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Best Hot Spot Restaurants in South Philly

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22 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buddakan - Philadelphia restaurant
1. Buddakan - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(11293)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Old City
Booked 95 times today
Stephen Starr’s Buddakan is a spectacular restaurant featuring exotic flavors of modern Asian cuisine with creativity and drama. Bon Appetit notes, "The mostly white space is striking, with a lit-from-within communal table in the middle of the room, a waterfall & a ten-foot, candle-bedecked Buddha. The religious icon watches over hip customers indulging in pan-Asian cuisine that far surpasses the fare usually found at hot spots like this." Newsweek reports, "Design also serves as a signifier for cuisine. You walk into Buddakan, one of the hottest new restaurants in Philadelphia, past a shimmering waterfall & Japanese river stones & you say to yourself, 'ginger-miso everything' even before you see the magnificent 10-foot Buddha dominating the dining room." Named one of “America's Top 50 Restaurants" by Travel & Leisure and 'Top Restaurant for Fun' by Gourmet, Buddakan has become one of the country's most talked about restaurants.
A photo of Parc restaurant
2. Parc
4.8
Exceptional(17313)
Price: Expensive
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 297 times today
Stephen Starr's stylish addition to Rittenhouse Square pays tribute to French cafe culture, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Parc recalls the chic brasseries of Paris, serving classic French fare in a charming space. Red leather banquettes topped with frosted glass provide a sense of intimacy. Details such as well-worn wooden chairs, vintage framed paintings and photos and antique brass fixtures transport guests across the Atlantic. French doors spill onto a sidewalk terrace covered by a dark red awning perfect for dining "en plein air."
A photo of The Love restaurant
3. The Love
4.8
Exceptional(7212)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 183 times today
Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr's The Love is a bi-level sanctuary features 150 seats, split between the main dining room, sidewalk seating, and an upper-level loft. The restaurant is a spirited and carefree neighborhood café celebrating everyday American cuisine. The menu is crafted around what’s truly seasonal and local, while the beverage program reflects the best of the region. This creative energy is matched by a front-of-house service staff passionate about providing homey hospitality morning, noon and night.
A photo of Saloon Restaurant restaurant
4. Saloon Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2534)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 73 times today
Saloon Restaurant is a hot spot because of its authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine and welcoming ambiance. Customers rave about the 'outstanding' service, 'amazing' food, and 'beautiful surroundings.' The 'unique and interesting' setting, which includes two dining rooms and a vintage bar, adds to the appeal. The restaurant's consistent quality and excellent value also make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Barclay Prime restaurant
5. Barclay Prime
4.8
Exceptional(5390)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 95 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of Craftsman Row Saloon restaurant
6. Craftsman Row Saloon
4.5
Awesome(1067)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old City
Booked 118 times today
Craftsman Row Saloon is a hot spot due to its festive atmosphere and delicious food, as highlighted in the reviews. Customers love the seasonal changes, creative presentations, and the excellent service. The restaurant has also been featured on The Travel Channel's Food Paradise and more, making it a must-visit place. One review said, 'Simple comfort foods done well, with some fun twists. The decorations make it such a fun atmosphere and hot spot it visit.'
A photo of Talula’s Garden restaurant
7. Talula’s Garden
4.9
Exceptional(13159)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Washington Square
Booked 150 times today
Behind the wrought iron gate, past the herbaceous patio and through the atrium is Talula's Garden, the warm and elegant Washington Square eatery from Aimee Olexy and Starr Restaurants. The modern menu, prepared with carefully-sourced ingredients and a light European touch, changes with the seasons. The artful cuisine, hospitable staff, sustainable spirits, and a focus on cheese make the dining experience here incredibly memorable.
A photo of El Vez restaurant
8. El Vez
4.7
Exceptional(7005)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 90 times today
A contemporary Mexican restaurant, El Vez offers many unique items such as mahi mahi tacos, ahi tuna tostadas, carne asada and pasilla braised pork pozole. Enjoy their made-to-order guacamole & margaritas with fresh-squeezed juices. Top off your meal with "The El Vez," a flourless chocolate cake, peanut butter mousse and carmelized bananas.
A photo of Morimoto restaurant
9. Morimoto
4.7
Exceptional(6744)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Center City
Booked 63 times today
Morimoto is serving contemporary Japanese cuisine. Chef Masaharu Morimoto of Iron Chef prepares traditional dishes with a modern flair.
A photo of Amada PHL restaurant
10. Amada PHL
4.7
Exceptional(8697)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Old City
Booked 65 times today
Amada is an Andalusian tapas bar & restaurant where Chef Jose Garces embraces the rich traditions of Spanish gastronomy while incorporating avant-garde cooking techniques in a gorgeous rustic-chic settingSpecialties of the HouseSpanish Octopus, Garlic Shrimp, Tortilla Española, Paella Valenciana, Whole Roasted Suckling Pig (Call to order 72 hours in advance, excluding Sundays), Seasonal Sangrías, Cocktails, and Wine.Private Parties: Amada welcomes groups of all sizes. Festive settings, service and menus are perfect for intimate dinners with friends, special occasions and holidays, corporate meetings and staff parties. Events can be booked throughout the restaurant and in our private dining rooms seven days a week. For parties of 10 or more, please call our private events team at 267-284-7979 or email events@garcesgroup.com

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • John
    Philadelphia County •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Delicious lunch of Nicoise Salad, chicken liver parfait , mushroom soup, and profiteroles. Lunch delicious as usual. Service very good. Bar seats full at 2pm, reservations recommended. Take out order of cheeseburger was missing the caramelized onions. Tomato and lettuce are not automatically included on burger and must be requested if desired.
    More info
    ParcPrice: Expensive• French• Rittenhouse Square
    •
    4.8
  • Karen
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This was my first experience at Barclay Prime. It was my son's birthday and I wanted to take him to a special place. This was very special. Both my son and I really enjoyed our experience here. The food was phenomenal, the quality and the way it was prepared were amazing. The selections were plentiful without being overwhelming and the staff were very welcoming. I felt it was well worth the money.
    More info
    Barclay PrimePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Rittenhouse Square
    •
    4.8
  • Jonathonvip
    Philadelphia County •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Consistently EXCELLENT for 35 years. Never had a bad experience. Parking is easy, service is always great and the food is as good as anywhere in the world. Never disappointing...except when we can't get in!
    More info
    Saloon RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• South Philly
    •
    4.9
  • Fredvip
    Philadelphia County •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was incredible! Edamame dumplings were delicate, delicious - really an incredible flavor. The sea bass and black cod were both show stoppers. Amazing!
    More info
    Buddakan - PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Asian• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • Chuck
    Philadelphia County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Wow! I walked past this resto so many times, and, from the outside, it looked average. However, as soon as you walk in the front door, you know that you are some place special. The ambience is great, but, more importantly, the food was exquisite. Yes, it was expensive, but the experience was worth every penny. To start, we ordered rolls with chive butter, and, for an entrée, had pumpkin ravioli with walnuts, apples, onions, and ricotta cheese--yum! The food was so good that we decided to order dessert, an apple tartan which was equally delicious. On top of that, our server was excellent, very helpful, and friendly. You have to try this place at least once!
    More info
    The LovePrice: Expensive• American• Rittenhouse Square
    •
    4.8

Discover best hot spot restaurants in South Philly

Discover the vibrant dining scene in South Philly, where the keyword "hot spot" brings up a curated list of top-notch restaurants ideal for any food enthusiast. South Philly is renowned for its dynamic and diverse culinary offerings, blending traditional flavors with innovative dining concepts. Whether you're craving sumptuous Italian dishes, spicy Asian fare, or classic American eats, this neighborhood promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Each restaurant featured on this page has been selected for its exceptional service, unique atmosphere, and commitment to culinary excellence. Visitors and locals alike praise these establishments for their ability to consistently deliver both delightful dishes and an inviting dining experience. As you plan your next outing, consider these culinary gems in Philadelphia County, South Philly, for a taste of the local flavor and hospitality that make this area a true dining destination.

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