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Best Authentic Restaurants in Center City

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107 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(8797)
Price: Very Expensive
• Greek • Center City
Booked 54 times today
The stunning restaurant, which is first of its kind in Philadelphia, will transport guests to the Greek Islands with an atmosphere reminiscent of an inviting Mediterranean home & a menu of authentic specialties, simply prepared, that represent the best of Greek cuisine. The restaurant specializes in whole grilled fish which are flown in from the Greek Islands, the shores of Morocco, Tunisia, & Portugal. Guests are able to choose from Estia’s expansive display & watch chefs cook their fish to perfection over a charcoal grill in the sparkling open kitchen.
A photo of Bellini restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1158)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 23 times today
Some of the most inspired and acclaimed Italian food in the country is served here. We use innovative flavors and artful presentations prepared by Italian born Chef Francesco Parmisciano. Chef Francesco was born in small town in Naples, Italy where he learned the beautiful art of Italian cuisine. Our goal is not only to prepare authentic and delicious dishes, but we strive to give all of our guests a flawless dining experience. With ownership change in 2021 Parid and Kristi Spiro have brought new life to Bellini and bustling to new heights. Please note outdoor reservations are weather permitting!
A photo of Midnight & The Wicked restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(68)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • Center City
Booked 28 times today
Midnight & The Wicked offers four unique spaces. Experience live music and one-of-a-kind mixology as you lose yourself at the glamor and excitement of the 1920s at Midnight Lounge, The Vault, and The Crimson Theater. Or, Indulge in the forbidden pleasures of a bygone era at The Wicked Nightclub (open Friday & Saturday at 10pm).PERMITTED: Clean jeans, sneakers, non-graphic sweaters.NOT PERMITTED: Sweats, hoodies, sports jerseys, explicit clothing or large graphic t-shirts, crocs, work boots, flip flops, ball caps (Fedoras and other stylish hats are welcome)We hope this update makes it easier for you to enjoy your evenings with us. Thank you for your continued patronage, and we look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of Sueno restaurant
4.3
Awesome(605)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional Mexican • Center City
Booked 12 times today
Sueno, Craft Concepts Group's newest location from Teddy Sourias! Extensive tequila selection, exceptional margaritas, and traditional Mexican street food inspired menu. We are located next to our seasonal popup Tinsel/Nightmare before Tinsel.Please keep in mind that we only allow a certain amount of reservations to keep room for our walk up customers. We want to do our best to welcome as many of you as we can!
A photo of La Viola - West restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(821)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 13 times today
La Viola - West offers an authentic Italian dining experience, as per the description and the reviews. It's praised for its 'authentic Italian menu and food', 'attentive, friendly service' and 'comfortable Italian restaurant atmosphere'. The consistent high ratings for food, ambience, and service further support its authenticity.
A photo of Mercato restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1942)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Center City
Booked 11 times today
Mercato BYOB is a festive and modern Italian eatery that lets you bring your own drinks. A simple and to the point menu focuses on quality over quantity and features items like ricotta raviolo and a spicy crab bucatini with squid ink pasta.The artisan cheeses and house-cured meats at Mercato BYOB are perfect for sharing and are paired with sauces and condiments like agrodolce and pickled white grapes. A whole grilled artichoke appetizer will undoubtedly turn you into the vegetable's biggest fan. Heavier dishes, like the Grilled Hanger Steak with yukon gold potato wedge, are equally impressive. Mercato BYOB opens at 4 p.m. The restaurant has a four course tasting menu that is ideal for groups. Conveniently located to all the theatres, shopping and convention center. Outdoor seating available when weather permits.
A photo of Miss Saigon Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(157)
Price: Moderate
• Vietnamese • Center City
Booked 34 times today
Welcome to Miss Saigon, an homage to the vibrant streets of Vietnam nestled in the heart of Philadelphia. Immerse yourself in the authenticity of Vietnamese street food, each dish a flavorful journey through the bustling markets of Vietnam. Step inside and be transported to Vietnam with our decor, a nostalgic ode to the city's charm. The ambiance is carefully curated to foster connections, making Miss Saigon the perfect place to create lasting memories. As dusk falls, our space transforms into a dynamic nightlife haven, with a guest DJ and cocktails that mirror the hues of the LGBTQ+ Pride flag, celebrating diversity and unity in every sip.Our space is more than just design and contemporary cooking; it's an immersive experience where cocktails and food become the bridge to the soul of Vietnam. Join us at Miss Saigon, where every visit is a vibrant brushstroke in the masterpiece of cultural immersion, connection, diversity, and inclusion.
A photo of Chika Ramen Bar restaurant
4.2
Awesome(18)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Center City
Booked 18 times today
The Japanese word “chika” means basement/cellar/underground place. The cuisine at Chika is traditional sushi & ramen (cold & hot) dishes with Japanese bites prepared by Dean Leevongcharoen, a 12-year chef who was trained in Japan. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dining options are also available.
A photo of Picanha Brazilian Steakhouse - Center City restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1083)
Price: Expensive
• Brazilian Steakhouse • Center City
Booked 5 times today
Located in Center City Philadelphia, Picanha Brazilian Steakhouse offers a truly authentic Brazilian steakhouse experience. Enjoy our Market Table, full of traditional Brazilian dishes, while our gauchos expertly carve each cut of delicious meat for you table-side. In addition to the full rodizio experience, guests can also enjoy our gourmet salad bar only option.For lighter fare, guests may join us in our bar/lounge area for a variety of delicious dishes from small plates to hearty entrees.
A photo of La Viola Bistro restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(442)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 5 times today
For PARTIES OF 10+, please call 215 735 8630 to make a reservation. To place an order, call us at 215-735-8630.To have your table reserved please call us at 215 735 8630. Walk-ins are welcome!La Viola Bistro is open for both lunch and dinner during the week and dinner on weekends. A fine-dining establishment, it specializes in Italian fare. Some items on the menu at La Viola - East include pasta such as bowtie pasta with shrimp, along with a linguini pasta dish with veal. In addition to pasta, La Viola serves a variety of seafood and grilled steak entrées. No alcohol is served at La Viola - East, but you are welcome to bring your own bottle of wine or champagne to accompany your meal. Offering a casual but chic dining space, its décor includes wood furnishings and chandelier lighting.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ryan
    Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Theater menu was fantastic, food was delicious and portions generous. Great service and ambiance, perfect for pre theater family dinner.
    More info
    Estia - PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Greek• Center City
    4.8
  • AndreaVIP
    Philadelphia County •117 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I can’t believe that we walked past this place for three years before we decided to go in. Such a cool unique atmosphere! Service is fantastic with such a friendly welcoming staff and food is amazing! Definitely will give El Vez a run for their money. Do yourselves a favor and visit this fantastic little restaurant in the heart of Washington West. If you’re a fan of Mexican food, you’ll be an even  bigger fan after eating here!
    More info
    SuenoPrice: Moderate• Traditional Mexican• Center City
    4.3
  • Ladydiane730
    Philadelphia County •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    La Viola just hits the spot and the BYOB is a bonus. This is our 2nd year going for Christmas Eve. Reservations recommended- there are only about 10 tables. Bread and dipping oil immediately graces the table. Two of us ordered one of the nights specials. Never felt rushed. Comfortable go to spot that really is just a perfect dinner out.
    More info
    La Viola - WestPrice: Moderate• Italian• Rittenhouse Square
    4.6
  • Robert
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    An outstanding dining experience. The staff is wonderful, conscientious , and very professional. We never felt like the staff hovered over us but were present when needed. Any questions we had about the menu, specials, or general were answered. Never did we feel rushed or pushed to order anything we didn’t want. The cuisine is exceptional and speaks for itself. I will tell everyone I meet to enjoy the dining experience. The ambiance is intimate and makes you feel like you’re dining with your large family. Thank you.
    More info
    BelliniPrice: Expensive• Italian• Center City
    4.8
  • Nicki
    Philadelphia County •26 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Really cool, vintage atmosphere with great, live music. We had a reservation but upon arrival, finding out who to connect with to be seated was chaotic and unclear. Once we found who we had to check in with, seating was relatively quick but still a lot of shuffling back & forth, in a crowded bar area before being escorted to our final destination. The hostes was very nice & our server was also pleasant. Service was a bit slow but it was getting busy. Drinks tasted good but seemed like a very light pour, for the prices charged. Having the option to go over to the club without having to leave the building was also a big plus!
    More info
    Midnight & The WickedPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• Center City
    4.7

Discover best authentic restaurants in Center City

Discover the heart of authentic dining in Center City, Philadelphia, where each restaurant offers a unique glimpse into the culinary traditions and atmospheres that define true authenticity. From the aromatic spices of India to the rich, robust flavors of Italian trattorias, and the festive spirit of Mexican cantinas, Center City is a melting pot of genuine culinary experiences. These establishments pride themselves on delivering not only authentic tastes but also an ambiance that transports diners straight to the heart of each cuisine's origin. The dining scene here is vibrant and diverse, attracting food enthusiasts who seek an authentic meal coupled with an unforgettable atmosphere. Each restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in the meticulous preparation of their dishes, often using traditional methods and ingredients sourced directly from their respective homelands. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring these authentic dining spots in Philadelphia's Center City promises a satisfying and genuinely enriching culinary journey.

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