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Best Restaurants with a Vibrant Bar Scene in Old City

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30 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Amada PHL restaurant
1. Amada PHL
4.6
Exceptional(8826)
$$$$
• Spanish • Old City
Booked 46 times today
Amada is an Andalusian style tapas bar & restaurant where James Beard Award Winning Chef Jose Garces embraces the rich traditions of Spanish cuisine in a rustic-chic setting. Serving Old City for 20 years, Amada is a Philadelphia staple that is perfect for all occasions. Specialties of the House include:Patatas Bravas, Gambas al Aljillo, Croquettas de Jamón , Paella Valenciana, Seasonal Sangrías, Craft Cocktails & Spanish WinesPrivate Parties: Amada welcomes groups of all sizes. Events can be booked in our private dining rooms or throughout the restaurant seven days a week. For parties of 12 or more, please email our private events team at events@garcesgroup.com or call 215-625-2450
A photo of Tuna Bar restaurant
2. Tuna Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1092)
$$$$
• Japanese • Old City
Booked 52 times today
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW PRIOR TO BOOKING Outdoor reservations are weather permitting and must be specified upon booking the reservation. Specific table requests are considered but not guaranteed. Tuna Bar is a Japanese Raw Bar and Grill concept created by Owner and Chef Kenneth Sze. Located in Old City Philadelphia, Tuna Bar boasts a relaxing, upscale atmosphere serving fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The diverse menu offers traditional and specialty sushi rolls, raw oysters, scallops, hand-selected fish, and shareable entrees. Tuna Bar offers a fully stocked bar of wine, sake, and spirits. There are no outside food and beverages allowed. There is a $40 dessert/cake fee for guests that wish to bring in a dessert/cake for their special occasion.
A photo of The Dandelion restaurant
3. The Dandelion
4.7
Exceptional(8493)
$$$$
• Gastro Pub • Center City
Booked 126 times today
London's culinary revolution comes to Philadelphia with this unique gastro-pub. Cozy rooms and intimate bars create a storied, Old World aura, while updated seasonal takes on British food make up the menu. In keeping with tradition, our casks and tap craft beers are always rotating and classic family-style roasts are served on Sundays.
A photo of Talula’s Garden restaurant
4. Talula’s Garden
4.9
Exceptional(14081)
$$$$
• American • Washington Square
Booked 159 times today
Behind the wrought iron gate, past the herbaceous patio and through the atrium is Talula's Garden, the warm and elegant Washington Square eatery from Aimee Olexy and Starr Restaurants. The modern menu, prepared with carefully-sourced ingredients and a light European touch, changes with the seasons. The artful cuisine, hospitable staff, sustainable spirits, and a focus on cheese make the dining experience here incredibly memorable.
A photo of Spasso Italian Grill - Philadelphia restaurant
5. Spasso Italian Grill - Philadelphia
4.7
Exceptional(2684)
$$$$
• Italian • Old City
Booked 17 times today
Spasso Italian Grill has been a neighborhood favorite for 23 years, specializing in homemade pasta, fresh daily seafood and tender veal all served at reasonable prices. Our relaxed atmosphere, personalized service & great food are sure to make you a regular. We have delivery options with Door Dash.
A photo of Saloon Restaurant restaurant
6. Saloon Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3027)
$$$$
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 68 times today
Entering the Saloon, a family owned restaurant since it opened in 1967 is a bit like stepping into Philadelphia's past. Dark oak paneling, shiny brass and authentic local antiques create a warm congenial and casual atmosphere. The choice of two comfortable dining rooms each with its own vintage bars make dining and conversation a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Both bars feature a delicious and moderately priced food menu. The menu is Italian with seafood specials such as grilled octopus and dover sole. Saloon steaks and veal chops are legendary. Many prefer a plate of fried long hot peppers to compliment the steaks. All desserts and gelatos are made on the premises daily. The Saloon is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar and restaurant with a national reputation. And the parking is FREE!
A photo of The Love restaurant
7. The Love
4.8
Exceptional(8655)
$$$$
• American • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 186 times today
Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr's The Love is a bi-level sanctuary features 150 seats, split between the main dining room, sidewalk seating, and an upper-level loft. The restaurant is a spirited and carefree neighborhood café celebrating everyday American cuisine. The menu is crafted around what’s truly seasonal and local, while the beverage program reflects the best of the region. This creative energy is matched by a front-of-house service staff passionate about providing homey hospitality morning, noon and night.
A photo of a.kitchen restaurant
Icon
8. a.kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(2459)
$$$$
• French American • Center City
Booked 37 times today
Located at 18th and Walnut, a.kitchen is a French inspired American restaurant rooted in seasonality and a deep love of wine. Led by Executive Chef Eli Collins, the menu moves from thoughtful small plates to refined lunch and dinner classics, all designed to pair beautifully with what is in your glass. Morning service features a seasonal breakfast, with weekend brunch offering a fresh take on daytime favorites.​Nationally recognized for its natural and terroir focused wine program, a.kitchen highlights iconic regions and emerging producers, with a knowledgeable team ready to guide your next pour. The bar offers a focused cocktail list and wines by the glass, making it ideal for a drink before dinner or a casual seat at the bar.​ In warmer months, enjoy sidewalk café dining with a relaxed European feel. Honored by Wine Spectator, The New York Times, Vogue, and the James Beard Foundation.
A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant
9. White Dog Cafe - University City
4.6
Exceptional(5683)
$$$$
• American • University City
Booked 49 times today
Since 1983, White Dog Cafe University City has been a destination in the heart of the University of Pennsylvania's campus for dining, libations, and celebrations in a trio of Victorian brownstones. The first restaurant in Philadelphia to utilize environmentally sustainable, organic, and locally sourced foods from farms within a 50-mile radius, White Dog is renowned for its warm hospitality and innovative cuisine. The charming brownstones were completely renovated, providing a variety of dining rooms with whimsical dog decor, fixtures, and stunning artwork.
A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant
10. Estia - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(9112)
$$$$
• Greek • Center City
Booked 37 times today
Estia in Philadelphia is a vibrant bar scene, known for its fresh Greek cuisine and inviting Mediterranean atmosphere. Reviews rave about the 'fabulous atmosphere', 'great service', and 'amazing ambience'. It's often described as a lively place, especially before theater performances, with a great selection of cocktails and wine. The staff is praised for being friendly and attentive, contributing to the overall charm and ambiance of the restaurant.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Nichole
    Las Vegas •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Needed a quick bite and a beer and it was perfect!
    More info
    The Dandelion$$$$• Gastro Pub• Center City
    •
    4.7
  • Karen
    Philadelphia County •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Authentic tapas, wonderful seafood paella that was perfectly cooked. It was really a great evening I love the atmosphere felt like Spain.
    More info
    Amada PHL$$$$• Spanish• Old City
    •
    4.6
  • Michael
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary at Saloon Restaurant, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we were seated, the atmosphere was warm, jovial, and filled with the kind of energy that makes a special evening feel truly memorable. We ordered the petite filet and the veal parmesano with angel hair pasta — both were absolutely outstanding. The filet was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful in every bite, while the veal parmesano was a masterclass in classic Italian comfort done right. The angel hair pasta was a beautiful, delicate complement that rounded out the dish perfectly. What truly elevated our experience was the impeccable service. Our server Gianna, along with the entire wait staff, struck the perfect balance — attentive without being intrusive, warm without being overbearing. Every course was presented with generous time in between, allowing us to fully savor each dish and enjoy our conversation without ever feeling rushed. On an anniversary dinner, that pacing is everything. Saloon Restaurant has mastered something rare: the ability to make guests feel genuinely celebrated. The environment was lively yet intimate, and the positive energy throughout the dining room made the whole evening feel special. This was our first visit, but it most certainly won’t be our last. What began as a special occasion dinner has turned into our new regular spot. If you’re looking for exceptional food, outstanding service, and an atmosphere that simply makes you feel good — look no further than Saloon Restaurant. Highly, highly recommend.
    More info
    Saloon Restaurant$$$$• Italian• South Philly
    •
    4.8
  • Michael
    Greater Boston •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Talula's Garded was an outstanding experience and highly recommended! The food and service was exceptional and the garden seating was delightful.
    More info
    Talula’s Garden$$$$• American• Washington Square
    •
    4.9
  • Andrew
    Philadelphia County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 24, 2026
    loved! cute table! great food! would love to come back etc
    More info
    Tuna Bar$$$$• Japanese• Old City
    •
    4.8

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