Top 10 Best Restaurants in Eastern Pennsylvania

A Food Lover's Guide to Eastern Pennsylvania: The 10 Best Restaurants

Eastern Pennsylvania is a culinary powerhouse, offering a rich and diverse dining landscape that stretches from the nationally acclaimed restaurants of Philadelphia to the charming farm-to-table bistros of the Lehigh Valley and Bucks County. This region is a paradise for food lovers, where historic taverns, innovative tasting menus, and authentic global cuisines coexist. This expert guide, based on deep local knowledge, critical acclaim, and national awards, will lead you on a journey to the ten best and most essential restaurants in Eastern Pennsylvania.

Philadelphia: The Culinary Epicenter

1. Zahav (Society Hill, Philadelphia)

• The Vibe: The restaurant that put modern Israeli cuisine on the map in America, Zahav is a James Beard Award-winner for Outstanding Restaurant in the country. A meal here is one of the most sought-after reservations in Philadelphia.

• The Food: Chef Michael Solomonov's menu is a spectacular journey through Israeli flavors, starting with their legendary, silky-smooth hummus and warm, puffy laffa bread, followed by an array of salatim (small salads), creative mezze, and a signature grilled meat or vegetable dish.

  
  
  

2. Friday Saturday Sunday (Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia)

• The Vibe: An intimate, sophisticated, and romantic restaurant that has evolved from a long-running classic into a modern fine-dining destination. It also boasts a James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant in the nation.

  
  
  

• The Food: Chef Chad Williams offers a stunning, multi-course tasting menu of creative and beautifully plated New American cuisine. The upstairs dining room provides an elegant experience, while the downstairs "Lovers Bar" is a fantastic spot for world-class cocktails and a more casual, à la carte menu.

3. Kalaya (Fishtown, Philadelphia)

• The Vibe: A vibrant, high-energy, and beautifully designed restaurant, Kalaya offers an authentic and unforgettable taste of Southern Thai cuisine.

• The Food: James Beard Award-winning Chef Chutatit "Nok" Suntaranon serves up fiery, complex, and incredibly flavorful dishes that are meant to be shared. From their famous flower-shaped dumplings to their rich and aromatic curries, a meal here is a true culinary adventure.

4. Vetri Cucina (Center City, Philadelphia)

• The Vibe: An intimate and luxurious dining experience, Vetri Cucina is the flagship restaurant of renowned chef Marc Vetri. Housed in a charming townhouse, it's one of the most acclaimed Italian restaurants in the country.

• The Food: Vetri offers a single, multi-course tasting menu that is a masterpiece of modern Italian cuisine, showcasing handmade pastas, high-quality ingredients, and exquisite flavors.

The Philadelphia Suburbs

5. Andiario (West Chester, PA)

• The Vibe: A small, intimate, and incredibly sought-after restaurant in the heart of West Chester, Andiario has a national reputation for its exceptional, ingredient-driven cuisine.

• The Food: James Beard-nominated Chef Anthony Andiario is a master of showcasing the seasonal bounty of the region. The menu changes constantly, reflecting the best of what's available from local farms, with a focus on beautiful handmade pastas and perfectly executed dishes.

6. Talula's Garden (Washington Square, Philadelphia)

• The Vibe: A stunningly beautiful and enchanting farm-to-table restaurant, Talula's Garden feels like a magical escape in the city. Its beautiful outdoor patio and indoor greenhouse-like space are perfect for a special occasion.

• The Food: The menu is a celebration of seasonal, local ingredients, with a focus on fresh, vibrant, and beautifully plated dishes. It's a true farm-to-table experience from renowned restaurateur Aimee Olexy.

The Lehigh Valley

7. Bolete Restaurant and Inn (Bethlehem, PA)

• The Vibe: Housed in a charming, historic 19th-century stone inn, Bolete is the premier fine-dining destination in the Lehigh Valley. The atmosphere is rustic, elegant, and incredibly romantic.

• The Food: With multiple James Beard nominations, the menu at Bolete is a masterclass in farm-to-table dining, featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and purveyors.

8. Henry's Salt of the Sea (Allentown, PA)

• The Vibe: A beloved, old-school institution, Henry's Salt of the Sea is an unpretentious and classic seafood restaurant that has been a Lehigh Valley favorite for decades.

• The Food: This is the place for classic, perfectly executed French-inspired seafood dishes. It's a timeless and consistently delicious dining experience.

Bucks County

9. Honey (Doylestown, PA)

• The Vibe: A cozy and intimate spot in the heart of Doylestown, Honey is a unique and creative restaurant perfect for a special night out.

• The Food: The menu features an eclectic and exotic array of "small plates" or appetizers designed for sharing, with global influences that make for a fun and interactive dining experience.

10. Black Bass Hotel (Lumberville, PA)

• The Vibe: A historic and beautifully restored 18th-century inn, the Black Bass Hotel offers a dining experience with breathtaking views of the Delaware River. The atmosphere is historic, elegant, and uniquely charming.

• The Food: The menu features upscale American cuisine with a focus on classic dishes and high-quality ingredients, all served in a setting steeped in history.

Disclaimer: Please note that restaurant hours, menus, and reservation policies (which are often essential for these establishments) can change. It's always a good idea to check the restaurant's official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.

Share This Article on Social Media

Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff

PA Best Of Series consists of a round-up of the best places to find great food, entertainment, and more in PA.

Best Eastern PA Restaurants