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Best Hot Spot Restaurants in Center City

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24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of El Vez restaurant
1. El Vez
4.7
Exceptional(7039)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican / Southwestern • Center City
Booked 147 times today
A contemporary Mexican restaurant, El Vez offers many unique items such as mahi mahi tacos, ahi tuna tostadas, carne asada and pasilla braised pork pozole. Enjoy their made-to-order guacamole & margaritas with fresh-squeezed juices. Top off your meal with "The El Vez," a flourless chocolate cake, peanut butter mousse and carmelized bananas.
A photo of Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse - Philadelphia restaurant
2. Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse - Philadelphia
4.6
Exceptional(9461)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Center City
Booked 124 times today
Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse embodies the rich tradition of the classic American steakhouse, serving USDA Prime Beef, fresh seafood and premium wines from our award-winning wine selection.
A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
3. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(8793)
Price: Very Expensive
• Greek • Center City
Booked 78 times today
The stunning restaurant, which is first of its kind in Philadelphia, will transport guests to the Greek Islands with an atmosphere reminiscent of an inviting Mediterranean home & a menu of authentic specialties, simply prepared, that represent the best of Greek cuisine. The restaurant specializes in whole grilled fish which are flown in from the Greek Islands, the shores of Morocco, Tunisia, & Portugal. Guests are able to choose from Estia’s expansive display & watch chefs cook their fish to perfection over a charcoal grill in the sparkling open kitchen.
A photo of Oyster House Philadelphia restaurant
4. Oyster House Philadelphia
4.9
Exceptional(90)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Center City
Booked 57 times today
Philadelphia’s premier destination for seafood lovers since 1976. With a menu that is as traditional as it is innovative, this family-owned business run by third-generation restaurateur Sam Mink has been a community cornerstone for almost 50 years. Cherished by Philly locals and visitors alike for its decadent lobster rolls, signature crab cakes and crispy fried oysters, Oyster House continues to honor the region’s culinary roots while constantly cooking up tasty, new favorites. Oyster House’s robust seafood menu curated by executive chef Joe Campoli, promises high quality cuisine along with an excellent dining experience. Enjoy a seat at Philadelphia’s most famed oyster bar while enjoying a show by Philly’s most legendary oyster shuckers. The weekday Happy Hour is always abuzz with a lively mix of coworkers and friends.
A photo of Aqimero restaurant
5. Aqimero
4.7
Exceptional(1199)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Latin • Center City
Booked 31 times today
Situated in the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, Aqimero offers the chance to unwind while savoring wood-fired grill flavors. Expect nothing short of excellence from acclaimed chef and Aqimero restaurateur Richard Sandoval. Our kitchen features wood-burning grill and Latin-inspired notes that enhance the tastes of an eclectic menu, while a stunning atmosphere encourages guest-to-guest connections over shareable plates and carefully crafted cocktails. It is our pleasure to serve residents and visitors alike in a relaxed setting where memorable dishes are expertly executed and stylishly served.
A photo of The Capital Grille - Philadelphia restaurant
6. The Capital Grille - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(6081)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Center City
Booked 73 times today
Make it a day to remember. From birthdays and anniversaries to professional milestones, we aim to make every gathering special at The Capital Grille. Open seven days a week, The Capital Grille is best known for our expertly prepared steaks, which are dry aged in house for 18 to 24 days and then hand-cut by our restaurant's on-premise butcher. The Capital Grille's wine list features more than 350 selections, and its floor-to-ceiling wine kiosk regularly houses 3,500 - 5,000 bottles. Reservations are recommended but not required. For more information, please visit our website. We look forward to delighting you.
A photo of Buddakan - Philadelphia restaurant
7. Buddakan - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(11342)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Old City
Booked 129 times today
Stephen Starr’s Buddakan is a spectacular restaurant featuring exotic flavors of modern Asian cuisine with creativity and drama. Bon Appetit notes, "The mostly white space is striking, with a lit-from-within communal table in the middle of the room, a waterfall & a ten-foot, candle-bedecked Buddha. The religious icon watches over hip customers indulging in pan-Asian cuisine that far surpasses the fare usually found at hot spots like this." Newsweek reports, "Design also serves as a signifier for cuisine. You walk into Buddakan, one of the hottest new restaurants in Philadelphia, past a shimmering waterfall & Japanese river stones & you say to yourself, 'ginger-miso everything' even before you see the magnificent 10-foot Buddha dominating the dining room." Named one of “America's Top 50 Restaurants" by Travel & Leisure and 'Top Restaurant for Fun' by Gourmet, Buddakan has become one of the country's most talked about restaurants.
A photo of Parc restaurant
8. Parc
4.8
Exceptional(17439)
Price: Expensive
• French • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 228 times today
Stephen Starr's stylish addition to Rittenhouse Square pays tribute to French cafe culture, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Parc recalls the chic brasseries of Paris, serving classic French fare in a charming space. Red leather banquettes topped with frosted glass provide a sense of intimacy. Details such as well-worn wooden chairs, vintage framed paintings and photos and antique brass fixtures transport guests across the Atlantic. French doors spill onto a sidewalk terrace covered by a dark red awning perfect for dining "en plein air."
A photo of Craftsman Row Saloon restaurant
9. Craftsman Row Saloon
4.4
Awesome(1166)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old City
Booked 63 times today
Craftsman Row Saloon is a hot spot due to its festive atmosphere and delicious food, as highlighted in the reviews. Customers love the seasonal changes, creative presentations, and the excellent service. The restaurant has also been featured on The Travel Channel's Food Paradise and more, making it a must-visit place. One review said, 'Simple comfort foods done well, with some fun twists. The decorations make it such a fun atmosphere and hot spot it visit.'
A photo of The Love restaurant
10. The Love
4.8
Exceptional(7325)
Price: Expensive
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 224 times today
Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr's The Love is a bi-level sanctuary features 150 seats, split between the main dining room, sidewalk seating, and an upper-level loft. The restaurant is a spirited and carefree neighborhood café celebrating everyday American cuisine. The menu is crafted around what’s truly seasonal and local, while the beverage program reflects the best of the region. This creative energy is matched by a front-of-house service staff passionate about providing homey hospitality morning, noon and night.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jasen
    Dallas - Fort Worth •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had a great experience overall. While my wife’s food was cold in the middle, the staff handled the situation promptly and professionally, which we appreciated. One standout moment was their attention to detail. I had noted on the OpenTable app that it was her birthday, and they not only read the note but acknowledged her special day without me having to say a word to the staff. That personal touch made the experience memorable. Despite the small hiccup, we would definitely recommend this place, especially for special occasions.
    More info
    El VezPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Center City
    •
    4.7
  • Mark
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent dining experience. Food, ambiance, service was top notch.
    More info
    AqimeroPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Latin• Center City
    •
    4.7
  • Maria
    Philadelphia County •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My family and I have dined at Del Frisco's many times, and our experience there never disappoints! Our server, Michael, was just fantastic and when we return we will be requesting one of his tables. Thank you for making our Christmas Eve dinner so wonderful!
    More info
    Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse - PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Center City
    •
    4.6
  • ElizabethVIP
    Philadelphia County •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Absolutely wonderful. Delicious food and friendly service. Our favorite place in the city for special occasions.
    More info
    Estia - PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Greek• Center City
    •
    4.8
  • Cedrick
    Denver / Colorado •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We had an amazing dining experience at the Oyster House! The lobster roll I ordered was absolutely delicious, and my wife thoroughly enjoyed her scallops – perfectly cooked and full of flavor. For appetizers, we shared the calamari and fried oysters, which were both fantastic and crispy. The flavors were spot-on, and the service was friendly and attentive. Highly recommend this spot for seafood lovers – we'll definitely be back!
    More info
    Oyster House PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Center City
    •
    4.9

Discover best hot spot restaurants in Center City

Discover the vibrant dining scene in Center City, Philadelphia, where each restaurant serves as a hot spot for culinary enthusiasts. From sophisticated steakhouses to cozy bistros and innovative cuisine blends, the area boasts a diverse range of dining options that cater to various tastes and occasions. These restaurants are celebrated not only for their exceptional menus and outstanding food quality but also for their dedicated service and welcoming atmospheres. Whether you're in the mood for a classic American comfort meal, a modern twist on international dishes, or a fine dining experience, Center City's restaurants offer a memorable culinary journey. The dining scene here is a blend of historical charm and modern sophistication, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Each spot provides a unique ambiance, ensuring that every visit is more than just a meal—it's a true experience. If you're looking for a culinary adventure in the heart of Philadelphia, these hot spots are sure to satisfy your dining desires.

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