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Best Restaurants for Foodies in Old City

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27 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Amada PHL restaurant
1. Amada PHL
4.7
Exceptional(8731)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Old City
Booked 50 times today
Amada is an Andalusian tapas bar & restaurant where Chef Jose Garces embraces the rich traditions of Spanish gastronomy while incorporating avant-garde cooking techniques in a gorgeous rustic-chic settingSpecialties of the HouseSpanish Octopus, Garlic Shrimp, Tortilla Española, Paella Valenciana, Whole Roasted Suckling Pig (Call to order 72 hours in advance, excluding Sundays), Seasonal Sangrías, Cocktails, and Wine.Private Parties: Amada welcomes groups of all sizes. Festive settings, service and menus are perfect for intimate dinners with friends, special occasions and holidays, corporate meetings and staff parties. Events can be booked throughout the restaurant and in our private dining rooms seven days a week. For parties of 10 or more, please call our private events team at 267-284-7979 or email events@garcesgroup.com
A photo of AMINA restaurant
2. AMINA
4.5
Awesome(1378)
Price: Expensive
• Regional American (Contemporary Southern) • Old City
Booked 52 times today
Owner Felicia Wilson and Chef Partner Darryl Harmon, who hails from Gouldstown, NJ in Cumberland County, which is considered the oldest black community in the U.S., is an award-winning chef for The Lure Group in New York City. He previously served as the Executive Chef at the Water Works Restaurant in Philadelphia between 2007 and 2012.
A photo of Fork - Philadelphia restaurant
3. Fork - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(5132)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Old City
Booked 49 times today
Fork in Philadelphia is a foodie paradise, offering a unique and evolving dining experience with a commitment to seasonality and local ingredients. The restaurant has been praised for its creative, well-prepared, and delicious dishes, as per the reviews. The ambience is described as warm and friendly, with an intimate setting that enhances the culinary journey. Apart from the exceptional food, the attentive and knowledgeable service adds to the overall dining experience. Fork has received accolades such as James Beard Foundation Finalist and Esquire's '100 Restaurants We Can't Afford to Lose', solidifying its status as a foodie hotspot.
A photo of Buddakan - Philadelphia restaurant
4. Buddakan - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(11365)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Old City
Booked 130 times today
Stephen Starr’s Buddakan is a spectacular restaurant featuring exotic flavors of modern Asian cuisine with creativity and drama. Bon Appetit notes, "The mostly white space is striking, with a lit-from-within communal table in the middle of the room, a waterfall & a ten-foot, candle-bedecked Buddha. The religious icon watches over hip customers indulging in pan-Asian cuisine that far surpasses the fare usually found at hot spots like this." Newsweek reports, "Design also serves as a signifier for cuisine. You walk into Buddakan, one of the hottest new restaurants in Philadelphia, past a shimmering waterfall & Japanese river stones & you say to yourself, 'ginger-miso everything' even before you see the magnificent 10-foot Buddha dominating the dining room." Named one of “America's Top 50 Restaurants" by Travel & Leisure and 'Top Restaurant for Fun' by Gourmet, Buddakan has become one of the country's most talked about restaurants.
A photo of Franklin Social Kitchen & Bar restaurant
5. Franklin Social Kitchen & Bar
3.6
Very Good(152)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Old City
Booked 2 times today
Franklin Social, at the Renaissance Hotel Philadelphia Downtown, serves up contemporary American dining in the heart of Philadelphia's Old City Historic District.Gather with friends, family and colleagues, as Ben Franklin frequently did in his time – He was quite the entertainer didn’t you know and enjoy a meal showcasing an attitude that's all Philly. Join us for a craft beer from around the corner, or an award-winning wine from around the world.Whether you're craving a quick bite or full meal, Franklin Social will bring you the best products and flavors from around the region to entice your taste buds. All of this Philly flair is brought to you by a friendly and engaging team that should make you feel right at home. Franklin Social allows you to take part in a piece of American history, while creating a piece of your own history all in a vibrant, welcoming environment.
A photo of Panorama restaurant
6. Panorama
4.8
Exceptional(2718)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Old City
Booked 21 times today
Panorama is a foodie haven, offering a unique Italian experience with a contemporary twist. The restaurant is recognized for its extensive wine list, with up to 150 wines by the glass available at any time. The food is consistently praised in reviews for its freshness, unique ingredients, and impeccable taste. One reviewer mentioned 'fantastic food, unique cocktails, extraordinary wine list!' The service is also frequently highlighted as being exceptional. Overall, Panorama seems to offer a delightful dining experience for food enthusiasts.
A photo of Talula’s Garden restaurant
7. Talula’s Garden
4.9
Exceptional(13258)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Washington Square
Booked 135 times today
Behind the wrought iron gate, past the herbaceous patio and through the atrium is Talula's Garden, the warm and elegant Washington Square eatery from Aimee Olexy and Starr Restaurants. The modern menu, prepared with carefully-sourced ingredients and a light European touch, changes with the seasons. The artful cuisine, hospitable staff, sustainable spirits, and a focus on cheese make the dining experience here incredibly memorable.
A photo of Vernick Fish restaurant
8. Vernick Fish
4.7
Exceptional(2208)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • Center City
Booked 42 times today
Vernick Fish presents Philadelphia’s own, Chef Greg Vernick’s exploration beyond the boundaries of a seafood restaurant. His ingredient-driven cooking style, paired with a love for global flavors, results in an inventive menu of fish and shellfish dishes, and a range of vegetable preparations. Taking a detailed, seasonal, and sustainable approach with small and large plate offerings, the kitchen brings new life to the favorite hallmarks of American oyster bar fare and raw bar. Complementing the experience are well-crafted cocktails, and a focused wine list of seafood-friendly white and sparkling offerings, as well as light, fresh reds.
A photo of Little Water restaurant
9. Little Water
4.6
Exceptional(97)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 27 times today
Located in the historic neighborhood of Rittenhouse Square, Little Water is the latest restaurant from husband-and-wife team, Chef Randy Rucker and Amanda Rucker. Inspired by the Ruckers' experiences living along the Gulf Coast, New England, and Mid-Atlantic regions, Little Water is a contemporary coastal restaurant that celebrates the ecological diversity of life by the sea.The sister restaurant to the acclaimed East Passyunk Avenue gem, River Twice—which has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer and The New York Times, and has earned Chef Randy’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently, a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic—Little Water continues the Ruckers' dedication to sustainability and local sourcing. With an a la carte menu inspired by the dynamic ecosystem of tranquil marshes, expansive bays, and secluded coves, Little Water captures the coastal spirit in a warm and lively atmosphere.
A photo of El Vez restaurant
10. El Vez
4.8
Exceptional(7050)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 96 times today
A contemporary Mexican restaurant, El Vez offers many unique items such as mahi mahi tacos, ahi tuna tostadas, carne asada and pasilla braised pork pozole. Enjoy their made-to-order guacamole & margaritas with fresh-squeezed juices. Top off your meal with "The El Vez," a flourless chocolate cake, peanut butter mousse and carmelized bananas.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Hanan
    Philadelphia County •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Overall great, quick service and delicious food! We did dine early, and I could see the kitchen slowly down during peak hours
    More info
    Amada PHLPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • Sean
    New Jersey •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amina is an absolute gem where every dish bursts with flavor and heritage, blending African and African American traditions into unforgettable creations. I’ve visited twice and it was incredible both times. The fried chicken is perfectly crispy and juicy, paired with honey-drizzled cornbread that melts in your mouth, while the collard greens and jollof rice deliver soulful, bold flavors. Starters like black-eyed pea fritters and oxtail stew are rich and deeply satisfying. Desserts are finger licking good with the spiced sweetness of the sweet potato pie and the indulgence of peach cobbler. At Amina, every bite is seasoned to perfection, making it a must-visit if you want love great food.
    More info
    AMINAPrice: Expensive• Regional American (Contemporary Southern)• Old City
    •
    4.5
  • Karishma
    Philadelphia County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Was great way to celebrate the new year. Food is very reasonably priced, and is served family style. Great portions. The cool on the sea bass was amazing, it melted like butter and the veg complimented it well. The plum sake was a favorite of the alcohol, and the sunrise was the favorite of the mock-tails, best served with a splash of sparkling water. Overall was a great experience and will be returning especially to have ray as our server. He was fantastic.
    More info
    Buddakan - PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Asian• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • Christina
    Philadelphia County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 24 Dec 2024
    Christmas Eve Seven Fishes dinner was truly spectacular! The newly remodeled restaurant is beautiful, and the ambience was warm and buzzing. Can’t forget the food — which was wonderful. Owner Ellen Yin was there circulating and helping out the staff, which really made the whole night special. Thank you Fork for helping make this year’s Christmas festivities memorable!
    More info
    Fork - PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • Jerry
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 28 Nov 2024
    Amazing waiter! Nice atmosphere! Loved the Christmas tree up. Cocktails were great!
    More info
    Franklin Social Kitchen & BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Old City
    •
    3.6

Discover best foodies restaurants in Old City

Nestled in the historic Old City, Philadelphia County, our curated selection of restaurants caters to the discerning palate of food enthusiasts. The dining scene in this vibrant area is rich with establishments that emphasize creativity, local ingredients, and seasonal menus, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Food lovers will appreciate the diverse culinary offerings, ranging from traditional Italian cuisines to innovative comfort foods, each providing a unique twist to satisfy sophisticated tastes. These restaurants are renowned not just for their exceptional food, but also for their commitment to quality service and a memorable atmosphere. Whether you're looking for an intimate dinner or a lively dining experience, Old City's food scene is sure to impress. Each establishment has been carefully selected to provide foodies with a delightful exploration of flavors, making every dining out occasion special. Join us in Old City for an exceptional dining journey that promises to enchant and satisfy every food enthusiast.

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