Philadelphia has always been a world class city. For many years it has thrived in the areas of arts and culture, historical significance and architecture. However, until recently, Philly has never been known as a culinary hotbed. Sure, there were a few heavy hitters, but nothing like it’s current offerings. These days, it seems Philadelphia gives cities like Chicago, New York and San Francisco a run for their money in edible excitement. We are a city of neighborhoods filled with BYOB’s, Iron Chefs and Ethnic Delicacies.
No neighborhood in Philadelphia has grown as much in recent years as Northern Liberties. Bordered by Girard Avenue to the north; Callowhill Street to the south; North 6th Street to the west; and the Delaware River to the east, Philadelphia’s first suburb became a thriving manufacturing hub before succumbing to neglect in the second half of the 20th century. In recent years, the neighborhood has experienced an incredible resurgence. Now the neighborhood is a bustling enclave filled with young professionals and students, with tons of great restaurants and bars from which to choose!
ETHNIC:
Cantina Dos Segundos: (Mexican) Excellent mexican cantina with vegetarian and vegan options.
Modo Mio: (Italian) Regional Italian cuisine, drawing inspiration from all across Italy, with classic theory
El Camino Real: (Mexican) Mexican Cuisine mixed with BBQ.
Dmitiri’s: (Greek) Greek and Mediterranean Cuisine.
Las Cazuelas: (Mexican) Authentic Mexican Food.
Il Cantuccio: (Italian) Very small family owned, cash only BYOB with traditional Italian fare.
Pura Vida: (Guatemalan) Lovely little Guatemalan BYOB, bring your own tequila for the excellent margarita mix. Burritos, tacos and large pasta plates.
Koi: (Japanese) Fresh Sushi, Sashimi and Maki rolls.
Hikari: (Japanese) Japanese with some Korean options. BYOB.
Circles: (Thai) Thai Cuisine with Vegetarian options. BYOB.
Tiffin: (Indian) Indian with vegetarian and gluten free options. Eat in or take out.
GASTROPUB:
The Standard Tap: When Standard Tap opened its doors in December 1999, their goal was simple: to create a neighborhood tavern that featured great beer and wholesome food. With that in mind, they offer a draft-only beer selection that highlights the vast array of styles crafted by breweries located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. The food menu both complements the beer and expands the notion of what pub food can be. They use only the best available produce, poultry, meats and seafood — much of it from area farms and local vendors – to create fresh, seasonal dishes.
The Blind Pig: Over 40 canned beers and celebrated poutine.
The Abbaye: Belgian style pub with an impressive beer list and excellent food. Lots of vegetarian and vegan options.
Jerry’s Bar: Their approach to food and drink is simple, guided by affection for old world traditions and a commitment to seasonal freshness and house made ingredients.
North 3rd: Homey gastropub with lots of craft beers and comfort food.
Gunner’s Run: Gunners Run salutes the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit that made Philadelphia the economic engine that it was…and still is. Situated prominently on the Piazza in Northern Liberties, the restaurant is owned by regional concert promoter Bryan Dilworth, tattoo artist and Olde City Tattoo owner Jason Goldberg, and music booking agent Tim Borror.
PIZZA:
Rustica: Unusual pizza and sandwiches. Tip: try the brussel sprout pizza, if you are into that sort of thing!
Del Rossi’s: Tasty thin crust pizza and cheesesteaks.
Trios: Thin crust square pies to tickle your tastebuds.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Bar Ferdinand: (Tapas) Celebrated tapas and wine bar
Silk City: (Diner) Diner and 3,000 square foot beer garden.
Honey’s Sit and Eat: (Diner) For some of the highest quality home cookin’ you’ll ever taste! They’re committed to using only the finest ingredients. Eggs are hand gathered from free range chickens in Lancaster County. The country bacon is locally sourced, and they use locally grown vegetables whenever possible. Even the mayonnaise is freshly homemade as are the salads dressings, soups and preserves.
PYT: (Burgers) Creative burgers and full bar. Features a burger of the week club.
Green Eggs Cafe: (Diner) Brunch style restaurant/cafe that takes pride in serving the highest quality fare while maintaining an eco-conscious philosophy.
Yards Brewing Company: (Brewery) Excellent Yards beer selection, coupled with a snack menu and bar games.
Ortliebs: (Pub Food) What was once a legendary brewery turned jazz institution is now a local music venue and gastropub. Full menu served until midnight.
North Bowl: (Pub Food) Vintage style bowling alley with full menu and bar
Boardwalk Bar: (Seafood) Raw bar, pizza, sandwiches and desserts.
King’s Oak: (Pub Food) American Grill and sports bar.
There are also dozens of coffee shops, sandwich shops and other food options too numerous to list, and many new restaurants pop up almost daily. Bon Appétit!
