Take it from Us

Not a lot needs to be said here. First time Philly visitors should go in and get lost among the dozens and dozens of merchants. Just don’t leave without stopping by Termini Bros. for fresh pignoli, almond horns, sfogliatelle and cannoli. Last but not least, prioritize a roast pork with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone from DiNic’s before any cheesesteak.

John calls this ‘perfect pizza’ and its a fun place to eat it. Great for a group with a reservation or a duo walk-in (bar is first come first serve). If they have the late summer corn tomato pizza, order it. You should probably also try the tomato pie. You should definitely finish the night with espresso soft serve.

Long before the only way to have a nice meal in a city was outside, regardless of the weather, sidewalk dining was Parc’s calling card. You may pay a premium for the people watching from your table across from Rittenhouse Square, but the well-executed French bistro classics make it alright.

Founded in Philadelphia in 1994, La Colombe’s first location was in Rittenhouse Square. But its flagship location is this giant refurbished Fishtown warehouse that is part cafe, part distillery, part bakery and part bar. It also features a mural from one of John’s favorite artists, Philadelphia native Steve Powers.

Small, vibe-y spot on a quiet corner in Fitler Square serving sourdough pizzas and small plates. Large wine selection (especially natural wines) and a wine shop on site.

We’ve never had a bad meal at this French pub in Bella Vista. Order from the weekly specials on the chalkboard or just do the escargots, steak frites, and a glass of wine. You won’t be disappointed. If its more that glass of wine you’re into, check out their second floor wine bar, Le Caveau.

This Lebanese restaurant, cafe, market and garden in Fishtown was the site of one of Rach and John’s early dates. He was very late but was able to talk his way out of it over some freshly baked pita, mezze, sumac fries and kebabs. Even if you don’t sit for a meal here, the pastries at the coffee bar are worth a stop.

Located in the Motto by Hilton hotel 5 blocks from The Logan, Condesa has a full menu of modern takes on Mexican food. For a livelier atmosphere, head to El Techo, the taqueria on the roof where the roof retracts for great views of the city.

Someone might have told you if you’re going to Philadelphia you need to eat a cheesesteak. Probably not the case, but if you do, do it here. The hoagies and pizzas are also phenomenal and the whole chaos of it all - cash only, non-stop ringing phone, neighborhood characters around the shop just…because…only adds to its charm.

No syrups here. Just natural fruit and fruit juice that makes for delicious water ice. On a hot summer night, standing in line, paying in cash and being refreshed by some John’s feels like it could be occurring in any decade since they opened in 1945. Make sure to check the white board behind the counter for special flavors.

Chef Cristina Martinez is somewhat of a folk-hero in Philly and her award-winning and nationally-recognized taqueria in the Italian Market serves lamb barbacoa tacos with agua frescas that you’ll want to wait in line for all over again. Cash only. Open Saturday and Sunday only 5 a.m. until they sell out in the afternoon.

Can’t get a spot at Philly institution Zahav or the Cook N Solo restaurant empires newest hot shot, Laserwolf? Don’t overlook their casual spots like Dizengoff for flavored hummus platters; Goldie for falafel, fries and tehina shakes; Merkaz for pita sandwiches; and K’Far for Jerusalem bagel breakfast sandwiches and speciality pastries.

This restaurant on North Broad Street is helmed by a James Beard Award winning chef and is a great place to get some wine, pizza and family-style pastas. The patio is one of our favorite rooms to eat a meal in Philly, especially when the string lights and candles light it when the sun goes down.

This Fishtown deli and market might not carry the cachet of some long-established places, but for my money they serve the best Italian hoagie in the city. Another, the Mortadelphia (mortadella, burrata, broccoli rabe pesto, artichokes, arugula and Calabrian chili oil) was a COVID creation that become a menu staple and instant classic.

Think of the fluffiest eggs you’ve ever had. Now think twice as fluffy. Add a potato roll, Cooper sharp American cheese and a breakfast meat and you’ve got the stuff Philly breakfast legends are made of. Alternatively, grab one of their sandwiches like the Surfer or the So Long Sal, a soda and some chips for a Rittenhouse picnic. Don’t forget napkins.

A favorite destination on summer walks in Fishtown, this small-batch creamery first gained popularity for its ice cream sandwiches. Now they continue to serve up unique sandwiches in addition to scoops, cones and pints from shops in Fishtown and West Philly.