Philadelphia, PA
- whether you're looking for a quick bite, Rittenhouse Square has you covered with some great locations to enjoy brunch. Below are some of the top restaurants to enjoy in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia.
The Ultimate Guide to Dining in Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is the heart of Philadelphia's social and culinary scene. This beautiful, historic park is surrounded by a stunning array of restaurants, from world-class fine dining establishments to cozy cafes and lively bars. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a casual brunch with friends, or a quick and delicious bite, the Rittenhouse neighborhood offers a perfect option for every taste and occasion. This guide will lead you to the must-try restaurants that make this one of the most vibrant and delicious neighborhoods in the city.
Fine Dining & Upscale Experiences
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Parc: An iconic and always-bustling French brasserie, Parc is the quintessential Rittenhouse experience. With its beautiful dining room and sprawling sidewalk cafe overlooking the square, it's the perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying classic French dishes like steak frites, onion soup, and towering seafood plateaus.
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Barclay Prime: For a truly luxurious and impressive meal, Barclay Prime is one of the city's premier steakhouses. Located in the historic Barclay building, the restaurant offers a modern and sophisticated take on the classic steakhouse, with a menu featuring world-class cuts of beef and an extensive wine list.
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The Dandelion: A sophisticated and charming homage to the British pub, The Dandelion is a cozy, multi-level restaurant with a welcoming and historic atmosphere. The menu features updated and delicious takes on UK classics like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and a fantastic Sunday roast.
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Lacroix at The Rittenhouse: Located in the luxurious Rittenhouse Hotel, Lacroix offers an innovative and elegant dining experience with stunning views of the square. The menu features modern, globally inspired cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Their weekend brunch is a true Philadelphia institution.
Casual & Trendy Favorites
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The Love: A chic and airy restaurant with a focus on seasonal American cuisine, The Love is a popular spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The menu is creative and delicious, with standout dishes like their famous hush puppies and shrimp and grits.
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The Continental Mid-town: A vibrant and eclectic three-story restaurant, The Continental Mid-town is known for its fun and energetic atmosphere, complete with swing chairs and a rooftop bar. The menu is a playful mix of global tapas and creative cocktails, making it a perfect spot for a lively night out.
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a.kitchen+bar: A sleek and modern bistro with a focus on an award-winning wine program, a.kitchen is a favorite for those who appreciate a thoughtfully curated dining experience. The menu features sophisticated and delicious French-inspired fare, with a raw bar and a variety of small plates perfect for sharing.
Cozy Bars & Neighborhood Gems
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Monk's Cafe: A legendary Belgian beer bar, Monk's Cafe is a must-visit for any beer lover. With a "Beer Bible" of rare and exceptional brews and a menu of delicious Belgian-inspired pub fare (the mussels and frites are a must-try), it's a cozy and authentic spot with a devoted following.
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Tria Cafe Rittenhouse: A beloved neighborhood wine bar, Tria is the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine, a craft beer, or a delicious cheese plate. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is always welcoming and unpretentious.
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Good Dog Bar: A cozy, three-story gastropub with a fun, dog-themed decor, Good Dog Bar is a local favorite. They are famous for their Good Dog Burger, a half-pound patty stuffed with Roquefort cheese, and their award-winning mac & cheese.
Quick & Delicious Bites
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Pizzeria Vetri: For authentic and delicious Neapolitan-style pizza, Pizzeria Vetri is a top choice. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven and feature high-quality, seasonal ingredients.
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Goldie: For a quick and incredibly satisfying vegan meal, Goldie is a must-try. This counter-service spot from the team behind Zahav specializes in falafel, fries, and their famous tehina (tahini) shakes.