The Best Places to Eat Like a Local in Philadelphia

Don't just visit Philadelphia for the sights, but also the eats.

Related To:

Philadelphia

Philadelphia

Photo by: Danasia Fantastic

Danasia Fantastic

Philadelphia is a city known for its role in playing a major part in the birth of America and for its passionate sports fans. But few people know how incredible its food scene is. Ranging from all types of fare at all different price points, Philadelphia is sure to offer something delicious for everyone. The next time you’re in Philly, skip the tourist traps, and opt for one of the restaurants that locals love:

Jim’s Steaks South Street

You’ve never truly had a cheese steak until you’ve had one from Jim’s on South Street. This family-owned-and-operated business launched in 1976, and they’ve been serving their award-winning cheese steaks ever since. Be sure to order their cheese steak sandwich with Cheez Whiz. Yes, you read that right, Cheez Whiz. It might sound strange, but it will blow your mind. 

Wm. Muhlerin's Sons

Located in the ridiculously cool Fishtown area in Philadelphia, Wm. Muhlerin’s Sons describes itself as “a rustic Italian-influenced neighborhood joint with a focus on pizza and other wood-fired fare”. The menu is full of mouth-watering dishes like their Lamb Steak which is spice rubbed, served with a bean salad and fennel soffritto. In addition to incredible food, the restaurant is absolutely gorgeous inside and the cocktails will leave you speechless.

WaWa

Although it may seem odd that a small chain convenient store made the list, WaWa is unlike any convenient store you’ve ever visited. Philadelphians live at WaWa, and why wouldn’t they? They serve the best hoagie sandwiches and have some of the tastiest sweet tea to ever be bottled. With so many delicious options at affordable prices, swinging by one is a must next time you’re in town. You can find a WaWa’s location on what feels like every other corner in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs.

Serpico

Yet another gem located on the iconic South Street, Serpico is a cozy yet upscale experience. The brainchild of James Beard award-winning chef Peter Serpico and iconic restaurateur Stephen Starr, offers a seasonal menu that focuses on international fare. They’re only open for dinner, so plan to go there after a fun day of sightseeing. 

Tommy Dinic’s

On the hunt for an unforgettable roast beef sandwich? Tommy Dinic’s is the go-to place. Located in The Reading Terminal, Tommy Dinic’s has been providing Philadelphians with outstanding roast beef and roast pork sandwiches since 1980. Their sandwiches have gotten so much acclaim they’ve been featured on our own “Man v. Food” and “Adam Richman's Best Sandwich in America.” They’ve recently introduced hand-carved Italian Pulled Pork and slow-cooked brisket of beef to the menu, both of which will leave you wanting to visit Philadelphia again soon.

Next Up

The 8 Best Places to See Bigfoot Right Now

If you’re dying to get a look at one of the most notorious cryptids, the Travel Channel consulted data from The Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization and found eight places where you are most likely to catch a glimpse of one of the large, ape-like creatures said to roam the woods across North America.

The Dead Files Returns with All-New Episodes Beginning Saturday, February 26 on Travel Channel and discovery+

Medium Amy Allan and Former Homicide Detective Steve DiSchiavi Are Back on the Case To Help Beleaguered Property Owners Resolve Incidents of Devastating Paranormal Activity.

10 of the Best Places to Spot Yeti, Bigfoot, and Sasquatch

Despite its reputation as the world hide-and-seek champion, you just may spot one of the elusive beings in one of these 10 hotspots.

Ghost Hunters Scares Up the Frights in its New Home at discovery+ with the Kickoff of an All-New Series on New Year's Day

Join Legendary Paranormal Investigators Jason Hawes, Steve Gonsalves and Dave Tango, along with Shari DeBenedetti and the team from DESTINATION FEAR, on an All-New Supernatural Hunt at the Old Joliet Prison on the Premiere Episode Streaming on January 1.

The Wait is Over - Ghost Adventures is Back with Frightening New Paranormal Investigations Beginning March 10th on discovery+

The Crew Confronts Eerie Activity Inside Eminent Locations Including the Home of American Author John Steinbeck, the Los Angeles Police Museum, a Nevada Winery and More.

Top 6 States With The Most Alien Encounters

UFOs visit California and Florida more than any other state according to the UFO Reporting Center.

Meet Kimo, The High Seer Who Doesn’t Do Fear

Kimo, known as @TheLightSeer on TikTok, is a psychic medium and educator who uses his platform to make the paranormal palatable.

True Terror Awaits the Destination Fear Team as they Navigate Their Darkest Road Trip Yet

New Season Premieres Friday, November 25, With a Two-Part Investigation Inside Pennsylvania’s Behemoth Cresson Sanatorium and Prison

On TV

6pm | 5c
7pm | 6c
On Tonight
On Tonight
8pm | 7c
12am | 11c

Trending Now

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss Travel Channel in your favorite social media feeds.