviews beforehand.
$$$French
For an unabashed, full-steam-ahead celebration of French cooking, look to Chef Christopher Kearse at this relaxed, modern bistro. Cute tile flooring, globe lights and simple tables set the stage for tempura frog legs with saffron aioli, escargot with Pernod-almond butter and yellow corn vichyssoise with crab. Some opt for a seat at the bar in the front for snacks and a drink or two. Open since 2019, the dining room further in offers clear views of the open kitchen, which shows a fine hand with the likes of dry-aged duck and halibut poached in olive oil. To finish, think chocolate mousse or pea
$$American
The Franklin Building plays host to this modern American restaurant founded by Ellen Yin. It’s quite an operation, as besides the main restaurant there’s also a bakery next door if you want to take something home, along with a private dining space at the back for that big celebration. Furthermore, they hold classes for anyone who wants to learn how to bake or make pizza. Robustly flavored and generously sized dishes are the mainstay of the kitchen, which is visible through the glass walls. At lunch, most customers come in for a hoagie or a sandwich, while at dinner the menu expands to include
$$$$Israeli
Tell anyone you’re from Philadelphia, and chances are they’ll ask you about Zahav. This Society Hill institution is as busy now as it was when it opened its doors back in 2008 – and it’s easy to see why. The concept is simple but highly effective: everyone has the same salatim and mezze but you then decide to go either for the Al Ha’esh option, where you get charcoal-grilled skewers, or Mesibah, which means the lamb shoulder (or one of a couple of other specialties). Along with the delicious laffa bread and hummus, the lamb has rightly gained legendary status; it is brined and then smoked over
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Zahav, located in Dogwood Acres, specializes in Israeli cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the exceptional food quality, highlighting unique flavors and beautiful execution, with some diners ranking it among their top meals ever. Service is generally described as professional and efficient, though pacing issues are noted. The atmosphere receives mixed feedback; while many appreciate the elegant and beautiful space, others criticize noise levels and a lack of charm, citing details like missing tablecloths and tin tops. Value perceptions vary significantly. Positive reviews emphasize generous portions and overall worth, whereas negative reviews argue the pricing is high relative to portion sizes, particularly for certain courses.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality Israeli cuisine who can accommodate higher budgets, with advance booking recommended.
$$$Vegan, Vegetarian
A stalwart of the city’s dining scene since 2011, Vedge is the creation of husband-and-wife team Richard Landau and Kate Jacoby and is housed in a charming Center City brownstone. It’s not unlike stepping into someone’s house; but someone who clearly has taste and considerable means as it’s a surprisingly large and elegant space divided up into different rooms. The vegan menu offers plenty of choice, with dishes designed for sharing. Judicious use of international flavors ensures the seasonal, plant-based dishes have a vibrancy and vitality that makes them as satisfying as they are memorable.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Vedge is a highly regarded vegan restaurant with a 4.5/5 TripAdvisor rating. Food quality is the primary strength, praised for its creativity, seasonal ingredients, and rich flavors, with some diners comparing it to top-tier Michelin establishments. Service is generally excellent, with staff noted for knowledge and attentiveness, though isolated complaints mention slow pacing and poor management attitudes. The atmosphere is pleasant, suitable for a post-walk dinner. While some find portions small or value questionable, the plant-based cuisine remains a distinctive culinary experience.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality creative vegetarian cuisine who can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies.
$$$French, European
It is easy to fall for the charms and delights of this French bistro. The narrow space is dressed in well-worn wood, a lovely bar and bookshelves along the back walls. The bartenders are veterans, shaking and stirring with impressive speed. But what really makes this a frequent favorite is the food, which has all the joys and reflexes of a chef cooking in their own home. Smart, seasonal and astutely seasoned, the cooking eschews fuss and favors boldness. Ease into dinner with a round of oysters or a light bite of pickled shrimp with aioli, basil and saltines. After, a swirled, green garlic rol
$$$$American Contemporary
The eponymous chef-owner is an alumnus of Jean-Georges Vongerichten, so you can expect a cooking style underpinned by a strong, classical base and a kitchen wholly familiar with seasonal, luxury ingredients. There are few things more appealing than spying a section of a menu called “On toast”; try the fritto misto or the blue crab. The choice of raw dishes includes more than just oysters and there’s a mix of small and large plates that you can share, should you be so inclined. Creamy scallops are paired with nutty morels, while spiced lamb chops are turbocharged with eggplant chutney. This lon
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Vernick Food & Drink is noted for its modern American cuisine, generally receiving high ratings. Food quality is a standout feature, with seafood items like oysters, tuna toast, and foie gras frequently praised for their flavor and presentation. Service is largely positive, though some guests report inconsistent pacing or casual attitudes during specific times. The ambiance is elegant, making it suitable for business or family dinners, although the upstairs bar area can be noisy and lacks atmosphere. While some reviewers mention concerns regarding value or occasional culinary inconsistencies, the majority appreciate the overall dining experience and distinctive flavors.
Ideal for diners seeking refined modern American cuisine in an elegant setting, with advance reservations recommended.
$$$$Italian
First timers looking for this charming restaurant will probably walk past it a couple of times as the sign is as discreet as the townhouse that hosts it. Inside it’s equally tasteful and traditional in its décor and, as this restaurant has been a feature in the city since 1998, you can expect service that’s impeccably well-organized and attentive. The set price Italian specialties offer plenty of choice, although there’s also a set multicourse menu with wine pairings for those for whom decision making is best avoided. The antipasti could include flavorsome chargrilled octopus; if you can’t cho
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Dogwood Acres, Vetri Cucina holds a 4.7/5 rating on TripAdvisor. Positive reviews highlight exquisite Italian cuisine, knowledgeable sommelier service, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, making it suitable for special occasions like birthdays. However, negative feedback points to issues with meal pacing, perceived lack of value, and inconsistent food quality, with some diners finding dishes dry or overly oily. While service is frequently praised, opinions on whether the experience justifies the cost are sharply divided.
Recommended for diners seeking a refined culinary and wine experience, but those sensitive to value may want to consider alternatives.
$$$Seafood, American
This airy, seafood-inspired restaurant from husband-and-wife team Chef Randy and Amanda Rucker immediately charms with its pressed tin ceiling, globe lights and well-worn wood flooring. The menu is tight, starting with a raw bar of oysters, shrimp cocktail and scallops. Seafood gumbo arrives with lobster, crab and Carolina gold rice, and Caesar salads are showered in nori and toasted benne. Heartier fare like fried oyster BLTs and applewood-smoked steelhead trout show care, quality and sophistication. A seat at the raw bar in the back offers an up-close view of chefs in action.
$$$Creative
Note: Temporarily closedRestaurants could learn a thing or two from this eccentric spot. There are no long narratives or spiels once you’re seated, and the menu shows no interest in trends. The sparse room is painted in a quirky purple with Japanese tatami tables on one side. Named after her mother, Chef Alexandra Holt just wants to cook — and cook she can. Not one to shy away from seasoning, she offers a small selection of dishes that prioritize flavor over fuss. Garlic scapes arrive buried under a mountain of ripe melon with sheep’s milk cheese running down one side. Delicate ricotta gnudi a
$$$Mediterranean Cuisine
The husband-and-wife team of Chef Chris D'Ambro and Marina De Oliveira are behind this Queen Village spot, just a few doors down from sibling Ambra. There is an inviting bar up front and a tranquil dining room in the back, where pale walls are hung with framed botanical prints and an outdoor area with a red brick-paved patio makes a lovely spot for a sip from the interesting wine list.Southwark's seasonally inspired dishes reflect a Mediterranean mindset with a strong Italian accent, as in fried green tomatoes with herb aioli and sesame dukkah; house-made bucatini with clams and summer squash;
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 50 reviews
Southwark, located in Dogwood Acres, offers Mediterranean cuisine with an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.3/5 from 50 reviews. Guests frequently praise the innovative menu, attentive service, and excellent wine selection. Dishes like cornbread hush puppies, braised cabbage, and squid ink pasta receive high marks. The charming outdoor patio is highlighted for warm evenings, creating a cozy atmosphere ideal for cocktails and small bites. However, some reviewers note inconsistent meal pacing, occasional food quality issues, and excessive noise levels. While a minority criticize the value for money, the restaurant remains a popular neighborhood gem known for its lively bar scene and classical jazz ambiance.
Ideal for diners seeking Mediterranean cuisine, outdoor patio ambiance, and quality drinks, though visiting during off-peak hours may ensure better service pacing.
$$$$Contemporary, Italian
A restaurant within a restaurant, Ambra is an intimate experience built around a single communal table in the dining room or four cozy seats in the kitchen. Chef Chris D'Ambro engages guests during this leisurely tasting menu that can take upwards of three hours. What’s the rush, anyway? House-made pasta and gnocchi, warm focaccia and the likes of sweetbreads and lamb draw on Italian inspiration and reflect the team’s own commitment to the changing seasons. Dishes are attractively presented, and free-flowing beverage pairings are required.
$$$$Contemporary
With room for about 20 guests, illata isn't a big spot, but this neighborhood gem makes a big impression. This neighborhood BYOB shares a hit list of under a dozen small plates, emphasizing seafood and local produce while throwing in a few fun meat dishes. It all rotates with the seasons with approachable but thoughtful options that highlight familiar ingredients in creative ways (think carrots paired with crab and brown butter). Chilled mussels paired with pickled turnips are set over a miso dressing hit with chili oil for subtle heat, while grilled lamb skewers, glazed and finished with a sm
$$Mediterranean Cuisine
Alex Tewfik went from writing about restaurants for Philadelphia magazine to owning one, and this charming East Passyunk spot is his love letter to food. Set on a corner, it's shaded by awnings, fronted by a clutch of sidewalk tables and boasts a chic spare interior. The Mediterranean-minded menu spotlights shareable small plates that are predominantly vegetable focused – like charcoal-smoked tomato conserva, grilled zucchini and seared cauliflower, all prepared with creativity and panache. The restaurant's name is the Arabic and Hebrew word for apricot; and, if in season, one’s meal here must
$$$Contemporary
Texan Chef-Owner Randy Rucker has called Philadelphia home since 2019 and it’s proved to be a very successful marriage. His corner restaurant is an understated space that’s not without charm, with floor-to-ceiling windows making the most of its appealing location. The small tables come with drawers for your cutlery, but it’s really a seat at the counter you want if you’d like to watch the chefs in action. On offer is a multicourse monthly-changing set menu with a distinct seafood bias – but there are always additional courses you can add on, some of which have a distinctly luxurious feel, like