Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia's culinary scene has long punched above its weight, earning a reputation as one of the nation's top food cities. While cheesesteaks and hoagies are legendary, the city's modern dining landscape is defined by incredible creativity and quality. This is especially true when it comes to brunch, where two Philadelphia restaurants in particular have garnered so much national acclaim that they beg the question: Are these the best brunch spots in America? Let's take a look at Suraya and High Street.
Suraya (Fishtown): A Breathtaking Middle Eastern Oasis
Tucked away in Fishtown, Suraya is more than a restaurant; it's a transportive experience. From the moment you step into its stunning, sun-drenched dining room and lush outdoor garden, you feel as though you've been whisked away to a chic cafe in Beirut.
- The Brunch: Suraya's brunch menu is a vibrant celebration of Levantine cuisine. Instead of standard bacon and eggs, you'll find a spectacular spread designed for sharing. The centerpiece is the "Taste of Suraya," an incredible mezze platter featuring their legendary hummus, baba ganoush, labneh, and freshly baked pita bread.
Must-Try Dishes: Beyond the mezze, their Ful Medames (a hearty fava bean stew), delicate Man'oushe (flatbreads), and incredible pastries are standouts.
- Why It's a Contender: Suraya has been showered with national accolades, including being named one of the best new restaurants in America by Esquire and Food & Wine. Its combination of a breathtakingly beautiful atmosphere, unique and flawlessly executed cuisine, and a truly memorable experience makes it a strong contender for the best brunch in the country.
High Street (Center City): Reinventing the American Brunch
High Street has long been celebrated for its commitment to local ingredients and, most importantly, its phenomenal, in-house baking program. After recently moving to a new, larger location, its reputation as a premier all-day cafe and brunch destination has only grown.
- The Brunch: High Street takes familiar brunch concepts and elevates them with incredible technique and the best locally sourced ingredients. The foundation of many dishes is their spectacular, artisanal bread and pastries.
- Must-Try Dishes: While the menu is seasonal, look for their signature Bodega Breakfast Sandwich on a house-made Kaiser roll, creative pastries, and hearty, inventive breakfast bowls. Their past offerings have included legendary items that food lovers still talk about.
- Why It's a Contender: High Street has also received immense national praise over the years, including being named one of the best new restaurants in America by Bon Appétit. Their dedication to craft, their pioneering work in redefining what a cafe can be, and their consistently delicious, ingredient-driven food make a powerful case for it being one of the nation's top brunch spots.
While "best" is always subjective, Suraya and High Street represent the pinnacle of what modern brunch can be. Suraya offers a unique, transportive, and culturally rich experience, while High Street showcases the perfection of American brunch classics through an artisanal, ingredient-focused lens. The fact that both of these nationally celebrated, destination-worthy restaurants are in Philadelphia is a testament to the city's incredible and ever-evolving culinary power. For a brunch experience that is truly among the best in America, a visit to either of these establishments is an absolute must.
