Best Historic Restaurants in Old City

Price

££
£££
££££

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodJapaneseSpanish

Regions

CamdenPhiladelphia

Areas

Center CityFishtownGloucester CityOld CityQueen VillageSociety Hill

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral toiletWheelchair access

25 restaurants available nearby

1. Revolution House

4.5

Awesome(135)

££££Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Old City

Booked 9 times today

If you would like to make a reservation for a group of 10 or more, please call us at (215) 625-4566 Wed-Sun after 2pm. Thank you.In the heart of Old City, with historic features tastefully presented throughout our two-level restaurant & bar, Revolution House truly has Philadelphia running through its veins. We are so eager for you to try our completely reimagined menu of elevated yet affordable tapas-style international cuisine crafted with the utmost care. Our signature dishes by Chef Evan Barghout, such as our sesame saku tuna or our Korean rib tacos pair perfectly with new, inspired cocktails, like our Eternal Springtime, as well as our carefully curated fine wines and local craft draught beers. Make your reservation today to claim your stake in the revolution!

A photo of Ogawa Sushi & Kappo Omakase restaurant

2. Ogawa Sushi & Kappo Omakase

4.8

Exceptional(11)

££££Price: Very Expensive

• Sushi • Old City

Booked 4 times today

Experience an exceptional journey through the artistry of edomae sushi at Ogawa, located in historic Old City, Philadelphia. Leading this experience is our Head Chef, Carlos Wills, whose passion for the art of sushi is reflected in every detail of the 23-course menu. Each dish is a testament to his skill, creativity, and deep respect for tradition, blending classic Edo-mae techniques with innovative touches that elevate the ingredients to their fullest potential. Our Master Chef, Minoru Ogawa, travels to Japan monthly to source the highest-quality ingredients, including fish flown in from Tokyo’s renowned Toyosu Market. Each dish is a celebration of tradition and precision.Complement your meal with thoughtfully selected sake pairings, or explore the menu of premium Japanese beer, whiskey, and unique sake options.

A photo of Tomo Sushi & Ramen restaurant

3. Tomo Sushi & Ramen

4.8

Exceptional(705)

££££Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Old City

Booked 33 times today

We are a BYOB sushi and ramen restaurant located in Old City, Philadelphia, serving traditional style sushi and ramen with a newfangled twist. Tomo was funded out of passion by two lifelong tomodachi (friends in Japanese): Sushi Chef Andy and Ramen Chef Steven.

4. Red Owl Tavern

4.6

Exceptional(1496)

££££Price: Expensive

• American • Old City

Booked 15 times today

Neighborly meets sophisticated at Red Owl, a modern tavern in the heart of Old City, just across from the Liberty Bell. Among soaring windows and cozy tables, the kitchen serves up smart, stylish takes on American staples (a cheesesteak never tasted as good as ours, made with premium shaved rib-eye). When paired with craft beers and classic cocktails, it’s a clever balance of fancy and familiar, with a dash of Philly flair.We look forward to seeing you soon!

5. Bistro Romano

4.8

Exceptional(5040)

££££Price: Moderate

• Italian • Society Hill

Booked 21 times today

This Historic Landmark in Society Hill, just off Headhouse Square, nestled in an 18th century granary, will stimulate your senses with an ambiance of candlelight and casual elegance while creating an unforgettable dining experience. Voted a “Best of Philly” Restaurant, guests enjoy Bistro Romano’s acclaimed Regional Italian Cuisine with an innovative twist and rave of the award-winning Caesar Salad and house-made pastas. Don't miss the Wine Cellar Experience, a secluded table for two or four guests, rose petal topped table, 5 course Chef Tasting Menu, with limoncellos to finish. Our Wine List has received the prestigious Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence (Two Glasses). Over 700 wine selections, including 20 by the glass. Celebrating 37 years on Lombard, we look forward to your arrival.

A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant

6. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(2429)

££££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.

7. Butcher & Singer

4.9

Exceptional(8934)

££££Price: Very Expensive

• Steak • Center City

Booked 82 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.

8. Bastia

4.8

Exceptional(215)

££££Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Fishtown

Booked 32 times today

Leisurely cafe by day, Bastia transforms to a Mediterranean restaurant by night and draws culinary inspiration from the sun-drenched islands of Corsica and Sardinia

9. Little Water

4.7

Exceptional(183)

££££Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Center City

Booked 42 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 High Street Restaurant & Bar restaurant

10. High Street Restaurant & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(123)

££££Price: Moderate

• American • Center City

Booked 26 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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
Mark
Philadelphia County •12 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
The food and service were excellent. In addition, there was a piano player who provided a nice musical background
More info
Bistro RomanoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Society Hill
•
4.8
N
NicoleVIP
Philadelphia County •13 reviews
4.0
Dined 6 days ago
This is a good restaurant. The service was great and the food was even better. I didn't know it was a BYOB but it didn't matter. The pork buns were the best! My only complaint is feeling the cold air when the door was opened, which happened a lot due to so many pick u orders. Other than that, definitely was a good time.
More info
Tomo Sushi & RamenPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Old City
•
4.8
OT
OpenTable Diner
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Excellent selection of fine fish, expertly executed to the delight of my fellow diners by our personal chef Andy! The table service was spot on, pleasant, knowledgeable and attentive. We will be back, the fish was simply delicious and perfectly prepared. Best
More info
Ogawa Sushi & Kappo OmakasePrice: Very Expensive• Sushi• Old City
•
4.8
J
JackVIP
Philadelphia County •131 reviews
4.0
Dined on 28 Feb 2025
An up-scale bar with better than average food & great cocktails. As other writers have said, get the brussels sprouts!
More info
Revolution HousePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Old City
•
4.5
F
Felipe
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined on 21 Feb 2025
My family and I really enjoyed this place. We seated upstairs (mezzanine) and the table was super comfortable and clean. The menu was nice, and we really liked the Tavern Burger. I truly recommend this place.
More info
Red Owl TavernPrice: Expensive• American• Old City
•
4.6

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