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A grilled steak alongside fries and a salad.

The 38 Essential Restaurants in Philadelphia

The best restaurants in the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection for a variety of standout meals, including tasty cheesesteaks, incredible Italian cuisine, and dazzling omakase

by Ernest Owens Updated Oct 8, 2024, 4:59am EDT

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by Ernest Owens Updated Oct 8, 2024, 4:59am EDT

A.Kitchen + Bar

Say hello to the Eater 38, which answers the question, “Where should I eat in Philly?”

This essential group of restaurants covers the whole city (and even beyond), runs the gamut of cuisines and price points, and collectively satisfies virtually all dining needs, whether you want fine dining or counter service, takeout sandwiches or tasting menus. The list is typically updated each quarter, and restaurants must be open for at least six months to qualify. To track down the most exciting new restaurants in town, check out the Eater Heatmap, a periodically updated map of places that have opened in the last six months or so.

In this update, welcome to the buzzworthy Rittenhouse attraction of A.Kitchen + Bar, Ground Provisions, a beloved vegan restaurant in West Chester, and the exceptional modern French cuisine of Laurel.

Did we miss your favorite restaurant? Reach us via the tipline or email us at [email protected]. For all the latest Philly dining intel, subscribe to Eater Philly’s newsletter.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Jansen

Situated on cobblestoned Germantown Avenue in Mt. Airy, chef David Jansen’s namesake restaurant occupies a historic 18th-century house with an original fireplace and a beautiful outdoor patio. The impressive new American menu includes a seasonally changing roster of dishes like steak frites carpaccio, tomato risotto, Norwegian salmon, and lemon posset. The stellar wine list is one of the city’s finest.

7402 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19119

A sliced duck breast alongside carrots.

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Down North Pizza

By now, one has likely heard word of the Detroit-style square pies, spicy chicken wings, and flavored lemonades at Down North Pizza in Strawberry Mansion. That’s because the admirable mission of the place — to hire formerly incarcerated workers at fair wages — goes hand in hand with deliciously crispy, delightfully cheesy pizzas. Whether you end up there to support the mission or to get a taste of the signature “Norf Sauce,” expect to leave satisfied.

2804 W Lehigh Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132

a hand reaching for two pizza pies, one with peppers and mushrooms and another with cheese and stripes of red tomato sauce — Detroit-style square pizzas from Down North Pizza.

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Cantina La Martina

This dynamic Mexican restaurant is both nationally acclaimed and beloved by Kensington. The staff led by chef Dionicio Jimenez serve generous margaritas garnished with fruit-infused popsicles, baked branzino in a mezcal-salted crust, cabrito braised in pulque and agave leaves, countless taco options, and more.

2800 D St, Philadelphia, PA 19134

Shrimp aguachile from Cantina La Martina.

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Kalaya

Chef Nok Suntaranon has moved her beloved Italian Market Thai restaurant to a much larger location in Fishtown. Thankfully, everything is as flavorful and fun as expected, including new additions like tropical cocktails. The menu of Southern Thai dishes is longer, so bigger groups will find lots to share, like miang pla phao — a whole grilled branzino served with pineapple, herbs, and rice noodles — or a towering tom yum kalaya with giant river prawns emerging from the fragrant broth. The chic restaurant recently started lunch service on weekends, and small groups can usually find a spot at the bar, but it’s best to book ahead for a table.

4 W Palmer St, Philadelphia, PA 19125

A window with gold text that reads “Kalaya” — Kalaya’s storefront.

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Middle Child Clubhouse

Philadelphia’s love of sandwiches may be confusing to outsiders, but everyone loves Middle Child. At Middle Child Clubhouse — the second, much bigger restaurant from sandwich legend Matt Cahn — one can still get all the sandwich hits from the first shop, but now with so much more, like imaginative cocktails from Brandon Thrash and a whimsically American dinner menu. Hits include okonomiyaki-style latkes, a house Caesar decked out with Old Bay shrimp, and a hulking bone-in pork chop. The restaurant itself (with its retro decor, bright furniture, campy back dining room) and is a great place to hang, too.

1232 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19122

A large pancake covered with syrup and butter.

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Jim’s West

The cheesesteaks served at Jim’s Steaks were fairly decent for decades. But since new owner Cortez Johnson took the helm, a cheesesteak at the renamed Jim’s West is an upgrade beyond measure. Located in the heart of West Philly, these well-portioned cheesesteaks are made with the juiciest chopped rib-eye and reliable supply of cooper sharp cheese. Beyond the previous controversy surrounding its revival and trademark debacle, Jim’s West is a spot that both locals and tourists should revisit immediately.

431 N 62nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19151

A large cheesesteak with fried onions and peppers alongside a grill of fried onions — Cheesesteak at Jim’s West.

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South

Brothers Ben and Robert Bynum have been influential forces in Philly’s entertainment scene since 1990, when they opened their first jazz club. South, their biggest restaurant, brought live jazz and Southern staples to Spring Garden in 2015. The jazz shows are a great complement to comfort food highlights like macaroni and cheese, honey butter skillet cornbread, etouffee, and po’ boys.

600 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19130

A roasted glazed chicken dish served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Also featured in:

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Pietramala

One of the most exceptional restaurants in the city is unapologetically vegan. Chef Ian Graye and his culinary team have reimagined what vegetables can and should taste like. Whether it’s the comb tooth mushrooms (with Sea Island red pea tamari and heirloom polenta), blistered carrots, or honeynut squash, this charming BYOB is fine plant-based dining done right.

614 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Pietramala is vegan dining done right.

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Vernick Fish

Every city needs a date-night destination worth the splurge — and Philly is charmed to have James Beard Award winner Greg Vernick’s Vernick Fish for celebrations big and small. Everything from the raw bar to the small plates to the large dishes, like roasted fluke imperial and whole branzino, is immaculate. Save room for dessert; those are perfect, too.

1 N 19th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

A full grilled fish on a platter with cucumbers, being held by two hands and shot from above. — A full grilled fish from Vernick Fish.

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Pod

The return of Pod (after previously being rebranded as Korean inspired K-Pod) represents an exemplary culinary comeback in University City. This beloved Stephen Starr mainstay remains a classic for good reason. Whether you go full sushi bar or try the whimsical take on other Japanese cuisine (such as the delicious “JFC,” aka Japanese Fried Chicken bucket), you’ll discover the reason this hot spot has been impressing Philadelphians for over a decade.

3636 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

From above, various sushi rolls and sashimi. — Rolls and sashimi at Pod.

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Honeysuckle Provisions

From the minds of chefs Cybille St. Aude-Tate and Omar Tate comes Honeysuckle Provisions, an Afrocentric grocer and cafe where the scrapple might be made from black-eyed peas, and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is really a slice of house-made Sonoran wheat bread topped with freshly milled single-origin peanut butter, apples, and apple butter. It’s an unabashed celebration of Black foodways with a constantly changing menu. The West Philly space is sunny and airy, but only offers takeout.

310 S 48th St, Philadelphia, PA 19143

A tray of golden biscuits. — Biscuits made with whole wheat pastry flour and einkorn flour.

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My Loup

Arguably the most dazzling new restaurant in Philly thus far, My Loup is what happens when you allow an emerging husband-and-wife chef duo like Alex Kemp and Amanda Shulman to do their thing. Pleasantly unpredictable, yet somehow very familiar, this Rittenhouse restaurant serves an ever-changing modern French menu that’s hip without sass and ambitious without stuffiness. Whether you’re trying the delicious smoked eel Caesar salad or masterfully grilled swordfish with Jimmy Nardello peppers and squid, it’s a fine dining experience worth the trip (if you’re lucky enough to get a reservation).

2005 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

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The Essential Restaurants of Rittenhouse

Her Place Supper Club

Her Place Supper Club is the kind of dinner party everyone wants an invite to, and it’s not hard to see why. Chef Amanda Shulman’s prix fixe dinner has a limited number of reservations, a rotating menu of extraordinary fine dining dishes done casually, and the convivial energy that supper clubs are known for. While Shulman’s place started as a pop-up, the restaurant is now a permanent fixture on Sansom Street. Check the restaurant’s website for hard-to-come-by reservations as well as info on the best time to attempt walking in.

1740 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

A steak dish with cheese and greens on top.

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A.Kitchen + Bar

This culinary Rittenhouse institution is the definition of wine and dine. A 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages program, this new American restaurant led by acclaimed chef Eli Collins is serving oyster mushrooms with black truffle, smoked duck breast with roasted stone fruit, and other impressive seasonal dishes that compliment the tastes of the moment.

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OpenTable

135 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

A seasonal steak dish that includes a glaze and vegetables.

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Alpen Rose

Since 2019, the ultimate date/engagement/anniversary steakhouse in the city continues to impress diners from across the region with its intimate dishes. Romantic-comfort cuisine includes memorable entrees such as the lobster linguine, ⁠brick-pressed chicken, and an impeccable dry-aged rib-eye steak.

116 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Beer-battered onion rings stacked in a tower on a plate. — Beer-battered onion rings at Alpen Rose.

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High Street

The versatile High Street in Center City serves some of the city’s best small plates, pizzas, and pastas that represent the epitome of seasonal new American cuisine. Owned by Ellen Yin, High Street received national acclaim that helped put the city on the map as a major restaurant destination. It would come as no surprise that Yin would go on to win the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur in 2023.

101 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107

Pizzas, pasta, and chicken spread over a table. — A full spread at High Street.

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Doro Bet

This impressive spot in West Philly is serving up hot, crunchy, Ethiopian fried chicken that’s remarkably tasty. Come here for the awaze and buttermilk batter, as well as the juicy chicken that’s dredged in teff flour and served with a side of spicy cabbage slaw.

4533 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143

Crispy fried chicken wings on a plate alongside purple cabbage. — Crispy fried chicken wings.

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Friday Saturday Sunday

Chad and Hanna Williams’s acclaimed fine dining restaurant (winner of the 2023 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant) offers a luxurious eight-course tasting menu, perfectly striking the balance of hospitality and whimsy. Friday Saturday Sunday’s menu is ever-changing and the cocktails are some of the best in town, courtesy of bartender Paul MacDonald. Reservations are necessary.

261 S 21st St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

A plum galette topped with a scoop of ice cream in a round bowl. — Plum Galette at Friday Saturday Sunday.

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Forsythia

French cuisine is both traditional and experimental at chef-proprietor Christopher Kearse’s cozy restaurant in Old City. Succulent duck, bountiful escargot, and the city’s most scrumptious crepes can be found on Forsythia’s self-proclaimed “French AF” menu.

233 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19105

Corn agnolotti with lamb neck on a white plate at Forsythia — Corn agnolotti with lamb neck at Forsythia

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Vetri Cucina

Legendary chef Marc Vetri’s renowned restaurant on Spruce Street is a culinary gem. The tasting menu ($165 per person) is the only option and has been impressing diners for 25 years with its contemporary Italian offerings, such as sweet onion crepes, Swiss chard gnocchi, almond tortellini, and baby goat with polenta.

1312 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Overhead view of the Scallop Raviolo with Prosecco Butter and Caviar on a white plate. — Scallop Raviolo with Prosecco Butter and Caviar

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Zahav

Zahav, the 2019 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Restaurant, first introduced Philly to the delights of Israeli cuisine and its myriad influences more than a decade ago. The restaurant continues to set the standard with its menu of laffa, meze, and grilled meats and vegetables. In addition to the stellar service, the showstopper at Michael Solomonov and Steve Cook’s restaurant is the pomegranate molasses-braised lamb shoulder, but even something as simple and now-ubiquitous as hummus is genuinely eye-opening here. Reservations open at 11 a.m. the first day of each month for the entire month ahead.

237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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Rex at the Royal

South Street hasn’t been the same since this Southern/coastal-influenced cuisine hit the block. There’s a lot to appreciate about Rex at the Royal: the New Orleans vibe of the venue, the imaginative cocktails (try the fruity, tequila-forward Por Dio), and the exceptional entrées (such as their jambalaya, fried tomatoes & okra, crab cakes, and expansive oyster selection) that will make one a fan instantly.

1524 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146

A hand pours a dark liquid into a coup with a red candy sitting in its center. — The “Need a Little Sugar in my Bowl” cocktail from Rex at the Royal.

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Kampar

Chef Ange Branca’s James Beard Award-nominated restaurant is a revelation in South Street. There, Branca showcases tasty Malaysian cuisine and her passion for diverse community cooking. With an a la carte menu that includes ayam goreng berempah (spicy fried chicken), maggi goreng (instant noodles fried in a wok alongside vegetables and various sauces), and other notable Malaysian street food — it’s a Philly dining institution.

611 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19147

Several Malaysian cuisine dishes.

Also featured in:

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Ambra

Over the course of a two-year closure, Marina de Oliveira and Chris D’Ambro reimagined their high-end Italian restaurant to bring Philadelphia something totally new. Ambra, next to sibling Southwark, welcomes groups of two or four diners into the kitchen for a tasting menu that examines the cuisine from intriguing angles, like a house-made crab pasta based on D’Ambro’s family’s summer traditions, or a carta di musica inspired by the Queen Village neighborhood’s musical history. At $300 a person (including service and wine), cash only, it’s a splurge that will stay with you long after you leave. Larger groups can also book the dining room for eight to 10 people at a flat price of $2,500. It’s the most entertaining dinner party in town.

705 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Four dressed up, cooked oysters sit on some greens on a white plate. A plate with crostini sits in the background. — Selections from Ambra’s tasting menu.

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Little Fish

While there’s been a rise in grand seafood hot spots with massive towers of crab legs and oysters — the refined seafood at Little Fish is about more than just the spectacle, it’s about the technique and overall taste. Chef Jacob Trinh sears, flips, and mixes seafood into Asian-inflected dishes, such as their scallops dressed in chile oil, soy, and chives served on buttery sesame toast.

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Capital One Dining

Book primetime tables set aside exclusively for eligible Capital One cardholders. Capital One Dining is the presenting partner of the Eater app .

746 S 6th St (Fitzwater st), Philadelphia, PA 19147

A seafood dish that’s being poured with several sauces.

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Mawn

The hottest new BYOB to enter Philly in years, this Cambodian restaurant aspires to serve great tasting cuisine without all the fuss — with more comfort instead. It can be felt in the soothing warm chicken stock of chef and owner Phila Lorn’s noodle soups, the tangy zest of his standout Burmese ginger and melon salad, and the spicy jolt of his immaculate fried chicken.

764 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

A Cambodian streak dish featuring vegetables on top.

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Tabachoy

Consistent Filipino cuisine is hard to find in Philly, but at Tabachoy — it’s a treasure to behold. Here, chef and owner Chance Anies is fierce with the range of flavors he serves diners — whether it’s his lemony, garlicky beef steak with a chile spice, hot and crispy lumpia, or nutty and floral slow-braised beef shank — these are dishes meant to be enjoyed by all of your senses at this very casual, fun restaurant.

932 S 10th St (at Hall St), Philadelphia, PA 19147

A grilled fish dish covered spicy peppers.

Royal Izakaya

Dining at chef Jesse Ito’s sushi and izakaya restaurant Royal Izakaya is a must for Philly locals and visitors alike. Every dish — whether in the form of a roll, gyoza, or katsu sandwich — is made to Ito’s exacting standards with the highest-quality ingredients. Diners can do takeout and delivery, or walk in for dinner. The restaurant also has an exquisite omakase bar that you can book online.

780 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Eight pieces of King salmon sushi with avocado, cucumber, and pickled jalapeño, wrapped with yellowtail and finished with chives and sesame on a plate. — The Bloc Party roll at Royal Izakaya.

River Twice

It didn’t take long for Randy and Amanda Rucker’s River Twice to become one of the most exciting new American restaurants in the city, with a seasonal tasting menu that offers the full spectrum of chef Randy Rucker’s repertoire (see: charred Caraflex cabbage or soft-shell crab in koji butter). All of the dishes are heavy on flavor, personality, and creativity, and the restaurant itself is just a lovely place at which to dine.

1601 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Six oysters arranged in a circle, sat on top of the other half of their shells. — Half dozen oysters from River Twice.

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Mish Mish

Food editor-turned-restaurateur Alex Tewfik’s Mediterranean restaurant isn’t institutionally fussy (it’s a cozy spot with minimalist vibes) but it still takes its cuisine seriously. With a vibrant menu that serves pomegranate-lacquered grilled chicken, grilled squash with dressed kohlrabi, and duck and endive salad with persimmons — it’s hard not to appreciate the ambition and creativity behind each dish.

1046 Tasker St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

An overhead shot of grilled baby octopus with muhammara and chiles in a white bowl. — Grilled baby octopus with muhammara and chiles.

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Laurel

Critically acclaimed restauranter Nicholas Elmi partnered with general manager Jane Fryer and chef Kevin McWilliams to transform his once French tasting menu-only extravaganza to a more creative, free-flowing a la carte entree experience. Here, their wagyu beef coulotte is masterfully served with eggplant, strawberry, and fig; shrimp is flavored with beef fat and cassis; and corn mousse with blackberries is served for dessert. Fancy and flavorful is an understatement.

1617 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

A cod dish from Norway with chanterelles, toasted yeast, and nettles.

Also featured in:

Top Philly Restaurants That Would Likely Earn Michelin Stars If Eligible

Gabriella’s Vietnam

After opening her Vietnamese and Thai grill restaurant in Ambler in 2019, chef Thanh Nguyen expanded into the former Saté Kampar space in East Passyunk to serve Vietnamese street food of the highest order. The bánh bèo quảng nam — open-faced dumplings that come served in small decorative bowls — are unreal, and the large-format dishes, from the half-chicken platter to Vietnamese fried winter flounder, will not be a letdown.

1837 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

An overhead shot of an assortment of dishes from Gabriella’s Vietnam — An assortment of dishes from Gabriella’s Vietnam

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Juana Tamale

Jennifer Zavala’s birria taco pop-ups were some of the most exciting to hit Philly over the past few years, so much so that Zavala’s Juana Tamale grew a devoted cult following. Zavala opened a brick-and-mortar location in East Passyunk that’s brightly colored and extremely fun. There, she serves her infamous juicy birria tacos, tamales, and ramen to match. Everything on the menu is worth it.

1941 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Three birria tacos in a red serving tray alongside a slice of lime, a pepper, garnishes, and cups of sauce. — Birria tacos at Juana Tamale.

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Irwin’s

At Irwin’s, upscale yet down-to-earth Sicilian fare meets a very pleasant vibe, great cocktails, and an amazing view from the sky-high patio atop the Bok Building. Chef Michael Ferreri’s house-made pastas arrive on cute vintage plates, and appetizers like eggplant caponata and bowls of mixed seafood are perfect companions to larger-format dishes.

800 Mifflin St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

the inside of Irwin’s at the bok building with a rug and mismatched tables and chairs — An interior view of Irwin’s.

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Ground Provisions

Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby, the masterminds behind vegan restaurant Vedge, have opened another plant-based culinary experience in West Chester. More rustic and casual, this intimate nine-table restaurant serves a multicourse “farmers feast” menu that effortlessly prepares charred pole bean salads, braised brassicas greens, pan-crisped maitake mushrooms, and more.

1388 Old Wilmington Pike, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19382

Stuffed Fazzoletto with chanterelles, pommes puree, sage brown butter and hazelnut gremolata.

Gass and Main

This new American BYOB by chef Dane DeMarco is a gorgeous marriage between rustic cooking and fine dining. Tomato brodo mussels, orange pomegranate shrimp, smothered pork rib-eye, and wild boar meatloaf embody how this restaurant masters both the cuisine from the land and sea remarkably well.

7 Kings Ct, Haddonfield, NJ 08033

A selection of dishes including deviled eggs, pasta, tomato soup, brussels sprouts, and a sandwich in a hero arranged on a black table top. — A selection of dishes from Gass and Main.

Le Cavalier

Chef Tyler Akin brings his passion for European fine dining to Delaware in this French-forward restaurant at the grand Hotel du Pont. With flavorful dishes — such as the duck cassoulet (served with flageolet beans and Toulouse sausage), lamb tagine, and branzino a la bouillabaisse (generously served with shrimp, scallop, crab, and saffron) — it’s definitely worth the trip across the bridge to dine.

42 West 11th St, Wilmington, DE 19801

plates of salad, fish, and gnocchi on a marble surface next to two glasses of wine — Salad, fish, and gnocchi from Le Cavalier.

Bardea Steak

Acclaimed chef Antimo DiMeo shines at this lively steakhouse in Wilmington. At Bardea Steak, the focus is not just on serving large cuts of sizzling beef — but also hosting an incomparable experience. The nine-course chef’s tasting menu, which includes steak, seafood, pork, and poultry (for $150 per person), is a regional master class on how to dine well and effortlessly.

608 North Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801

A selection of dishes from Bardea Steak’s a la carte menu including bao buns, skewers, tostadas, and bruschettas along with a few glasses of wine. — Chef Antimo DiMeo shines at Bardea Steak.

Ernest Owens is the Editor of Eater Philly, and the food expert to go to when you’re out of options.

© 2024 Vox Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Jansen

7402 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19119

Situated on cobblestoned Germantown Avenue in Mt. Airy, chef David Jansen’s namesake restaurant occupies a historic 18th-century house with an original fireplace and a beautiful outdoor patio. The impressive new American menu includes a seasonally changing roster of dishes like steak frites carpaccio, tomato risotto, Norwegian salmon, and lemon posset. The stellar wine list is one of the city’s finest.

7402 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19119

Visit Website

A sliced duck breast alongside carrots.

Down North Pizza

2804 W Lehigh Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132

By now, one has likely heard word of the Detroit-style square pies, spicy chicken wings, and flavored lemonades at Down North Pizza in Strawberry Mansion. That’s because the admirable mission of the place — to hire formerly incarcerated workers at fair wages — goes hand in hand with deliciously crispy, delightfully cheesy pizzas. Whether you end up there to support the mission or to get a taste of the signature “Norf Sauce,” expect to leave satisfied.

2804 W Lehigh Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132

Visit Website

a hand reaching for two pizza pies, one with peppers and mushrooms and another with cheese and stripes of red tomato sauce — Detroit-style square pizzas from Down North Pizza.

Cantina La Martina

2800 D St, Philadelphia, PA 19134

This dynamic Mexican restaurant is both nationally acclaimed and beloved by Kensington. The staff led by chef Dionicio Jimenez serve generous margaritas garnished with fruit-infused popsicles, baked branzino in a mezcal-salted crust, cabrito braised in pulque and agave leaves, countless taco options, and more.

2800 D St, Philadelphia, PA 19134

Visit Website

Shrimp aguachile from Cantina La Martina.

Kalaya

4 W Palmer St, Philadelphia, PA 19125

Chef Nok Suntaranon has moved her beloved Italian Market Thai restaurant to a much larger location in Fishtown. Thankfully, everything is as flavorful and fun as expected, including new additions like tropical cocktails. The menu of Southern Thai dishes is longer, so bigger groups will find lots to share, like miang pla phao — a whole grilled branzino served with pineapple, herbs, and rice noodles — or a towering tom yum kalaya with giant river prawns emerging from the fragrant broth. The chic restaurant recently started lunch service on weekends, and small groups can usually find a spot at the bar, but it’s best to book ahead for a table.

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4 W Palmer St, Philadelphia, PA 19125

Visit Website

A window with gold text that reads “Kalaya” — Kalaya’s storefront.

Middle Child Clubhouse

1232 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19122

Philadelphia’s love of sandwiches may be confusing to outsiders, but everyone loves Middle Child. At Middle Child Clubhouse — the second, much bigger restaurant from sandwich legend Matt Cahn — one can still get all the sandwich hits from the first shop, but now with so much more, like imaginative cocktails from Brandon Thrash and a whimsically American dinner menu. Hits include okonomiyaki-style latkes, a house Caesar decked out with Old Bay shrimp, and a hulking bone-in pork chop. The restaurant itself (with its retro decor, bright furniture, campy back dining room) and is a great place to hang, too.

1232 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19122

Visit Website

A large pancake covered with syrup and butter.

Jim’s West

431 N 62nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19151

The cheesesteaks served at Jim’s Steaks were fairly decent for decades. But since new owner Cortez Johnson took the helm, a cheesesteak at the renamed Jim’s West is an upgrade beyond measure. Located in the heart of West Philly, these well-portioned cheesesteaks are made with the juiciest chopped rib-eye and reliable supply of cooper sharp cheese. Beyond the previous controversy surrounding its revival and trademark debacle, Jim’s West is a spot that both locals and tourists should revisit immediately.

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431 N 62nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19151

Visit Website

A large cheesesteak with fried onions and peppers alongside a grill of fried onions — Cheesesteak at Jim’s West.

South

600 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19130

Brothers Ben and Robert Bynum have been influential forces in Philly’s entertainment scene since 1990, when they opened their first jazz club. South, their biggest restaurant, brought live jazz and Southern staples to Spring Garden in 2015. The jazz shows are a great complement to comfort food highlights like macaroni and cheese, honey butter skillet cornbread, etouffee, and po’ boys.

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600 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19130

A roasted glazed chicken dish served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Pietramala

614 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123

One of the most exceptional restaurants in the city is unapologetically vegan. Chef Ian Graye and his culinary team have reimagined what vegetables can and should taste like. Whether it’s the comb tooth mushrooms (with Sea Island red pea tamari and heirloom polenta), blistered carrots, or honeynut squash, this charming BYOB is fine plant-based dining done right.

614 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Visit Website

Pietramala is vegan dining done right.

Vernick Fish

1 N 19th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Every city needs a date-night destination worth the splurge — and Philly is charmed to have James Beard Award winner Greg Vernick’s Vernick Fish for celebrations big and small. Everything from the raw bar to the small plates to the large dishes, like roasted fluke imperial and whole branzino, is immaculate. Save room for dessert; those are perfect, too.

1 N 19th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Visit Website

A full grilled fish on a platter with cucumbers, being held by two hands and shot from above. — A full grilled fish from Vernick Fish.

Pod

3636 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

The return of Pod (after previously being rebranded as Korean inspired K-Pod) represents an exemplary culinary comeback in University City. This beloved Stephen Starr mainstay remains a classic for good reason. Whether you go full sushi bar or try the whimsical take on other Japanese cuisine (such as the delicious “JFC,” aka Japanese Fried Chicken bucket), you’ll discover the reason this hot spot has been impressing Philadelphians for over a decade.

3636 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Visit Website

From above, various sushi rolls and sashimi. — Rolls and sashimi at Pod.

Honeysuckle Provisions

310 S 48th St, Philadelphia, PA 19143

From the minds of chefs Cybille St. Aude-Tate and Omar Tate comes Honeysuckle Provisions, an Afrocentric grocer and cafe where the scrapple might be made from black-eyed peas, and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is really a slice of house-made Sonoran wheat bread topped with freshly milled single-origin peanut butter, apples, and apple butter. It’s an unabashed celebration of Black foodways with a constantly changing menu. The West Philly space is sunny and airy, but only offers takeout.

310 S 48th St, Philadelphia, PA 19143

Visit Website

A tray of golden biscuits. — Biscuits made with whole wheat pastry flour and einkorn flour.

My Loup

2005 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Arguably the most dazzling new restaurant in Philly thus far, My Loup is what happens when you allow an emerging husband-and-wife chef duo like Alex Kemp and Amanda Shulman to do their thing. Pleasantly unpredictable, yet somehow very familiar, this Rittenhouse restaurant serves an ever-changing modern French menu that’s hip without sass and ambitious without stuffiness. Whether you’re trying the delicious smoked eel Caesar salad or masterfully grilled swordfish with Jimmy Nardello peppers and squid, it’s a fine dining experience worth the trip (if you’re lucky enough to get a reservation).

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2005 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

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Her Place Supper Club

1740 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Her Place Supper Club is the kind of dinner party everyone wants an invite to, and it’s not hard to see why. Chef Amanda Shulman’s prix fixe dinner has a limited number of reservations, a rotating menu of extraordinary fine dining dishes done casually, and the convivial energy that supper clubs are known for. While Shulman’s place started as a pop-up, the restaurant is now a permanent fixture on Sansom Street. Check the restaurant’s website for hard-to-come-by reservations as well as info on the best time to attempt walking in.

1740 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

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A steak dish with cheese and greens on top.

A.Kitchen + Bar

135 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

This culinary Rittenhouse institution is the definition of wine and dine. A 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages program, this new American restaurant led by acclaimed chef Eli Collins is serving oyster mushrooms with black truffle, smoked duck breast with roasted stone fruit, and other impressive seasonal dishes that compliment the tastes of the moment.

135 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

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A seasonal steak dish that includes a glaze and vegetables.

Alpen Rose

116 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Since 2019, the ultimate date/engagement/anniversary steakhouse in the city continues to impress diners from across the region with its intimate dishes. Romantic-comfort cuisine includes memorable entrees such as the lobster linguine, ⁠brick-pressed chicken, and an impeccable dry-aged rib-eye steak.

116 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

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Beer-battered onion rings stacked in a tower on a plate. — Beer-battered onion rings at Alpen Rose.

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High Street

101 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107

The versatile High Street in Center City serves some of the city’s best small plates, pizzas, and pastas that represent the epitome of seasonal new American cuisine. Owned by Ellen Yin, High Street received national acclaim that helped put the city on the map as a major restaurant destination. It would come as no surprise that Yin would go on to win the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur in 2023.

101 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107

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Pizzas, pasta, and chicken spread over a table. — A full spread at High Street.

Doro Bet

4533 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143

This impressive spot in West Philly is serving up hot, crunchy, Ethiopian fried chicken that’s remarkably tasty. Come here for the awaze and buttermilk batter, as well as the juicy chicken that’s dredged in teff flour and served with a side of spicy cabbage slaw.

4533 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143

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Crispy fried chicken wings on a plate alongside purple cabbage. — Crispy fried chicken wings.

Friday Saturday Sunday

261 S 21st St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Chad and Hanna Williams’s acclaimed fine dining restaurant (winner of the 2023 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant) offers a luxurious eight-course tasting menu, perfectly striking the balance of hospitality and whimsy. Friday Saturday Sunday’s menu is ever-changing and the cocktails are some of the best in town, courtesy of bartender Paul MacDonald. Reservations are necessary.

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261 S 21st St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

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A plum galette topped with a scoop of ice cream in a round bowl. — Plum Galette at Friday Saturday Sunday.

Forsythia

233 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19105

French cuisine is both traditional and experimental at chef-proprietor Christopher Kearse’s cozy restaurant in Old City. Succulent duck, bountiful escargot, and the city’s most scrumptious crepes can be found on Forsythia’s self-proclaimed “French AF” menu.

233 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19105

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Corn agnolotti with lamb neck on a white plate at Forsythia — Corn agnolotti with lamb neck at Forsythia

Vetri Cucina

1312 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Legendary chef Marc Vetri’s renowned restaurant on Spruce Street is a culinary gem. The tasting menu ($165 per person) is the only option and has been impressing diners for 25 years with its contemporary Italian offerings, such as sweet onion crepes, Swiss chard gnocchi, almond tortellini, and baby goat with polenta.

1312 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

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Overhead view of the Scallop Raviolo with Prosecco Butter and Caviar on a white plate. — Scallop Raviolo with Prosecco Butter and Caviar

Zahav

237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Zahav, the 2019 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Restaurant, first introduced Philly to the delights of Israeli cuisine and its myriad influences more than a decade ago. The restaurant continues to set the standard with its menu of laffa, meze, and grilled meats and vegetables. In addition to the stellar service, the showstopper at Michael Solomonov and Steve Cook’s restaurant is the pomegranate molasses-braised lamb shoulder, but even something as simple and now-ubiquitous as hummus is genuinely eye-opening here. Reservations open at 11 a.m. the first day of each month for the entire month ahead.

237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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Rex at the Royal

1524 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146

South Street hasn’t been the same since this Southern/coastal-influenced cuisine hit the block. There’s a lot to appreciate about Rex at the Royal: the New Orleans vibe of the venue, the imaginative cocktails (try the fruity, tequila-forward Por Dio), and the exceptional entrées (such as their jambalaya, fried tomatoes & okra, crab cakes, and expansive oyster selection) that will make one a fan instantly.

1524 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146

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A hand pours a dark liquid into a coup with a red candy sitting in its center. — The “Need a Little Sugar in my Bowl” cocktail from Rex at the Royal.

Kampar

611 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19147

Chef Ange Branca’s James Beard Award-nominated restaurant is a revelation in South Street. There, Branca showcases tasty Malaysian cuisine and her passion for diverse community cooking. With an a la carte menu that includes ayam goreng berempah (spicy fried chicken), maggi goreng (instant noodles fried in a wok alongside vegetables and various sauces), and other notable Malaysian street food — it’s a Philly dining institution.

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611 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19147

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Several Malaysian cuisine dishes.

Ambra

705 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Over the course of a two-year closure, Marina de Oliveira and Chris D’Ambro reimagined their high-end Italian restaurant to bring Philadelphia something totally new. Ambra, next to sibling Southwark, welcomes groups of two or four diners into the kitchen for a tasting menu that examines the cuisine from intriguing angles, like a house-made crab pasta based on D’Ambro’s family’s summer traditions, or a carta di musica inspired by the Queen Village neighborhood’s musical history. At $300 a person (including service and wine), cash only, it’s a splurge that will stay with you long after you leave. Larger groups can also book the dining room for eight to 10 people at a flat price of $2,500. It’s the most entertaining dinner party in town.

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705 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

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Four dressed up, cooked oysters sit on some greens on a white plate. A plate with crostini sits in the background. — Selections from Ambra’s tasting menu.

Little Fish

746 S 6th St (Fitzwater st), Philadelphia, PA 19147

While there’s been a rise in grand seafood hot spots with massive towers of crab legs and oysters — the refined seafood at Little Fish is about more than just the spectacle, it’s about the technique and overall taste. Chef Jacob Trinh sears, flips, and mixes seafood into Asian-inflected dishes, such as their scallops dressed in chile oil, soy, and chives served on buttery sesame toast.

746 S 6th St (Fitzwater st), Philadelphia, PA 19147

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A seafood dish that’s being poured with several sauces.

Mawn

764 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

The hottest new BYOB to enter Philly in years, this Cambodian restaurant aspires to serve great tasting cuisine without all the fuss — with more comfort instead. It can be felt in the soothing warm chicken stock of chef and owner Phila Lorn’s noodle soups, the tangy zest of his standout Burmese ginger and melon salad, and the spicy jolt of his immaculate fried chicken.

764 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

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A Cambodian streak dish featuring vegetables on top.

Tabachoy

932 S 10th St (at Hall St), Philadelphia, PA 19147

Consistent Filipino cuisine is hard to find in Philly, but at Tabachoy — it’s a treasure to behold. Here, chef and owner Chance Anies is fierce with the range of flavors he serves diners — whether it’s his lemony, garlicky beef steak with a chile spice, hot and crispy lumpia, or nutty and floral slow-braised beef shank — these are dishes meant to be enjoyed by all of your senses at this very casual, fun restaurant.

932 S 10th St (at Hall St), Philadelphia, PA 19147

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A grilled fish dish covered spicy peppers.

Royal Izakaya

780 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Dining at chef Jesse Ito’s sushi and izakaya restaurant Royal Izakaya is a must for Philly locals and visitors alike. Every dish — whether in the form of a roll, gyoza, or katsu sandwich — is made to Ito’s exacting standards with the highest-quality ingredients. Diners can do takeout and delivery, or walk in for dinner. The restaurant also has an exquisite omakase bar that you can book online.

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780 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

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Eight pieces of King salmon sushi with avocado, cucumber, and pickled jalapeño, wrapped with yellowtail and finished with chives and sesame on a plate. — The Bloc Party roll at Royal Izakaya.

River Twice

1601 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

It didn’t take long for Randy and Amanda Rucker’s River Twice to become one of the most exciting new American restaurants in the city, with a seasonal tasting menu that offers the full spectrum of chef Randy Rucker’s repertoire (see: charred Caraflex cabbage or soft-shell crab in koji butter). All of the dishes are heavy on flavor, personality, and creativity, and the restaurant itself is just a lovely place at which to dine.

1601 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

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Six oysters arranged in a circle, sat on top of the other half of their shells. — Half dozen oysters from River Twice.

Mish Mish

1046 Tasker St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Food editor-turned-restaurateur Alex Tewfik’s Mediterranean restaurant isn’t institutionally fussy (it’s a cozy spot with minimalist vibes) but it still takes its cuisine seriously. With a vibrant menu that serves pomegranate-lacquered grilled chicken, grilled squash with dressed kohlrabi, and duck and endive salad with persimmons — it’s hard not to appreciate the ambition and creativity behind each dish.

1046 Tasker St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

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An overhead shot of grilled baby octopus with muhammara and chiles in a white bowl. — Grilled baby octopus with muhammara and chiles.

Laurel

1617 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Critically acclaimed restauranter Nicholas Elmi partnered with general manager Jane Fryer and chef Kevin McWilliams to transform his once French tasting menu-only extravaganza to a more creative, free-flowing a la carte entree experience. Here, their wagyu beef coulotte is masterfully served with eggplant, strawberry, and fig; shrimp is flavored with beef fat and cassis; and corn mousse with blackberries is served for dessert. Fancy and flavorful is an understatement.

1617 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

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A cod dish from Norway with chanterelles, toasted yeast, and nettles.

Gabriella’s Vietnam

1837 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

After opening her Vietnamese and Thai grill restaurant in Ambler in 2019, chef Thanh Nguyen expanded into the former Saté Kampar space in East Passyunk to serve Vietnamese street food of the highest order. The bánh bèo quảng nam — open-faced dumplings that come served in small decorative bowls — are unreal, and the large-format dishes, from the half-chicken platter to Vietnamese fried winter flounder, will not be a letdown.

1837 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

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An overhead shot of an assortment of dishes from Gabriella’s Vietnam — An assortment of dishes from Gabriella’s Vietnam

Juana Tamale

1941 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Jennifer Zavala’s birria taco pop-ups were some of the most exciting to hit Philly over the past few years, so much so that Zavala’s Juana Tamale grew a devoted cult following. Zavala opened a brick-and-mortar location in East Passyunk that’s brightly colored and extremely fun. There, she serves her infamous juicy birria tacos, tamales, and ramen to match. Everything on the menu is worth it.

1941 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

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Three birria tacos in a red serving tray alongside a slice of lime, a pepper, garnishes, and cups of sauce. — Birria tacos at Juana Tamale.

Irwin’s

800 Mifflin St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

At Irwin’s, upscale yet down-to-earth Sicilian fare meets a very pleasant vibe, great cocktails, and an amazing view from the sky-high patio atop the Bok Building. Chef Michael Ferreri’s house-made pastas arrive on cute vintage plates, and appetizers like eggplant caponata and bowls of mixed seafood are perfect companions to larger-format dishes.

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800 Mifflin St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

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the inside of Irwin’s at the bok building with a rug and mismatched tables and chairs — An interior view of Irwin’s.

Ground Provisions

1388 Old Wilmington Pike, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19382

Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby, the masterminds behind vegan restaurant Vedge, have opened another plant-based culinary experience in West Chester. More rustic and casual, this intimate nine-table restaurant serves a multicourse “farmers feast” menu that effortlessly prepares charred pole bean salads, braised brassicas greens, pan-crisped maitake mushrooms, and more.

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1388 Old Wilmington Pike, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19382

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Stuffed Fazzoletto with chanterelles, pommes puree, sage brown butter and hazelnut gremolata.

Gass and Main

7 Kings Ct, Haddonfield, NJ 08033

This new American BYOB by chef Dane DeMarco is a gorgeous marriage between rustic cooking and fine dining. Tomato brodo mussels, orange pomegranate shrimp, smothered pork rib-eye, and wild boar meatloaf embody how this restaurant masters both the cuisine from the land and sea remarkably well.

7 Kings Ct, Haddonfield, NJ 08033

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A selection of dishes including deviled eggs, pasta, tomato soup, brussels sprouts, and a sandwich in a hero arranged on a black table top. — A selection of dishes from Gass and Main.

Le Cavalier

42 West 11th St, Wilmington, DE 19801

Chef Tyler Akin brings his passion for European fine dining to Delaware in this French-forward restaurant at the grand Hotel du Pont. With flavorful dishes — such as the duck cassoulet (served with flageolet beans and Toulouse sausage), lamb tagine, and branzino a la bouillabaisse (generously served with shrimp, scallop, crab, and saffron) — it’s definitely worth the trip across the bridge to dine.

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42 West 11th St, Wilmington, DE 19801

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plates of salad, fish, and gnocchi on a marble surface next to two glasses of wine — Salad, fish, and gnocchi from Le Cavalier.

Bardea Steak

608 North Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801

Acclaimed chef Antimo DiMeo shines at this lively steakhouse in Wilmington. At Bardea Steak, the focus is not just on serving large cuts of sizzling beef — but also hosting an incomparable experience. The nine-course chef’s tasting menu, which includes steak, seafood, pork, and poultry (for $150 per person), is a regional master class on how to dine well and effortlessly.

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608 North Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801

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A selection of dishes from Bardea Steak’s a la carte menu including bao buns, skewers, tostadas, and bruschettas along with a few glasses of wine. — Chef Antimo DiMeo shines at Bardea Steak.

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