Best Historic Restaurants in Old City

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchIndian

Regions

AtlanticBucks CountyBurlington CountyCamdenDelawareGloucester

Neighborhoods

AllentownAmblerBethlehemBlue BellBordentownBristol

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

86 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti restaurant

1. Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti

4.6

Exceptional(3990)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Old City

Booked 34 times today

Enjoy the beauty of the Amalfi Coast in Italy right in Old City while dining at Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti. Whether stopping in for brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour, you'll love the seeing Philadelphia from our 2nd story view point. Known primarily for our fresh fish and seafood, we welcome our guests to savor a menu full of delicious selections, including some favorite dishes such as our spicy fried calamari, zucchini crabcake, tagliatelle bolognese and our pork chop milanese.Weekend Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 am to 2:30pm. Enjoy our belgian waffles, avocado toast or brunch burger and pair them with our mimosa & sangria specials! Join us for happy hour Tuesday-Friday, between 4pm and 6pm.Outdoor Dining is available on both of our patios, and during warmer weather on our sidewalk cafe!

A photo of Ogawa Sushi & Kappo Omakase restaurant

2. Ogawa Sushi & Kappo Omakase

4.9

Exceptional(7)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Sushi • Old City

Booked 4 times today

Experience an exceptional journey through the artistry of edomae sushi at Ogawa, located in historic Old City, Philadelphia. Leading this experience is our Head Chef, Carlos Wills, whose passion for the art of sushi is reflected in every detail of the 23-course menu. Each dish is a testament to his skill, creativity, and deep respect for tradition, blending classic Edo-mae techniques with innovative touches that elevate the ingredients to their fullest potential. Our Master Chef, Minoru Ogawa, travels to Japan monthly to source the highest-quality ingredients, including fish flown in from Tokyo’s renowned Toyosu Market. Each dish is a celebration of tradition and precision.Complement your meal with thoughtfully selected sake pairings, or explore the menu of premium Japanese beer, whiskey, and unique sake options.

3. Revolution House

4.7

Exceptional(130)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Old City

Booked 4 times today

If you would like to make a reservation for a group of 10 or more, please call us at (215) 625-4566 Wed-Sun after 2pm. Thank you.In the heart of Old City, with historic features tastefully presented throughout our two-level restaurant & bar, Revolution House truly has Philadelphia running through its veins. We are so eager for you to try our completely reimagined menu of elevated yet affordable tapas-style international cuisine crafted with the utmost care. Our signature dishes by Chef Evan Barghout, such as our sesame saku tuna or our Korean rib tacos pair perfectly with new, inspired cocktails, like our Eternal Springtime, as well as our carefully curated fine wines and local craft draught beers. Make your reservation today to claim your stake in the revolution!

4. Franklin Social Kitchen & Bar

3.8

Excellent(152)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Old City

Booked 7 times today

Franklin Social, at the Renaissance Hotel Philadelphia Downtown, serves up contemporary American dining in the heart of Philadelphia's Old City Historic District.Gather with friends, family and colleagues, as Ben Franklin frequently did in his time – He was quite the entertainer didn’t you know and enjoy a meal showcasing an attitude that's all Philly. Join us for a craft beer from around the corner, or an award-winning wine from around the world.Whether you're craving a quick bite or full meal, Franklin Social will bring you the best products and flavors from around the region to entice your taste buds. All of this Philly flair is brought to you by a friendly and engaging team that should make you feel right at home. Franklin Social allows you to take part in a piece of American history, while creating a piece of your own history all in a vibrant, welcoming environment.

A photo of Tomo Sushi & Ramen restaurant

5. Tomo Sushi & Ramen

4.8

Exceptional(700)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Old City

Booked 31 times today

We are a BYOB sushi and ramen restaurant located in Old City, Philadelphia, serving traditional style sushi and ramen with a newfangled twist. Tomo was funded out of passion by two lifelong tomodachi (friends in Japanese): Sushi Chef Andy and Ramen Chef Steven.

6. Red Owl Tavern

4.5

Awesome(1492)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Old City

Booked 9 times today

Neighborly meets sophisticated at Red Owl, a modern tavern in the heart of Old City, just across from the Liberty Bell. Among soaring windows and cozy tables, the kitchen serves up smart, stylish takes on American staples (a cheesesteak never tasted as good as ours, made with premium shaved rib-eye). When paired with craft beers and classic cocktails, it’s a clever balance of fancy and familiar, with a dash of Philly flair.We look forward to seeing you soon!

7. Bistro Romano

4.8

Exceptional(5028)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Society Hill

Booked 22 times today

This Historic Landmark in Society Hill, just off Headhouse Square, nestled in an 18th century granary, will stimulate your senses with an ambiance of candlelight and casual elegance while creating an unforgettable dining experience. Voted a “Best of Philly” Restaurant, guests enjoy Bistro Romano’s acclaimed Regional Italian Cuisine with an innovative twist and rave of the award-winning Caesar Salad and house-made pastas. Don't miss the Wine Cellar Experience, a secluded table for two or four guests, rose petal topped table, 5 course Chef Tasting Menu, with limoncellos to finish. Our Wine List has received the prestigious Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence (Two Glasses). Over 700 wine selections, including 20 by the glass. Celebrating 37 years on Lombard, we look forward to your arrival.

8. Butcher & Singer

4.9

Exceptional(8895)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Steak • Center City

Booked 85 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.

9. Little Water

4.7

Exceptional(153)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Center City

Booked 43 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 High Street Restaurant & Bar restaurant

10. High Street Restaurant & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(106)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Center City

Booked 25 times today

Located in the historic Franklin Building, High Street is a modern American eatery and bar that celebrates the essence of local grains. With an on-site bakery at the heart of our culinary creations, we pride ourselves on crafting artisanal breads, pastries, pizzas, and handmade pastas that showcase the best of the region.Under the guidance of Chef Christina McKeough, our seasonal menu highlights the bounty of local producers, offering a fresh take on classic flavors and dishes. Our commitment to supporting American winemakers adds an exciting dimension to your dining experience, with a carefully curated selection of wines to complement your meal.At High Street Restaurant, we invite you to savor the rich tapestry of flavors that define our culinary philosophy, blending tradition, innovation, and a passion for local ingredients.Parties of 7 or more require a credit card on file and are required to participate in our "Leave It To Us" menu.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

L
Lynn
Philadelphia County •17 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
As expected the service was excellent. It was a bit noisier due to it being a holiday-Valentine’s Day the next day. The fish called Orato smelled funny, I returned it and ordered the salmon in its place. This was delicious. The food like the salad was terrific and the soup was great. I would definitely return.
More info
Positano Coast by Aldo LambertiPrice: Moderate• Italian• Old City
•
4.6
K
Karly
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
There is nothing else like this in Philly - I dare you to prove me wrong. I've been going for the past year and the menu is never the same but always effortlessly beautiful, artful, delicious and transformative.
More info
Ogawa Sushi & Kappo OmakasePrice: Very Expensive• Sushi• Old City
•
4.9
D
David
Philadelphia County •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Best Vegan Sushi options we have found in Philadelphia. The overall vibe is laid back rather than formal, the food quality very good to superb depending on the dish. If you like Sushi and prefer to have vegan options as part if not all of your meal, give this place a shot.
More info
Tomo Sushi & RamenPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Old City
•
4.8
K
Kelsie
Philadelphia County •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 8, 2025
Waitress was very helpful and polite and food was yummy!
More info
Revolution HousePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Old City
•
4.7
J
Jerry
Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
4.0
Dined on Nov 28, 2024
Amazing waiter! Nice atmosphere! Loved the Christmas tree up. Cocktails were great!
More info
Franklin Social Kitchen & BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Old City
•
3.8

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