Philadelphia has long been a favourite destination for foodies, its celebrated restaurant scene is a draw for visitors from around the world, there’s something to excite every palate.
NEW RESTAURANTS
New this month is late night venue Frame, located in Old City. Blending art, history, and culture through American fusion cuisine and imaginative cocktails.
Fishtown is home to LMNO, the newest opening by mega restaurateur Stephen Starr. On the menu at this Baja-Mexican ceviches, aguachiles, and an extensive list of agave spirits and cocktails. The vibrant space features a garden room, outdoor patio, listening lounge, and a bookshop that doubles as a private dining area, a main dining room with a live- fire grill.
November 2021 saw the opening of Philadelphia’s newest vegan restaurant Primary Plant Based. Once a pop-up, this all-vegan concept in Fishtown serving seasonal dishes made with only local ingredients.
One definitely not for vegans is Ember and Ash, a “snout-to-root” restaurant which works with local farms dedicated to minimizing their carbon footprint, showcasing the best ingredients the region has to offer.
COMING SOON
Currently under construction, Liberty Point made its spring debut on the Philadelphia waterfront and will become the city’s largest restaurant. The 28,000 square foot venue adjacent to and wrapped around the waterfront side of the Independence Seaport Museum.
The Cauldron Philadelphia is set to open this month in Midtown Village. Inspired by popular fantasy tales makes a great pit stop after a visit to the new Harry Potter exhibition at the Franklin Institute. Guests become witches and wizards by participating in an interactive Potion Making experience complete with robes and working magic wands as they concoct their very own cocktails.
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OLD FAVOURITES
Reading Terminal Market is one of the largest and oldest public markets in the U.S. and was voted the Best Public Market in the nation by USA Today. Housing more than 80 independent merchants, including 26 restaurants, it is a must-see for foodies looking to sample a taste of Philadelphia.
Mayfair Diner is a 24-hour diner which opened in Northeast Philly back in 1932. It remains a pure 1950s-era throwback for chicken croquettes, creamed chipped beef, and thick slices of pie.
McGillin’s Olde Ale House claims to be the oldest continuously operating tavern in Philadelphia, having opened its doors on narrow Drury Street in 1860.
PHILLY FOOD STAPLES
(photocredit: PHLCVB)
Cheesesteaks: This iconic sandwich is a must-try when in the city. Popular cheesesteak shops include Pat’s, Geno’s, Jim’s and Campo’s Roast Pork Sandwiches: For another Philly favourite, head to DiNic’s in the Reading Terminal Market which has been dubbed the “Best Sandwich in America.”
Hoagies: A regional concoction these are a large sandwich packed with salad and cold cooked meats. The spiritual home of the hoagie, is South Philly’s Antonio’s Deli.
Soft Pretzels: The ultimate comfort food and available throughout the city.
Scrapple: A Pennsylvania classic since 1863, this hybrid meatloaf-sausage is typically fried and is a breakfast staple. The famous Dutch Eating Place is the standard for classic scrapple, and highly recommended are the scrapple fries at the DownHome Diner