Best Casual Restaurants in Northwest Philly

125 restaurants available nearby

1. The Dandelion

4.7

Exceptional(8151)

Price: Moderate

• Gastro Pub • Center City

Booked 143 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.

2. The Love

4.8

Exceptional(7369)

Price: Expensive

• American • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 178 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.

3. Little Water

4.6

Exceptional(97)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Center City

Booked 27 times today

Located in the historic neighborhood of Rittenhouse Square, Little Water is the latest restaurant from husband-and-wife team, Chef Randy Rucker and Amanda Rucker. Inspired by the Ruckers' experiences living along the Gulf Coast, New England, and Mid-Atlantic regions, Little Water is a contemporary coastal restaurant that celebrates the ecological diversity of life by the sea.The sister restaurant to the acclaimed East Passyunk Avenue gem, River Twice—which has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer and The New York Times, and has earned Chef Randy’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently, a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic—Little Water continues the Ruckers' dedication to sustainability and local sourcing. With an a la carte menu inspired by the dynamic ecosystem of tranquil marshes, expansive bays, and secluded coves, Little Water captures the coastal spirit in a warm and lively atmosphere.

4. Vernick Fish

4.7

Exceptional(2208)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Center City

Booked 47 times today

Vernick Fish presents Philadelphia’s own, Chef Greg Vernick’s exploration beyond the boundaries of a seafood restaurant. His ingredient-driven cooking style, paired with a love for global flavors, results in an inventive menu of fish and shellfish dishes, and a range of vegetable preparations. Taking a detailed, seasonal, and sustainable approach with small and large plate offerings, the kitchen brings new life to the favorite hallmarks of American oyster bar fare and raw bar. Complementing the experience are well-crafted cocktails, and a focused wine list of seafood-friendly white and sparkling offerings, as well as light, fresh reds.

A photo of La Collina Restaurant restaurant

5. La Collina Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(1462)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Bala-Cynwyd

Booked 19 times today

La Collina has delighted diners with world-class cuisine, service, and ambiance for more than 31 remarkable years. Classically-trained staff serve a selection of the finest old-world recipes in an atmosphere of casual elegance, while attending to every detail.Located just off the Schuylkill Expressway in Belmont Hills, La Collina boasts spectacular hilltop views. The bar offers a unique atmosphere with live entertainment and dancing on weekends. This gem is known as one of the most romantic restaurants on the Main Line.La Collina specializes in fresh seafood and veal dishes. Its signature dish, Dover Sole, is a delicate, tasty fish that is uniquely grilled, and served tableside. In addition to our Dover Sole, our daily fresh-fish specials include Branzino, Norwegian Salmon, Pompano, Orata, soft-shell crabs, Langostina, and other delights from the sea, depending upon availability. We are also known for our veal sirloin, veal porterhouse, ossobuco, and chops.Buon Appetito!

6. Aleksandar

4.5

Awesome(508)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary European • Center City

Booked 22 times today

Aleksandar is the newest addition to the acclaimed Rittenhouse Square restaurant scene. We are inspired by seasonal ingredients, chef-driven techniques, and the traditions and flavors of ancestral and modern Europe. With floor-to-ceiling windows, large-scale original artwork, and cozy wood finishes, we at Aleksandar strive to marry Old World authenticity and modern culinary flare. Aleksandar is an approachable introduction to different corners of Europe, a place to discover new flavors and old traditions. Reservations are highly recommended. Walk-ins are accommodated whenever possible. We look forward to your visit!

A photo of Pepperoncini Restaurant & Bar, Havertown restaurant

7. Pepperoncini Restaurant & Bar, Havertown

4.7

Exceptional(497)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Havertown

Booked 11 times today

Approachable, family owned from scratch Italian restaurant in Havertown, PAOwner and executive Chef Tommy DeFruscio’s vision for elevated Italian in a casual atmosphere comes to life at Pepperoncini Havertown. Our first floor wine bar is laidback and fun while our upstairs dining room is classy, not stuffy. The food is the true star of the show as Chef Tommy selects only the freshest ingredients each week to create memorable dining experiences. Visit our website for our weekly specials menu, follow us on Instagram @pepperoncinihavertown for photos of our specials.

A photo of Porcini - Philadelphia restaurant

8. Porcini - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(2034)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Center City

Booked 6 times today

Established in 1996, Porcini restaurant quickly became a favorite destination for neighborhood and locals alike.Leading the "BYOB Renaissance" in Philadelphia, Owners Maîtred David, and Exec. Chef Steven Sansone combine their knowledge in fine dining, and Trattoria style to create a unique, memorable upscale casual dining experience.Fresh house made pastas and focus on authentic product's imported from Sicily, Italy and neighboring Mediterranean countries. Theses items are paramount to Chef Sansone's family and regional recipes. The warm welcome from David as if your a long time friend and a knowledgeable service staff completes your visit.

9. a.kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(2102)

Price: Expensive

• French American • Center City

Booked 29 times today

a.kitchen, situated in Hotel AKA Rittenhouse Square, is a French-inspired American restaurant led by Executive Chef Eli Collins. The bistro-style menu offers everything from small plates to more traditional lunch and dinner options. Known for its innovative wine list, a.kitchen is a top destination for natural and terroir-driven wines from regions around the world. Reservations are available for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.Adjacent to a.kitchen, a.bar offers a cocktail-focused experience along with a menu of snacks, burgers, salads, and seasonal dishes. Guests of Hotel AKA Rittenhouse Square can also enjoy in-suite dining for a more private experience.

A photo of Burrata - Havertown restaurant

10. Burrata - Havertown

4.9

Exceptional(1240)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Havertown

Booked 14 times today

The 2nd location from the original smashing success of Burrata Philly BYOB comes Burrata Havertown BYOB. Featuring the same home-made fresh daily dishes and nightly specials of the original with our own twist. Opening October 8, 2019. Make a reservation today!

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

G
George
Greater Boston •5 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
I unfortunately think this place suffered from being overhyped. The ambience and service were fantastic. However the food did not blow us away. While there were some highlights including the raw bay scallops, the hash brown, and the “Caesar like salad”, most was forgettable. For the price tag and portion sizes, we left a bit disappointed. Overall, good little spot. Not rushing back though.
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Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
•
4.6
B
BonnieVIP
Philadelphia County •732 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We enjoyed lunch in the bar at table near window away from crowd and noise. Food and service were excellent. Cozy atmosphere. We will definitely return for lunch in the future.
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The DandelionPrice: Moderate• Gastro Pub• Center City
•
4.7
A
AownVIP
Baltimore / Maryland •17 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
I cannot recommend The Love enough…the food was excellent! Everything we ordered was superb! The drinks were delicious and unique. The service from everyone start to finish was top notch. I really liked the feel and look of this establishment, it’s inviting and warm. The music selection was complimentary. The crowd is a nice mix of people. Clean, spacious restrooms too! I LOVED everything! Can’t wait to go back
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The LovePrice: Expensive• American• Rittenhouse Square
•
4.8
G
Gabriella
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
The food was fresh and tasted amazing. Had the sea bass, 10/10. Had every raw oyster they had available and loved every single one. The broccolini Caesar was amazing as well. Will definitely go back to try the crab fried rice.
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Vernick FishPrice: Moderate• Cocktail Bar• Center City
•
4.7
W
Wendi
Philadelphia County •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 10 Nov 2024
We ate in the the board area. TVs around which we enjoy. 5 of ate. All enjoyed meals and drinks. Service is superior. Food is very good.
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Judd's and Jackson's Casual DiningPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Warminster
•
4.4

Best Casual Restaurants in Northwest Philly

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125 restaurants available nearby

1. The Dandelion

2. The Love

3. Little Water

4. Vernick Fish

5. La Collina Restaurant

6. Aleksandar

7. Pepperoncini Restaurant & Bar, Havertown

8. Porcini - Philadelphia

9. a.kitchen

10. Burrata - Havertown

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