Philadelphia, PA - When the weather warms up, there's nothing more refreshing than a bright, zesty, and chilled seafood dish. In Philadelphia, a city with a surprisingly strong and diverse seafood scene, ceviche and its equally delicious relatives, crudo and aguachile, have become menu standouts. From authentic Peruvian preparations to modern Mexican and contemporary American takes, the city is brimming with fantastic options. Here is a guide to some of the best spots to find these incredible citrus-cured and raw seafood delights in Philadelphia.
1. Vista Peru (Old City)
- The Vibe: For a truly authentic taste of ceviche's birthplace, Vista Peru is a must-visit. This stylish restaurant and pisco bar in Old City offers a sophisticated and transportive Peruvian dining experience.
- The Ceviche: They showcase a variety of traditional ceviches, featuring fresh fish cured in classic "leche de tigre"—the iconic Peruvian marinade of lime juice, onion, salt, and chili. It's a perfect and pure representation of the national dish.
2. Bolo (Rittenhouse Square)
- The Vibe: Chef Yun Fuentes' vibrant Latin American dining room and rum bar is a top destination for creative small plates and fantastic cocktails. The atmosphere at Bolo is lively, bustling, and always fun.
- The Ceviche: Bolo offers a fantastic trio of ceviches, allowing you to sample different styles. Look for unique combinations like Tuna con Coco with a Thai young coconut salsa, a classic Shrimp en Sofrito with avocado, and the Japanese-Peruvian inspired Snapper Nikkei.
3. El Vez (Midtown Village)
- The Vibe: Stephen Starr's modern Mexican hotspot, El Vez, is a high-energy, visually stunning restaurant famous for its fantastic margaritas and bustling atmosphere.
- The Ceviche: The menu features a variety of creative and delicious crudos and ceviches, from classic shrimp and fish preparations to more inventive combinations. It's the perfect spot to share a few different seafood appetizers with friends.
4. Alma del Mar (South Philadelphia)
- The Vibe: A beloved neighborhood restaurant in the Italian Market (made famous by its appearance on Netflix's Queer Eye), Alma del Mar offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu of delicious Mexican-inspired dishes.
- The Ceviche: They often feature a fantastic and fresh ceviche on their menu, prepared with care and authentic flavors. It's a perfect light and refreshing dish to enjoy in their beautifully designed space.
5. Oloroso (Midtown Village)
- The Vibe: A cozy and romantic Spanish tapas restaurant, Oloroso offers an intimate setting perfect for sharing plates and enjoying a glass of sherry or Spanish wine.
- The Ceviche: Their menu often includes a beautifully prepared ceviche or crudo, reflecting classic Spanish and Mediterranean flavors.
6. Tuna Bar (Old City)
- The Vibe: A sleek and modern Japanese restaurant, Tuna Bar is a go-to for high-quality sushi and raw fish preparations.
- The Crudo: While not technically ceviche, their menu of crudos and tiraditos offers a similar experience, showcasing pristine, high-quality cuts of fish dressed in delicate and flavorful sauces, like yuzu and ponzu.
From authentic Peruvian classics and modern Mexican interpretations to sophisticated Japanese crudos, Philadelphia's restaurants offer a diverse and delicious tour of this refreshing seafood preparation. As the weather warms, there's no better way to dine than by exploring the bright, zesty, and vibrant flavors of the city's best ceviches and crudos.
Disclaimer: Please note that restaurant menus, especially seafood offerings, change frequently based on season and availability. It's always a good idea to check the restaurant's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.
