Philadelphia Restaurant Reviews

Longhorn Steakhouse: A Familiar Comfort in Philadelphia's Dining Scene

While not born on the cobblestone streets of Old City, Longhorn Steakhouse has carved out a comfortable niche for itself in Philadelphia, offering a dependable and satisfying choice for steak lovers. My recent excursion to the local Longhorn proved to be a reliably pleasant experience, fitting neatly into the "good and dependable" category of dining.

Upon entering, the atmosphere immediately felt welcoming, akin to visiting a trusted friend. The interior exudes a warm, rustic charm, with abundant wood accents, soft, dim lighting, and thoughtfully placed Western-themed artwork. This creates an inviting ambiance that encourages relaxation and enjoyment. Our server was a standout, embodying attentiveness, friendliness, and a solid grasp of the menu. Drinks remained full, questions about steak cuts were answered with confidence, and recommendations for sides and pairings were readily offered. This level of service significantly enhanced the overall positive dining experience.

For my meal, I selected the Outlaw Ribeye. This bone-in cut, seasoned with Longhorn's signature blend, arrived cooked precisely to my requested medium-rare. The steak was a testament to good preparation: tender, juicy, and boasting a pleasing char on the exterior. While it may not reach the dizzying heights of the most extravagant steakhouse offerings, it was undoubtedly enjoyable and skillfully prepared. The seasoning offered a pleasant, subtly peppery profile that complemented, rather than masked, the quality of the beef.

My dining companion opted for Flo's Filet, a leaner option that also met the mark for perfect cooking. Described as incredibly tender, it seemingly dissolved in the mouth. We both concurred that the quality of the meat, across both dishes, was consistently high.

The Dandelion: The Quintessential British Pub

Just steps from the bustling Rittenhouse Square, The Dandelion offers a sophisticated take on the classic British pub. This charming, two-level establishment, set within a historic building, masterfully blends a curated selection of craft beers with modern interpretations of beloved British cuisine. Step inside and be transported by the Dandelion's unique, idiosyncratic charm. The interior is a delightful maze of distinct seating areas, intimate bars, winding hallways, and cozy nooks, each meticulously designed to offer its own personality. This thoughtful layout fosters a sense of discovery, ensuring a personalized experience whether you seek lively conversation or a quiet corner.

The menu is a celebration of elevated British fare. While honoring tradition, The Dandelion injects seasonal, modern twists into familiar dishes. Their shepherd's pie is a standout, described by one enthusiastic diner as "enormous and incredibly satisfying," potentially the "best shepherd's pie ever had." Complementing the culinary delights is an impressive array of craft beers and thoughtfully chosen drinks. The Dandelion understands the synergy between food and drink, offering a beverage selection designed to enhance your meal. With its captivating ambiance, exceptional food, and engaging atmosphere, The Dandelion promises patrons a truly memorable experience of "eating and drinking."

This spot serves craft beers & modern takes on British cuisine in a English Pub setting. The Dandelion, a sophisticated homage to the British pub serving updated seasonal takes on U.K. cuisine.

Maggiano's Little Italy's Enchanting Patio

Maggiano's Little Italy, conveniently located on 12th Street just a stone's throw from the bustling Reading Terminal Market, promises more than just a satisfying Italian-American meal. While the kitchen consistently delivers on its comforting classics, the restaurant's true magic often unfolds in its surprisingly charming outdoor patio and its well-appointed private dining spaces, making it an exceptional choice for both intimate evenings and larger group celebrations.

As the warmer months arrive, Maggiano's Little Italy unveils its secret garden – an enchanting outdoor patio that transforms the urban setting into a romantic escape. Imagine intimate bistro tables nestled within a gracefully wrought-iron fenced area, each bathed in the soft glow of twinkling string lights. This alfresco haven, perfect for leisurely summer evenings, offers a unique opportunity to soak in the vibrant pulse of Philadelphia life unfolding around you. The alluring atmosphere, enhanced by the tantalizing aromas wafting from within, creates an irresistible draw. Even without a prior reservation, the simple allure of this charming patio is enough to beckon diners, promising an unforgettable and delightful experience.

From Chicken Parm to Linguine with Clams, Maggiano's is a dependable choice for classic Italian-American cuisine, particularly for large groups and special occasions. If you are looking for quality Italian American cuisine, large portions, warm atmosphere, and excellent service the Maggiano's Little Italy is for you.

A Stroll in the Garden

Driven by local ingredients prepared in unbreakable harmony with the season, Talula’s Garden is a celebration of cooking the way it ought to be. A partnership with award-winning restaurateur Aimee Olexy, a true farm-to-table ethos inspires Talula’s unforgettable approach to food, interpretations of traditional Mid-Atlantic cuisine with a light and modern touch.

Talula's Garden, a charming establishment inspired by the bounty of gardens and farms is spearheaded by Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr, offering a menu that is both simple and stunning.

While the original Washington Square once boasted a notable outdoor space that later served private events, Talula's Garden has revitalized it into an absolute gem, perfect for al fresco dining.

The dinner menu presents an eclectic fusion, leaning heavily into Italian-inspired dishes like handmade ricotta ravioli and pork fazzoletti, alongside flavorful Asian options such as duck lo mein.

Though true American entrees are limited to seared salmon and strip steak, the sides like cornbread and baked biscuits offer a comforting touch. Every dish delights with both taste and exquisite presentation. Combine this with excellent service and a fabulous ambiance, and Talula's Garden is a must-visit for a memorable dining experience.

Zorba's: A Case of Misleading Promises and Culinary Disappointment

Zorba's presents itself as a charming, family-style Greek-American eatery boasting reasonable prices, attentive service, and a commitment to quality ingredients. Their website proudly proclaims, "Our traditional Greek food recipes will delight your pallet!" However, the reality on the plate falls dramatically short of these lofty claims. To believe their marketing after a meal here would be akin to purchasing the Benjamin Franklin Bridge from a street vendor in a clown suit.

This establishment operates as a "steam table" restaurant, a common practice where food is prepared in advance and held warm for extended periods. My recent lunch visit with my wife proved this point. We both opted for lunch platters: my Charcoaled Chicken and her Gyro platter. The meal's shortcomings were immediately apparent, beginning with the sides. The vegetables, clearly canned, had been rendered mushy and unappetizing by their prolonged stint in the steam table. The potatoes, also pre-cooked and likely remnants from the previous day, were bland and lukewarm. The rice was an even greater letdown – ice cold and equally bland. The main courses offered little redemption. My "charcoaled" chicken was dry, devoid of flavor, and clearly pre-cooked. My wife's gyro meat was a particularly baffling and unpleasant surprise. Having enjoyed countless gyros in my native New York City, typically sliced from a rotating spit, this was an entirely different, and unwelcome, experience. It resembled a processed, pre-packaged amalgamation, disturbingly reminiscent of Steak-umm combined with Spam. While one might hope for an off day, or a sick cook, this meal was undeniably and thoroughly disappointing. As a restaurant professional, I would find it inexcusable to serve such a poorly executed and frankly, disgusting, meal to any patron..

Dante & Luigi's, a restaurant claiming the title of Philadelphia's oldest Italian establishment since 1899, appears to rest on its historical laurels rather than culinary excellence.

While its age is noteworthy, it doesn't guarantee quality. The establishment seems to have transitioned into a tourist trap, relying on its past reputation. The claim of "homemade traditional Italian dishes" is questionable.

Many dishes lean towards Italian-American interpretations, and the flavors suggest boxed pasta and subpar sauces. For example, their Rigatoni Carbonara, a dish traditionally made with guanciale, egg yolks, Pecorino Romano, freshly ground black pepper and pasta water, is prepared with cream, bacon, peas, and tomato – an egregious departure from authenticity. This suggests a lack of fundamental cooking skill, as true Carbonara is an art form.

I ordered the Ziti with Broccoli Rabe & Sweet Italian Sausage with Olive Oil & Garlic. This simple dish needs to be made to order. It was not. In my opinion, it looked and tasted like it came out of a steam table. One old looking thinly sliced sausage, less than 2 ounces of cooked boxed ziti, one strand of broccoli Rabe, with hardly any olive oil and garlic. It was a dry, bland poorly made item. No grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese offered at a cost of $22.00.Bread was store bought imitation Italian that you would buy at your local Wal-Mart store.

Overall, the ambiance of Dante & Luigi’s did have old world charm, but the restaurant provided poor quality food, mediocre service at New York City prices and was a disappointing experience. I know you may have read positive reviews of Dante & Luigi’s but many people also believe that Pizza Hut make the best pizza and Subway makes better Italian Hoagies than Angelo’s on 9th street. If you are from Philly you know the real deal! - Pass on Dante & Luigi’s - Old world Tourist Trap.

The Love Affair - Culinary Art Meets Unforgettable Ambiance

Step into The Love, and you're not just entering a restaurant; you're stepping into an experience. From the moment you cross the threshold, a palpable warmth envelops you, a feeling that transcends mere temperature. It's the gentle crackle of a fireplace, the soft glow of strategically placed sconces, and an atmosphere that hums with the contented murmur of diners and bursts of genuine laughter. This is a space that breathes comfort, inviting you to shed the world outside and immerse yourself in something truly special.

The Love's reputation for "creative and fabulous food" is no exaggeration. Forget predictable menus; here, culinary passion takes center stage. Guests consistently rave about "fantastic" dishes, a testament to the kitchen's artistry. The velvety mushroom soup offers a comforting embrace, while the lemon risotto sings with bright, zesty notes. For those craving something more substantial, the short-rib burger promises a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience. It's the kind of food that silences conversation, drawing you completely into its delicious embrace.

This captivating culinary journey is elevated by a service that is as "friendly and attentive" as it is seamless. The staff at The Love understand the art of hospitality, ensuring every visit, whether it's a leisurely brunch, an intimate dinner, or a celebratory occasion, is nothing short of memorable. I ordered the "Love Bird" – a masterpiece featuring buttermilk fried chicken, creamy grits, and collard greens "like from the deep South." The sheer perfection of the chicken, the authentic flavor of the greens was almost down home southern.

In a city boasting over 6,000 dining establishments, many of which falter with inflated prices, subpar service, and uninspired cuisine, The Love stands as a beacon of quality.

A French Bistro on Rittenhouse Square

Step inside Parc on South 18th Street, and you're instantly transported to a Parisian dream. Situated beside the verdant beauty of Rittenhouse Square, this French bistro cultivates an atmosphere alive with conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the intoxicating aromas of cheese, onions, and fresh bread wafting from its open kitchen.

Parc's authentic European design further enhances this truly cinematic interpretation of French lifestyle. Its authentic European design, featuring elements imported directly from abroad, creates a sweeping, cinematic interpretation of French lifestyle. The inviting ambiance, alive with the hum of conversation and the aroma of classic French fare, pulls you into a dreamscape without ever needing a passport. The menu offers a delightful journey through French traditions, from morning croissants to classic brasserie dishes. Favorites include the flavorful French onion soup, crowned with a perfectly melted, stretchy Gruyère, and the "perfect" steak frites, expertly cooked with a crisp exterior and tender, medium-rare interior.

While Parc is a vibrant "place to be seen" and portions are on the smaller side, the "amazing" food, "fabulous experience," and "impeccable service" consistently make it a "go-to place" for any occasion, delivering a "magical" dining experience worth the visit.

Estia: A Mediterranean Escape and Pre-Theater Delights

From the moment you enter Estia, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of refined charm. Elegant stone columns, soaring vaulted ceilings, and rustic exposed wood beams, bathed in dim, alluring lighting, create an ambiance that whispers romance and sophistication. Those heading to the nearby Kimmel Center or Academy of Music consistently choose Estia, appreciating its ability to deliver a delicious and timely meal before the curtain rises.

The menu at Estia is a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavors, with a particular adoration for the freshest seafood. Among the must-try starters, the Estia Chips stand out. These impossibly thin, crispy fried zucchini and eggplant slivers, paired with a cooling tzatziki, are an addictive invitation to the meal ahead.

For true seafood enthusiasts, the fresh whole fish are the stars of the show. Options like the Dorado (Tsipoura) and Sea Bass (Lavraki) are not just fresh; they are flown directly from the Mediterranean, offering an authentic taste of the ocean. Prepared with masterful simplicity to highlight their natural essence, these fish, typically sold by the pound, are a testament to Estia’s commitment to sourcing and execution.

Beyond seafood, Estia is renowned for serving some of the city’s finest lamb chops. The Arni Paidakia are a triumph of preparation, marinated for three days in a fragrant blend of olive oil and herbs, resulting in lamb chops so tender they practically melt in your mouth. For theatergoers looking for exceptional value, the popular 3-course Theater Menu, usually around $40, offers a taste of Estia's excellence without compromising on quality.

A Century of Italian History Reduced to Steam Table Slop

Ralphs Restaurant proudly boasts a legacy spanning over a century, often claiming the title of oldest Italian eatery in America. However, this claim is actually held by Raos Restaurant in New York City, which opened its doors in 1896.

For generations, Ralph's was renowned for its authentic Italian-American cuisine. However, as ownership transitioned to the fourth generation, Jimmy Rubino Jr. and Eddie Rubino, have turned what was once an excellent dining experience into nothing more than a tourist trap, luring unsuspecting visitors with its historical facade.

A closer look at the menu reveals a disquieting trend. Many dishes appear to be overwhelmed by a sauce that tastes distinctly of canned tomatoes. The very essence of flavor seems to be missing from several offerings. Take, for instance, the Fettuccine Alfredo. Instead of the rich, cheesy, and peppery classic, it was a watery, bland concoction of milk with minimal cheese,over egg noodles. lacking the fundamental ingredients and correctness that define this beloved dish.

The once-acclaimed Chicken Parmigiana, priced at a hefty $42.00, tasted similar to frozen supermarket chicken. A small chicken breast, not a cutlet was drowing in canned tomato sauce.A side of overcooked spaghetti, an additional $8.00, failed to impress, adding to the overall lack of taste. . The broiled Sausage with broccoli rabe and long hot peppers, served over penne, was "disgusting". The sausage and the broccoli rabe were steam table being watery and mushy, contributing to a flavorless experience. While the restaurant's historical significance is undeniable, the poor quality food, terrible service and high price tag makes Ralph's one of the oldest steam table restaurants in the city.

In The Presence of The Buddha

Recently I went to Buddakan with a party of ten, all older adults, it was an evening of mixed impressions. Nestled near the restaurant's iconic Buddha centerpiece, our initial seating arrangement was visually striking. However, the high chairs and a cramped table layout quickly became a significant impediment and navigating the limited space and engaging in relaxed conversation proved difficult, exacerbated by a notably high noise level that further fractured communication.

On the culinary front, Buddakan unequivocally shone. Each dish presented was a testament to the kitchen's skill, delivering delightful flavors and impeccable preparation. Portion sizes were satisfying without being excessive, ensuring everyone left content. The food was, without a doubt, the undisputed star of the evening, showcasing well-executed and memorable cuisine.

Yet, the service experience cast a shadow over the otherwise excellent food. Dishes arrived sporadically, creating an uneven dining pace where some guests waited while others had already progressed through their meals. This lack of coordination transformed what should have been a cohesive communal dinner into a piecemeal experience. The disarray culminated in the final bill, a convoluted document that proved to be a significant hurdle to decipher and settle, leaving a frustratingly ungraceful end to our anticipated smooth soiree.

In reflection, it became clear to us that Buddakan might be best suited for a different demographic. Its high energy, modern setup, and perhaps an assumed level of tech-savviness for ordering or payment, seem geared more toward a younger, savvy adult crowd than for those of us over 50 seeking a more traditional, relaxed, and seamless dining experience.

The Red Owl Tavern: The Illusion of Rustic Charm

Red Owl Tavern, nestled within Philadelphia's Kimpton Hotel Monaco, presents a rustic-chic facade, promising a modern take on the traditional tavern. However, this image falters upon closer inspection. The upscale American comfort food, while sounding enticing, largely disappoints in quality, with the only truly elevated aspect being the hefty price tag.

The tavern's popularity seems driven more by transient tourists than by a discerning local clientele, leading to an often-crowded, impersonal atmosphere. Accessibility also poses a significant challenge. The first floor is dominated by a sizable bar and a cramped dining area, with the larger dining space relegated to the second floor, accessible only by a steep, winding staircase. While an elevator exists, it is outside of the establishment and traversing a hotel corridor, however it was regrettably out of service, rendering the upper level inaccessible for many. In my assessment, Red Owl Tavern falls short of federal handicap accessibility standards, offering a dining experience that is far from inclusive.

A group of ten booked brunch, but the downstairs seating was inadequate. Relocated upstairs, their experience soured with a rude waiter, Matthew, who dismissed requests for separate checks, presenting a single bill instead. While food presentation was artful, the taste failed to impress. Cold, greasy chicken and waffles, tough avocado toast, fatty brisket tacos, and a ruined smoked salmon dish all disappointed. Even the fried chicken sandwich was greasy, though the accompanying fries were good. Sausage and gravy, while flavorful, arrived cold. Only the "two eggs" entree offered a redeeming, tasty experience in an otherwise lackluster meal.

NOT WORTH THE EFFORT!

A Symphony of Steak and Sophistication

From the moment you step through the doors, The Capital Grille envelops you in an aura of refined elegance. The dimly lit, mahogany-paneled dining room whispers classic upscale charm, a sophisticated backdrop punctuated by the gentle hum of conversation and the melodic clink of silverware. Plush seating and impeccably crisp white tablecloths invite you to linger, setting the stage for memorable celebrations, important business dinners, or simply an exquisite personal indulgence.

At the heart of this esteemed steakhouse lies its undisputed star: the steak. The Capital Grille’s unwavering commitment to sourcing prime, dry-aged beef is evident in every succulent mouthful. Their celebrated Dry Aged Bone-In NY Strip, aged meticulously in-house for 18-24 days and expertly carved daily, stands as a powerful testament to their dedication to unparalleled quality. For those who veer from tradition, the Pan-Seared Sea Bass with Miso Butter offers a captivatingly flavorful alternative, presenting tender, buttery fish complemented by shiitake mushrooms and crisp asparagus.

The ensemble of side dishes receives equally enthusiastic acclaim. Sam's Mashed Potatoes, a Capital Grille original, provides a luxuriously smooth and generously portioned delight. The Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta offers an interplay of charred sweetness, savory depth, and the delightful crunch of salty pancetta. The wine list is extensive and thoughtfully curated, featuring a wide array of domestic and international selections and this exceptional culinary journey is further enhanced by the consistently impeccable service, ensuring every visit to The Capital Grille is an elevated experience.

Did Someone Say Cheesecake

Philadelphia, a city synonymous with iconic flavors, surprisingly boasts a surprisingly popular purveyor of all things creamy and sweet: The Cheesecake Factory. Nestled in the heart of the city (on Walnut Street, to be exact), this behemoth of a restaurant offers a starkly different, yet equally potent, culinary experience to the classic cheesesteak. Forget the griddle, embrace the indulgence.

The sheer scale of The Cheesecake Factory is its first, undeniable impression. A sprawling menu, as thick as a novel, promises something for every palate, from hearty pastas and sizable salads to, of course, an almost overwhelming array of cheesecakes. Navigating the options can be an adventure in itself, but the friendly and efficient staff are always on hand to guide you through.

While the savory dishes are substantial and generally well-executed, it's the cheesecake that rightfully steals the show. Each slice is a decadent monument to sugar and cream, featuring classics like the Original and decadent creations like the Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake. The portions are generous, making sharing a wise, if not always easy, decision.

Is it a traditional Philly experience? Absolutely not. But for those seeking a reliably delicious, undeniably filling, and gloriously sweet escape, The Cheesecake Factory in Philadelphia delivers. It’s a welcome counterpoint to the city’s more savory legends, offering a sweet indulgence that keeps regulars coming back for more.

A Disappointing Encounter at Gnocchi

I recently visited Gnocchi, with a party of 10 and our evening began with a rather lengthy wait, as it took nearly thirty minutes for a server to attend to our table. When our order was finally taken, there was a strong emphasis on a $50 per person tasting menu, with the requirement that it be ordered by the entire party or not at all. This left us feeling somewhat pressured and less than satisfied with the options presented especially since Gnocchi is cash only

The dining experience presented a stark contrast. While the handmade potato gnocchi was acceptable, its blandness and a similarly uninspired tomato sauce left it unremarkable. The Chicken Parmesan, unfortunately, fared worse. Soggy and swimming in a sauce that lacked freshness, it seemed a relic from a steam table, with the addition of mozzarella failing to salvage it. Considering the premium price point, the portion sizes were surprisingly small, diminishing the overall value of entrees like the $22+ gnocchi and the $24 Chicken Parmesan, which ultimately failed to impress.

For those seeking authentic and enjoyable Italian cuisine in Philadelphia, there are undoubtedly superior options that prioritize both quality food and customer satisfaction.- Gnocchi is not one of them!

Steak 48: A Disappointing Symphony of Noise and Overpriced Disappointment

Steak 48, a Philadelphia steakhouse with a hefty $100 per person minimum, promises an upscale dining experience. However, my recent visit with a party of ten revealed a stark reality: a restaurant that prioritizes volume over ambiance, falling short on three crucial pillars of the restaurant industry: quality, service, and value.

From the outset, the atmosphere was far from elegant. The music was so deafening that even basic conversation with a neighbor proved a challenge, a far cry from the sophisticated backdrop one expects at such an establishment. This overwhelming noise level set a disappointing tone for the evening.

The culinary experience only amplified our dissatisfaction. My supposedly prime cut steak was overcooked and excessively seasoned, making it a chore to eat. The crab cakes at our table were equally underwhelming, an average-sized appetizer that was overwhelmingly binder with a noticeable lack of actual crab meat. When this was politely pointed out to the staff, the response was dismissive, claiming, "Most people say there is too much crab meat."

The pricing at Steak 48 is nothing short of exorbitant. A single bourbon neat cost a staggering $40.00, a price point that feels especially egregious given the other missteps of the evening. Compounding these issues, when a guest attempted to use a restaurant gift card purchased via their website, it was refused – Unbelievable!

In conclusion, Steak 48 in Philadelphia fails to deliver on its opulent promises. For those seeking a refined steakhouse experience, a peaceful atmosphere, and food that justifies its cost, I strongly advise looking elsewhere. My experience suggests that The Capital Grille offers a demonstrably superior and truly high-end dining experience, representing far better value for your money.