21 Insanely Unique Restaurants in Philadelphia You Have to Try

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Planning a trip to Philadelphia? Having explored Philly’s food scene firsthand and visited over 65 countries, I can say this city is a hidden gem for food lovers. From iconic cheesesteak spots in South Philly to rooftop bars with views of the historic skyline, Philly’s dining options are as exciting as they are diverse.

With its rich American heritage and ever-evolving food culture, you’ll find everything from classic hoagies to inventive dishes blending international flavors with local twists. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual pub crawl through Fishtown or a chic dinner overlooking City Hall, these twelve restaurants showcase the best of Philly’s unique food scene. Let’s dive into the most fun and memorable spots this city has to offer!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this Flavors of Philly Food Tour. They bring you to the five amazing eateries in the heart of the city where you can try Philly cheesesteaks, tomato pies, soft pretzels, and more. This tour is an absolute must-do on any Philadelphia itinerary in my opinion.

Unique Restaurants in Philadelphia: 21 Incredible Philadelphia Eateries

The beauty of Pennsylvania is definitely evident in its food. Philadelphia is not just about the famous cheesesteak; it’s a city where every corner offers a new taste. At the heart of Philadelphia, unique restaurants offer everything from cozy Italian trattorias to bustling Asian street food markets. Let’s take a stroll through these diverse culinary landscapes, where history and innovation meet on your plate!

1. The Olde Bar

• 📍 Location: Old City
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $70 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic Oyster Bar / Contemporary American Seafood
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic Old Original Bookbinder’s building, classic seafood preparations, raw bar, sophisticated cocktails, grand ambiance.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Oyster lovers, seafood connoisseurs, experiencing Philadelphia history, upscale happy hour, and classic cocktails.

Step into a piece of Philadelphia history at The Olde Bar, located in the iconic former Old Original Bookbinder’s space. This grand oyster bar and cocktail lounge exudes old-world charm with a contemporary polish, perfect for savoring fresh seafood and classic drinks.

Shucking a dozen fresh oysters from their extensive raw bar is a great start. Their classic snapper soup or a perfectly made shrimp cocktail also pay homage to the building’s legacy. The elegant atmosphere makes it ideal for a sophisticated bite.

2. Suraya Restaurant

Suraya is that restaurant you walk into and think, “Am I still in Philly?” This massive Fishtown stunner transports you straight to the Levant with lush gardens, hanging lanterns, and a cozy fireplace inside for chill nights. The mezze platter is ridiculously generous, but don’t even think about skipping the smoky, creamy muhammara or the legendary lamb kofta skewers. Their brunch is next-level, especially if you snag a seat in the sun-soaked back garden. Pro tip: Reservations fill up quickly, so book early. After dinner, you can wander up Frankford Avenue to check out some seriously cool indie shops and bars. One meal here and you’ll be plotting your return before dessert.

3. Talula’s Garden

• 📍 Location: Washington Square West
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $90+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Farm-to-Table American / Upscale Garden Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Garden patio ambiance, seasonal/local ingredients, elegant cheese boards, refined atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Upscale outdoor dining, romantic dates, special occasions.

Dine in an enchanting urban oasis at Talula’s Garden! This Washington Square West gem boasts one of Philly’s most beautiful garden patios, offering a serene backdrop for exquisite farm-to-Table cuisine. Where city dining meets garden party perfection!

The menu celebrates seasonality with beautifully presented dishes. Starting with one of their renowned artisanal cheese boards, featuring local and imported selections, is a must. Savor elegant entrees like pan-seared scallops with seasonal accompaniments, or their house-made pasta dishes.

4. Her Place Supper Club

Her Place Supper Club flips the script on dining out. Run by chef Amanda Shulman, this spot feels more like an underground dinner party than a formal restaurant – expect everyone to chat like old friends by the end. The handwritten menu changes every night, but the sourdough bread with smoked butter is a mainstay and instantly addicting. Plates are served family-style, and you’re as likely to try hand-rolled pasta as you are a stunning seafood moment. The quirky, living-room vibe (think mismatched china and cozy lighting) is unmatched. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a mini cooking demo. Tip: The experience is ticketed, so snag your spot the day they’re released. You’re a few minutes’ walk from Rittenhouse Square when you’re done, a perfect spot to decompress after such a unique meal.

5. Royal Sushi and Izakaya

• 📍 Location: Queen Village
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60+ per person (Izakaya); Omakase higher.
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Japanese Sushi & Izakaya (Pub Fare)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Lively front izakaya room, high-end omakase sushi counter (reservations needed!), creative Japanese pub food/sushi, sake selection.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Sushi connoisseurs, Japanese izakaya seekers, omakase experiences, fun group dinners.

Get your Japanese fix, two ways, at Royal Sushi and Izakaya! The front room buzzes with the energy of a true izakaya, serving delicious Japanese pub fare and creative sushi. Behind a curtain lies an intimate counter for a high-end Omakase experience.

In the izakaya, share flavourful small plates like crispy chicken karaage. Inventive sushi rolls, like the “Royal Roll”, or classic tuna tataki are also fantastic. Or, book ahead for the omakase and let the chef guide you through pristine fish.

6. Friday Saturday Sunday

This tiny Rittenhouse gem is hands-down one of the hardest tickets in town – and totally worth the effort. The multi-course tasting menu is legendary for a reason. Think imaginative takes like scallop topped with brown butter dashi or a duck dish that’ll have you rethinking everything you know about duck. The candlelit, two-floor townhouse has a secret-supper-club feel, with an open kitchen that keeps things interactive and vibrant. The wine list is a sommelier dream. Tip: If you can’t grab a reservation, the upstairs bar is first-come, first-served and serves up killer cocktails. Rittenhouse Square is right around the corner if you want a post-meal stroll. I still daydream about their desserts.

7. Angelo’s Pizzeria South Philly

• 📍 Location: South Philadelphia (9th Street Italian Market area)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic Italian-American Pizzeria & Sandwiches
• 🔥 Standout Features: Legendary South Philly institution, incredible pizzas (round and square), massive cheesesteaks and hoagies, often long lines, cash only.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Pizza purists, cheesesteak aficionados, experiencing authentic South Philly, patient diners seeking legendary eats, and hearty Italian-American cravings.

Prepare for a South Philly pilgrimage to Angelo’s Pizzeria South Philly, a legendary spot famed for its incredible pizzas and sandwiches. This no-frills, cash-only joint commands long lines for a reason – the food is just that good. It’s pure, unadulterated Philly flavor.

You should definitely try their classic round pizza with a perfect crust or a thick, cheesy square pizza (grandma style). Their massive cheesesteaks on seeded rolls or authentic Italian hoagies are also iconic. Angelo’s is a true taste of South Philly tradition.

8. Kalaya

Kalaya is nothing short of a love letter to southern Thai food. Chef Nok Suntaranon’s bold, fiery curries and show-stopping salads fired up Philly’s dining scene the moment they landed in their huge new Fishtown home. Start with the shrimp and pork dumplings – those things are swoon-worthy. Move straight to the gaeng massaman curry if you crave something rich and deeply aromatic. The dining room pops with colorful, almost tropical energy and long communal tables create an easy-going, vacation-meets-house-party vibe. Book ahead, and don’t be afraid to ask for the heat level you really want. Walk off your meal with a lap around the bustling Riverwards Produce Market nearby. I’ve honestly spent weeks thinking about those dumplings alone.

9. Craft Hall

• 📍 Location: Northern Liberties
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American BBQ & Brewpub Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Massive beer hall/brewery, indoor playground for kids, onsite BBQ smoker, dog-friendly patio, games area.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families with kids, large groups, craft beer drinkers, BBQ lovers.

Bring the whole crew to Craft Hall! This enormous Northern Liberties spot is part brewery, part BBQ joint, and part indoor playground, offering something for everyone. Let the kids loose on the pirate ship playground while you sample beers brewed onsite.

Dig into hearty platters of authentic smoked BBQ brisket or pulled pork. Satisfying pub fare like their loaded nachos or juicy burgers are also great choices. With ample space and activities, Craft Hall is a fantastic destination for relaxed family fun.

10. Irwin’s

Hidden on the eighth floor of a converted school in South Philly, Irwin’s brings Sicilian soul and a roaring rooftop view together in delicious harmony. Their pasta is house-made and devotion-worthy – especially the smoked ricotta gnocchi with mushroom ragù. Order a negroni and let yourself soak in the twinkling skyline as the sun goes down. Inside, the space strikes the perfect balance between quirky (vintage school touches, lush plants) and chic (glowy lighting, velvet booths). Hot tip: Nabbing a res close to sunset is unbeatable in the summer. You’re steps from Bok Bar and the rest of the cool Bok building spaces if you’re in the mood to explore. Sitting up there with a bowl of pasta and all of Philly glittering below is just unreal.

11. The Victor Cafe

• 📍 Location: South Philly
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $75 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic Italian-American / Opera Dinner
• 🔥 Standout Features: Opera-singing waitstaff, historic South Philly setting, classic Italian-American dishes, live performances.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Opera lovers, unique dinner entertainment, classic Italian cravings, special occasions.

Experience pasta paired with powerful pipes at The Victor Cafe! This historic South Philly institution delivers classic Italian-American fare served by talented opera singers who burst into song throughout your meal. Your spaghetti comes with a soprano!

Enjoy comforting Italian-American staples. Hearty veal parmigiana is a popular choice. Traditional spaghetti and meatballs, or a classic lasagna Bolognese, are also fantastic while the servers deliver stunning arias. The atmosphere is warm and filled with music.

13. Tattooed Mom

• 📍 Location: South Street
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic Bar Food / Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Funk decor, bumper car seating, craft beer/cocktail selection, vegetarian/vegan options.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Quirky bar explorers, casual eats, South Street adventures, vegetarian/vegan diners.

Get weird and wonderful on South Street at Tattooed Mom! This legendary bar is an explosion of quirky decor, sticker-covered walls, and even bumper car seats upstairs. It’s where comfort food meets pure creative chaos! Embrace the delightful weirdness!

Grab a seat amidst the funky art and order surprisingly delicious bar grub. Their vegan fried mozzarella sticks are a hit. Creative tater tots with various toppings, or their unique pierogi quesadilla, are also great. Their craft beer and cocktail list is solid.

14. South Philly Barbacoa

South Philly Barbacoa is as authentic as it gets. Cristina Martinez serves up legendary lamb barbacoa, slow-cooked overnight and assembled into warm, pillowy tortillas that rival anything found in Mexico City. Don’t overlook the consommé to dip your tacos in – total game-changer. The space is small, vibrant, and always full of folks who know good food. Expect a wildly friendly atmosphere with colorful art, papel picado garlands, and big communal tables. Helpful hint: Get there early, and bring cash. The line is part of the experience. Grab a Mexican Coke and stroll to Pat’s and Geno’s at the end of the block if you want to compare Philly icons (hint: Barbacoa wins). I’d honestly eat here every weekend if I could.

15. Harp & Crown

• 📍 Location: Rittenhouse Square
• 💲 Price range: $60 – $100 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: New American / Upscale / Cocktail Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Hidden bowling alley in the basement, glamorous industrial decor, raw bar, creative cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Fun group nights, impressive dates, and fans of hidden gems.

This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a stunning, two-story playground for adults. Harp & Crown is a massive, glamorous space with industrial-chic bones and sparkling chandeliers. The place hums with a cool, sophisticated energy, a mix of clinking glasses from the raw bar and the distant, muffled sound of a bowling ball hitting pins from the secret alley below.

The food is as polished as the decor. You can’t go wrong with their delicious wood-fired pizzas or a dozen fresh oysters from the raw bar. For a heartier meal, the juicy H&C Burger is a total winner. But the real mission is to grab one of their killer cocktails and head downstairs to the hidden, two-lane bowling alley for a game. Magical drinks are tapped from fantastical creatures. It’s an immersive, hands-on experience.

16. Wilder

If you want a spot that oozes romance but doesn’t take itself too seriously, Wilder is it. The two-story space is lush with velvet banquettes, floral wallpaper, and a softly lit cocktail bar you’ll definitely want to linger at. Their wood-fired pizzas are the best kind of chewy-charred, especially the hot honey and soppressata combo. Plus, there’s a raw bar with daily crudo that’s always impeccably fresh. This is the place to bring a date who likes to share – everything begs to be sampled. After dinner, stroll to the Avenue of the Arts to catch a show. Personal recommendation: Don’t sleep on their desserts, especially the olive oil cake with citrus. I left grinning and plotting my next excuse to come back.

17. Marrakesh

• 📍 Location: South Street Area
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $50 per person (Set Menu Feast)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional Moroccan Feast
• 🔥 Standout Features: Traditional Moroccan menu, exotic decor, communal dining feel, BYOB option.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Experiencing a Moroccan feast and group dinners.

Embark on a flavourful journey to North Africa at Marrakesh! This long-standing Philly favorite offers a traditional multi-course Moroccan feast served in an exotic, transportive atmosphere. Get ready to share, savor, and be amazed! Your magic carpet to Morocco awaits!

Prepare for a parade of dishes. Start with salads and savory B’stilla (flaky chicken pie). Move onto aromatic tagines, like lamb with prunes or chicken with olives, and fluffy couscous. End with mint tea and pastries. It’s designed for sharing.

18. Little Nonna’s

This cozy Midtown Village trattoria is Italian grandma vibes dialed up to eleven. Think twinkly lights, red-checkered tablecloths, and (if the weather’s right) an enchanting little patio that feels like a secret garden. Their Sunday gravy is the ultimate comfort dish – a slow-braised meaty masterpiece – and the ricotta gnocchi is as fluffy as it gets. Save room for the chocolate-dipped cannoli. Staff are warm and welcoming, always quick with a recommendation or a story about the menu. Pro tip: Come early or late for dinner to avoid the biggest crowds, especially on weekends. You’re a stone’s throw from Reading Terminal Market if you want to make a day of it. I can’t count how many friends I’ve brought here, and every one of them has left a convert.

19. Moshulu

• 📍 Location: Penn’s Landing (Delaware River Waterfront)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $90+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale American Seafood & Steaks
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic ship dining, waterfront/city views, multiple decks/bars, upscale dining.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Special occasions, seafood lovers, romantic drinks with a view.

All aboard the historic Moshulu for dinner on the Delaware River! This magnificent tall ship, permanently docked at Penn’s Landing, offers upscale dining with unparalleled waterfront and city skyline views. Ship happens, and it’s delicious! Enjoy drinks on the deck.

The menu features contemporary American cuisine. Think elegant crab cakes with minimal filler. Perfectly cooked filet mignon with truffle butter, or fresh raw bar selections like oysters and shrimp cocktail, are also excellent. Dining on the Moshulu is uniquely Philadelphian.

20. Reading Terminal Market

• 📍 Location: Center City (Near Convention Center)
• 💲 Price range: $5 – $25+ per person (Varies wildly by vendor)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Food Hall (Local/International Cuisine)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic public market, huge variety (local/global), bustling atmosphere
• 🎯 Perfect For: Foodies wanting choice, iconic Philly eats (DiNic’s!), casual lunches, experiencing local markets.

Prepare for glorious food overload at Reading Terminal Market! This historic, bustling indoor market is a Philly institution, packed with dozens of vendors serving everything from local specialties to global cuisine. Come hungry, leave happy! Your taste buds won’t know what hit ’em!

Trying iconic Philly bites here is a must, like the legendary roast pork sandwich from DiNic’s. A classic cheesesteak from Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies & Cheesesteaks, or delicious donuts from Beiler’s, are also essential. The options are endless.

21. Libertee Grounds

• 📍 Location: Francisville / Fairmount Area
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person (Food/Drinks); Mini golf extra.
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Pan-Asian Gastropub Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Philly-themed mini golf course, extensive craft beers, creative Pan-Asian pub food, lively atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Mini golf players, craft beer drinkers, fun group outings, unique date nights, enjoying Pan-Asian pub grub.

Putt loose and grab a brew at Libertee Grounds! This fun spot combines a Philly-themed indoor mini golf course with a fantastic gastropub serving creative Pan-Asian fare and a huge selection of craft beers. It’s tee time meets tasty time!

Challenge friends to 9 holes, then celebrate with inventive dishes. Their cheesesteak bao buns are a hit. Flavourful Korean fried chicken wings or the savory pork belly sliders are also great. Explore the extensive, locally focused craft beer list.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Unique Places To Eat In Philadelphia

Looking for answers about unique restaurants in Philadelphia? Our Philadelphia restaurant guide has you covered with all the tasty details you need to know.

What is famous to eat in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia shines with its iconic cheesesteak, a must-try for anyone visiting. But that’s not all. The city’s food scene is a treasure chest, with unique restaurants in Philadelphia offering everything from the zesty snap of soft pretzels to the sweet chill of water ice. Each place adds its own special touch to these beloved Philly classics, making every bite a new discovery.

How much does it cost to eat in Philadelphia?

Eating out in Philly can fit any budget. You can enjoy a hearty cheesesteak or a fresh hoagie for just a few dollars. If you’re looking to splurge, there are upscale spots where the flavors are as rich as the history. Many unique restaurants in Philadelphia balance cost and quality beautifully, serving up memorable meals that won’t empty your wallet.

Can you find international cuisine in Philadelphia?

Yes, and it’s like a world tour for your palate. The city’s culinary landscape is dotted with eateries that bring the flavors of the world to your plate. You can savor handmade pasta in a cozy Italian trattoria, spice up your day with Thai curries, or enjoy a feast at an Ethiopian restaurant, sharing dishes in a communal tradition.

Are there vegetarian options at these unique restaurants?

Philadelphia’s dining scene is full of pleasant surprises for vegetarians. Many chefs in the city’s unique restaurants get creative with veggies, turning them into star dishes. From gourmet meat-free burgers to inventive salads and hearty grain bowls, there’s no shortage of options that deliver big on both taste and nutrition.

What makes a restaurant unique in Philadelphia?

A unique restaurant in Philadelphia stands out with something you won’t find just anywhere. It could be a secret garden that feels like an oasis in the city, a historic spot where every meal is a step back in time, or a quirky joint where local art fills the walls. These places create memorable moments that make your meal about more than just the food.

Is it necessary to make reservations at Philadelphia’s unique restaurants?

For some of the city’s hotspots, yes, reservations are a good idea. They ensure you get a seat without a long wait. But part of Philly’s charm is in its spontaneity. Many eateries welcome guests on a whim, and sometimes those unplanned meals are the ones you remember the most.

What are some fun places for kids to eat in Philadelphia?

Kids will find lots of fun on the menu in Philly. Imagine a diner where toy trains deliver your food, or a pizzeria where kids can watch the pizza toss. There are even places with games and puzzles to keep the little ones busy. These family-friendly spots know that a meal out can be playtime, too.

Are there unique restaurants in Philadelphia suitable for a romantic date?

Romance is always on the menu at many of Philadelphia’s eateries. Picture a cozy table in a dimly lit corner, a view of the river as the sun sets, or a garden where the flowers are almost as lovely as your date. These restaurants know that a romantic meal is about the mood as much as the food, offering intimate spaces where love can bloom over a shared dessert.

Final Thoughts On Unique Philadelphia Restaurants

Embarking on a culinary journey through Philadelphia means more than just filling your stomach. It’s about the stories that unfold at the dinner table, the laughter that echoes in a cozy booth, and the memories that are made with every bite. The unique restaurants in Philadelphia are experiences waiting to be savored, each with its own flavor and flair.

So, next time you wander the streets of Philadelphia, let your curiosity guide you to one of these special spots. You’ll find more than just a meal—you’ll discover a piece of Philadelphia’s soul served up on a platter. And who knows? You might just leave with a new favorite and a story to tell about the time you spent at one of Philadelphia’s unique tables.