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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(8704)
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
4.6
Exceptional(1352)
Price: Expensive
• Regional American (Contemporary Southern) • Old City
Booked 16 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(5103)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Old City
Booked 30 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(11299)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Old City
Booked 108 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
3.8
Excellent(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 SkyHigh restaurant
6. SkyHigh
4.7
Exceptional(2776)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • Center City
Booked 75 times today
Philadelphia's SkyHigh restaurant presents a chic and comfortable dining experience specializing in approachable Jean-Georges cuisine. Experience panoramic views and world-class service.
A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant
7. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia
4.9
Exceptional(2349)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 10 times today
Located in a historic townhome in the heart of Philadelphia, Vetri Cucina is a unique space that invites guests to become part of our family. The intimate dining rooms evoke the charms of Italy with custom crafted features including hand-blown Murano glass chandeliers, Richard Ginori porcelain and Venetian glassware.Showcasing the constantly evolving, dynamic creativity of Chef Vetri and his team, Vetri Cucina serves a classic tasting menu at $165pp using the highest quality local and specialty ingredients. The menu is inspired by both classic Italian recipes and our extensive culinary research across the globe. Vetri Cucina also offers a seasonal Forchetta menu which is a premium tasting menu experience at $215pp. These are the restaurant’s sole dining options, designed to provide each guest with a memorable, unparalleled experience. Reservations are released on the first of the month for the following month: ie. On October 1st, reservations are released for the month of November.
A photo of Vernick Fish restaurant
8. Vernick Fish
4.7
Exceptional(2178)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • Center City
Booked 49 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
new
4.6
Exceptional(52)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 34 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 Talula’s Garden restaurant
10. Talula’s Garden
4.9
Exceptional(13170)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Washington Square
Booked 105 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Barryvip
    Philadelphia County •57 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Brussel sprouts (delicious), mushroom flatbread (delicious), almond and ice cream dessert (delicious). Great service. Great ambiance
    More info
    Amada PHLPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • Jerry
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amazing waiter! Nice atmosphere! Loved the Christmas tree up. Cocktails were great!
    More info
    Franklin Social Kitchen & BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Old City
    •
    3.8
  • Jude
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our Thanksgiving dinner at Fork was everything we hoped for, from inventive takes on traditional dishes (like cranberry sauce flavored with star anise) to the newly renovated (moody, sophisticated) dining room. Highlights included fresh oysters and perfectly dressed tuna crudo, and roasted butternut squash stuffed with tangy labneh. No detail is overlooked—even the parsley butter for the dinner rolls was memorable. Creative cocktails like the “Sibling Rivalry” and a surprisingly smooth barrel aged Wild Turkey (a nod to the presumed centerpiece of the holiday meal) set the vibe, and service found the sweet spot between unobtrusive and efficient. Can’t wait for the seven fishes on Christmas Eve.
    More info
    Fork - PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • Emily
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Fantastic meal - pork belly bao buns and dim sum sampler for appetizers. Shrimp pad Thai and tuna tataki for entrees. Donuts and chocolate mandarin for dessert. Waitress was so friendly and provided great service.
    More info
    Buddakan - PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Asian• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • John
    Denver / Colorado •4 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Interesting menu that was very well prepared. I had the braised oxtails and it was outstanding.
    More info
    AMINAPrice: Expensive• Regional American (Contemporary Southern)• Old City
    •
    4.6

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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