Philadelphia is renowned for its rich history and iconic landmarks, but it’s also a city that boasts an incredibly diverse culinary scene. From Italian to Ethiopian, Korean to Mexican, the city’s international cuisine offers a culinary tour of the world without ever leaving its boundaries. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a flavorful journey through some of Philadelphia’s best international dining spots, sharing detailed insights and personal experiences to help you savor the city’s global gastronomic delights.
Italian Cuisine: Ristorante Pesto
Location: 1915 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Overview:
Ristorante Pesto is a family-owned Italian restaurant in South Philadelphia known for its traditional dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients and a touch of love.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Gnocchi alla Pesto: Soft potato gnocchi served with a rich pesto sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
- Veal Saltimbocca: Tender veal medallions topped with prosciutto and sage, served in a white wine sauce.
Personal Experience:
Dining at Ristorante Pesto felt like being welcomed into an Italian family home. The service was attentive and friendly, and the food was simply outstanding. The gnocchi alla pesto was a highlight, with perfectly cooked gnocchi and a vibrant, flavorful pesto sauce.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations can be made through their official website or via OpenTable. Given the restaurant’s popularity, especially on weekends, booking in advance is highly recommended.
Route:
From Center City, take the Broad Street Line (Orange Line) southbound to Tasker-Morris Station. Ristorante Pesto is a short walk from the station.
Mexican Cuisine: El Vez
Location: 121 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Overview:
El Vez, located in the heart of Midtown Village, offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine. The vibrant, colorful décor and lively atmosphere make it a great spot for a night out or a festive meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Guacamole with Chips: Freshly made guacamole served with warm tortilla chips.
- Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork tacos served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
Personal Experience:
El Vez was a sensory delight, from the colorful décor to the flavorful dishes. The guacamole was some of the best I’ve ever had, and the tacos al pastor were a perfect blend of savory and sweet. The lively ambiance added to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations can be made via the restaurant’s website or OpenTable. Walk-ins are also welcome, but booking ahead is advisable during peak dining hours.
Route:
El Vez is easily accessible from Center City. If you’re walking, it’s located just a few blocks from City Hall. Alternatively, take the Market-Frankford Line (Blue Line) to 13th Street Station.
Ethiopian Cuisine: Abyssinia
Location: 229 S 45th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Overview:
Abyssinia offers an authentic Ethiopian dining experience in West Philadelphia. The restaurant features a variety of traditional Ethiopian dishes, including vegetarian and meat options, all served with injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Doro Wat: Spicy chicken stew cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of Ethiopian spices, served with hard-boiled eggs.
- Vegetarian Combo: A selection of lentil, chickpea, and vegetable dishes served on injera.
Personal Experience:
Dining at Abyssinia was a unique and delightful experience. The communal style of eating, where dishes are shared and eaten with injera, added to the authenticity. The doro wat was rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations are typically not required, but it’s a good idea to call ahead for larger groups.
Route:
From Center City, take the Market-Frankford Line (Blue Line) westbound to 46th Street Station. Abyssinia is a short walk from the station.
Chinese Cuisine: Han Dynasty
Location: 123 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Overview:
Han Dynasty is a renowned Chinese restaurant located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district. Known for its authentic Sichuan cuisine, Han Dynasty offers a bold and flavorful dining experience that attracts both locals and visitors alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Dan Dan Noodles:
Han Dynasty’s Dan Dan Noodles are a signature dish featuring handmade noodles in a spicy, savory sauce topped with minced pork and crushed peanuts. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors that exemplifies Sichuan cuisine. - Dry Pot Style Dishes:
The Dry Pot options at Han Dynasty allow diners to customize their meal with a choice of meats, vegetables, and spices cooked together in a fragrant and spicy broth. It’s a communal dining experience that’s both interactive and delicious.
Personal Experience:
My dining experience at Han Dynasty was a delightful exploration of Sichuan flavors. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and attentive service created a welcoming environment. The Dan Dan Noodles were a standout, delivering a satisfying combination of heat and umami flavors. The Dry Pot dish we ordered was equally impressive, with tender meats and fresh vegetables complemented by the aromatic broth.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations at Han Dynasty can be conveniently made through their official website or via OpenTable. Given the restaurant’s popularity, especially during peak dining hours, I recommend making reservations ahead of time to secure your preferred dining time.
Route:
Han Dynasty is easily accessible from various parts of Philadelphia:
- By Foot: Located in Old City, Han Dynasty is within walking distance from many hotels and attractions in the historic district.
- By Public Transit: Take the Market-Frankford Line (Blue Line) to the 2nd Street Station. From there, it’s a short walk to Han Dynasty on Chestnut Street.
Tips for Dining at Han Dynasty:
- Spice Level: Sichuan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and spiciness. Be sure to communicate your spice tolerance with the server when ordering.
- Sharing Plates: Many dishes at Han Dynasty are meant for sharing, making it an ideal spot for groups or family-style dining.
- Specialty Drinks: Don’t miss out on trying one of their specialty cocktails or Chinese teas to complement your meal.
Han Dynasty offers an authentic taste of Sichuan cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming setting. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of spicy food or curious to explore bold flavors, Han Dynasty promises a memorable dining experience rooted in Chinese culinary tradition.
Korean Cuisine: Seorabol
Location: 5734 Old 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19120
Overview:
Seorabol offers a comprehensive Korean dining experience, featuring a wide array of traditional dishes, including barbecue, stews, and rice dishes. The restaurant is well-known for its authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Galbi: Marinated beef short ribs grilled to perfection.
- Bibimbap: A mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, beef, a fried egg, and gochujang (chili pepper paste).
Personal Experience:
Seorabol provided an authentic Korean dining experience with exceptional service. The galbi was tender and flavorful, and the bibimbap was a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The restaurant’s atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations can be made via the restaurant’s website or by calling directly. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking ahead is recommended during busy times.
Route:
From Center City, take the Broad Street Line (Orange Line) northbound to Olney Transportation Center, and then take a short taxi ride to the restaurant.
Middle Eastern Cuisine: Zahav
Location: 237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Overview:
Zahav, owned by chef Michael Solomonov, is a renowned restaurant offering modern Israeli cuisine. The menu features a variety of mezze (small plates), grilled meats, and traditional desserts.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Hummus Tehina: Creamy hummus served with house-made laffa bread.
- Lamb Shoulder: Slow-cooked lamb shoulder served with pomegranate and chickpeas.
Personal Experience:
Dining at Zahav was an exceptional experience. The hummus was incredibly smooth and flavorful, and the lamb shoulder was tender and succulent. The restaurant’s ambiance was sophisticated yet relaxed, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal with friends or family.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations can be made through the restaurant’s website or OpenTable. Zahav is highly popular, so booking well in advance is essential, especially for dinner.
Route:
From Center City, Zahav is within walking distance. Alternatively, take the Market-Frankford Line (Blue Line) to 2nd Street Station and walk a few blocks.
Indian Cuisine: Amma’s South Indian Cuisine
Location: 1518 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Overview:
Amma’s South Indian Cuisine offers an authentic taste of South Indian flavors in the heart of Philadelphia. The menu features a variety of dosas, curries, and biryanis, all prepared with traditional spices and ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Masala Dosa: A crispy rice crepe filled with spiced potato masala, served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Chicken Biryani: Basmati rice cooked with marinated chicken, spices, and herbs, served with raita.
Personal Experience:
Amma’s South Indian Cuisine provided a delightful culinary journey through the flavors of South India. The masala dosa was crispy and perfectly seasoned, and the chicken biryani was aromatic and flavorful. The restaurant’s casual yet inviting atmosphere made it a great spot for a relaxed meal.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations are not typically required, but it’s a good idea to call ahead for larger groups.
Route:
Amma’s South Indian Cuisine is conveniently located in Center City and is easily accessible by walking or public transportation.
French Cuisine: Parc
Location: 227 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Overview:
Parc is a French bistro located on Rittenhouse Square, offering a classic Parisian dining experience. The menu features a variety of traditional French dishes, including steak frites, escargots, and coq au vin.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Escargots de Bourgogne: Snails cooked in garlic and parsley butter.
- Steak Frites: Grilled steak served with French fries and béarnaise sauce.
Personal Experience:
Dining at Parc felt like a mini trip to Paris. The outdoor seating provided a
lovely view of Rittenhouse Square, and the food was exquisite. The escargots were perfectly cooked, and the steak frites were tender and flavorful. The bistro’s ambiance was charming and romantic, making it ideal for a special night out.
Reservation Platform:
Reservations can be made via the restaurant’s website or OpenTable. Given its popularity, especially on weekends and holidays, booking in advance is recommended.
Route:
Parc is located in Rittenhouse Square, easily accessible by walking from Center City or taking public transportation to 15th Street Station.
Philadelphia’s international culinary scene is a treasure trove of diverse and delicious dining experiences. From Italian and Mexican to Ethiopian and Korean, the city offers a rich tapestry of global flavors waiting to be explored. Each restaurant highlighted in this blog post provides a unique and authentic taste of its respective cuisine, ensuring that every meal is a memorable adventure.
As a travel and food enthusiast, exploring these international dining spots has enriched my understanding of the city’s cultural diversity and culinary excellence. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, I encourage you to embark on your own gastronomic journey through Philadelphia and discover the world of flavors it has to offer.
