Best of 13 late night restaurants in Old City
In the heart of Philadelphia, Old City never sleeps, and neither does its dining scene. If you're a night owl searching for a late-night bite, look no further than the vibrant selection of "late night restaurants in Old City." These hidden gems offer delectable menus, cozy atmospheres, and late-night hours, perfect for unwinding after a long day or fueling up before a night out. From casual eats to upscale dining, the "late night restaurants in Old City" scene has something for everyone.
- 1. The Plough & the Stars in Old City
- 2. Han Dynasty - Old City
- 3. National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant
- 4. Mac's Tavern
- 5. Big Ass Slices Bar & Grill
- 6. Philly's Gourmet Steaks
- 7. Vista Peru in Old City
- 8. Royal Boucherie
- 9. Rotten Ralph's Pub & Eatery
- 10. Mei Mei Philadelphia
- 11. Glory Beer Bar & Kitchen
- 12. Sassafras in Old City
- 13. Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille
1. The Plough & the Stars in Old City
Historic location with live music and events

The Plough & the Stars is an Irish pub known for its friendly staff and delicious food. During a late-night visit, the atmosphere was busy yet efficiently run, adding to the overall positive experience.
The pub serves excellent Irish food and is an ideal spot for a late-night meal. The combination of tasty dishes and the authentic Irish pub vibe makes it a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after dark.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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2. Han Dynasty - Old City
Historic location in Old City, upscale atmosphere, authentic Chinese decor

I was disappointed with the noodles as they had a strong floury taste. However, the beef dish was excellent and the chicken dish and other menu items were decent. Yet, I don't think the overall experience was worth $100.
The prices for the food were quite reasonable and the taste was great. If you're looking for some Chinese food in Old City, this restaurant is worth checking out. They offer takeout on certain nights of the week, and the process was smooth and efficient. There was no wait time after we arrived at the restaurant.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant
A unique garage-themed setting with vintage cars on display

National Mechanics, a bar located in Philadelphia, has transformed an old building into a welcoming space. The entrance, adorned with tall, aged doors and red curtains, leads to a setting that is both warm and inviting. I finally had the chance to visit National Mechanics, after it being on my list for a while, and I was not disappointed. This establishment, once a bank in Philadelphia's historic district, now boasts a comfortable brick-walled pub atmosphere, complete with a weekly trivia night.
Beer is still served by the pitcher at National Mechanics, including the local Yards IPA at a reasonable price. The building's history is still evident in the space, with high ceilings and large windows adding to the ambiance. The bar has managed to maintain the charm of the original structure while also creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for patrons. The staff is friendly, and the food and drink offerings are diverse, making National Mechanics a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Mid-Range
4. Mac's Tavern
Historic building with a unique Philly vibe and live music

Mac's Tavern is an excellent destination for a fun night out. The food served at the tavern is better than what you would typically find at a sports bar, and the service is consistently excellent. The atmosphere is bustling and energetic, making it an ideal spot for late-night drinks and food.
Mac's Tavern is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day. The staff is amiable and contributes to the tavern's lively atmosphere. If you're looking for a place to socialize and enjoy good food and drinks, Mac's Tavern is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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5. Big Ass Slices Bar & Grill
Offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere with sports on TV

Big Ass Slices Bar & Grill in Philadelphia is known for serving some of the best and biggest pizzas in town. The crust is perfect, fresh out of their brick oven, and the place is bustling with energy as people enjoy their summer evenings with large, delicious pizza slices. The toppings range from classic to gourmet, and the staff is always friendly and accommodating, ensuring excellent quality.
With a high rating of 4.07 from 226 customers, it's clear that consumers enjoy Big Ass Slices Bar & Grill. A look at some of the 197 feedbacks left by customers reveals their satisfaction with the delicious pizza, the inviting atmosphere, and the attentive staff. The abundance of positive reviews indicates a consistently enjoyable experience for visitors of Big Ass Slices Bar & Grill in Philadelphia.
TOPICS
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
6. Philly's Gourmet Steaks
Open until 1:00 AM, cash only, no delivery

Craving for a late-night meal, the food ordered arrived still fresh and warm. The experience confirmed the popularity of this place as a go-to option for late-night eats. This establishment offers a great selection of food, particularly its cheesesteaks, which are a must-try.
Even during late hours, the service at this spot is commendable. Orders for a late-night bite, especially cheesesteaks, are served in a timely manner. As a result, it has become a favorite among late-night food seekers because of the satisfying combination of great taste and quick service.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Gluten-Free
7. Vista Peru in Old City
Family-owned and operated, known for their ceviche and delicious cocktails

Vista Peru is a excellent choice for dining later in the evening, offering a lively atmosphere and delicious Peruvian cuisine. The ceviche and Pisco Sour are particularly notable standouts on the menu. The staff at Vista Peru are attentive, contributing to a memorable dining experience even for late-night visits.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy a late-night meal, Vista Peru is a perfect spot. Their Peruvian dishes are full of flavor, and the service is outstanding. After dinner, guests can enjoy dancing to bachata music, adding to the fun and entertaining experience at Vista Peru.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
8. Royal Boucherie
Historic building with beautiful decor and outdoor seating

The atmosphere at this dining establishment is both beautiful and welcoming, making it an excellent choice for a late-night meal. The food on offer is simply amazing, with a variety of dishes to suit every palate. Whether you're in the mood for something light and refreshing or something more substantial, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
The service at this restaurant is also noteworthy, with friendly staff who go out of their way to make sure every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, you'll feel like a valued guest. Overall, this is a great spot for late-night dining, with excellent food and service that will keep you coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Rotten Ralph's Pub & Eatery
Cozy atmosphere with live music on weekends

Rotten Ralph's Pub & Eatery is known for its welcoming atmosphere and variety of offerings. The venue provides a great selection of beers and flavorful snacks to enjoy. The servers are friendly, offering excellent drink suggestions and assistance with food choices. The meals served at Rotten Ralph's are delicious, with their wings being a standout option, always hot and perfectly cooked.
As an alternative, Rotten Ralph's can be an ideal dive bar, offering cheap beers and staying open late. It is a suitable stop for a quick drink or two before continuing down the road. Despite being a dive bar, it still maintains a good reputation for its quality offerings and enjoyable atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
10. Mei Mei Philadelphia
Open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, known for unique and flavorful dishes

Mei Mei, a popular Taiwanese restaurant in Center City, offers a variety of specials every Friday and Saturday from 11pm-2am. During this time, patrons can enjoy cocktail specials, late-night bites, and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant is a great spot for celebratory dinners, birthdays, or after-work happy hours, and provides a unique and authentic Taiwanese dining experience.
In addition to their late-night offerings, Mei Mei is also known for their delicious and celebratory dinners. The restaurant's menu features a range of Taiwanese dishes, made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Whether you're looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or just want to try some delicious Taiwanese cuisine, Mei Mei is the perfect spot. With their combination of great food, fun atmosphere, and convenient location in Center City, Mei Mei is a must-visit for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
11. Glory Beer Bar & Kitchen
Featuring a wide selection of beers and TVs for sports viewing

The food at this establishment is exceptional, with popular choices like Mac n cheese and the eggplant sandwich being top recommendations. The food is consistently fresh and delicious, making for a satisfying meal.
The bar has a very cool and modern vibe, having just recently opened. The beer selection is impressive, and the knowledgeable bartenders are able to provide excellent recommendations. In addition to the great drink selection, the menu offers a wide range of food, all of which has been highly praised for its quality and taste. Standout dishes include octopus, wings, and short rib. This makes for an ideal spot to keep in mind for future visits to Philadelphia.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
12. Sassafras in Old City
Housed in a historic building with a picturesque patio and weekend brunch

Sassafras is a highly regarded bar located in Philadelphia, known for its excellent cocktails and welcoming atmosphere. The bar offers a range of drink options, from classic to innovative and complex creations. The ambiance is warm and inviting, featuring a soulful playlist and historical charm that adds to its character. The bartenders are skilled and efficient, providing quick and delightful service to visitors.
As a long-standing establishment on Second Street, Sassafras has been serving the community for over 45 years. It is a classic and timeless neighborhood bar situated in the heart of Old City. The bar offers dinner service daily until midnight, accompanied by cocktail service until 2 a.m. While food options may not be extensively reviewed, the firecracker shrimp is a popular and highly praised dish. Overall, Sassafras is a must-visit destination in Philly for those seeking a quality drink or meal in a cozy and historic setting.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
13. Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille
Historic location, extensive beer selection, award-winning food

Nick's Roast Beef is an excellent choice for those looking for a late-night snack or a hearty dinner at affordable prices. The establishment is known for its delicious and high-quality food, offering great value for money. As a corner bar, it provides a cozy and friendly atmosphere, making it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
The original recipe food at Nick's Roast Beef is one of the highlights of this establishment. The roast beef, in particular, is a must-try, known for its tenderness, lean texture, and delicious taste. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a satisfying meal, Nick's Roast Beef is the perfect place to indulge in some of the most delectable food around.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots