Best Historic Restaurants in Bala Cynwyd

24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant

1. White Dog Cafe - University City

4.6

Exceptional(5488)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • University City

Booked 70 times today

An iconic restaurant in University City since 1983, White Dog Cafe is a leader in using environmentally sustainable, organic, and local foods from farms within 50 miles. Known for warm hospitality, and inspiring award-winning food, the White Dog's historic three brownstones offer charming and whimsical dog décor and artwork in its many unique dining spaces and outdoor dining on the sidewalk.

A photo of Carroll Couture Cuisine restaurant

2. Carroll Couture Cuisine

(0)

Price: Very Expensive

• American • Port Richmond

Celebrity Chef Jen Carroll is opening up her exclusive CCC Studio to the public for a very special party with a purpose. The launch of Cookbooks & Convos will benefit both the Sisterly Love Collective & Cooks Who Care. Nestled on the third floor (NO Elevator) of the historic Peanut Chew Factory in Philly's vibrant Fishtown neighborhood, the CCC Studio is the heart of Carroll Couture Cuisine. Here, the magic happens—intimate private dinners, team-building sessions, cooking classes, live streams, food photography, recipe and content creation.The studio itself is a visual delight. Abundant natural light pours in through over a dozen windows, illuminating the space with its seventeen-foot ceilings. As the day transforms into night, the studio takes on a magical aura, thanks to the warm glow of fairy lights suspended from rustic wooden beams. Thanks to: OpenTable, Philly Mag, Barnes & Nobles, Santander, Visit Philly, Discover Philly, Tenango Rum, Wallace Dry Goods, Riverwards Produce

3. Bistro Romano

4.8

Exceptional(4984)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Society Hill

Booked 32 times today

This Historic Landmark in Society Hill, nestled in an 18th century granary, will stimulate your senses with an ambiance of candlelight and casual elegance while creating an unforgettable dining experience. Wine Spectator Award for our wine list! Voted a “Best of Philly” Restaurant, guests enjoy Bistro Romano’s acclaimed Regional Italian Cuisine and rave of the award-winning Caesar Salad and the romantic underground wine cellar for two to four. Wine Cellar reservations book the Wine Cellar Experience on OpenTable. We are now celebrating our 36th year! Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence (Two Glasses). Over 750 wine selections, including 20 by the glass.

4. Butcher & Singer

4.9

Exceptional(8842)

Price: Very Expensive

• Steak • Center City

Booked 72 times today

Butcher & Singer, in the amazing historic location of 1500 Walnut, is an intimate and sophisticated dining experience in a relaxed clubhouse setting. We brought back the true classics from perfect Manhattans and Sidecars to hand-cut steaks and chops, and freshly caught fish. Timeless and fun for all in the continued age of the American chophouse.

5. 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 Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant

6. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(2381)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Center City

Booked 19 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 High Street Restaurant & Bar restaurant

7. High Street Restaurant & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(78)

Price: Moderate

• American • Center City

Booked 31 times today

Located in the historic Franklin Building, High Street is a modern American eatery and bar that celebrates the essence of local grains. With an on-site bakery at the heart of our culinary creations, we pride ourselves on crafting artisanal breads, pastries, pizzas, and handmade pastas that showcase the best of the region.Under the guidance of Chef Christina McKeough, our seasonal menu highlights the bounty of local producers, offering a fresh take on classic flavors and dishes. Our commitment to supporting American winemakers adds an exciting dimension to your dining experience, with a carefully curated selection of wines to complement your meal.At High Street Restaurant, we invite you to savor the rich tapestry of flavors that define our culinary philosophy, blending tradition, innovation, and a passion for local ingredients.Parties of 7 or more require a credit card on file and are required to participate in our "Leave It To Us" menu.

8. Mixto

4.6

Exceptional(2342)

Price: Moderate

• Cuban • Center City

Booked 15 times today

Mixto is a two-story natural wood and exposed brick building located on the east side of downtown Philadelphia on the historic Antique Row. We have been opened for ten consecutive years. Our vision has been to bring an array of flavors of the Cuban, Latin American and Caribbean cuisine to the Center City area. We are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with bar service and an extensive wine and cocktail selection.Mixto offers outdoor dining with a South Beach Miami ambiance during the spring, summer & fall when the weather permits.

9. Moshulu

4.6

Exceptional(8721)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Penn's Landing

Booked 38 times today

Moshulu is one of the most unique dining experiences in Philadelphia aboard a ship. Dine indoors in our newly remodeled dining rooms or outdoors in the open-air or covered decks. Our menu features modern American fare including the freshest seafood, steaks, and sushi. Paired with seasonal craft cocktails, canned beer, and an extensive wine list. Reservations are recommended and available for indoor tables and outdoor dining under the covered tent. We look forward to seeing you!

A photo of Hook and Ladder Sky Bar & Kitchen restaurant

10. Hook and Ladder Sky Bar & Kitchen

4.2

Awesome(407)

Price: Very Expensive

• Steakhouse • Conshohocken

Booked 14 times today

Hook & Ladder is the unexpected steakhouse you’d never thought you’d find in the historic, original firehouse of the Washington Fire Company. This is a one-of-a-kind Skybar experience allowing guests a close view of our 149 year old firehouse, bell tower and original stained glass windows. A unique cross between a chop house and Crudo bar, Hook & Ladder features Certified A5 Japanese wagyu beef that will melt in your month. Dry aged Steak offerings including 32 days dry aged Porterhouse (28oz), 32 days aged Tomahawk Ribeye (40oz) that will taste decidedly beefy, much like a rare roast beef, while also taking on subtler hints of other delicious flavors. Crudo uses the Japanese technique of curing the fish making it more tender and flavorful. Finishing it with lime, lemon, and soy; featuring Wild King Salmon, Japanese Madai, Hamachi and more. Enjoy the purest and fresh take on some classic cocktails.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

G
George
Greater Boston •5 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
I unfortunately think this place suffered from being overhyped. The ambience and service were fantastic. However the food did not blow us away. While there were some highlights including the raw bay scallops, the hash brown, and the “Caesar like salad”, most was forgettable. For the price tag and portion sizes, we left a bit disappointed. Overall, good little spot. Not rushing back though.
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Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
•
4.6
T
Thomas
Indiana •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We were looking for an traditional yet unique experience and B&S delivered the goods. The Caesar salad was spot on and our porterhouse for 2 was perfectly seasoned (i.e. no need for extra sauces). We closed the evening with great baked Alaskan. All in all a great evening. Our server was attentive and the atmosphere was lovely--a huge former bank filled with great jazz vibes.
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Butcher & SingerPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• Center City
•
4.9
A
Ada
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Everything was great. Absolutely delicious! Great service. Great staff. I recommend!
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White Dog Cafe - University CityPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• University City
•
4.6
L
LaurenVIP
Philadelphia County •11 reviews
5.0
Dined on 24 Dec 2024
We went on Christmas Eve for drinks at the bar with friends and then a 5 course prix fixe dinner for 2. Both experiences were fabulous. Quality bartender and the table service team was top notch: professionally urgent, menu advice, flexible to small adjustments, on top of clearing and packaging to go, no time holes in waiting for food or drinks, EXCELLENT FOOD. I am embarrassed I lived in Philly for 21 years before coming here. I have been missing out. Will definitely be back.
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Bistro RomanoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Society Hill
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4.8

Best Historic Restaurants in Bala Cynwyd

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24 restaurants available nearby

1. White Dog Cafe - University City

2. Carroll Couture Cuisine

3. Bistro Romano

4. Butcher & Singer

5. Little Water

6. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

7. High Street Restaurant & Bar

8. Mixto

9. Moshulu

10. Hook and Ladder Sky Bar & Kitchen

See what locals rave about

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