Philadelphia Dining

As a birthplace of the American Revolution, the name Philadelphia is synonymous with all things American from the brand-name cream cheese to the renowned Philly-style sandwich. Understandably reflecting its 300-year history, the Philadelphia dining scene ranges from colonial-era restaurants barely changing from when first swinging open, to contemporary outposts popping up with trendy décor and menus sometimes bordering on the exotic. Steakhouses abound, and that standby of old -- Italian cuisine -- ranges from South Philadelphia homestyle to haute elegant. Ethnic cuisines from Cuban to Vietnamese are as big here as just about anywhere else in the nation. Rankings of America's top restaurants consistently include some of Philadelphia's finest, and scores of youthful culinary entrepreneurs have gravitated to the city with the Liberty Bell. Compared to New York, insiders say Philadelphia restaurants often hit higher marks on quality and service, with tabs that happily can be up to one-third less, especially at higher-end establishments.

Some of the best food experiences are to be found in one of the following places:

Continental Restaurant and Martini Bar
138 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
+1 215 923 6069
Housed in a restored stainless-steel 60s diner, the Continental Restaurant features an imaginative interior, extensive list of signature cocktails and a sizzling menu of global tapas - dishes like beer-battered shrimp and calamari with saffron aioli, grilled octopus or crab pad thai. Without question, the evocative elixirs served up here have few rivals.

Jim's Steaks
400 S Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
+1 215 928 1911 / +1 877 313 5467
Jim's steaks has been serving the finest quality steaks and hoagies in Philadelphia for over 60 years. It's Art Deco style and family commitment to quality has made Jim's Steaks a Philadelphia Landmark.

Buddakan
325 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
+1 215 574 9440
Named one of "America's Top 50 Restaurants" by Travel & Leisure magazine, this trendy and timeless Asian restaurant is centered around a towering gilded Buddha and successfully blends East and West to offer a truly unique dining experience. Two full service bars are also on site.

Tangerine
232 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
+1 215 627 5116
An award-winning Mediterranean and Moroccan inspired menu with flavors and spices from Italy, Africa, France, and Spain is served at this unrivaled Mediterranean restaurant that features an exotic atmosphere.

XIX Nineteen Restaurant
Broad & Walnut Sts, Philadelphia, PA 19102
+1 215 790 1919
Discover the epitome of contemporary fine dining at XIX Nineteen Restaurant. Soaring 36-feet domed ceilings, an old-world chandelier dripping with pearls and deep cushioned banquets set the scene for a memorable culinary experience.