After the food and booze, is there anything more integral to dining out than the atmosphere? We hit the streets to find the absolute best spots for “Dining with a View” in the City of Brotherly Love. Check out the complete guide below, and be sure to let us know if we missed your favorite view-tastic eastery.
Garden
The following picks are for the diner who enjoys gazing upon gorgeous greenery while sipping and snacking:
Talula’s Garden
There aren’t enough adjectives to describe Talula’s Garden. Delicious. Gorgeous. Delightful. I could seriously go on (and on and on). This Washington Square gem, the brainchild of Aimee Olexy and Stephen Starr, offers New American fare inspired by the farm and garden in the most picturesque urban oasis you’ll find. 210 W. Washington Sq., (215) 592-7787
M Restaurant at the Morris House
It’s easy to breeze right past M Restaurant. Trust me, I know. I’ve lived about two blocks from the quaint spot for more than a year and was only recently introduced. But the intro is worth it, especially when you see the idyllic outdoor garden area of this Washington Square staple, located in one of the city’s most historic buildings. Locally sourced ingredients and a daily menu make the garden at M Restaurant the perfect spot for a romantic evening. 231 S. 8th St., (215) 625-6666
From the Top
High in the sky, the following restaurants offer unparalleled looks of the city:
Skybrunch at Top of the Tower
Want to eat brunch in the clouds? Offered every Sunday morning, Sky Brunch at Top of the Tower boasts seven separate buffet stations—serving up everything from crab claw shooters to creme brulee French toast. Sip on a complementary cocktail while observing panoramic views of the city for the perfect weekend morning. 1717 Arch St., (215) 557-1999
R2L
Situated on the top floor of Two Liberty Place, R2L is one of Philadelphia’s sleekest and chicest eateries. The swanky bar and lounge boasts creative cocktails, New American cuisine and unrivaled views of the city. 50 S. 16th St., 37th floor, (215) 564-5337
XIX (Nineteen) at the Bellevue
This self-described “American Brasserie, lounge and café” is named for its location—on the 19th floor of the Hyatt at the Bellevue. This is the perfect locale to bring a seafood-loving date … sweeping views of the city + East Coast diver scallops = romance. 200 S. Broad St.,19th floor, (215) 893-1234
Waterfront
Philadelphia’s Delaware River Waterfront is historically underdeveloped, but the following spots are actively working to change the landscape:
Morgan’s Pier
Opening for the season April 21, Morgan’s Pier is the best spot to sit, chill and enjoy the river breeze. This year’s menu will feature Italian-inspired bites by Jim Burke, a past James Beard nominee who previously helmed the kitchen at the now-closed restaurant JAMES. 221 N. Columbus Blvd., (215) 279-7134
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Philly-fave Spruce Street Harbor Park is returning for the season May 6, and it is not to be missed. Enjoy the Delaware River Waterfront with a cool beverage on one of the park’s over-the-water net hammocks, challenge a friend to a game of shuffleboard or check out the park’s unbelieveable food options. This season will feature bites (and beverages!) from Chickie’s & Pete’s, Franklin Fountain, Federal Donuts and the Garces Group. Columbus Boulevard and Spruce Street, (215) 922-2386
People-Watching
Some argue that the best part of Philadelphia is the art, while others say it’s the walkability. We know, however, that Philly’s true top characteristic is its people. Here’s where you can watch them:
Reading Terminal Market
Philly’s historic market isn’t just the best place to get Beilers Donuts and a DiNic’s roast pork sandwich. It’s also the absolute best for people watching. A rotating combination of confused/lost tourists and hurried locals trying to grab a bite keeps Reading Terminal hustling and bustling nonstop. Sit back at one of the public tables and enjoy. 51 N. 12th St., (215) 922-2317
Parc
Every Philadelphian knows that nabbing a coveted outdoor table at Parc is nearly impossible come May, but we encourage you to try—especially if people-watching is your thing. Stephen Starr’s chic French cafe overlooks Rittenhouse Square, which plays host to a revolving door of adorable tots, commuters, teens and curious tourists during the warm months. 227 S. 18th St., (215) 545-2262
From the Future
We can’t vouch for the food or drink at the following spots … because they haven’t yet opened! But their projected locations promise unparalleled views, so it would be a crime not to include them:
Assembly Rooftop Lounge
Opening spring 2016 atop the Logan Hotel (formerly the Four Seasons Philadelphia), Assembly Rooftop Lounge will overlook Logan Square, offering “vast views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway all the way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.” The self-described “clubby and sensuous” spot will provide patrons with an ultra-modern vibe—complete with fire pits, small bites and bottle service. 1 Logan Sq., coming spring 2016
Not-Yet-Named Restaurant at the Four Seasons Philadelphia
Many were surprised to learn that the Four Seasons Philadelphia was temporarily closing up shop last year. Even more were surprised to learn that the luxury hotel’s future home was set to be atop the now-under-construction Comcast Innovation and Technology Center. The not-yet-named restaurant is expected to offer 360-degree views of the City of Brotherly Love, from 900 feet in the air. We. Can’t. Wait. 1800 Arch St., coming 2018
- Morgan's Pier photo: Morgan's Pier
- Skybrunch photo: Michele Kornegay
- Reading Terminal Market: Jim Berman
- Top photo and featured photo: Morgan's Pier
