Best Restaurants for Foodies in Southwest Philadelphia

27 restaurants available nearby

1. Little Water

new

4.6

Exceptional(47)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Center City

Booked 29 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.

2. The Love

4.8

Exceptional(7227)

Price: Expensive

• American • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 136 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.

3. Spice Finch

4.7

Exceptional(1252)

Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Center City

Booked 11 times today

Named after the bird that populates nearly every port along the ancient maritime spice routes, Spice Finch pays homage to a passerine that does not sing, yet is known to vocalize or chirp in recognition of good eats. We are inspired by the distinctive flavors of the nations bordering the Mediterranean Sea, and heavily influenced by the cultures and culinary traditions of Morocco and Greece. Our menu is a bold, seasonally accurate menu featuring an array of small plates, vegetables, grilled meats and fish. Follow us on Instagram @SpiceFinchPhilly

A photo of The Victor Cafe - Philadelphia restaurant

4. The Victor Cafe - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(4744)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Philly

Booked 38 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.

5. The Butcher Bar

4.5

Awesome(1560)

Price: Moderate

• American • Center City

Booked 27 times today

BUTCHER BAR—the latest restaurant from the crew that brought you Varga Bar, Mercato and Valanni. We invite you to our restaurant that playfully celebrates “meat lovers and comfort foods” complimented with a bar featuring 16 beers on tap, 6 draft wines, and a whiskey-based cocktail program. Brunch is offered all weekend and Lunch is available Wed-Fri. Book your next business dinner, happy hour or birthday in our year round patio.

6. Bar Bombon

4.6

Exceptional(1609)

Price: Expensive

• Vegan • Center City

Booked 13 times today

Bar Bombon is food for life. All of our dishes are made with plant-based ingredients. No animal products are used. And since homemade tortillas still make a better taco, we make them the old way, like abuela did. ¡Buen provecho!

7. SkyHigh

4.7

Exceptional(2773)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Center City

Booked 67 times today

Philadelphia's SkyHigh restaurant presents a chic and comfortable dining experience specializing in approachable Jean-Georges cuisine. Experience panoramic views and world-class service.

8. Vernick Fish

4.7

Exceptional(2174)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Center City

Booked 60 times today

Vernick Fish presents Philadelphia’s own, Chef Greg Vernick’s exploration beyond the boundaries of a seafood restaurant. His ingredient-driven cooking style, paired with a love for global flavors, results in an inventive menu of fish and shellfish dishes, and a range of vegetable preparations. Taking a detailed, seasonal, and sustainable approach with small and large plate offerings, the kitchen brings new life to the favorite hallmarks of American oyster bar fare and raw bar. Complementing the experience are well-crafted cocktails, and a focused wine list of seafood-friendly white and sparkling offerings, as well as light, fresh reds.

A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant

9. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(2345)

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.

10. Amada PHL

4.7

Exceptional(8702)

Price: Expensive

• Spanish • Old City

Booked 42 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

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Susan
Atlantic City / South Jersey Shore •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Amazing experience you will not see anywhere. Good delicious, service was excellent, best was the staff singing opera. Well worth the visit!
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The Victor Cafe - PhiladelphiaPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Philly
•
4.9
L
Lynnvip
Philadelphia County •70 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Wonderful service Didn’t feel rushed at all Wonderful food and cocktails!
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The LovePrice: Expensive• American• Rittenhouse Square
•
4.8
K
Karen
Philadelphia County •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
The restaurant is cozy and welcoming, with a partially open kitchen. The attention to detail and innovation they put into their food is just as elevated as Chef Rucker’s Rivertwice. Every bite was delicious and presented simply, highlighting the gorgeousness of the dish. If I had to pick, the swordfish belly tartare and fried whole bass were favorites. The drinks were creative and strong, with perfectly clear ice cubes! We were so full but had to have the desserts, which as always, were light and perfect, simultaneously sophisticated and comforting. The only downside is we couldn’t possibly try everything, but we can’t wait to go back! Seating at the raw bar is a great vantage point and also cozy, casual and intimate. The staff were so knowledgeable, friendly and attentive, clearly well trained, excited to know us and welcoming. Bravo Chef!
More info
Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
•
4.6
E
Erin
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Incredible flavors, outstanding food. Our waiter, Alex, was super knowledgeable and helpful.
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Spice FinchPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Center City
•
4.7
A
andrewvip
Greater Boston •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Love the outdoor, heated patio room. When I'm in Philly for business, I commonly take clients there. Relaxed atmosphere and able to have conversations without yelling. Great whiskey selection too.
More info
The Butcher BarPrice: Moderate• American• Center City
•
4.5

Best Restaurants for Foodies in Southwest Philadelphia

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Award-winning

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27 restaurants available nearby

1. Little Water

2. The Love

3. Spice Finch

4. The Victor Cafe - Philadelphia

5. The Butcher Bar

6. Bar Bombon

7. SkyHigh

8. Vernick Fish

9. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

10. Amada PHL

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