Philadelphia—Philly, Cradle of America, City of Brotherly Love (and Sisterly Affection) … no matter what you call it, Pennsylvania’s largest city has played a key role in American history. From the First Continental Congress to Rocky jogging up the Art Museum steps, this is a city dripping with history, charm and interest. That’s why we’ve put together the Sonnhalter Insider’s Guide to Philadelphia to help you find the best this great city has to offer.

We’ve asked some of our Philly friends for their recommendations on the best , nightlife and the out- of-the-way places only locals know about. Because sure, you want to decide for yourself who has the best cheesesteak, but this city has so much more to offer.

A quick note – true to its founding as the “City of Quakers,” Philly has sometimes odd liquor laws, resulting in over 300 “BYO” restaurants where the drinks are on you (to bring with you). So make sure to check ahead before you go.

Insider’s Guide to PHILADELPHIA

City Center/Historic Downtown

Amada El Vez Mac Mart Contemporary Spanish Mexican Mac’n Cheesery (215) 625-2450 (215) 928-9800 (215) 444-6144 www.philadelphia.amadarestaurant.com www.elvezrestaurant.com www.macmartcart.com Modern versions of Tapas and a contempo- A perennial “Best Of” winner, not just for Top your own Mac and Cheese at this truly rary Spanish mix with warm décor and an Mexican , but for its atmosphere, original fast-casual spot. excellent wine list in Iron Jose Garces’ décor, energy and drink menu. restaurant. Morimoto Fork Japanese Campo’s / Sonny’s American (215) 413-9070 Cheesesteak (215) 625-9425 www.morimotorestaurant.com (215) 923-1000 / (215) 629-5760 www.forkrestaurant.com Renowned chef Masaharu Morimoto’s flag- www.camposdeli.com Sleek and modern décor and takes on clas- ship restaurant pulls from traditional Japa- www.sonnyscheesesteaks.com sic . Famed for its service nese influences and modern techniques to One of Philly’s rites of passage is declaring a and brunch. create some of the best cuisine in the world. side on the Best Cheesesteak argument and far be it from us to pick a winner. These two locations go head-to-head in the “new guys Khyber Pass Oyster House on the block” category. Pub & BBQ Seafood (215) 238-5888 (215) 567-7683 Dim Sum Garden www.khyberpasspub.com www.oysterhousephilly.com Chinese A cozy spot where a dive-bar exterior hides New England-style seafood, served family- (215) 873-0258 some of the best southern-style favorites and style with only the freshest selections, has BBQ in the city, and a vast beer selection. made this stylish eatery a success for over www.dimsumgardenphilly.com 40 years. Authentic dumplings and other Chinese fare in the heart of the downtown China- Kisso Sushi Bar town area. Cash-only, but more than worth Sushi Penang the trip. (215) 922-1770 Malaysian www.facebook.com/KISSOSUSHIPHL (215) 413-2531 Known for its intimate atmosphere and www.penangphilly.com/ presentation, this sushi and sashimi spot is a Award-winning Malaysian food served in a favorite of locals. unique industrial space. City Center/Historic Downtown (cont’d)

Reading Terminal Market Talula’s Garden Verti Cucina Indoor Farmer’s Market American Italian (215) 922-2317 (215) 592-7787 (215) 732-3478 www.readingterminalmarket.org www.talulasgarden.com www.vetricucina.com Since 1893, this market has served the tastes Seasonal American food inspired by local Prix fixe dinners, private dining, classes and of Philadelphia natives, immigrants and tour- farms and gardens. A “foodie” destination more. For 20 years, this townhouse-based ists. Truly something for everyone. that embodies the farm-to-table ethic. destination has brought Philly the best in Italian food.

Sang Kee Peking Duck House Tinto Cantonese Spanish Wine Bar Zahav (215) 925-7532 (215) 665-9150 Israeli www.sangkeechinatown.com www.philadelphia.tintorestaurant.com (215) 625-8800 The unofficial heart of Philly’s Chinatown Tapas and an extensive wine list heavy on the www.zahavrestaurant.com district for more than 35 years, this cash-only Basque region all immaculately served in a Ever-changing small plates made with spot brings the traditional flavors of Hong rustic wine cellar atmosphere. deceptively simple modern techniques Kong to life. transform this traditional Israeli menu into a true experience. South Street Souvlaki Greek (215) 925-3029 www.southstreetsouvlaki.com For over 40 years, this spot has offered the best of homemade Greek in a friendly, warm, inviting space. Opa!

East Passyunk

Bing Bing Dim Sum Laurel Noir Chinese French Italian (215) 279-7702 (215) 271-8299 (267) 319-1678 www.bingbingdimsum.com www.restaurantlaurel.com www.noirrestaurantandbar.com/Home Not your grandfather’s dim sum. Informed With only a 22-seat dining room, and a With as much emphasis placed on the bar as by tradition, but not beholden to it, this BYOB status, an intimate experience is guar- the , this friendly, welcoming spot is a hip space adds multiple twists, includ- anteed at this modern French restaurant. great choice for a happy hour or a dinner of ing a strong Jewish deli slant, to their Italian classics given a fresh twist. dumpling offerings.

Geno’s Steaks / Pat’s Cheesesteak (215) 389-0659 / (215) 486-1546 www.genosteaks.com www.patskingofsteaks.com One of Philly’s rites of passage is declaring a side on the Best Cheesesteak argument and far be it from us to pick a winner. Both are open 24 hours, and both have more than 50 years of experience, making these cross street rivals the leaders in the “classic chees- esteak experience” category. Fishtown

Helm Pizzeria Beddia Wm. Mulherin’s Sons New American Pizza Italian (215) 309-2211 (215) 237-0639 (267) 314-5086 www.helmphilly.com www.pizzeriabeddia.com www.wmmulherinssons.com A blackboard menu and, like many, a BYO Reopening in late 2018 in a larger space to Housed in a former whiskey distillery, and for liquor, this small spot offers up the best accommodate the crowds that have flocked with 4 stunning boutique hotel rooms and freshest available ingredients in imagi- to this space since it was named best in the upstairs, this unique spot highlights , native ways. country in 2015. Cash only and expect to pizza and wood-fired fare. wait, but it’s a wait that’s worth it. Kensington Quarters American (267) 314-5086 www.kensingtonquarters.com Set inside a repurposed warehouse, this full service restaurant and bar features sustain- able, heritage meats and produce from local small farmers in a warm, but industrial space.

Northern Liberties

R2L Silk City Volver American Fine Dining Diner Tasting Menu (215) 564-5337 (215) 592-8838 (215) 670-2302 www.r2lrestaurant.com www.silkcityphilly.com philadelphia.volverrestaurant.com With a 37th floor location offering views Eclectic doesn’t even begin to cover it when Jose Garces brings elements of over 40 miles, the scenery is almost as it comes to Silk City. Originally a 50’s era din- from all his travels to this unique, reservation breathtaking as the food, which takes old ing car, it now features a beer garden, DJ’s only, performance tasting menu concept. Ten favorites for a creative culinary spin. and live music as well and funky décor, all of or twelve tastings, as well as a pre- which would be for nothing if the food wasn’t theater menu and a full service bar. any good, but from brunch to dinner, they make it right and delicious. Yards Brewing Brewpub (215) 525-0175 yardsbrewing.com 70,000 square feet of restaurant, brewery, event space and more. Specializing in English ales, and brewpub favorites, but with something for everyone in both categories.

Fairmount

Figs Jack’s Firehouse Trio Moroccan American Pan-Asian (215) 978-8440 (215) 232-9000 (215) 232-8746 www.figsrestaurant.com www-s.jacksfirehouse.com/Default.aspx www.triobyob.com/2016 Equally intimate and energetic, this chef- Located in a firehouse originally built in Three stories high and the collaboration be- driven neighborhood staple is known for the 19th century, this mahogany-lined tween three renowned chefs give the name bringing traditional Moroccan food to life. restaurant serves BBQ, seafood and other to this Pan-Asian restaurant. Known for its southern favorites. Drunken Noodles and other delicious dishes. Hickory Lane Bistro (215) 769-2420 www.facebook.com/HickoryLaneBistro/ International flavors and a decided Latin flair bring amazing new flavors to American Bistro favorites in this charming spot. Manayunk

Bourbon Blue Winnie’s Zesty’s New Orleans New American & Brunch Greco-Roman (215) 508-3360 (215) 487-2663 (215) 483-6226 www.bourbonblue.com www.winniesmanayunk.com www.zestys.com With canal views and a menu inspired by the A true family run restaurant, crossed with The owner was born on an island halfway Big Easy, this charming spot is a neighbor- the best practices of new American cuisine; between Italy and Greece, and his menu hood hot spot. local sourcing, fresh made and at this popular eatery reflects the passions, welcoming service. ingredients and dishes of both. Lucky’s Last Chance Gastropub (215) 509-6005 www.luckyslastchance.com Award-winning burgers and dogs, all locally made and inventively topped, with a dance hall upstairs.

Chestnut Hill

Chestnut Grill & Sidewalk Café El Poquito Paris Bistro & Jazz Café American Mexican French Bistro (215) 247-7570 (267) 766-5372 (215) 242-6200 www.chestnuthillgrill.com/Chestnut_Grill/ www.elpoquito.com www.parisbistro.net Welcome.html Inspired by the beachside cantinas of Baja Evoking the classic bistros of the Some of the best outdoor dining in the city, in both feel and flavor, this outpost of surfer 1930s, with tiled floors and rich red and great food for and dinner. A great culture in Philly offers a whimsical approach leather upholstery, as well as live jazz, place to sit back, unwind and enjoy. to food and life. makes for an experience where the décor is almost as good as the food, and both are striking. CinCin Chinese (215) 242-8800 www.cincinrestaurant.com With Mandarin classics presented with French flair, it’s no wonder that CinCin fre- quently tops the lists of best places to eat in Philadelphia. Bella Vista/Queen Village

The Good King Tavern Kanella Grill Nomad Pizza French Bistro Cypriot Pizza (215) 625-3700 (267) 928-2085 (215) 238-0900 www.thegoodkingtavern.com www.kanellarestaurant.com www.nomadpizzaco.com Communal seating and a constantly chang- Refined traditional cooking means that Wood-fired pizza at its best from this Philly ing menu featuring French Bistro favorites diners can expect the traditional Cypriot outpost of a New Jersey favorite. made with fresh, local ingredients, and a and Greek that are given an ener- wine list that ranges from farmer wines to getic twist. Save room for their in-house highly curated bottles, all come together to dessert menu. Serpico make this spot a local favorite. American (215) 925-3001 Little Fish BYO Hungry Pigeon Seafood www.serpicoonsouth.com American Brasserie (267) 455-0172 With an open kitchen facing the bar and (215) 278-2736 small dining room, Serpico offers amazing www.littlefishbyob.com combinations of ingredients, techniques www.hungrypigeon.com Ever-changing fresh seafood selections drive and taste in both its food and inventive An all-day menu where fresh baked pastries, the menu at this cozy spot. The Sunday tast- cocktail menu. and café-style and ing menu is a local favorite. give way to sharing platters and small plate dinners.

Rittenhouse Square

Barclay Prime HipCityVeg Parc Steak House Vegan French (215) 732-7560 (215) 278-7605 (215) 545-2262 www.barclayprime.com www.hipcityveg.com www.parc-restaurant.com A boutique steakhouse meant to offer a By being dedicated to creating a “new nor- Zagat says this bustling bistro “Out- modern take on convention. Meat and mal” but not allowing their philosophy to get bistro’s most Parisian Bistros.” Patio seafood of unmatched quality, prepared in the way of delicious food, this restaurant seating on Rittenhouse Square only with subtle twists, meet service with a per- achieves a perfect balance. adds to the first-rate execution of sonal touch including a curated selection of French classics and stellar service. steak knives. Monk’s Café Belgian Rouge Butcher and Singer (215) 545-7005 American Steakhouse and Raw Bar www.monkscafe.com (215) 732-6622 (215) 732-4444 Equally famous for its mussels and frites as www.rouge98.com www.butcherandsinger.com it is for its extensive and well-cared-for beer Known for its amazing burgers and A well-trained staff, and an excess of classic selection, but either is a good enough rea- popular patio, this tiny spot is a steakhouse staples, combine with a raw bar son to check out this authentic Amsterdam- perennial favorite. and curated wine list for a truly outstanding style pub. dining experience.

Multiple Locations

Capogiro Federal Donut Sabrina’s www.capogirogelato.com www.federaldonuts.com www.sabrinascafe.com Some of the best gelato in the country, Fresh and fancy donuts and a fried chicken and brunch offerings that have and more. that’s consistently named one of the best in been a favorite of locals for years. the city, all helmed by former James Beard award-winning chefs. Continental Martini Bar White Dog www.continentalmartinibar.com www.whitedog.com Choose from the mid-town or old city location Han Dynasty Three locations featuring local and organic for eclectic eats, martinis and more. www.handynasty.net ingredients in eclectic fare served with flair. Authentic Szechuan cuisine with nine loca- tions throughout the city. Di Bruno Brothers www.dibruno.com Italian grocer and deli. Nightlife and Bars

Bob & Barbara’s Cocktail Lounge – www.bobandbarbaras.com Ranstead Room – www.ransteadroom.com/ Bok Bar – www.bok-bar.com Relish – www.relishphiladelphia.com Boot & Saddle – www.bootandsaddlephilly.com Ruba Club – www.rubaclub.org Chris’ Jazz Café – www.chrisjazzcafe.com The Seven Hundred – http://philly700.com/ Dolphin Tavern – www.dolphinphilly.com South Bowl – www.southbowlphilly.com Electric Factory – www.electricfactory.info Standard Tap – www.news.standardtap.com Fillmore Philly – www.thefillmorephilly.com Tattooed Mom – www.tattooedmomphilly.com Frank Bradley’s – www.frankybradleys.com Time – www.timerestaurant.net Frankford Hall – www.frankfordhall.com Tippling Place – www.1tpl.com The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company – The Trestle Inn – www.thetrestleinn.com www.thefranklinbar.com Triangle Tavern – www.triangletavernphilly.com Heritage – www.heritage.life Underground Arts – www.undergroundarts.org Johnny Brenda’s – www.johnnybrendas.com Union Transfer – www.utphilly.com Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts – www.kimmelcenter.org Urban Axes – www.urbanaxes.com/philadelphia Knock – www.knockphilly.com Voltage Lounge – www.voltagelounge.com McGillin’s Olde Ale House – www.mcgillins.com Warmdaddy’s – www.warmdaddys.com Morgan’s Pier – www.morganspier.com Woody’s – www.woodysbar.com

Philadelphia Sightseeing

The Barnes Foundation – www.barnesfoundation.org Lincoln Financial Field – www.lincolnfinancialfield.com Citizens Bank Park – www.mlb.com/phillies/ballpark Museum of the American Revolution – www.amrevmuseum.org Eastern State Penitentiary – www.easternstate.org Mutter Museum – www.muttermuseum.org Elfreth’s Alley – www.elfrethsalley.org The Palestra – www.philadelphiabig5.org/palestra/index.html The Franklin Institute – www.fi.edu Philadelphia Museum of Art (and the Rocky statue) – Historic Philadelphia – www.historicphiladelphia.org www.philamuseum.org Independence Hall – Philadelphia Zoo – www.philadelphiazoo.org www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/independencehall.htm Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens – www.phillymagicgardens.org Irish Memorial – www.irishmemorial.org Please Touch Museum – www.pleasetouchmuseum.org Laurel Hill Cemetery – www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org South Street – www.southstreet.com Liberty Bell – Talen Energy Stadium – www.philadelphiaunion.com/stadium www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htm Wells Fargo Center – www.wellsfargocenterphilly.com

Taxis and Ground Transportation

BHN Limousine Services – (732) 743-8246 Philadelphia Executive Car Service – (267) 227-0355 Get-A-Cab – (215) 438-2222 Philly Airport Limo & Town Car – (215) 352-5225 OnCabs Philadelphia – (215) 882-9068 Philly Black Car Service – (866) 433-1738 Phila Taxi Service – (267) 309-2675 Streamline Taxi Service – (215) 439-5936 Phila Transportation Service – (215) 833-9333 FOR INSIDER’S GUIDES TO OTHER CITIES: sonnhalter.com/insiders-guides

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