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Best Historic Restaurants in Southwest Philadelphia

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32 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Little Water restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(85)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 25 times today
Located in the historic neighborhood of Rittenhouse Square, Little Water is the latest restaurant from husband-and-wife team, Chef Randy Rucker and Amanda Rucker. Inspired by the Ruckers' experiences living along the Gulf Coast, New England, and Mid-Atlantic regions, Little Water is a contemporary coastal restaurant that celebrates the ecological diversity of life by the sea.The sister restaurant to the acclaimed East Passyunk Avenue gem, River Twice—which has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer and The New York Times, and has earned Chef Randy’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently, a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic—Little Water continues the Ruckers' dedication to sustainability and local sourcing. With an a la carte menu inspired by the dynamic ecosystem of tranquil marshes, expansive bays, and secluded coves, Little Water captures the coastal spirit in a warm and lively atmosphere.
A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5477)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • University City
Booked 42 times today
An iconic restaurant in University City since 1983, White Dog Cafe is a leader in using environmentally sustainable, organic, and local foods from farms within 50 miles. Known for warm hospitality, and inspiring award-winning food, the White Dog's historic three brownstones offer charming and whimsical dog décor and artwork in its many unique dining spaces and outdoor dining on the sidewalk.
A photo of The Victor Cafe - Philadelphia restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4764)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 27 times today
The Victor Café is an Italian restaurant that cultivates old traditions and seamlessly blends them with new ones. With classic Italian dishes and unforgettable live music, we invite you to join us for many enjoyable evenings for years to come. PLEASE NOTE: Multiple reservations made for the same party cannot be seated together. To book large parties that are not available by default on OpenTable, please contact the restaurant directly. When booking, party size should encompass total number of guests, including children. We try our best to accommodate special requests, however they are not guaranteed.
A photo of The Prime Rib at Philadelphia Live! restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1276)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • South Philly
Booked 30 times today
Prime Rib is a contemporary fine dining restaurant, blending a historic steakhouse and cocktail lounge with distinctive twists. Highly personalized touches include a curated selection of steak knives presented to diners prior to entrees arriving and tableside cocktail creation based on guests’ preferences. White glove service without the white gloves... it’s hip - even a little provocative. The vibe and energy from the lounge is fueled by live vocalists, while the bar and lounge serve crave-worthy cocktails that keeps guests returning to us time and time again.
A photo of Gatehouse at the Navy Yard restaurant
4.2
Awesome(973)
Price: Moderate
• American • South Philly
Booked 3 times today
Situated at the entrance gate to Philadelphia's historic Navy Yard, an old gatehouse houses this lively yet laidback eatery featuring a large outdoor patio and beer garden. Boasting happy hour specials and shareable plates, lunch specials and a full dinner menu, Gatehouse is the ideal spot to enjoy a few light bites and beverages or sit down to a flavorful meal. It's proximity to event and sporting venues also makes it the perfect stop before a concert or game.
A photo of Akwaaba Tea Salon restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(55)
Price: Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • West Philadelphia
Whether you come cute with your girls, make it a date with your mate, visit as a mommy-daughter duo or take time just for you, Akwaaba Tea Salon & Event Space offers 90 minutes of pure indulgence in a sophisticated sanctuary. Here’s where you can take a breath while you take a sip of fine, loose-leaf teas and experience a cultural spin on traditional English High Tea fare. Think deviled eggs with a chunk of Southern-fried chicken instead of egg salad finger sandwiches. And homemade peach cobbler and banana pudding upstage macaroons every time! Oh, and did we mention the live jazz music at our 1 pm Sunday seating?!Akwaaba Tea Salon and Event Space is the latest hospitality experience from Monique Greenwood, the former Essence magazine editor-in-chief who took the lodging industry by storm with the 1995 launch of her award-winning Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns, one of which is in Philadelphia, right down the street from the new tea salon and event space.
A photo of Rex at the Royal restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(306)
Price: Expensive
• Southern • South Street
REX at The Royal provides guests with transformed southern fare, a full bar, daytime cafe and curated bottle-shop housed in the historical Royal Theatre, known as a staple in the rich cultural history of the City of Philadelphia for its role as a hub for Black culture and artistry, including film-making and live music, during the 20th century. REX at The Royal, now operating out of the newly-renovated theatre, maintains key tenets of the historical site including a stage for live music performances, as well as sweeping arches and other details sustained from the original design. REX at The Royal cuisine pays homage to the great early 20th-century African-American chefs who adapted traditional southern fare to Philadelphia’s urban landscape. The concept’s foundation lies in the Lowcountry cuisine of the Southeast Atlantic coast, influenced as it was by the grains and traditions of the African diaspora melded with the local agriculture and fisheries.
A photo of Bistro Romano restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4964)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Society Hill
Booked 26 times today
This Historic Landmark in Society Hill, nestled in an 18th century granary, will stimulate your senses with an ambiance of candlelight and casual elegance while creating an unforgettable dining experience. Wine Spectator Award for our wine list! Voted a “Best of Philly” Restaurant, guests enjoy Bistro Romano’s acclaimed Regional Italian Cuisine and rave of the award-winning Caesar Salad and the romantic underground wine cellar for two to four. Wine Cellar reservations book the Wine Cellar Experience on OpenTable. We are now celebrating our 36th year! Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence (Two Glasses). Over 750 wine selections, including 20 by the glass.
A photo of Butcher & Singer restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(8817)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • Center City
Booked 59 times today
Butcher & Singer, in the amazing historic location of 1500 Walnut, is an intimate and sophisticated dining experience in a relaxed clubhouse setting. We brought back the true classics from perfect Manhattans and Sidecars to hand-cut steaks and chops, and freshly caught fish. Timeless and fun for all in the continued age of the American chophouse.
A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2368)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 11 times today
Located in a historic townhome in the heart of Philadelphia, Vetri Cucina is a unique space that invites guests to become part of our family. The intimate dining rooms evoke the charms of Italy with custom crafted features including hand-blown Murano glass chandeliers, Richard Ginori porcelain and Venetian glassware.Showcasing the constantly evolving, dynamic creativity of Chef Vetri and his team, Vetri Cucina serves a classic tasting menu at $165pp using the highest quality local and specialty ingredients. The menu is inspired by both classic Italian recipes and our extensive culinary research across the globe. Vetri Cucina also offers a seasonal Forchetta menu which is a premium tasting menu experience at $215pp. These are the restaurant’s sole dining options, designed to provide each guest with a memorable, unparalleled experience. Reservations are released on the first of the month for the following month: ie. On October 1st, reservations are released for the month of November.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DeannaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Little Water is a refreshing dinner spot offering a nice variety of seafood dishes. The service and pacing of the meal make this place shine - it is so relaxing to dine here! The staff keep glasses full. The pacing of the meal is excellent - they leave plenty of time for each dish to shine. Tables are spaced out nicely as well, further contributing to a relaxed dining experience. We had a 5:45 res on a Saturday night and stayed for about 2 hours as a party of 2 ordering apps, drinks & entrees. For a ladies night out, we tried the bread, swordfish crudo, Caesar salad & swordfish Milanese. Each course surpassed our expectations. The caesar salad was HUGE and delicious - definitely something you could split as a large side for 2 or a small side for 4. Excellent wine and cocktail selection as well. They also had some mocktails on the menu that looked tasty. Absolutely thrilled! Would return for a celebration
    More info
    Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
    4.6
  • SharriaVIP
    Philadelphia County •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I really enjoyed myself! Overall I had an amazing experience. The food was amazing and the service was amazing. The vibe/ambience was five stars!  I would definitely return and recommend. 
    More info
    The Prime Rib at Philadelphia Live!Price: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• South Philly
    4.6
  • Wendy
    Tampa / Central Florida West •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Our waitress Luciana was five star in world class, and then, of course, when they ring the bell and this petite little sweet waitress turns into a version of Beverly Sills and Pavarotti. It took our breath away. She blew all the other singers out of the water. We’ve been going to Victor‘s for years. The food has only gotten better than penne. Vodka was out of this world. It’s a destination, dining restaurant you’ll never forget.
    More info
    The Victor Cafe - PhiladelphiaPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Philly
    4.9
  • ReginaVIP
    Philadelphia County •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Always a good time, service is great and when the weather is nice the experience is even nicer! Love this place!
    More info
    Gatehouse at the Navy YardPrice: Moderate• American• South Philly
    4.2
  • JamesVIP
    Philadelphia County •40 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Outstanding food. Great, fresh taste and nice presentation. Service was prompt and attentive. Server was welcoming and informative. Thank you, Lillian. It was a wonderful family evening.
    More info
    White Dog Cafe - University CityPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• University City
    4.7
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