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Best Italian Restaurants in Center City

Discover the best restaurants in Center City

Explore must-try spots, new openings, and hidden gems.

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86 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Maggiano's - Philadelphia restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5019)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Center City
Booked 43 times today
Maggiano's - Philadelphia is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Italian-American cuisine in the heart of Center City. Known for its "absolutely loved" food and "generous portions," this restaurant combines the best of American culinary traditions with Italian flair, inspired by Nonna’s traditional recipes. Diners praise the "great food and excellent service," highlighting how attentive and professional the staff are, making every visit memorable. With a menu that offers something for everyone, including a delectable Thanksgiving menu, Maggiano's stands out for its inviting atmosphere and "wonderful dining experience." Whether you're a local or a tourist, this is a dining destination not to be missed!
A photo of Garden Grille & Bar - Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City restaurant
3.9
Excellent(23)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Center City
Casual dining. Located on the top floor of the hotel, the Garden Grille & Bar offers views overlooking the city. The varied menu features Philadelphia favorites. Breakfast and dinner are served. Breakfast Hours- Saturday & Sunday from 7am- 11am, and Monday through Friday from 6am- 10am. Dinner is served daily from 5pm- 10pm. Bar is open from 5pm-11pm daily.
A photo of Saloon Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2671)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • South Philly
Booked 50 times today
Saloon Restaurant, nestled in the heart of South Philly, Philadelphia, is a haven for seafood aficionados seeking authentic and exquisite Italian seafood dishes. With a menu that features standout seafood specials like the expertly grilled octopus and perfectly prepared dover sole, this establishment has earned a national reputation for its culinary excellence. Guests consistently praise the Saloon for its "amazing food" and "exceptional service," with one diner declaring it their "favorite restaurant anywhere in the world." The cozy, vintage atmosphere paired with top-notch seafood makes Saloon Restaurant a must-visit for those looking to indulge in remarkable seafood cuisine.
A photo of Gran Caffe L'Aquila Philadelphia Italian Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2315)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 59 times today
Gran Caffe L'Aquila Philadelphia Italian Restaurant is a true haven for seafood enthusiasts in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia. Esteemed for its authentic Italian flavors, the restaurant's seafood dishes stand out for their freshness and exquisite preparation. Patrons rave about the "tender grilled octopus with the right amount of char" and the "fritto misto with perfectly fried shrimp and calamari," highlighting the meticulous attention to detail. The Zuppa De Pesce is another favorite, "brimming with assorted seafood," offering a delightful and hearty experience. If you’re seeking a genuine taste of Italy’s coastal cuisine, Gran Caffe L'Aquila is an undeniable choice.
A photo of Fiorella Philadelphia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(234)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Bella Vista
Booked 104 times today
The Fiorella you see today is still the intimate space you know & love! Chef Marc Vetri and his team bring decades of talent & experience to this special space, creating a truly memorable dining experience. Pasta is the main event at Fiorella, with rotating antipasti and desserts rounding out the menu.A la carte seating is available both in our indoor dining room and outdoor patio, year round.Indoor seating is predominantly at our chef's counter, with a few high-top tables outlining the space. Table vs. counter reservations are seated on a first-come, first-served basis.Patio seating is shaded from sun in summer and insulated with heaters in winter. Due to the nature of outdoor reservations, Fiorella may have to cancel outdoor service for severe weather.Looking to dine with a larger group or want to try a different taste of Fiorella? Join us upstairs for our Pasta Club chef's selection!From the whole Fiorella Team, thank you for your continual love and support!
A photo of Bellini restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1251)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 28 times today
Bellini, nestled in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine. With Chef Francesco Parmisciano, an Italian native from Naples, at the helm, diners are treated to "truly authentic cuisine" that melds tradition with innovation. Guests rave about the "excellent homemade pasta" and "scrumptious" dishes like the Linguine di Ravi d’Astice. Beyond the delectable offerings, patrons are greeted like family, and the "impeccable service" ensures a flawless dining experience. The cozy ambiance, reminiscent of an Italian retreat, combined with standout dishes like the eggplant parmigiana, makes Bellini a must-visit culinary gem.
A photo of Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4018)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Old City
Booked 32 times today
Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti offers an exquisite seafood dining experience that transports you to the Amalfi Coast right in the heart of Old City, Philadelphia. Renowned for its fresh and authentic seafood offerings, this restaurant has quickly become a local favorite. Guests rave about the "delicious seafood options" and the "outstanding calamari appetizer," making it a go-to destination for seafood enthusiasts. The freshness of the seafood, combined with the restaurant's beautiful ambiance and attentive service, ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether you're savoring the grilled branzino or indulging in the sea urchin and squid ink pasta, Positano Coast promises a culinary delight that keeps patrons coming back for more.
A photo of Vetri Cucina - Philadelphia restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2462)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Center City
Booked 9 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.
A photo of Bistro Romano restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5050)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Society Hill
Booked 23 times today
Bistro Romano, located in the heart of Society Hill, Philadelphia, offers an exquisite Mediterranean dining experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean. Renowned for its "authentic flavors" and "fresh ingredients," Bistro Romano consistently delivers "delicious food" that reflects the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of the region. Diners rave about the "outstanding" gnocchi and the perfectly paired wine selections that elevate each meal. The restaurant's "inviting" and "intimate" atmosphere, complemented by its historic setting, makes it a perfect choice for romantic dinners or special occasions. With accolades like the Wine Spectator Award, Bistro Romano stands out as a must-visit for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Pietro's Italian - Walnut restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1916)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Center City
Booked 34 times today
Pietro's Italian - Walnut, located in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, offers an unparalleled Pizza Bar experience that embodies the essence of authentic Italian cuisine. This family-owned restaurant boasts a rich history, with its roots tracing back to a coal oven pizza recipe perfected over 60 years. Diners rave about the "delicious, fresh food" and the "outstanding brick oven pizza," making it a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts. The friendly and attentive service complements the inviting atmosphere, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Pietro's Italian promises "excellent food" that never disappoints.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in Center City

Discover the essence of Italy right in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, where a diverse array of Italian restaurants awaits to transport your senses to the Mediterranean. Whether you're craving traditional dishes like homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas or seeking innovative Italian-inspired cuisine, Center City offers a culinary experience that caters to all palates. The dining scene here is robust and vibrant, characterized by its blend of authentic Italian flavors and contemporary culinary techniques, making it a prime destination for food enthusiasts. Each restaurant in this locale showcases a deep commitment to authenticity, often highlighted by the use of imported Italian ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Patrons can expect to enjoy a variety of dining atmospheres, from intimate and rustic settings to more modern and elegant environments, all designed to enhance the Italian dining experience. The area is praised for its excellent service and the ability to maintain high standards in both food quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring a memorable meal for every visitor. Center City's Italian restaurants stand out not just for their exceptional cuisine but also for their overall dining experience, which often includes expertly curated wine lists and bespoke cocktails. Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends, Philadelphia’s Center City offers an Italian dining adventure that promises to delight.

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