Where to Find the Best Food in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love,” is well-known for its iconic cheesesteaks and other renowned eats. But when it comes to finding the best foods in this great city, it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate.

The good news is, you don’t have to be an experienced foodie to find out which local restaurants serve the best fare. We’ve tracked down some of the top places to visit and below we highlight the best places to eat in the city, whether your tastes are classic or on trend.

Classic Favorites

When it comes to classic spots, two of the top contenders in Philadelphia are Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. Pat’s and Geno’s are located directly across the street from each other and have been competitors since 1966. Both spots offer incredible cheesesteaks, with classic steak and cheese versions as well as other combinations such as onion and peppers. Whichever you decide to try, make sure you order it “wit” or “wit-out” – that is, with or without onions.

On the nostalgia side of things, R&D/Slides is known for its hand-cut Belgian-style fries. Savo’s is also a classic hole-in-the-wall treasure, serving up classic Philly Italian food since 1938. The pizzas and hoagies at Savo’s come highly recommended.

Trending Food Options

For those looking for something a bit more trendy, Federal Donuts is a great pick for doughnuts with unique flavors like hibiscus, strawberry matcha, and chicory cookies & cream. For Mexican food and cocktails, there is Cheu Noodle Bar near Rittenhouse Square. Other popular choices include Bar Bombon, an all-vegan restaurant with tasty options like kimchi quesadillas, vegan tacos and delicious soups.

If you’re looking to spoil yourself with a five-star meal, there are plenty of excellent choices in the city. Stateside has been deemed a must-visit spot for its delectable tasting menu with signature dishes such as foie gras parfait, smoked tropea onions and American Wagyu beef served with wild mushroom béarnaise. Fond is another great spot for creative dishes like porkbelly arancini and duck confit cannelloni. Lastly, Vedge is known for its vegetable-focused menu and has some of the most beautiful dishes, from sweet potato strozzapreti to wood-grilled artichoke barigoule.

Philadelphia Restaurants for Every Occasion

No matter what kind of food you’re looking for—whether it’s an old-school cheesesteak joint or a Michelin-starred restaurant—Philadelphia has something for every occasion. For romantic dinners, Barbuzzo offers hearty Mediterranean dishes in a stylish atmosphere. For sunny brunches, South Philly Barbacoa offers up amazing tacos made by local chefs. Whatever you decide, you won’t be disappointed with your food choices in the City of Brotherly Love.

If you would like a handy resource while navigating Philadelphia’sfood scene, Philadelphia Foodies offers informative reviews and ratings of local restaurants in the area.

An Insider’s Guide to Finding the Best Food in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city that is known for its rich history, culture, and love for good food. Whether you are a tourist or a local, finding the best food in Philadelphia is an experience that you should not miss. In this insider’s guide, you will discover some of the best places to eat in Philadelphia, as well as some hidden gems that only locals know.

Local Attractions

Philadelphia is a city that is steeped in history, and there are many historical attractions that you can visit. The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art are all popular destinations for tourists. But, if you are looking to explore the city’s food scene, there are other attractions that you should visit.

Reading Terminal Market is one of the best food markets in the country, with over 80 vendors offering everything from freshly baked bread and pastries to gourmet cheeses and sandwiches. The Italian Market is another must-visit spot with over 100 shops and vendors selling fresh seafood, meats, and produce.

Dining Spots

Philadelphia is a city that is bursting with amazing dining spots. There is something for everyone, whether you are in the mood for a fancy dinner or a casual bite to eat.

For a fancy dinner, visit Zahav, which is known for its Israeli cuisine and modern twist on traditional dishes. Vernick Food & Drink is a restaurant that offers contemporary American dishes using only the freshest and locally sourced ingredients.

If you are in the mood for a more relaxed dining experience, visit Federal Donuts for some delicious fried chicken and donuts. John’s Roast Pork is a local favorite that offers some of the best sandwiches in the city, including their famous Philly cheesesteak.

Cultural Experiences

Philadelphia is a city that is steeped in culture. There are many cultural experiences that you can have while exploring the city’s food scene.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is not only a popular tourist attraction, but it also features a restaurant called Stir which offers seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. For a unique dining experience, visit Kensington Quarters, a restaurant that has its own butcher shop and features dishes made from the freshest meats.

Local History

Philadelphia is a city that is rich in history, and there are many historical sites that you can visit to experience the city’s past.

One of the best places to visit is the Independence National Historical Park, which includes Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. City Tavern is another historical spot that is worth visiting. The restaurant was a favorite of the founding fathers, and it serves traditional colonial fare.

Off the Beaten Path

While the tourist spots in Philadelphia are worth visiting, there are also some hidden gems in the city that only locals know about.

For an off the beaten path experience, visit South Philly Barbacoa, a restaurant that serves some of the best tacos in the city, made with slow-cooked lamb. The Fishtown neighborhood is another hidden gem that is worth exploring. It is filled with trendy bars and restaurants, including Wm Mulherin’s Sons, which offers wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas.

In conclusion, Philadelphia is a city that offers a diverse and vibrant food scene. From the historical attractions to the off the beaten path dining spots, there is something for every food lover in Philadelphia. Use this guide as a starting point to explore the city’s culinary offerings and uncover some of the best food that Philadelphia has to offer.