Philadelphia is a bustling city that's known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and of course, its delicious food scene.
From classic Philly cheesesteaks to trendy gastropubs, there's no shortage of great lunch spots in this city.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, there are plenty of lunch options to suit your taste buds and budget.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there's something for everyone in Philadelphia.
From trendy cafes to historic diners, Philadelphia has it all. You can find everything from classic American fare to international cuisine, and everything in between.
Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a satisfying meal, there's no shortage of lunch spots to choose from.
So, whether you're looking for a casual spot to grab a quick bite or a fancy restaurant for a special occasion, this guide will help you find the best lunch spots in Philadelphia.
Get ready to explore the city's culinary scene and discover some of the best lunch spots that Philadelphia has to offer.
1. Suraya Restaurant
Suraya Restaurant is a chic and spacious Lebanese cafe, market, and restaurant with a bar and outdoor garden. The food, service, and ambiance are excellent.
The staff is friendly and explains dishes in detail. The Taste of Suraya dinner menu is worth it, and the small plates for brunch are amazing.
The decor is beautiful, especially the exposed kitchen where they make fresh pita. The back patio garden is a nice place to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.
Reservations are recommended for larger groups, and parking can be difficult to find in the area. Suraya Restaurant is a great place for a celebration or special occasion.
2. Cafe La Maude
Cafe La Maude is a French-Lebanese brunch spot serving up hearty breakfast and lunch fare.
Their menu offers a unique spin on classic dishes, like their delicious Chicken Shawarma wrap and interesting combination of Huevos Rancheros.
The staff is attentive and accommodating, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The outdoor seating is versatile and comfortable for all party sizes.
The prices are slightly high, but worth it for the quality of food and service. Cafe La Maude is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and unique dining experience.
3. The Dandelion
The Dandelion is a British-themed gastropub that serves modern takes on British cuisine and craft beers.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with dark wood paneling and soft lighting that creates a pub vibe. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, and the food is delicious.
The menu offers a large variety of food, including deviled eggs, three colored carrots, pot pie, and fish and chips.
The dessert menu is also worth mentioning, with chocolate set cream and lemon barley risotto being some of the top picks. The Dandelion is a great place for friends, family outings, or a date night.
4. Parc
Parc is a charming French-style bistro that offers an authentic dining experience.
The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a cozy indoor setting and stylish outdoor seating.
The menu features classic bistro fare, including fresh bread, delicious salads, and perfectly cooked steak frites. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff.
The restaurant is perfect for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner date. Don't miss the chance to savor the flavors of France at Parc.
5. Gran Caffe L'Aquila
Gran Caffe L'Aquila is a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine.
With a wide range of options including fresh pasta, seafood, and gelato made on site, the food is simply delicious. The wine selection is also impressive.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with indoor and outdoor seating available. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making for a great dining experience.
Don't forget to check out their Italian grocery store for some specialty items to take home.
6. Oyster House
Oyster House is a stylish seafood restaurant with a raw bar that has been open since 1976.
The restaurant offers an outstanding selection of raw seafood and fresh, cooked meals. The atmosphere is fun and the cocktails are delicious.
The staff is friendly and professional, making for a great dining experience. However, the seating can be a bit tight and the service can feel rushed at times.
Despite these minor downsides, Oyster House is definitely worth a visit for seafood lovers.
7. Paprica Grill
Paprica Grill is a must-visit for lovers of authentic Turkish cuisine. The food is cooked to perfection, and the flavors are rich and delicious.
The staff is attentive and friendly, providing excellent service. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, with an ambiance that transports diners to Istanbul.
The menu features a range of Mediterranean favorites, including kebabs, falafels, wraps, and more.
Whether you're looking for lunch or dinner, Paprica Grill is the perfect spot to indulge in a delicious meal.
8. EMei Restaurant
EMei Restaurant is a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Sichuan cuisine. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including spicy and non-spicy options, all of which are delicious and generous in portion size.
The restaurant is aesthetically pleasing, with a modern atmosphere and friendly staff.
The service is impeccable, and the waiters are always ready to help. EMei Restaurant is also a great place for large groups, as they have private rooms available for reservation.
Whether you're a fan of Chinese cuisine or looking to try something new, EMei Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
9. Honey's Sit 'n Eat
Honey's Sit 'n Eat is a diner-style restaurant that serves Southern and Jewish comfort food.
This cash-only spot offers a variety of breakfast and brunch options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The service is friendly and attentive, and the portions are generous.
The restaurant can get busy, so expect a short wait during peak hours. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, perfect for a laid-back meal with friends or family.
Honey's Sit 'n Eat is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for delicious, hearty comfort food in a relaxed setting.
10. Dutch Eating Place
Dutch Eating Place is a must-visit lunch spot for anyone in the area. The food is fresh, the service is friendly and quick, and the prices are affordable.
The apple pie and homemade strawberry jam are definite highlights.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with ample seating at the counter.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic turkey platter or a unique Dutch-inspired dish, Dutch Eating Place has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this Pennsylvania Dutch gem in the heart of the city.
11. Bao Nine
Bao Nine is a colorful cafe serving up Taiwanese gua bao. With an extensive menu, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The bao buns are soft and fluffy, making them the perfect vehicle for the flavorful and delicious fillings.
The sides, especially the brussel sprouts, are a must-try. The service is fast and friendly, and the dining area is spacious.
Bao Nine is a great lunch spot for those looking for Asian fusion cuisine with a modern twist.
12. Dizengoff
Dizengoff is a must-visit lunch spot for those who appreciate delicious hummus.
The menu is simple and easy to navigate, with options for meat, vegetable, or seasonal dishes served on top of a generous portion of hummus.
The pita bread is fluffy and the pickles and salads are a perfect complement to the meal. Although seating is limited, the food is worth it.
The lemonade is also highly recommended. Don't miss out on this bright and industrial eatery for a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.
13. Tria Cafe Rittenhouse
Tria Cafe Rittenhouse is a cozy wine bar that serves up delicious small plates.
The selection of wine, beer, and cheese is impressive and the staff is knowledgeable about each option.
The charcuterie board and truffle egg toast are highly recommended.
The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for a lunch or light dinner. A great spot for those who appreciate good food and drink.
14. The Love
The Love is a refined neighborhood destination that serves seasonal American fare in chic surroundings.
The menu is tight and focused with a wide range of options, even with the small number of items overall. Vegetarian options are available and are super hearty and tasty.
The parker house rolls are tasty, made even better with the chive butter. The banana bread pudding is to die for.
The ambiance is simply gorgeous, making it perfect for a lunch date or a business meeting. The Love is definitely worth a visit.
15. Vernick Fish
Vernick Fish is a high-end seafood restaurant that specializes in oysters and fish. The menu offers a variety of small plates and raw bar options that are delicious and inventive.
The staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, providing excellent service.
The restaurant has a chic vibe and is perfect for a fancy date night or a company dinner. The cocktails are hand-crafted and cleverly designed to complement the seafood dishes.
The desserts could use a little more originality, but overall, Vernick Fish is a must-try for seafood lovers looking for a memorable dining experience.
