Top 17 lunch restaurants in Old City
In the heart of Philadelphia, the historic Old City district offers a diverse selection of lunch restaurants. These eateries provide a range of cuisine options, from classic American fare to exotic international dishes. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, the lunch restaurants in Old City cater to every taste and preference. Experience the rich culture and delicious food in this historic and vibrant neighborhood.
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- 1. Amada
- 2. The Plough & the Stars
- 3. Han Dynasty - Old City
- 4. National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant
- 5. Spasso Italian Grill in Old City
- 6. The Olde Bar in Old City
- 7. Fork
- 8. Race Street Cafe
- 9. 3J's Cafe
- 10. Royal Boucherie
- 11. Buk Chon korean cuisine
- 12. Panorama
- 13. Café Square One
- 14. Tuna Bar
- 15. La Famiglia Ristorante
- 16. Café Tolia
- 17. Café Couleur Banh mì
1. Amada
Authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Philadelphia
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I had a wonderful dining experience with authentic yet elevated Spanish cuisine in a modern atmosphere that incorporated classic tavern-style elements. The service we received was exceptional, with our server providing us with complimentary special items as we were celebrating a special occasion. I highly recommend trying the tapas, particularly the patatas bravas, marinated olives, jamón Serrano, and grilled asparagus. For the main course, we shared the Zarzuela dish and a flatbread with mushrooms and truffle.
The brunch we had on Easter Sunday was outstanding and reasonably priced at $40 per person, including a selection of shared breakfast-style tapas for the table, bacon, fried potato cakes, and an impressive breadbasket, plus your entrée. Despite it being a holiday, we were surprised to find that it was not too crowded.
I had a wonderful dining experience with authentic yet elevated Spanish cuisine in a modern atmosphere that incorporated classic tavern-style elements. The service we received was exceptional, with our server providing us with complimentary special items as we were celebrating a special occasion. I highly recommend trying the tapas, particularly the patatas bravas, marinated olives, jamón Serrano, and grilled asparagus. For the main course, we shared the Zarzuela dish and a flatbread with mushrooms and truffle.
The brunch we had on Easter Sunday was outstanding and reasonably priced at $40 per person, including a selection of shared breakfast-style tapas for the table, bacon, fried potato cakes, and an impressive breadbasket, plus your entrée. Despite it being a holiday, we were surprised to find that it was not too crowded.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Waterfront
- Happy Hours
2. The Plough & the Stars
Irish pub with outdoor seating and live music
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The food at this establishment is highly praised by reviewers for its moist, delicious flavors and perfectly cooked dishes. One standout menu item is the Irish Soda Bread, and the lamb lollies are another favorite among patrons. On Sundays, the restaurant offers a popular brunch with a unique feature - a waffle station located in the dining room. The waffles served here are leavened, which makes them lighter and crisper compared to regular waffles.
Seeking bar food without the usual smoke and smell, a group of diners chose to spend a Sunday afternoon outside on the sidewalk of the restaurant. They enjoyed a fantastic brunch experience, highlighting the appealing aspect of dining in a bar setting without the associated unpleasantness. The availability of the waffle station during brunch service adds to the restaurant's appeal, offering a distinctive and delightful culinary experience.
The food at this establishment is highly praised by reviewers for its moist, delicious flavors and perfectly cooked dishes. One standout menu item is the Irish Soda Bread, and the lamb lollies are another favorite among patrons. On Sundays, the restaurant offers a popular brunch with a unique feature - a waffle station located in the dining room. The waffles served here are leavened, which makes them lighter and crisper compared to regular waffles.
Seeking bar food without the usual smoke and smell, a group of diners chose to spend a Sunday afternoon outside on the sidewalk of the restaurant. They enjoyed a fantastic brunch experience, highlighting the appealing aspect of dining in a bar setting without the associated unpleasantness. The availability of the waffle station during brunch service adds to the restaurant's appeal, offering a distinctive and delightful culinary experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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3. Han Dynasty - Old City
Authentic Northern Chinese cuisine in a casual and contemporary setting
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Han Dynasty in Old City is a popular Chinese restaurant that offers high-quality Sichuan food. The takeout options are affordably priced and packed with flavor. The restaurant is known for dishes like Dan Dan noodles and Wonton soup, which are both spicy and satisfying.
Han Dynasty has multiple locations, but the Old City original remains the top choice for many locals. In addition to its delicious food, the restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly, and the service is efficient. Patrons can enjoy a wide variety of Sichuan dishes at affordable prices, making it an excellent option for anyone craving Chinese cuisine.
Han Dynasty in Old City is a popular Chinese restaurant that offers high-quality Sichuan food. The takeout options are affordably priced and packed with flavor. The restaurant is known for dishes like Dan Dan noodles and Wonton soup, which are both spicy and satisfying.
Han Dynasty has multiple locations, but the Old City original remains the top choice for many locals. In addition to its delicious food, the restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly, and the service is efficient. Patrons can enjoy a wide variety of Sichuan dishes at affordable prices, making it an excellent option for anyone craving Chinese cuisine.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant
Located in a restored garage with vintage car parts as decor
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The service at this establishment is friendly, attentive, and accommodating, making guests feel welcome in a beautiful historic building. The staff provides great service, and there are delicious food and drink specials available. A group of visitors stopped in on a Saturday after visiting a museum and were immediately greeted by a friendly hostess and server.
The food served at this establishment is excellent. One visitor enjoyed a veggie burger, while another opted for the national burger. The fish and chips and egg scramble were also chosen, with the egg scramble being topped with three different types of cheese and bacon, making it the best one the visitor had ever tasted.
The service at this establishment is friendly, attentive, and accommodating, making guests feel welcome in a beautiful historic building. The staff provides great service, and there are delicious food and drink specials available. A group of visitors stopped in on a Saturday after visiting a museum and were immediately greeted by a friendly hostess and server.
The food served at this establishment is excellent. One visitor enjoyed a veggie burger, while another opted for the national burger. The fish and chips and egg scramble were also chosen, with the egg scramble being topped with three different types of cheese and bacon, making it the best one the visitor had ever tasted.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Mid-Range
5. Spasso Italian Grill in Old City
Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Philadelphia
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Spasso Italian Grill offers a remarkable lunch menu. One standout dish is the Eggplant Parmigiana, which was cooked to perfection and had a delightful taste. The service during the visit was commendable, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience.
During the same lunch visit, the Gnocchi Gorgonzola was also tasted and found to be excellent. Its creamy texture and rich flavor made it a memorable dish. Anyone visiting Spasso Italian Grill should consider trying this dish. In summary, Spasso Italian Grill provides a high-quality lunch experience with delicious food and excellent service.
Spasso Italian Grill offers a remarkable lunch menu. One standout dish is the Eggplant Parmigiana, which was cooked to perfection and had a delightful taste. The service during the visit was commendable, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience.
During the same lunch visit, the Gnocchi Gorgonzola was also tasted and found to be excellent. Its creamy texture and rich flavor made it a memorable dish. Anyone visiting Spasso Italian Grill should consider trying this dish. In summary, Spasso Italian Grill provides a high-quality lunch experience with delicious food and excellent service.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
6. The Olde Bar in Old City
Historic location with beautiful decor and intimate atmosphere.
Revitalized by renowned Philadelphian restaurateur José Garcés, the Olde Bar in Old City transports you to a different era. Housed in the historic Old Original Bookbinder building, the establishment has been transformed into a chic oyster and cocktail bar, while retaining the charm of the original space. Indulge in fresh oysters, exquisite cocktails, and a late-night sweets menu that will leave you craving more. The knowledgeable and attentive staff add a personal touch to your experience, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Regulars rave about the consistent quality of the Olde Bar, making it a must-visit destination.
During my second visit to the Olde Bar, I was once again captivated by its allure. Although I'm not typically a seafood lover, I always find myself savoring the dishes here. From the elegant decor to the delightful flavors, the Olde Bar is a standout dining experience that I can't wait to repeat.
During my second visit to the Olde Bar, I was once again captivated by its allure. Although I'm not typically a seafood lover, I always find myself savoring the dishes here. From the elegant decor to the delightful flavors, the Olde Bar is a standout dining experience that I can't wait to repeat.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Happy Hours
7. Fork
Offers vegetarian and vegan options, unique twist on classic dishes
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The cinnamon morning bun offered by this restaurant is a delightful treat, characterized by its perfect balance of flavors. The absence of cinnamon in any given bite is noticeably missing, highlighting the integral role it plays in the pastry's overall taste. On the other hand, the sticky bun falls short of the same satisfaction, as it is too sticky and difficult to enjoy.
This restaurant's service, provided by an individual named Casey, was exceptional. Casey's pacing throughout the dining experience was impeccable, and his recommendations were thoughtfully made with the customers' best interests in mind. Rather than pushing for upselling, Casey's suggestions were focused on enhancing the meal and ensuring a positive experience for all diners.
The cinnamon morning bun offered by this restaurant is a delightful treat, characterized by its perfect balance of flavors. The absence of cinnamon in any given bite is noticeably missing, highlighting the integral role it plays in the pastry's overall taste. On the other hand, the sticky bun falls short of the same satisfaction, as it is too sticky and difficult to enjoy.
This restaurant's service, provided by an individual named Casey, was exceptional. Casey's pacing throughout the dining experience was impeccable, and his recommendations were thoughtfully made with the customers' best interests in mind. Rather than pushing for upselling, Casey's suggestions were focused on enhancing the meal and ensuring a positive experience for all diners.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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8. Race Street Cafe
Friendly staff, historic location, vegan and gluten-free options available
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This establishment offers excellent food, including the Impossible Burger and Impossible Burrito, all made with care and attention to detail. The sides are also delicious. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the staff are friendly, contributing to a great overall dining experience. The restaurant is not only known for its tasty food but also for its affordability, making it a popular choice for many.
The food here is not only delicious but also made in-house, with the garlic aioli being a particular standout. The staff are exceptionally friendly, providing great care to all patrons, even when the restaurant is busy and there is a line out the door. The quality of the food and the excellent service make it a place that customers return to again and again, making it a popular and beloved dining destination.
This establishment offers excellent food, including the Impossible Burger and Impossible Burrito, all made with care and attention to detail. The sides are also delicious. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the staff are friendly, contributing to a great overall dining experience. The restaurant is not only known for its tasty food but also for its affordability, making it a popular choice for many.
The food here is not only delicious but also made in-house, with the garlic aioli being a particular standout. The staff are exceptionally friendly, providing great care to all patrons, even when the restaurant is busy and there is a line out the door. The quality of the food and the excellent service make it a place that customers return to again and again, making it a popular and beloved dining destination.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Hidden Gems
9. 3J's Cafe
Cozy atmosphere, local art displays, and eco-friendly practices
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The sandwich offered by this establishment is generally regarded as substantial and good value for money. The chicken is plentiful and the sauce that accompanies it is a popular choice among customers. Overall, the sandwich receives positive feedback for its taste and portion size.
However, the service provided by the restaurant is an area that receives mixed reviews. Some customers rave about the friendly and quick service they received, while others report a different experience altogether. These reviewers describe the service as unfriendly, slow, and criticize the forced 20% gratuity added to their bill. Despite these inconsistencies, the sandwich remains a popular choice among patrons.
The sandwich offered by this establishment is generally regarded as substantial and good value for money. The chicken is plentiful and the sauce that accompanies it is a popular choice among customers. Overall, the sandwich receives positive feedback for its taste and portion size.
However, the service provided by the restaurant is an area that receives mixed reviews. Some customers rave about the friendly and quick service they received, while others report a different experience altogether. These reviewers describe the service as unfriendly, slow, and criticize the forced 20% gratuity added to their bill. Despite these inconsistencies, the sandwich remains a popular choice among patrons.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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10. Royal Boucherie
Located in a historic building with a lively atmosphere and rooftop bar.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Buk Chon korean cuisine
Authentic Korean dishes, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service.
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Buk Chon Korean Cuisine offers reasonably priced and high-quality food, making it a popular choice for many. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere, appealing to both solo diners and groups. The staff is friendly and contributes to a smooth dining experience, ensuring that food is served promptly.
The restaurant's Korean cuisine is delicious and well-prepared, offering a wide selection of dishes to choose from. The reasonable prices and quality of the food make it an excellent value for customers. Whether dining alone or in a group, Buk Chon Korean Cuisine provides a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience with its welcoming atmosphere and efficient service.
Buk Chon Korean Cuisine offers reasonably priced and high-quality food, making it a popular choice for many. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere, appealing to both solo diners and groups. The staff is friendly and contributes to a smooth dining experience, ensuring that food is served promptly.
The restaurant's Korean cuisine is delicious and well-prepared, offering a wide selection of dishes to choose from. The reasonable prices and quality of the food make it an excellent value for customers. Whether dining alone or in a group, Buk Chon Korean Cuisine provides a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience with its welcoming atmosphere and efficient service.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
12. Panorama
Offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a relaxed atmosphere
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The cakes at this establishment are highly acclaimed for their moist texture and delectable toppings, with the chocolate cake being a customer favorite. The staff is also commended for their friendliness and eagerness to help.
The dining experience begins with a offering of complimentary Prosecco and a selection of wines such as Rose and Chardonnay. The chef's bruschetta tower and antipasto are highly recommended starters. Popular main courses include fettuccine bolognese and eggplant parm. To finish off the meal, guests can enjoy delicious desserts like tiramisu. The atmosphere is described as intimate and relaxing.
The cakes at this establishment are highly acclaimed for their moist texture and delectable toppings, with the chocolate cake being a customer favorite. The staff is also commended for their friendliness and eagerness to help.
The dining experience begins with a offering of complimentary Prosecco and a selection of wines such as Rose and Chardonnay. The chef's bruschetta tower and antipasto are highly recommended starters. Popular main courses include fettuccine bolognese and eggplant parm. To finish off the meal, guests can enjoy delicious desserts like tiramisu. The atmosphere is described as intimate and relaxing.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
13. Café Square One
Local artisanal coffee, homemade pastries, free wifi
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Cafe Square One is a small but welcoming spot, featuring vaulted ceilings that add to its overall charm. I discovered this cafe after an intense search for a place to enjoy my afternoon coffee. The coffee served here is certainly a highlight, boasting a delicious taste that's perfect for any coffee lover.
However, when it comes to food, Cafe Square One may not be the best choice. Despite the good taste of their dishes, short staffing and long waiting times can make the dining experience less enjoyable. The time and effort required to receive your food may not be worth it, despite its quality.
Cafe Square One is a small but welcoming spot, featuring vaulted ceilings that add to its overall charm. I discovered this cafe after an intense search for a place to enjoy my afternoon coffee. The coffee served here is certainly a highlight, boasting a delicious taste that's perfect for any coffee lover.
However, when it comes to food, Cafe Square One may not be the best choice. Despite the good taste of their dishes, short staffing and long waiting times can make the dining experience less enjoyable. The time and effort required to receive your food may not be worth it, despite its quality.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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14. Tuna Bar
Sustainable seafood, unique tuna dishes, cozy atmosphere
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The food at Tuna Bar is highly regarded by guests for its freshness, delicious taste, and high quality. However, there is some discrepancy in opinions regarding the Wasabi Crab Fried Rice, with some guests finding it less appealing while others praise its ample crab and fresh taste. Overall, the menu offers a wide variety of options, including traditional and specialty sushi rolls, raw oysters, scallops, hand-selected fish, and shareable entrees.
Tuna Bar is known for its relaxing and upscale atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh and locally sourced ingredients, which is reflected in its diverse menu. Guests can enjoy a range of offerings from traditional and specialty sushi rolls to raw oysters, scallops, hand-selected fish, and shareable entrees. The restaurant's atmosphere and menu make it a great destination for both special occasions and a night out.
The food at Tuna Bar is highly regarded by guests for its freshness, delicious taste, and high quality. However, there is some discrepancy in opinions regarding the Wasabi Crab Fried Rice, with some guests finding it less appealing while others praise its ample crab and fresh taste. Overall, the menu offers a wide variety of options, including traditional and specialty sushi rolls, raw oysters, scallops, hand-selected fish, and shareable entrees.
Tuna Bar is known for its relaxing and upscale atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh and locally sourced ingredients, which is reflected in its diverse menu. Guests can enjoy a range of offerings from traditional and specialty sushi rolls to raw oysters, scallops, hand-selected fish, and shareable entrees. The restaurant's atmosphere and menu make it a great destination for both special occasions and a night out.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
15. La Famiglia Ristorante
Serves house-made pasta and authentic Italian dishes
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La Famiglia Ristorante offers a spectacular lunch experience. The service is exceptional, with staff who are attentive and attentive to every detail. The ambiance is perfectly suited for a relaxing midday meal, making it an ideal spot for business lunches or catching up with friends and family.
The pasta is a standout dish, cooked to perfection and full of flavor. The wine selection is equally impressive, with a variety of options to suit every palate. From the moment you enter La Famiglia Ristorante, you can expect to be treated to a dining experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.
La Famiglia Ristorante offers a spectacular lunch experience. The service is exceptional, with staff who are attentive and attentive to every detail. The ambiance is perfectly suited for a relaxing midday meal, making it an ideal spot for business lunches or catching up with friends and family.
The pasta is a standout dish, cooked to perfection and full of flavor. The wine selection is equally impressive, with a variety of options to suit every palate. From the moment you enter La Famiglia Ristorante, you can expect to be treated to a dining experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Mid-Range
16. Café Tolia
Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and supports local artists
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Café Tolia is a delightful place to spend time, whether you're looking to work or relax. They have a selection of tasty baked goods and sandwiches that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. The staff is not only friendly but also knowledgeable about their products, providing excellent service.
During a hot summer day, Café Tolia is a great spot to visit for quality coffee and delicious pastries. The staff's good service adds to the overall positive experience.
Café Tolia is a delightful place to spend time, whether you're looking to work or relax. They have a selection of tasty baked goods and sandwiches that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. The staff is not only friendly but also knowledgeable about their products, providing excellent service.
During a hot summer day, Café Tolia is a great spot to visit for quality coffee and delicious pastries. The staff's good service adds to the overall positive experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
17. Café Couleur Banh mì
Fresh ingredients, crispy baguettes, flavorful sauces
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats