Restaurants and Bars

If every museum, business, historic site and theater in town burned down overnight, you could still have a terrific trip to Philadelphia simply by eating.

Rittenhouse Square

Many of the high-end restaurants are grouped along Walnut Street between Broad Street and Rittenhouse Square and are located in the Old City district around 2nd and Market. Everything is available here, starting with an extraordinary number of Italian and Asian restaurants. Philadelphia was also an early center for American nouvelle cuisine and this has developed into a heritage the locals take for granted. One good option for the more exotic cuisines is Amara Cafe, a small, modest Thai restaurant that is a neighborhood favorite. The Saffron Cafe is a homey, internationally influenced cafe that is sure to please everyone. For a little taste of the islands, Roy Yamaguchi's Roy's cooks up all the flavors of Hawaii. For a real, down home Philly joint, try the delightfully gritty Little Pete's. Finally, if you're more in the mood for something a bit more European, the Brasserie Perrier is the place for you.

South Philly

For a classic Philly Cheesesteak, two different places in the Italian Market stay open all night to supply the crowds. For some more casual food, the family owned Cosmo's Deli is a crowd pleaser for all kinds of Italian deli items. For something a bit more upscale, but that won't break the bank, stop in to Gayle Restaurant. Moving south of the border, Cantina El Caballito is sure to please with all your favorite Mexican specialties.

Chinatown

Chinatown is a haven for those visitors who are in the mood for a taste of Asian cuisines. The grand and elegant Ocean Harbor serves specialties from all over China, while vegetarians can delight in the meat-free fare at Harmony Vegetarian Restaurant. Although called “Chinatown,” there is more than just Chinese food on offer here; the Palace at the Ben offers spicy and rich Indian cuisine, Penang serves up in-demand Malaysian cuisine. Leaving the Asian continent altogether, Johnny Brenda's offers Mediterranean food in a lively, bar-like atmosphere.

Society Hill

The charming Society Hill neighborhood features many quality restaurants, ranging from fancy to cozy and casual. Bistro Romano is an elegant restaurant featuring delectable European specialties. For a more casual option, the South Street Diner is a late night favorite featuring everything you would expect from a traditional diner, as well as a variety of Greek specialties, while another late night eatery, Hello Cafe serves up satisfying Chinese dishes. Italian food is not lacking in this neighborhood with Sfizzio and the Monte Carlo Living Room, one of the area's most popular restaurants.