Best Historic Restaurants in South Street

30 restaurants available nearby

1. Rex at the Royal

4.6

Exceptional(306)

Price: Expensive

• Southern • South Street

REX at The Royal provides guests with transformed southern fare, a full bar, daytime cafe and curated bottle-shop housed in the historical Royal Theatre, known as a staple in the rich cultural history of the City of Philadelphia for its role as a hub for Black culture and artistry, including film-making and live music, during the 20th century. REX at The Royal, now operating out of the newly-renovated theatre, maintains key tenets of the historical site including a stage for live music performances, as well as sweeping arches and other details sustained from the original design. REX at The Royal cuisine pays homage to the great early 20th-century African-American chefs who adapted traditional southern fare to Philadelphia’s urban landscape. The concept’s foundation lies in the Lowcountry cuisine of the Southeast Atlantic coast, influenced as it was by the grains and traditions of the African diaspora melded with the local agriculture and fisheries.

2. Butcher & Singer

4.9

Exceptional(8853)

Price: Very Expensive

• Steak • Center City

Booked 80 times today

Butcher & Singer, in the amazing historic location of 1500 Walnut, is an intimate and sophisticated dining experience in a relaxed clubhouse setting. We brought back the true classics from perfect Manhattans and Sidecars to hand-cut steaks and chops, and freshly caught fish. Timeless and fun for all in the continued age of the American chophouse.

3. Little Water

4.6

Exceptional(109)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Center City

Booked 39 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. Bistro Romano

4.8

Exceptional(4986)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Society Hill

Booked 29 times today

This Historic Landmark in Society Hill, nestled in an 18th century granary, will stimulate your senses with an ambiance of candlelight and casual elegance while creating an unforgettable dining experience. Wine Spectator Award for our wine list! Voted a “Best of Philly” Restaurant, guests enjoy Bistro Romano’s acclaimed Regional Italian Cuisine and rave of the award-winning Caesar Salad and the romantic underground wine cellar for two to four. Wine Cellar reservations book the Wine Cellar Experience on OpenTable. We are now celebrating our 36th year! Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence (Two Glasses). Over 750 wine selections, including 20 by the glass.

A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant

5. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(2387)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Center City

Booked 10 times today

Located in a historic townhome in the heart of Philadelphia, Vetri Cucina is a unique space that invites guests to become part of our family. The intimate dining rooms evoke the charms of Italy with custom crafted features including hand-blown Murano glass chandeliers, Richard Ginori porcelain and Venetian glassware.Showcasing the constantly evolving, dynamic creativity of Chef Vetri and his team, Vetri Cucina serves a classic tasting menu at $165pp using the highest quality local and specialty ingredients. The menu is inspired by both classic Italian recipes and our extensive culinary research across the globe. Vetri Cucina also offers a seasonal Forchetta menu which is a premium tasting menu experience at $215pp. These are the restaurant’s sole dining options, designed to provide each guest with a memorable, unparalleled experience. Reservations are released on the first of the month for the following month: ie. On October 1st, reservations are released for the month of November.

6. The Morris

4.7

Exceptional(334)

Price: Expensive

• American • Center City

Booked 31 times today

The Morris is a new restaurant and bar in a truly unique location. It’s connected to a boutique, 17 room colonial hotel and courtyard located right next to Washington Square Park. We have a scratch kitchen that only uses the freshest ingredients available by season. Our bar program consists of delicious hand-crafted cocktails, organic wines, selection of local beers, and spirit-free beverages. Whether it's for a casual night out, business dinner, or date night, we are so excited to serve you in our newly renovate dining room or in the garden courtyard*! *We want to inform our guests that the courtyard is fully tented and heated throughout the winter!

7. Saloon Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(2584)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • South Philly

Booked 85 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 High Street Restaurant & Bar restaurant

8. High Street Restaurant & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(80)

Price: Moderate

• American • Center City

Booked 37 times today

Located in the historic Franklin Building, High Street is a modern American eatery and bar that celebrates the essence of local grains. With an on-site bakery at the heart of our culinary creations, we pride ourselves on crafting artisanal breads, pastries, pizzas, and handmade pastas that showcase the best of the region.Under the guidance of Chef Christina McKeough, our seasonal menu highlights the bounty of local producers, offering a fresh take on classic flavors and dishes. Our commitment to supporting American winemakers adds an exciting dimension to your dining experience, with a carefully curated selection of wines to complement your meal.At High Street Restaurant, we invite you to savor the rich tapestry of flavors that define our culinary philosophy, blending tradition, innovation, and a passion for local ingredients.Parties of 7 or more require a credit card on file and are required to participate in our "Leave It To Us" menu.

9. Mixto

4.6

Exceptional(2342)

Price: Moderate

• Cuban • Center City

Booked 22 times today

Mixto is a two-story natural wood and exposed brick building located on the east side of downtown Philadelphia on the historic Antique Row. We have been opened for ten consecutive years. Our vision has been to bring an array of flavors of the Cuban, Latin American and Caribbean cuisine to the Center City area. We are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with bar service and an extensive wine and cocktail selection.Mixto offers outdoor dining with a South Beach Miami ambiance during the spring, summer & fall when the weather permits.

10. Mabu Kitchen

4.8

Exceptional(193)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary French • Center City

Booked 16 times today

BYOB French restaurant with a unique blend of Southern-inspired cuisine and bistro classics: think Confit Fried Chicken and Waffle, and Steak au Poivre. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with antique mirrors lining the walls, candlelight, and warm and friendly service. We have seasonal outdoor seating along a lovely alleyway with potted blooms and bird serenades.Located on historic Antique Row, this charming spot is a great place to meet for a special occasion, date-night, business meal, or a casual dinner with friends. This is a small family-owned business and everything is made to order. Grab your favorite bottle of wine and head to this hidden gem to experience a contemporary take on French cuisine.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

C
Chris
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Our second time at Little Water and quickly becoming our favorite restaurant in the city. Upon walking in, the hostesses greeted us by name and our server knew of our food allergies from our last visit. From their non-alcoholic drink options to every flavor on the menu, each item we ordered was fantastic and just as good as we remembered from the first visit. The fried sea bass is definitely a star of the show and we have literally told no less than 3 dozen people about it lol. I’m not normally one to leave a long detailed review, but Little Water really delivers a phenomenal dining experience in every way — best food/drink and service/hospitality in recent memory no question!
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Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
•
4.6
J
James
Philadelphia County •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The sweet onion crepe and spinach gnocchi were just as delicious as we remembered them. The pistachio cake was a standout and made our whole night. Our only complaint was with the dover sole, which was fishy and kind of tough.
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Vetri Cucina - PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Center City
•
4.9
T
Traci
Alabama •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
It's perfect! From staff, to atmosphere, to menu. Can't go wrong.
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Butcher & SingerPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• Center City
•
4.9
B
Ben
New York City •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
We had a wonderful evening, sitting at the bar, eating delicious food, and chatting with Sean the bartender. Would absolutely go back and plan to on our next trip to Philly. Highly recommended.
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Bistro RomanoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Society Hill
•
4.8
MM
MarvinM
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined on 1 Jan 2022
Me, and my wife loved this place. The brunch was delicious and the service was extremely excellent. Highly recommended!
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Rex at the RoyalPrice: Expensive• Southern• South Street
•
4.6

Best Historic Restaurants in South Street

Price

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Top Rated

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30 restaurants available nearby

1. Rex at the Royal

2. Butcher & Singer

3. Little Water

4. Bistro Romano

5. Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia

6. The Morris

7. Saloon Restaurant

8. High Street Restaurant & Bar

9. Mixto

10. Mabu Kitchen

See what locals rave about

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