Living in Philadelphia means you have easy access to some of the most unique, interesting places to eat in the world. Still, we all end up falling into routines, going to our favorite places, and not thinking to try something new. If you haven’t visited each of these quirky restaurants in Philadelphia, you’re really missing out on a great meal and a good time. Check out these unique restaurants in Philadelphia as soon as possible!

1. Mad Rex (permanently closed)
Facebook / Mad Rex
Facebook / Mad Rex
Editor's note: Sadly Mad Rex has closed its doors.
2. Talula's Garden
Talula's Garden, 210 W Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Facebook / Talula's Garden
Talula's Garden, 210 W Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Talula's Garden / Facebook
Dine in Philadelphia's most beautiful restaurant as soon as the weather breaks. Enjoy their famous cheese plates in a stunning garden setting. You'll find it at 210 W Washington Square.
3. Royal Izakaya
Royal Sushi & Izakaya, 780 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
Facebook / Royal Izakaya
Facebook / Royal Izakaya
Royal Izakaya serves up the best sushi in Philadelphia in a nondescript building at 780-782 S 2nd Street. There's no sign out front - just look for the red lantern. The front room is lively and loud, sake flows freely, and old anime is projected onto the brick walls.
4. The Victor Cafe
The Victor Café, 1303 Dickinson St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
Tripadvisor / Whoopeewonderdog
Facebook / The Victor Cafe
South Philly's Victor Cafe has been music lovers' favorite spot for decades. It began as a gramophone shop in the early 1900s, then transitioned into a restaurant after Prohibition. In the 1970s, opera students began signing on their shifts, and a tradition was born. Now, dine and enjoy performances while you eat. The Victor Cafe is located at 1303 Dickinson St., Philadelphia, PA
5. Tattooed Mom
Tattooed Mom, 530 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
Facebook / Tattooed Mom
Facebook / Tattoed Mom
Tattooed Mom is a quirky South Street bar that has become legendary for their craft nights, game nights, and interesting cocktails. While the drinks change seasonally, you might luck out and get to try their Cotton Candy Old Fashioned, or a fizzy drink made with Pop Rocks. Their menu offers bar food basics with a twist - like garlic parmesan pepper tater tots, or a pickled chicken sandwich. Visit Tattooed Mom at 530 South Street.
6. Pizza Brain
Pizza Brain, 2313 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
Tripadvisor / Jo Mitraglia

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Facebook / Pizza Brain
Pizza Brain is a BYOB spot in Fishtown that's known for serving up delicious pies, but it's worth visiting for more than that; this quirky Philadelphia restaurant is actually the nation's largest pizza museum! You won't believe how much pizza-related memorabilia they've collected until you see it for yourself. Head up to 2313 Frankford Ave. to check it out.
7. Marrakesh
Marrakesh, 517 S Leithgow St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
Tripadvisor / Zelvis
Facebook / Marrakesh
If you want an authentic Moroccan dining experience, there's only one place to go. Marrakesh is a tiny restaurant where you'll be in close quarters, sitting on cushions on the floor, dining from authentic plates and tasting plenty of great dishes. Find it at 517 S Leithgow St., Philadelphia.
8. Moshulu
Moshulu, 401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Flickr / Kevin Burkett
Facebook / Moshulu
The famed Moshulu is docked at Penn's Landing, and it's the only tall ship restaurant in the world. Dine above deck at their bar for one of the city's best happy hours, or head below deck for a gourmet meal you'll never forget. Save room for dessert, because their deconstructed s'mores or chocolate and wine pairings are unlike any other in the city. Learn about the history of the ship and the dining experience right here.
9. Max Brenner (permanently closed)
Tripadvisor / Fligster
Facebook / Max Brenner
Editor's note: Unfortunately, Max Brenner is no longer open for business. Max Brenner is Philly's own Willy Wonka - all you have to do is step inside and you'll be in a world of pure imagination. Enjoy their tasty burgers or mac and cheese if you want, but save room for dessert. Try a waffle creation, s'mores fondue, or cut right to the chase with a syringe filled with melted chocolate. Is your mouth watering yet? If not, it will be after you check out our full feature article about Max Brenner here! Head to 1500 Walnut Street to get your fill.
10. Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market, 1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
Flickr / Mike Bryan
Flickr / Kevin Burkett
Reading Terminal Market, located at 12th & Arch, is Philadelphia's foodie heaven. Try everything you could possibly think of - from Philadelphia's first ice cream at Bassetts to the best sandwich in America at DiNic's. Pick up fresh meat for dinner this week, and grab some chocolate satisfy your sweet tooth. Really, Reading Terminal is perfect. Read about all that it offers here.
11. R2L (permanently closed)
Flickr / Peter Miller
Facebook / R2L
Editor's note: Unfortunately R2L has closed down since this article was published. R2L is the restaurant at the top of Two Liberty Place where you can dine with the best view in the city. Their creative dishes will satisfy your taste buds and their seasonal cocktails are delicious. Find the entrance to the restaurant at 50 S. 16th Street. See the stunning view from R2L here.

Where do you like to dine when you want a unique night out? Tell us in the comments below! We love to taste test your recommendations!

Looking for more great places to eat? Check out these hidden gems in Philadelphia.

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Unique Restaurants In Hhiladelphia

Megan McDonald | June 30, 2023

What is the best restaurant in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is known for its vibrant food scene and offers many excellent restaurants. Determining the "best" restaurant in Philadelphia can be subjective and may depend on individual preferences. However, a few restaurants consistently receive high praise from locals and visitors alike. Here are a few notable restaurants in Philadelphia:

  • Zahav: Zahav is a highly acclaimed Israeli restaurant that offers a modern take on Middle Eastern cuisine. It is known for its flavorful dishes, including hummus, falafel, and grilled meats, as well as its warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • Vetri Cucina: Vetri Cucina is a renowned Italian restaurant led by James Beard Award-winning chef Marc Vetri. It offers a refined dining experience featuring a tasting menu with dishes crafted from the finest ingredients.
  • Vernick Food & Drink: Vernick Food & Drink is a popular restaurant known for its inventive and seasonally inspired American cuisine. The menu features a variety of small plates, wood-fired dishes, and creative cocktails.
  • Le Virtù: Le Virtù showcases the flavors of the Abruzzo region in Italy. This restaurant offers a menu of rustic dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients, including house-made pastas, hearty stews, and traditional Abruzzese specialties.
  • Morimoto: Morimoto is an upscale Japanese restaurant by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Known for its contemporary and artful presentations, Morimoto offers an array of sushi, sashimi, and inventive dishes that blend traditional and modern flavors.

 

What is a hidden gem restaurant in Philadelphia?

A hidden gem restaurant in Philadelphia is "Helm." Located in the Kensington neighborhood, Helm is a cozy and unassuming eatery that offers a memorable dining experience. Helm focuses on seasonally driven, farm-to-table cuisine with a creative and ever-changing menu. The restaurant sources ingredients from local farms and purveyors, ensuring the freshest and highest quality dishes. The menu at Helm features innovative flavor combinations and beautifully plated dishes that showcase the culinary skills of talented chefs.

The intimate setting of Helm adds to its charm, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The restaurant's attentive and knowledgeable staff provides excellent service, enhancing the overall dining experience. Guests can enjoy a range of dishes at Helm, from small plates like crispy pig's ears and roasted bone marrow to larger plates like perfectly cooked fish and succulent roasted meats. The menu also caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options.

Helm's commitment to showcasing local ingredients, their culinary creativity, and the overall dining experience make it a hidden gem in Philadelphia. This restaurant is perfect for those seeking a unique and memorable dining experience off the beaten path.

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