The 10 Best Restaurants In Old City Philadelphia

Old City Philadelphia has a lot to offer: bountiful history, a beautiful waterfront, gorgeous parks, and many delicious restaurants. Read ahead for our guide to the best of the best in Old City’s dining scene.

Fork

Market, Restaurant, American

Fork should be on everyone’s list of places to dine. The restaurant features a gorgeous open kitchen and a classy, intimate setting that is great for small family events or lunchtime business meetings. All the food is artistically arranged, from the handmade squid-ink pasta to the Branzino ‘En Croute’.

Zahav

Restaurant, Israeli

As you enter Zahav, you are instantly welcomed by the sights and smells of old Jerusalem. The restaurant brings a modern urban twist to traditional Israeli cuisine, from the hummus served with their Laffa bread to the Lamb Merguez.

Cuba Libre

Cuba Libre introduces guests to Old Havana and Cuban heritage through their extensive indoor décor and food. The nenu has a wide variety of Latin food, from the classic Cubano to the more complex Paella. For those with a passion for nightlife and Latin dancing, Cuba Libre stays open Friday and Saturday after dinner hours with a DJ spinning salsa, merengue and bachata.
10 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19106 +1 (215) 627-0666

Amada

Amada features a menu of authentic Andalusia Tapas, as well as extensive selection of Spanish wines for perfect pairings. The restaurant is comprised of an open kitchen, dining room and a lounge area, as well as outdoor seating during warmer months, covering all the seating preferences any patron might be looking for.
217-219 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106 +1 (215) 625-2450

FARMiCiA

Restaurant, Vegetarian, Vegan, American

Offering local, organic food from artisanal producers, Farmicia is a farm to table restaurant that specializes in healthy cuisine. In addition to the meat entrees, the menu features a substantial vegetarian and vegan list, with entrees such as Capelline & Sauteéd Tofu and Lemon & Artichoke Risotto Croquettes.

City Tavern

Located in the heart of historic Philadelphia, City Tavern lets you travel back in time with its colonial garb and décor. The City Tavern also offers four historic beers brewed by local Yards Brewing Co, which are inspired by the Founding Fathers.
138 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106 +1 (215) 413-1443

Buddakan

Restaurant, Asian

Within sight of the historic Carpenter’s Hall is Buddakan. A few things that make Buddakan stand out are the faces that adorn the each of the white seats and the giant statue of Buddha that sits above the communal table. Patrons can either enjoy their meal at that communal table, or at one of the private tables along the sides.

Continental

Diner, Market, Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Gluten-free

The façade at Continental is reminiscent of an old fashioned diner, but look carefully to spot the modern twists, like the sleek brown booths and the barstools decorated with olive cushions. One thing to note is the olive and toothpick light fixtures that you certainly won’t see anywhere else. The Continental is trendy and retro and offers a menu featuring everything from udon noodle soup to crab pad thai to cheesesteak eggrolls.

The Plough & the Stars

The Plough & Stars is a traditional Irish Pub with great food and live music every Sunday. During the warmer months, the restaurant has beautiful outdoor seating, complete with colorful flowers in the center of the table and umbrellas to block the sun. Guests can enjoy a pint of beer or glass of wine with the classic fish and chips, or try the heart healthy fish wrap.
123 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106 +1 (215) 733-0300

The Gaslight

The Gaslight is a newer addition to the many long-standing restaurants of Old City Philadelphia. The menu is comprised of seasonal and local ingredients, and offers items such as foie gras torchon, pulled lamb sandwich or potato gnocchi. Despite the complexities of some menu items, the atmosphere of The Gaslight is casual and relaxed.
120 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 +1 (215) 925-7691

About the author

Riley Londres

Riley is a recent graduate from the George Washington University with a major in Anthropology and a minor in Communication, and currently lives outside Philadelphia. An aspiring travel writer and editor, she has a passion for learning about cultures and loves food, rock climbing and cycling.