Top 9 Old City and Penn's Landing Philadelphia Restaurants

1. Buddakan

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2. Cafe Spice

Cafe Spice bills themselves as a vibrant and contemporary Indian bistro. First opened near Union Square in NYC and honored by Nation’s Restaurant Magazine as a "Hot Concept" for 2005, the Philadelphia restaurant, Cafe Spice introduces Philadelphians to a cuisine that's rising in popularity every year. With entree prices in the $15-20 range, at Cafe Spice you can taste Indian cuisine without breaking the bank.

3. City Tavern

Imagine yourself stepping back to Colonial Times and sitting down for a meal in the largest English speaking city outside of London. With authentic décor right down to the pewter dishes tankards and servers dressed in authentic Colonial garb, you almost forget how good the food is. Chef Walter Staib delivers a culinary experience inspired by the customs and foods of 18th Century Colonial America.

4. Continental Restaurant & Martini Bar

Set in a restored stainless-steel 60's diner the Continental Restaurant and Martini Bar is another Stephen Starr masterpiece and one of old city's best places for a night out. The Continental is known for its cosmopolitans, margaritas and 15 varieties of martinis served in a personal shaker and the menu of global tapas which include Lobster Mashed Potatoes, Seared Tuna with Mushroom Risotto and Szechuan Fried Potatoes with Chinese Mustard.

5.

Travel & Leisure sums it up by saying "The rum bar with more than 60 varieties is the top draw at this Cuban spot, though the "cha cha cha" platter...rates a close second. On warm nights the French doors are flung open, giving the place a striking resemblance to a 1940s Havana street scene." This multiple award winning restaurant and bar is definitely the "in" place to be. Just don't show up to early in the evening.

6. Moshulu

Docked permanently on the Penn’s Landing Marina, the Moshulu is the recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award (2005, 2006) as well as being recognized with many more honors for its excellence in food, service and décor. The Bongo Bar and Deck offers a relaxing al fresco setting, where you can enjoy the breezes on the riverfront while having a casual dining experience.

7. Old Original Bookbinders

Old Original Bookbinder's is back and better than ever. John Taxin reopened his legendary seafood restaurant in 2005. It had been closed for nearly three years. In this case, smaller is better. The new 380-seat restaurant features an open kitchen; oyster bar; outdoor dining; a restored, clubby President’s Room with its Amazon mahogany bar; plus banquet and meeting rooms. The menu features all of the classic Bookbinder's specialties.

8. Morimoto

If, like me, you're an avid fan of the Iron Chef series on The Food Network and an admirer of Stephen Starr's restaurants, Morimoto is a welcome addition to Philadelphia's dining scene. Karim Rashid's blends traditional Japanese design with organic and sensual elements. Morimoto's extraordinary cuisine integrates Western ingredients and techniques with traditional Japanese cooking such as tempura, sushi, sashimi and yakimono.

9. Philadelphia Fish and Company

While other restaurants have come and gone, Janet and Kevin Meeker's Philadelphia Fish and Company has been an Old City staple since 1983 serving fresh, high quality, unique seafood. It's all pretty basic here but basic is also excellent. Dishes are cooked with fresh herbs, olive oil, and compound butter, and the fish is grilled or seared, not fried or baked. A highlight of the year is a visit by Hawaiian Chef Sam Choy