It can be hard to keep track of the latest and greatest eats in Philly’s constantly evolving food scene. Due to the ever-increasing number of new restaurants in Philadelphia, we’ve compiled a list of places worth knowing about.
These newest dining spots are sprinkled throughout the city in a number of neighborhoods. Like the City of Brotherly Love, the list is diverse in its history, cuisines, and ambiances. Keep an eye out for this year, as we continue to update you on Philly’s amazing food scene. You can definitely count on it exceeding expectations!
New Must-Try Restaurants
Rooster Soup Company — 1526 Sansom St.
What began as a Kickstarter in 2014 has finally come to fruition, thanks to an overwhelming response from its backers. In partnership with Federal Donuts and Broad Street Ministry, this project has developed a restaurant which uses Federal Donuts chicken bones to turn into hearty bone stock in chicken soup. 100% of the profit from every bowl will go towards Broad Street’s Hospitality Collaborative. Your lunch can now support Philadelphians who need it most. #EatWellDoRight
Veda — 1920 Chestnut St.
This new authentic bistro offers North-Indian dishes featuring fresh ingredients and ethnic spices. You’ll find traditional plates with edgy and elevated twists to them. The extensive menu also includes a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly options. All of this is set in a comfortable yet modern dining room adorned with sparkling chandeliers and a sleek bar.
Friday Saturday Sunday — 261 S. 21st St.
The name may sound familiar, though don’t be fooled. This American restaurant in Rittenhouse has had a full makeover. Reopened with new management, menu and layout, be sure to check out this new and improved romantic hot spot. Did we mention the bar opens at 3 p.m. and they have excellent wine prices?
Same Name, New Locations
HipCityVedge — 121 S. Broad St.
Currently located in Rittenhouse and University City (and DC!), HipCityVeg embraces healthy lifestyles through its 100% organic, non-GMO soy ingredients. Enjoy a plant-based fast-food inspired menu, created to nourish your body the way it deserves to be treated — well! The newest location in the heart of the city features longer hours to satisfy your cravings and offers a brand new early-morning menu! Delicious breakfast items to fuel your day include: a delicious carrot lox bagel, a breakfast sandwich with tofu egg and tempeh, a sweet maple peanut butter & banana sandwich, and of course, La Colombe coffee.
CHeU Noodle Bar — 1420 Frankford Ave.
The hipster kings of Asian cuisine, Ben and Shawn are well aware that they “may not be authentic, but we keep it real.” Originally located in Washington Square West, Cheu Noodle Bar is looking forward to bringing a new Fishtown spot to their group of restaurants. With a larger location, the duo plan on bringing more to the table besides noodles, including more snack-sized options, as well as larger plates. The opening is tentatively set for early spring with rumors of a patio addition by the summertime.
The Blue Duck — 212 S. 11th St.
The popular Northeast BYO will (finally!) be expanding near Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Hoping to open in the fall, they will be bringing their nationally-recognized pork roll burger and indulgent duck poutine fries to Center City. The new location plans to introduce more vegan items to the menu to reflect the neighborhood, and we’re excited to see what they cook up!
What’s Next for 2017
Love & Honey Fried Chicken — 1100 N. Front St.
Husband and wife team, Laura and Todd Lyons, collaboratively plan to open a fried chicken and pie restaurant in Northern Liberties. You can also expect comfort food-sides, like deviled eggs and mac and cheese, plus a variety of pies, as these desserts are Laura’s speciality. Tentatively slated for an early spring opening, the Lyons hope that this is the first of multiple locations. With limited dine-in seating and a focus on take-out, they have their sights set on a full-service restaurant in the future.
Maison 208 — 208 S. 13th St.
Sylva Senat, Top Chef Contestant and opening executive chef at the late Tashan on South Broad St., is coming to Maison 208. Set to open in the spring, this restaurant is a creative fusion of the chef’s culture and training; the menu is French and Haitian-inspired with Southern twists. Expect casual plates like glazed Wagyu beef skewers with southern fried onion rings, but don’t be surprised with his special touch of elegance to each dish!
Giuseppe & Sons — 1520-22 Chestnut St.
The Termini bakery family has partnered up with Michael Schulson, owner of 2016’s hottest new restaurants, Double Knot and Harp & Crown. Together, they are teaming up to open a new Center City Italian restaurant later this year. It will be an extension of Termini’s lesser-known South Philly Italian eatery, Mr. Joe’s Cafe, which has been only been open on weekday afternoons since 2004. Expect to enjoy generations-old family recipes, including a mean red sauce (not gravy!).
What restaurants are you most looking forward to opening and checking out in 2017? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section.
