Award-winning chefs and inventive cuisine abound in Main Line & Philadelphia. In this dining guide, you’ll find a wide range of sure-to-be favorites, from authentic Italian to outstanding Israeli cuisine. Enjoy, and don’t forget to tell them The Scout Guide sent you!

EAT

Ambra (705 South 4^th Street, Philadelphia). A modern Italian experience located in Queens Village, provides unique dining experiences. With a party of 2-4, guests can sit at the Kitchen Table with a front row seat of the talented chefs at work. With a larger party, guests will enjoy an equally as memorable experience in the Dining Room. Instagram

Angelo’s Pizzeria South Philly (736 South 9^th Street, Philadelphia). An iconic establishment in Philadelphia cooking up some noteworthy pizzas and steaks. Don’t forget it’s cash only. Instagram

Bing Bing Dim Sum (1648 East Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia). Walls adorned with murals inspired by a Hong Kong street scene, as well as a cast of quirky dumpling characters contribute to the whimsical atmosphere. The menu is delicious and inventive. Instagram

Darling Jack’s Tavern (104 South 13^th Street, Philadelphia). Newest restaurant from the talents behind Barbuzzo and Little Nonna’s. Darling Jack’s is bringing classic American tavern fare to Midtown village. The atmosphere is immersive, and the menu is creative and intriguing. Instagram

Her Place Supper Club (1740 Sansom Street, Philadelphia). I love the unique dinner party style experience that Her Place Supper Club fosters. With two seatings of 24 guests at 6pm and 8:30pm and a prix-fixe menu, the feeling of eating over at a friend’s house is emulated. The biweekly updated seasonal menu keeps things interesting. Instagram

Fiore Rosso (915 Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr). Marc Vetri’s newest addition, Fiore Rosso, is located in Bryn Mawr. The interior is stunning with high ceilings and locally sourced artwork adorning the walls. What stands out is their commitment to emulating a true Italian steakhouse, as well as the extensive Amari selection. Instagram

Kalaya (4 West Palmer Street, Philadelphia). A vibrant atmosphere with a show-stopping dining room and electric energy. You cannot order wrong, as every dish on the menu has been thoughtfully perfected. Prepared to be in awe of the entire dining experience. Instagram

Kichi Omakase (112 South 12^th Street, Philadelphia). If you are a sushi lover, this is the place to be. What seals the deal for me, is that Kichi Omakase offers a very well-executed Omakase for under $100. Instagram

Laser Wolf (1301 North Howard Street, Philadelphia). From the Chef de Cuisine at Zahav, Andrew Henshaw brings Laser Wolf which focuses on the Israeli grill. The interior is spunky with vibrant colors and retro details. I admire the pursuit of simplicity in order to truly unveil the Israeli flavors. Instagram

Pizzeria Beddia (1313 Lee Street, Philadelphia). Remember when Joe Beddia was cooking only 40 of the best pies in America a day? Now you can have your pie without the line wrapped around the sidewalk. Pizzeria Beddia provides a bright, modern space that welcomes guests to stay as long as they please. Enjoying their seasonal special ‘Sweet Corn Pizza’ on a beautiful summer night in the courtyard is my ideal night in the city. Instagram

Royal Sushi & Izakaya (780 South 2^nd Street, Philadelphia). What I love so much about Royal Sushi & Izakaya is the loyal regulars that consistently rave about it. The experience is that good. There is something so special about sitting at the intimate eight-seat Omakase counter in the back or enjoying a lively night filled with karaoke at the Izakaya up front. Instagram

Tulip Pasta & Wine Bar (2302 East Norris Street, Philadelphia). Tulip sets itself apart from the rest of the Italian restaurants in Philadelphia. This spot elegantly balances being upscale enough for a special occasion and casual enough for a weeknight pasta dinner. The atmosphere is modern and vibrant and so is the menu. Instagram

Vetri Cucina (1312 Spruce Street, Philadelphia). Vetri Cucina is a staple in the Philadelphia dining scene. It is the centerpiece of all Vetri establishments and while the food is exquisite, it is the service that sets this place apart. Instagram

Zahav (237 St. James Place, Philadelphia). Zahav is a modern Israeli restaurant that has become a staple in Philadelphia. The best hummus in the city. Instagram

BARS

Bloomsday (414 South 2^nd Street, Philadelphia). With an all-day café that transforms into a wine bar at night, Bloomsday is no doubt somewhere you could spend a whole day. My favorite element of this place is the knowledgeable servers who are excited to tell you everything there is to know about the wine you selected. Instagram

Grace & Proper (941 South 8^th Street, Philadelphia). Located on a corner in Queen Village, is a cozy yet lively bar offering small plates and signature drinks. This place has a fantastic vibe all year long, and is the perfect for stopping in before a dinner reservation. Instagram

Rouge (205 South 18^th Street, Philadelphia). Its prime destination in Rittenhouse Square makes for an exciting atmosphere. Sit at the bar for a classy and fun experience.

Middle Child Clubhouse (1232 North Front Street, Philadelphia). An all-day hangout spot with creatively delicious food and inventive cocktails. I love the versatility of this spot. You can arrive in the morning to send out your daily emails over breakfast, lunch begins at 2pm offering their popular sandwiches, and by 5pm the atmosphere is lively and electric. You can come for one experience or stay for all. Instagram

COFFEE 

Elixr (207 South Sydenham Street, Philadelphia). A fantastic place to get work done. With a bustling atmosphere and delectable coffee. Instagram

La Colombe Tasting Room (1335 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia). An incredible, immersive experience. Serving up pour-overs, nitro lattes, and espresso, as well as decadently fresh baked goods. 

Maman (49 Anderson Avenue, Ardmore). Located in Suburban Square, I couldn’t think of a better atmosphere to enjoy a cup of coffee. The attention to detail in the décor, kitchen-ware, and menu items, is what makes this place stand out. Instagram

For additional recommendations for what to do, see, and experience in Main Line & Philadelphia, browse or buy a copy of The Scout Guide Main Line & Philadelphia and follow TSG Main Line & Philadelphia on Instagram.