Pho 75 | Bella Vista | 1122 Washington Ave | Pho | $ | Some of the best broth I've ever had. Good if you're in the mood for something warm, cheap and filling. In a sketchy looking semi-industrial area. Take an Uber if you're worried. |
Elixr | Downtown/Midtown | 207 S Sydenham St | Coffee | $ | Awesome independent coffee shop, with a good selection of beans. Cool decor. |
Scratch Biscuits | Downtown/Midtown | 1306 Chestnut St | Southern Biscuits | $ | If you like biscuits, go here. If you don't like biscuits, go here. You will. Offers BYOB brunch on Sundays. |
Lorenzo's | Italian Market | 900 Christian St | Philly Cheese Streaks/Pizza | $ | Can't remember where I read about this place, but the word is that it's better than Pat's or Gino's. It was pretty awesome and there was no line, so it definitely has that going for it. |
DiBruno Bros | Italian Market (various throughout the city) | 930 S 9th St (various throughout the city) | Imported Goodies | $$$ | Try the cheeses. Buy the cheeses. Try the cured meats. Buy the cured meats. Try the speads. Buy the spreads. I hope you didn't skip arm day, your bag will be full. |
The Ranstead Room | Rittenhouse | 2013 Ranstead St (Back Alley Entrance) | Cocktails, Snacks | $$ | Very cool little speakeasy behind El Rey. Door is unmarked, and you may have to wait a while (or, leave your number and hope that you see the call and can make it back in 15 minutes). Neat selection of unique cocktails and gourmet popcorn. Sketchy 70's interior is charming. |
Parc | Rittenhouse Square | 227 S 18th St | Parisian-style bistro | $$$ | Pretty decent food, really cool interior. Feels like stepping into a time warp. Very cool. Check it out when you go see Rittenhouse Square. |
Kanella | Society Hill | 757 S Front St | Middle Eastern/Greek | $$$ | Great menu, but it's always packed. Make reservations. |
Bistrot La Minette | Society Hill | 623 S 6th St | Artisan french-style bistro | $$$ | Awesome little place with a really delicious menu. Small and bright, cute decor. Great for couples. |
Zahav | Society Hill | 237 St James Pl | Modern Middle Eastern (tapas style) | $$$$ | MUST GO! Among the best restaurants I've ever eaten at. Make reservations well in advance. Pricey, but worth it. Go with friends and share the items on tasting menu. |
La Colombe | Various | | Coffee | $ | Great coffee, not expensive. Definitely a step up from Starbucks, but not stuffy. |