3 Stars

For a sweet taste of Philadelphia, Swiss Haus Bakery bakes decadent and quality cakes, pastries, and cookies using premium ingredients and traditional European recipes. This Certified Kosher bakery is ideal for grabbing a cupcake on the go, or a cake for a birthday—they even offer options for catering and wedding cakes. It also offers a little bit of Philly history, since this bakery was opened in 1923 and changed owners in 2007. With sweet treats like margiolane, tiramisu, cannolis, cream puffs or strawberry shortcakes, Swiss Haus is sure to ease your sugar cravings in no time.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries has been taking the country by storm ever since they opened their first location in Arlington, VA in 1986. In just nine years, this burger chain has grown from five locations in the D.C. Metropolitan area to over 625 locations in over forty states and 4 Canadian provinces, not to mention the 200 restaurants opening in 2010. The menu is simple: hamburgers, little hamburgers, and hot dogs, all available with bacon and cheese and a list of free condiments (there’s also grilled cheese and veggie burgers for vegetarians). Fries are available in regular and Cajun …

Brought to you by the Dilworthtown Inn, the Blue Pear Bistro delivers the same high quality food and service in a more casual environment. This self-proclaimed “hip-storic” bistro offers small and medium plates of playful and inventive comfort foods. Housed in the former Dilworthtown Inn General Store, the location has been revamped to unveil a quiet sophistication. A split-level restaurant, the Blue Pear Bistro’s blue and amber color scheme promotes a laid-back atmosphere. With small plates of Tuna Tartare or Chicken Nuggets with White-Truffle Honey Mustard, and medium plates of Braised Veal Breast and Pan Seared Sea Scallops, guests can …

In a vast dining room alive with fiery colors and a chattering clientele, a procession of gaucho-garbed waiters tote skewers bearing huge cuts of meats. Dozens of diners eagerly wait in line to sample a bountiful salad bar featuring fresh vegetables, hearty soups and fresh-baked breads. This is Chima—Center City’s red-hot churrascaria serving an all-you-can-eat parade of meat in an authentic Southern Brazilian fashion. Toss in a full bar and an extensive wine list highlighted by South American selections and it’s clear that Chima is a Brazilian steakhouse with something to offer everyone.

Located next to the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia, Square 1682 is a vibrant and exciting new restaurant that brings new life to Center City. Loosely named after Rittenhouse Square, located just a few blocks away, the restaurant provides unique New American cuisine as well as some of the most original and abundant Happy Hours in the city. Technically a “hotel restaurant,” Square 1682 is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even brunch on Sundays, while still maintaining a vibrant nightlife and countless amenities that are not usually offered by hotel restaurants. When diners pass through the revolving doors into the sleek …

Looking for an authentic Irish pub in Philadelphia? Search no further than Fergies on Sansom Street. Open until 2:00am nightly, this neighborhood tavern presents live music and a great selection of food and drinks. Fergies serves a variety of classic bar appetizers like nachos and wings along with custom burgers, tasty entrees, salads, and comfort food-style sandwiches. This pub often hosts events like their annual St. Patrick’s Day, Half Way to St. Patrick’s Day, and Halloween celebrations. The bar’s wooden flooring, brick exterior, and signature Celtic motif throughout pays homage to the enduring traditions of the Irish.

Awarded Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best of Philly” in 2008, owners Louis Sarcrone Jr. and Anothony Bucci have had a huge success since their opening in 1997. The deli is located just 50 feet from the bakery where all of the award winning bread is made. Campo’s Deli has a variety of daily specials and soups you can choose from. They are well known for their “Hoagies” filled with top Italian meats in their signature fresh baked bread. They are located on South 9th Street with comfortable indoor seating. If you’re looking for a great casual home style sandwich, come to Sarcone’s.

Located inside the large Pennsylvania Convention Center, the Field House is an upscale sports bar with a modern and contemporary twist. Known for their Events Calendar of live music and ever-updated Sport Schedule, The Field House offers a full bar of options to choose from while one can watch the game on one of their 50 large plasma televisions, gracing the walls of their exceptional and extremely spacious interior. Their menu, featuring a combination of American pub dishes and snacks, has traditional favorites like nachos and French fries, but kicks it up a notch with fine dining inspired dishes like …

After a successful battle and victory of Food Network Challenger Bobby Flay, Tony Luke has cemented his place as the “Philly Cheese Steak” guru of Philadelphia—and his restaurant has surprises at every turn. At Tony Luke’s Beef and Beer Sports Bar, you can find mouthwatering options for Cheese Steaks, Roast Pork, Chicken Cutlets, and Roast Beef, all of which are succulent, choice cuts of meat, but they also offer breakfast and brunch items for the early birds as well. This hometown bar is a favorite to locals and tourists alike, with large televisions and their infamous Cheese Steaks keeping fans …

Situated on Manayunk’s busiest street in town, The Bayou Bar and Grill is the oldest bar on Main Street with a reputation for being an upscale yet tavern-inspired favorite. Aside from their signature Creole and Cajun cuisine, The Bayou boasts their “Best of Philadelphia” buffalo chicken wings—signifying a kick of flavor with every bite. The Bayou has also won “Philadelphia’s Best Sports Bar” by ESPN.com, ensuring this hot-spot as a one stop destination for watching the game. With over 25 televisions, three bars and every cable sports game package that you can think of, The Bayou guarantees spicy, flavorful food …

Established in 1999, The Black Sheep has quickly risen to the top as a favorite Irish pubs in Philly. This tavern has a rather historic feel due to its antique fireplace, bar, and three story colonial house located near Rittenhouse Square. The Black Sheep serves a wide variety of food and drinks alongside traditional Irish fare and house specialties. With entrees ranging from Guinness Braised Beef Stew to the Crab Cake Sandwich, this place guarantees a unique dining experience. The Philadelphia landmark also hosts private events and invites guests to stop by for a lunch, dinner, happy hour, drinks, or …

Gluten-free? Sugar-free? Vegan? Dairy-free? No problem! At Sweet Freedom Bakery, quality baking meets health conscious alternatives—it’s a place where those with a sweet tooth can get their sugar fix knowing that all products are mindful of food allergies and health conscious individuals. With a philosophy that ensures premium product and a guarantee that everyone can get something sweet, Sweet Freedom Bakery sells a treat for everyone that walks through the door. Whether you’re picking up something small, or ordering cakes, cookies, or doughnuts by the dozen, Sweet Freedom Bakery doesn’t turn any stomach away.

Located just south of the hustle of South Street in Queen's Village, the Famous 4th Street Deli is a quaint Jewish-American restaurant featuring hospitable service and enormous sandwiches. Named after the streets in New York City, some of the sandwiches stand over six inches tall and come with a choice of sides like potato pancakes and fresh fruit. Traditional Jewish American delicacies, including monsterous bowls of matzah ball soup, can be ordered as appetizers. The attached bakery freshly bakes a motley of pastries available for desert or take out daily.

On the outskirts of historic Old City Philadelphia lies one of the city’s best kept secrets: Spasso Italian Grill. Specializing in seafood, meat, and house-made pasta, Spasso offers authentic and flavorful Italian dishes that will keep both stomachs and wallets full. Guests will experience a charming atmosphere, friendly service, and a full list of bar offerings, but the best thing about this place truly is the food. Dine al fresco or eat inside in a dining room that is intimate and reminiscent of old world Italy. The prices are more than reasonable and the food is simply scrumptious!

The Valley Green Inn restaurant is located the Wissahickon Valley of Fairmount Park in the City of Philadelphia. The inviting atmosphere of Philadelphia's last remaining roadhouse, is complimented by the romantic setting of the Wissahickon creek, and the valley in which it's cradled. Literally one of the best kept secrets waiting to be found in the bustling metropolis of America's birthplace, the restaurant comes complete with a wide variety of brunch specialties and unique dinner entrees. The New American cuisine and casual, historic ambiance make the Valley Green Inn the perfect dining destination.

Located in the prestigious Rittenhouse Hotel, gazing over downtown Philadelphia's most elegant square, Lacroix has become a landmark of its own right - with an air of graceful distinction. Romantic and evocative, the dining room beckons with the luminous glow of candlelight. Guests are invited to indulge in the world-class menu, composed of the freshest ingredients of the Eastern seaboard. This composition of International Progressive cuisine, prepared with profound expertise by Master Chef Jon Cichon, includes mouth watering additions such as Elysian Fields Lamb Carpaccio and Hudson Valley Duck.

In the heart of Philly’s hip and happening Old City, Paradigm restaurant is quite the hot spot with chic, modern décor and patrons to match. At the restaurant’s 40 foot granite bar, guests can munch on award-winning appetizers as they drink expertly mixed martinis amid glowing blue lights. Owner David Ciurlino, who also owns neighboring Dolce, has created an eclectic international menu with Italian flare featuring daily homemade desserts. Conveniently open for lunch and dinner, this restaurant is also home to a trendy lounge for guests to enjoy long after the kitchen has closed!

Meritage Restaurant and Wine Bar, located in Rittenhouse Square, offers a contemporary, seasonally-driven fusion menu that incorporates traditional French techniques and Asian flavors. Specializing in small plates, the restaurant allows diners to share and enjoy a variety of dishes. Don’t be fooled by the food— Owners Michele DiPietro and Irene Landy are similarly committed to providing an award-winning selection of wines at affordable prices. Local vegetables and produce are hand-picked from Lancaster and Chester County Farms for diners to enjoy while taking in the sophisticated décor and savoring the flavor of truly fresh ingredients.

Nationally renowned for dry aged steaks, fresh seafood, and fine wines, The Capital Grille has the feel of an old-fashioned club with a serene and elegant ambience. From classic chops to large North Atlantic lobsters, the menu also includes mouthwatering appetizers and an extensive wine list.

Just around the corner from Philadelphia's historic Reading Terminal Market lies another one of the city's treasures. Far younger than the terminal and far different than the neighboring restaurants that adorn Filbert and 13th streets is the Melting Pot. Specializing in fondue recipes that allow for an interactive dining experience, this is the answer to the diner in search of something new. An adventurous blend of upscale, delicious food and down-to-earth fun, the Melting Pot is perfect for an intimate date or a fun get-together with co-workers or friends. Enjoy a do-it-yourself experience that will expose you to fondue in …