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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Center City

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110 restaurants available nearby

A photo of El Vez restaurant
1. El Vez
4.8
Exceptional(7093)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 105 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 Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
2. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(8884)
Price: Very Expensive
• Greek • Center City
Booked 58 times today
Estia in Philadelphia is a neighborhood gem. It's a unique Greek restaurant with a warm, inviting ambiance and a menu of authentic Greek specialties. As one reviewer said, 'Estia is one of my favorite restaurants and my neighborhood gem.' The food is consistently praised as 'delicious', 'creative', and 'fresh', and the service is often highlighted as 'impeccable' and 'friendly'. It's also loved for its excellent location, in the heart of the theatre district.
A photo of Oyster House Philadelphia restaurant
3. Oyster House Philadelphia
4.9
Exceptional(162)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Center City
Booked 4 times today
Philadelphia’s premier destination for seafood lovers since 1976. With a menu that is as traditional as it is innovative, this family-owned business run by third-generation restaurateur Sam Mink has been a community cornerstone for almost 50 years. Cherished by Philly locals and visitors alike for its decadent lobster rolls, signature crab cakes and crispy fried oysters, Oyster House continues to honor the region’s culinary roots while constantly cooking up tasty, new favorites. Oyster House’s robust seafood menu curated by executive chef Joe Campoli, promises high quality cuisine along with an excellent dining experience. Enjoy a seat at Philadelphia’s most famed oyster bar while enjoying a show by Philly’s most legendary oyster shuckers. The weekday Happy Hour is always abuzz with a lively mix of coworkers and friends.
A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant
4. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia
4.9
Exceptional(2411)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 19 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.
A photo of Fia Philadelphia restaurant
5. Fia Philadelphia
4.4
Awesome(106)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Center City
Booked 12 times today
Located in Midtown Village, Libertine is Derek Davis’s contribution to the Philadelphia food scene and celebrates the history and future of our great city. Chic, sophisticated and playful, the indoor dining and bar area with seasonal outdoor seating running along the entire length of the property at Spruce and 13th Streets. The contemporary American menu is planned seasonally around what is available and freshest at the markets and complimented by scratch specialty concoctions, 20 wines by the glass, and a significant handful of local craft beer. “Good Eating, Drinking and Fine Hospitality” is served every night of the week and brunch on the weekends.
A photo of McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Philadelphia restaurant
6. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Philadelphia
4.1
Excellent(5361)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Center City
Booked 16 times today
Located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, directly across from the historic City Hall and on the renowned Avenue of the Arts, McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks brings the freshest seafood dining experience to Philadelphia, PA. Enjoy traditional white tablecloth dining in dark wood-paneled rooms accented by handcrafted stained glass ceilings and mosaic-tiled floors. From fresh seafood and shellfish to Steak and garden fresh salads, our goal is to exceed your dining expectations. As our guest, you will experience culinary excellence at its best. Our menus reflect seafood from the Pacific Rim, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Gulf of Mexico. We also source products from local ranches, farms, and wineries to showcase regionally inspired dishes.
A photo of Mercato restaurant
7. Mercato
4.7
Exceptional(1961)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Center City
Booked 15 times today
Mercato BYOB is a festive and modern Italian eatery that lets you bring your own drinks. A simple and to the point menu focuses on quality over quantity and features items like ricotta raviolo and a spicy crab bucatini with squid ink pasta.The artisan cheeses and house-cured meats at Mercato BYOB are perfect for sharing and are paired with sauces and condiments like agrodolce and pickled white grapes. A whole grilled artichoke appetizer will undoubtedly turn you into the vegetable's biggest fan. Heavier dishes, like the Grilled Hanger Steak with yukon gold potato wedge, are equally impressive. Mercato BYOB opens at 4 p.m. The restaurant has a four course tasting menu that is ideal for groups. Conveniently located to all the theatres, shopping and convention center. Outdoor seating available when weather permits.
A photo of Bellini restaurant
8. Bellini
4.8
Exceptional(1202)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 23 times today
Some of the most inspired and acclaimed Italian food in the country is served here. We use innovative flavors and artful presentations prepared by Italian born Chef Francesco Parmisciano. Chef Francesco was born in small town in Naples, Italy where he learned the beautiful art of Italian cuisine. Our goal is not only to prepare authentic and delicious dishes, but we strive to give all of our guests a flawless dining experience. With ownership change in 2021 Parid and Kristi Spiro have brought new life to Bellini and bustling to new heights.
A photo of La Viola - West restaurant
9. La Viola - West
4.5
Awesome(843)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 10 times today
Warm Weather, Cool Cuisine: Join Us for Outdoor Dining!La Viola West is now OPEN and operating at normal business hours. To have your table reserved please call us at 215 735 8631. Walk-ins are welcome!La Viola - West offers an authentic Italian dining experience. An excellent place for date night, it has decor that includes wood furnishings, crisp linens, and soft, romantic lighting. The menu at La Viola - West includes a variety of pasta along with grilled and roasted meats such as veal, chicken, and fresh fish.An array of desserts, hot coffees, and sodas are available to order with your meal at La Viola - West. However, no alcohol is served, although you are welcome to bring your own bottle with you. Offering catering services and designated event space, the restaurant hosts special parties and celebrations upon request.
A photo of Iron Hill - Center City restaurant
10. Iron Hill - Center City
4.2
Awesome(1195)
Price: Moderate
• American • Center City
Booked 25 times today
Iron Hill - Center City is a gem of a restaurant in its neighborhood. With reviews praising its 'great mix of American casual cuisine', 'good mix of choices on the menu' and 'delicious food', it's clear this place is a hit. Plus, it's got a 'cute and energetic' atmosphere, which adds to its charm. Whether you're meeting up with friends or looking for a family-friendly spot downtown, Iron Hill is a top pick.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • adarrel fisher
    Philadelphia County •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    From the moment we walked in and they held the door open for us to quickly being greeted and sat at our reserved table it was wonderful. The appetizers were tasty. We had the Estia chips, octopus, and the beets. Our meals were served hot and in a timely fashion. We had the lamb chops, the sea bass, and the chicken dish. Everything was done well and they gave us the necessary attention without being overbearing. All of the food was tasty and no need to add anything to enhance the flavors. It is fine dining and the price reflects that but it is worth the splurge.
    More info
    Estia - PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Greek• Center City
    •
    4.8
  • Paul
    Philadelphia County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We celebrated our anniversary on Valentines Day along with a million Eagles fans in town for the victory parade. The Oyster House was a bit crowded, but very understanding about our tardiness due to street closures. Julian, our server, was polite, helpful and attentive. My wife had the crab cake and I had the cod. Both were well prepared and nicely presented. The snapper soup was quite good as well. All in all, the Oyster House was a very good experience.
    More info
    Oyster House PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Center City
    •
    4.9
  • Damon
    Philadelphia County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great experience. Came for Super Bowl parade, did not have to wait. Service great, was quick and delicious. I thought it was going to be a mess with the crowds but they really had it down and knew how to handle themselves.
    More info
    El VezPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Center City
    •
    4.8
  • DaneenVIP
    Philadelphia County •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    1 waiter serving 9 tables he was very attentive but he looked stressed, but still served with a smile on his face and positive attitude. Food and drinks 10/10 I will go back hopefully they get more staffing. The guy that works in the kitchen and brings out the food was so nice and helpful becuase he seen we needed things and it wasn’t his job but he helped without an attitude
    More info
    Fia PhiladelphiaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
    •
    4.4
  • NatoVIP
    Philadelphia County •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    I love this place. Every dish is absolutely mind warping delicious. From the pasta with uni to the dreamy marbelized pink foi grois to that insanely heart of onioin crepe, myself and Rachel could not get enough. The service was wonderful. We loved Enrique. And we love that cozy magically lit home environment. It's our fave.
    More info
    Vetri Cucina - PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Center City
    •
    4.9

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Center City

Discover the charm of Center City, Philadelphia through its array of neighborhood gems that offer a unique and local dining experience. Center City is celebrated for its vibrant dining scene, featuring a mix of culinary delights that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Each restaurant in this locale embodies the spirit of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, offering everything from intimate settings with homemade dishes to upscale establishments boasting high-quality steaks and fresh seafood. These establishments are praised not only for their exceptional food but also for their welcoming atmospheres and top-notch service, creating a perfect setting for both casual and sophisticated dining. Whether you're in the mood for modern American cuisine, authentic ethnic dishes, or innovative gastronomic creations, Center City’s neighborhood gems provide a delightful culinary journey. The reviews consistently highlight the restaurants’ ability to combine excellent menus with a cozy, neighborhood feel, making each dining experience truly memorable. Ideal for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, these restaurants have established themselves as integral parts of the local community, cherished for their quality, creativity, and the warm hospitality that typifies Philadelphia’s dining culture. Whether you are planning a family meal, a romantic date, or a friendly get-together, Center City's neighborhood gems offer a rich tapestry of flavors that promise to enhance your dining experience in Philadelphia.

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