Best of 19 lunch restaurants in Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is a popular destination for food lovers, boasting a wide variety of lunch restaurants to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From upscale eateries to casual cafes, lunch restaurants in Rittenhouse Square cater to all tastes and budgets. With so many delicious options, you're sure to find the perfect spot to refuel and recharge during your lunch break.
- 1. Parc in Rittenhouse Square
- 2. The Dandelion
- 3. Pietro's Italian
- 4. The Love.
- 5. DanDan Rittenhouse
- 6. Luke's Lobster Rittenhouse
- 7. Vernick Food & Drink in Rittenhouse Square
- 8. K'Far Cafe Philadelphia
- 9. Friday Saturday Sunday
- 10. The Foodery at Rittenhouse
- 11. Rittenhouse Grill in Rittenhouse Square
- 12. Vic Sushi Bar
- 13. Tria Cafe Rittenhouse
- 14. Zama
- 15. Wilder
- 16. Scarpetta Philadelphia
- 17. Restaurant Aleksandar
- 18. My Loup
- 19. Luna BYOB
1. Parc in Rittenhouse Square
Open late, offers delivery, diverse menu with vegetarian options

The food at this establishment is truly exceptional. A standout among the dishes was the duck and salmon, which looked amazing and received rave reviews from everyone at the table of nine. The desserts also did not disappoint, with the pot de crème being a particularly delicious option. Though if you have the chance, any dessert is sure to be a fantastic choice.
During a meal break between 3 and 5 PM, the mid-day menu was taken advantage of. Three selections from this menu were the tuna carpaccio, lobster bisque, and escargots. Each dish was a delight, although they had a slightly saltier taste than ideal. However, despite this minor flaw, the dishes were still quite enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
2. The Dandelion
Seasonal ingredients, homemade bread, and unique tea selection

House Made Ricotta, served with toasted sourdough bread, is a dish that pleases many palates. Its light ricotta flavor makes it accessible to those who may not be the biggest fans of ricotta. The culinary experience at this establishment is highly recommended, as the food is excellent and offers various choices for beers, wines, and mixed drinks.
Each course is carefully prepared and explained, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The House Made Ricotta is just one example of the excellently prepared dishes available. The light ricotta flavor and accompanying sourdough bread make for a delightful starter to any meal. With a wide selection of beverages and a focus on quality, this establishment proves to be an ideal setting for various occasions.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Celebrations
3. Pietro's Italian
Cozy and authentic Italian trattoria with daily specials and vegetarian options.

Pietro's pizza is renowned for its high-quality ingredients and delicious taste. Customers rave about the fresh toppings and the great crust, which has a nice blistering. The pizza at Pietro's is not only delicious but also authentic, making it a popular choice among pizza lovers.
Pietro's also offers excellent value, especially during lunchtime. Their lunch specials are a hit, and the margherita and vegan pizzas come highly recommended. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pie or something a little different, Pietro's has got you covered.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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4. The Love.
Stylish interior, Modern Korean cuisine, Quick service

The Dandelion restaurant in an unspecified location offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for lunch. Their menu features innovative twists on traditional British dishes, which are highly recommended for trying.
Meanwhile, Parc is a different establishment that provides a dining experience reminiscent of a Parisian bistro. Its location also offers excellent outdoor seating, allowing for prime people-watching while enjoying their classic bistro fare. Both establishments offer unique and enjoyable lunch experiences.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
5. DanDan Rittenhouse
Offers a modern take on traditional Sichuan cuisine

Dan Dan Noodles are a dish that have garnered a range of opinions, with some individuals praising their flavor profile and others warning of their spiciness. The noodles themselves are often described as being thick and chewy, adding a unique texture to the dish.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
6. Luke's Lobster Rittenhouse
Sustainable seafood, Casual atmosphere

Luke's Lobster in Rittenhouse offers a delicious seafood experience, particularly their lobster roll and lobster bisque. The drinks served with the combos are refreshing, including unsweetened lemonade and blueberry honey lemonade. The rolls are served hot with cold seafood and no fillers, making for a satisfying meal. The location is cozy and service is quick.
My husband and I enjoyed our lunch visit to Luke's Lobster Rittenhouse. The staff was friendly and helpful, making for a pleasant dining experience. We ordered the roll trio, which included shrimp, lobster, and crab rolls, all of which were delicious. For seafood lovers in the Rittenhouse area, Luke's Lobster is a must-visit destination, providing a high-quality and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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7. Vernick Food & Drink in Rittenhouse Square
Known for its seasonal American cuisine and elegant presentation

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
- Hidden Gems
8. K'Far Cafe Philadelphia
Modern Israeli cuisine in a chic, art-filled space

If you're looking for a satisfying lunch in Rittenhouse, this place is an excellent choice that consistently meets high expectations. The atmosphere is inviting and enjoyable, with friendly service that adds to the overall positive experience.
Many happy customers have praised the food, with a total of 383 reviews that speak to the quality and taste.
This popular lunch spot in Rittenhouse stands out with its great atmosphere and delicious food. It has received rave reviews from many satisfied customers, with an impressive 383 reviews that all point to the same conclusion. The service is top-notch, with friendly staff that contribute to the enjoyable ambiance. Overall, this is an excellent choice for a tasty and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Mid-Range
- Mediterranean Cuisine
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9. Friday Saturday Sunday
Voted as one of the best lunch spots in Philadelphia

The restaurant offers delicious and unique food, with outstanding flavors and combinations. The peas were a standout, some of the best ever tasted. The halibut was rich and delicious, and the quail with lime was outstanding, providing a great balance of fat and acidity. The skirt steak was very good, but the cut did not meet the same high standard as the other dishes.
The restaurant provides a great dining experience, whether you choose to sit at the bar or upstairs. The portion size of the meal was satisfactory, and the flavors were truly impressive. Overall, the meal was a pleasure, with each course offering a different and exciting taste explosion.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- High-End
- Hidden Gems
10. The Foodery at Rittenhouse
Local ingredients, focus on sustainability

The staff at The Foodery at Rittenhouse are well-regarded for their hospitality and dedication to providing excellent service. The restaurant's prices are average, yet the level of service and care that goes into each meal makes it worth the cost.
The Foodery at Rittenhouse is a popular destination in Center City, known for its delicious sandwiches. This Rittenhouse eatery is an ideal spot to enjoy a satisfying lunch or meal while in the area. Its great sandwiches are a standout feature that keeps customers coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
11. Rittenhouse Grill in Rittenhouse Square
Features a classic American bistro menu and a sophisticated atmosphere.

The Rittenhouse Grill is a high-end restaurant that aims for a classic steakhouse atmosphere. The establishment is clean and fancy, with a focus on providing a traditional experience. One standout dish is the ribeye steak, which is tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection according to the diner's preferences.
However, not all dishes at the Rittenhouse Grill meet the same high standards. The tuna tartare, for example, was a disappointment. The tuna was cut into oversized batons, making it difficult to eat, and lacked flavor. The only seasoning discernible was an overpowering amount of citrus, which may have been lime, and a touch of ginger. This dish did not live up to the quality of the ribeye steak and was a letdown for the diner.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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12. Vic Sushi Bar
Fresh fish, cozy atmosphere, and reasonable prices
Sushi at Vic Sushi is renowned for its freshness and affordability, with customers praising the delicious and high-quality food. The menu offers a variety of options, including combo deals that provide great value. Sushi pieces are generously sized, and the restaurant has received positive reviews for its offerings.
I had the pleasure of trying Vic Sushi during an overnight stay and ordered two special rolls and a Miso soup for pick-up. The food was not only delicious and interesting but also filling, with some leftovers to take home. The restaurant's small size should not be mistaken for mediocre quality. In fact, it exceeded my expectations. The sushi was fresh and satisfying, making for an excellent dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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13. Tria Cafe Rittenhouse
Cozy atmosphere in the heart of Philadelphia's business district

On a Sunday afternoon, there was a 25-minute wait, so the decision was made to visit a nearby park (Rittenhouse) and return later. The plan was to have a quick glass of wine, but the addition of almonds and salads turned the outing into a meal. The weather was pleasant, making for a lovely early summer evening spent outside. Overall, the experience was almost perfect.
The food offering is worth highlighting, with a menu that includes an array of options from light bites like bruschetta and olives to hearty dishes such as melty sandwiches and meaty salads. A visit would be worthwhile even just to sample the menu.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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14. Zama
Offers a variety of Japanese dishes with a modern twist
Zama is a great spot for lunch, known for its fresh sushi and excellent service. The Wasabi Tuna Maki is a popular choice and highly recommended. The restaurant provides a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect location for a satisfying meal.
During lunchtime, Zama offers a variety of delicious food options, especially their specialty rolls. Their attentive and kind staff contribute to a wonderful dining experience. Whether you're a sushi lover or looking to try something new, Zama is a must-visit destination for a remarkable meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
15. Wilder
Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creative cocktails, cozy atmosphere.

The atmosphere of the establishment is frequently described using words such as amazing, vibrant, lively, great, and cool. Guests often comment on the energy and excitement that fills the space, making it a welcoming and enjoyable place to be.
The service provided by the staff is another highlight of the experience, with guests using words like friendly, attentive, efficient, fast, and superb to describe it. The staff go out of their way to ensure that each guest feels welcomed and well taken care of, providing top-notch service that adds to the overall positive atmosphere of the establishment.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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16. Scarpetta Philadelphia
Known for its high-quality Italian-American cuisine and celebrity chef Scott Conant.

The park offered a stunning view, setting the stage for a delightful experience. The servers at the establishment were not only professional but also exuded warmth and friendliness towards the guests. The food served was a highlight of the evening, with generous portions ensuring that no one left hungry. The culinary experience was truly satisfying, making it an excellent choice for a night out.
As a recommendation, this location stands out for a dinner outing. The food is a major draw, with its delicious taste and plentiful portions. The positive atmosphere created by the attentive and friendly servers further adds to the overall enjoyment of the meal. Therefore, for those looking for a great dining experience, this place is highly recommended.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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17. Restaurant Aleksandar
Family-owned restaurant since 1990, Authentic Mediterranean flavors

Aleksandar excels in serving delicious brunch and lunch options. During brunch, customers rave about the shrimp and grits, challah French toast, and chicken and waffles. The food is a highlight of the dining experience, and these dishes are must-tries.
During lunch, the service at Aleksandar is noteworthy for its attentiveness. The presentation of the food is also a positive aspect of the meal. A exceptional dish to try at lunch is the short rib pasta, which has received numerous accolades for its taste and quality. Overall, Aleksandar offers an enjoyable dining experience for both brunch and lunch.
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18. My Loup
Seasonal ingredients, stylish interior, and knowledgeable staff
The food at this establishment is consistently delicious, with pasta being a highlight. It is always cooked to perfection, with a satisfying al-dente texture. The sauces that accompany the pasta and other dishes are aromatic and flavorful, enhancing the overall dining experience. One standout dish is the poached chicken salad. The chicken is skillfully prepared, and the dressing is what truly sets this salad apart.
In terms of service, the staff is generally quick and friendly, contributing to a positive dining experience. However, there have been some accounts of slow service and even rude staff members. Despite these occasional lapses in service, the quality of the food is consistently high and makes this a worthwhile destination for diners.
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19. Luna BYOB
Cozy and friendly Italian trattoria, popular for lunch

The staff at this establishment are known for their friendly and welcoming service. They are commended for their knowledge about the menu and for being attentive to customers' needs. The restaurant is praised for its quick and efficient service, ensuring that customers have an enjoyable dining experience.
The pasta dishes at this establishment are a highlight, with customers raving about their taste, freshness, and authenticity. The pasta is well-executed, with a variety of flavors and textures that keep customers coming back for more. The restaurant pays attention to the details, delivering pasta dishes that are both delicious and satisfying.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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