Philadelphia is known for its rich history but many travelers overlook its vibrant present. Philly is a super hip city with lots to see and do, especially when it comes to eats and drinks. Philadelphia is a large city (6th most populous in the U.S.) but it still has a small-town feel. Many chefs chose to open their restaurants here as they can execute their big ideas in a more intimate setting. Philadelphia has one of the most diverse dining scenes out there. According to VisitPhilly.com, the City of Brotherly Love offers street-food, 300+ BYOB restaurants, outdoor seating, public food markets, and extensive options for vegetarians and vegans. Let’s not forget about Philadelphia’s most famous dish: cheesesteaks! With so many options to chose from, it’s tough to decide which spots are worth the time, money, and calories. If you follow our guide to the best eats and drinks in Philadelphia, you won’t be disappointed!

Philly Eats

Popularity isn’t everything but there is something to be said about a place that is constantly packed. If you’re wanting to be spotted at the place-to-be, make sure to check out the most booked restaurants in Philadelphia. Ranked #1, Parc has 10,000+ reviews and averages 4.7/5 stars. So what exactly is everybody raving about? This stylish restaurant pays tribute to French cuisine and culture in a charming atmosphere. According to their website, Parc is “where good food, good wine and better company commingle to create an unmistakable joie de vivre.” Not only is the food to die for but the sidewalk seating and views of the park transport you across the Atlantic. If you’re looking for a unique and quality dining experience, just say “oui” to Parc.

Philly Drinks

For all the beer lovers out there, you will be blown away by Philadelphia’s beer garden scene. There’s nothing better than enjoying the warm weather with a cold beverage in hand. These open-air hangouts are great for catching up with friends, socializing with co-workers, or spending time with the family. With so many worthy beer gardens, it was tough to choose a winner but Spruce Street Harbor Park seems to be the clear favorite. Located on the Delaware River waterfront, people flock from all over to lounge in their hammocks and take in the gorgeous views of the water. If you prefer recreation over relaxation, you can partake in shuffleboard, giant Jenga, or bocce. If you need to take a half-time break, grab a beer or seasonal cocktail and walk along the iconic boardwalk. While Spruce Street Harbor Park is a fan favorite, there are plenty of other beer gardens to check out if you’re interested in sampling different brews – just make sure to pace yourself!

Philly’s Iconic Cheese Steak

A Philadelphia guide to best easts and drinks would not be complete without a cheesesteak section. For those not familiar, a cheesesteak is a long, crusty roll filled with thinly sliced sautéed ribeye beef and melted cheese. With so many options to chose from, how do you save your appetite for the absolute best cheesesteak in Philadelphia? According to several sources, John’s Roast Pork is considered the holy grail of Philly cheesecakes. If you’re seeking more of a traditional spot, look no further than Pat’s King of Steaks. Pat’s claims that its founder, Pat Olivieri, invented the steak sandwich back in 1930. Their food is delicious but it’s the history and atmosphere that make this establishment worth a visit. If you stick to this list, you really can’t go wrong when it comes to finding a quality cheesesteak.

Traveling on a shoestring budget? Fortunately, Philly is an extremely affordable city – especially when it comes to dining. As noted in our guide here, Philadelphia’s most iconic dish happens to be pretty economical! The legendary Philly cheesesteak is a very reasonably priced dish and it’s quite delicious too.

Foodies (and drinkies) would kick themselves if they didn’t get a chance to check out Reading Terminal Market. As mentioned in our Philadelphia Travel Guide: Family Adventure Edition, this public market offers infinite cuisine options for adventurous and picky eaters alike. With over more than 80 distinct merchants, you can try all sorts of specialty dishes or grab some rare ingredients to experiment with at home. The Amish area of the market is highly recommended if you’re seeking yummy food and unique experience. There’s a reason this landmark is the most visited attraction in Philadelphia.

If you appreciate good food, drink, and ambiance, Philadelphia is perfect for your next vacation. Whether you prefer world-class dining or more casual settings, Philly has dining options that suit everyone. From beer gardens to rooftop bars, there’s no shortage of trendy spots to get your drank on. For those who value good food and even better company, Philadelphia will satisfy all of your cravings