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Best Hot Spot Restaurants in South Philly

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buddakan - Philadelphia restaurant
1. Buddakan - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(11299)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Old City
Booked 80 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(17336)
Price: Expensive
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 244 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(7228)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 110 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(2540)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 38 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 Craftsman Row Saloon restaurant
5. Craftsman Row Saloon
4.6
Exceptional(1077)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old City
Booked 84 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 Barclay Prime restaurant
6. Barclay Prime
4.8
Exceptional(5395)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 64 times today
Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional yet modern menu in a comfortable & contemporary setting.
A photo of Talula’s Garden restaurant
7. Talula’s Garden
4.9
Exceptional(13171)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Washington Square
Booked 74 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(7011)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 74 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(6753)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Center City
Booked 44 times today
Morimoto is serving contemporary Japanese cuisine. Chef Masaharu Morimoto of Iron Chef prepares traditional dishes with a modern flair.
A photo of Fork - Philadelphia restaurant
10. Fork - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(5098)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Old City
Booked 30 times today
Fork in Philadelphia has been a hot spot for over 25 years, with its commitment to seasonality, locally sourced ingredients, and an evolving menu that's both creative and consistently delicious. The dining room boasts gorgeous contemporary murals and a central bar where you can watch the action. Reviewers consistently rate the restaurant highly for its warm and friendly service, attentive staff, and outstanding food. It's a favorite spot for both casual meals and special occasions, as described by Esquire as one of the '100 Restaurants We Can't Afford to Lose'.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Sefali
    Philadelphia County •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Absolutely fantastic food & service! We loved the margaritas, gin & fig cocktails! Absolutely loved fried chicken, hush puppies, mushroom & leeks soup outstanding!
    More info
    The LovePrice: Expensive• American• Rittenhouse Square
    •
    4.8
  • Emily
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Fantastic meal - pork belly bao buns and dim sum sampler for appetizers. Shrimp pad Thai and tuna tataki for entrees. Donuts and chocolate mandarin for dessert. Waitress was so friendly and provided great service.
    More info
    Buddakan - PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Asian• Old City
    •
    4.7
  • Amandavip
    Philadelphia County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We visit the saloon every year! Each time is as good if not better than the last!
    More info
    Saloon RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• South Philly
    •
    4.9
  • Krista
    Washington, D.C. Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The food and atmosphere was great! The service this particular time was slower than previous dining experiences there, but overall great place, especially with the Christmas decorations!
    More info
    Craftsman Row SaloonPrice: Moderate• American• Old City
    •
    4.6
  • Laurievip
    Los Angeles •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We were greeted, seated and then treated to a lovely dining experience. We started with a couple of the specialty cocktails-Romarin and Nouveau Basilic: their pour was generous as our drinks lasted through our meals. A bonus of a basket of bread was brought to our table, such a rarity! Baguette, sourdough and what seamed a seasonal bread with cranberry and walnuts with beurre---seemed such a treat! Our waiter was attentive and made well informed dinner suggestions after asking us our preferences and we enjoyed the beef bourguignon; duck a l'orange and roasted chicken. Parc has made our top 10 list of places to eat while in Philly!
    More info
    ParcPrice: Expensive• French• 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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