The Resy Hit List: Where In Philadelphia You’ll Want to Eat in Oct. 2025
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There’s no question we hear more often: Where should I go eat? And while we at Resy know it’s an honor to be the friend who everyone asks for restaurant advice, we also know it’s a complicated task. That’s where the Resy Hit List comes in.
Consider it your essential resource for dining in Philadelphia: a monthly-updated guide to the restaurants that you won’t want to miss — tonight or any night.
Four Things In Philadelphia Not to Miss This Month
- Game Time: Eagles season is in full swing, so throw on your Kelly green and head to one of our top picks for watching games this season. Under the El in Kensington, Starbolt spreads the action across three bars, with an outdoor patio for when you need to cool off after one of those questionable roughing-the-passer calls. Over at Yards Brewing Co, you’ll find plenty of space and the freshest drafts in town. Garage Rittenhouse is a lively sports bar, with pinball and pool tables. And for something different, keep an eye on Mamajuana Cafe’s socials to book a table for their Bird Gang brunch, when a live DJ and conga line accompany your mimosas and pancakes.
- Peep This: Hop in. Let’s go leaf-peeping! As the season changes, it’s a great time to get out of the city for fresh air, fall views, and destination restaurants. Consider booking Sergeantsville Inn near the charming sister towns of New Hope and Lambertville — it’s been earning rave reviews ever since former Momofuku Ko chef Sean Gray took over the kitchen. We always love a visit to the little foodie town of Collingswood, New Jersey, for June BYOB’s duck confit, lemon tagliatelle at Zeppoli, and Li Beirut’s $55 Taste of Lebanon that comes with salad, seven shareable small plates, an entree, and dessert. In Delaware County, Fond — newly relocated from East Passyunk — always impresses with refined French fare.
- Mark Your Calendar: October is peak event season. A few standouts: American Airlines Global Wine Dinner Series at City Winery on October 10 covering Spanish food and wine, River Twice’s Anniversary Dinner on October 12 and Uchi preview dinner on October 22, and FringeArts’ FEASTIVAL on Wednesday, October 22. We’re also celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Jezabel’s LATAM Field to Fork dinner on October 9 and Latin American lunch feast Sobremesa on October 11 — both in collaboration with Paola “Pao” Carlini, a globe-hopping Venezuelan chef. You can also support Dine Latino Restaurant Week, from October 12-18, by booking a table at Casa Mexico or another one of the 25+ participants. The celebration concludes with a special event on October 30 featuring chef Sofía De Leon, owner of El Merkury.
- Soup Szn: We know we don’t need to tell you that it’s also officially soup season. Grab a spoon and slurp around the city with big bowls of comforting Vietnamese phở and bún bò huế at Le Viet, rich and crunchy tortilla soup at Mission Taqueria and LMNO, spicy, sour, and shareable tom yum kalaya at Kalaya, and French onion soup bubbling under a layer of melted cheese at Caribou Cafe, Fond, or Royal Boucherie. Don’t sleep on Bridget Foy’s — the rotating soup of the day is always seasonal and satisfying.
New to the Hit List (Oct. 2025)
Café Nhan, Cicala at the Divine Lorraine, Farina Di Vita, Fleur’s, Mission Taqueria.
1. Kalaya Fishtown
Much has already been said about Kalaya. But if Nok Suntaranon’s southern Thai restaurant has been delighting diners since its humble start in the Italian Market, it has found a proper spot in its much larger Fishtown digs, with a liquor license that helped create a vital bar scene. Between Nok’s book release and “Chef’s Table” appearance last fall, and inclusion on the “Time 100” list of the most influential people in the world, Kalaya is back on top of our must-visit restaurants. Book early and often; you’ll be rewarded with deeply flavored curries, adorably shaped dumplings, and a signature grilled freshwater river prawn that’s mixed tableside with its tomalley and jasmine rice.
2. Andra Hem Rittenhouse
When you hear about this Scandinavian-inspired bar in Rittenhouse, chances are you’re not picturing the place as it is. Far from the traditionally sparse aesthetic of northern Europe, this cocktail lounge is saturated in color and patterns throughout two floors. With moody vibes and fashionable clientele, you’ll feel like you’re in a James Bond movie scene. Get in the mood with one of two dozen well-made cocktails with fun names, like Red Hatorade, which is like a negroni with aquavit. A tight food menu follows the Scandinavian theme with dishes like smoked salmon on sourdough and snacks like seasonal pickles, but we’re pretty into the potato chips and sturgeon caviar if you don’t mind dropping $35.
3. Farina Di Vita Queens Village
We Philadelphians love a giant, messy sandwich, and Farina di Vita delivers — then takes it up a notch. Creative combinations of high-quality ingredients show up in hoagies like The Marie, with 24-month aged Parma prosciutto, mozzarella, arugula, grape tomato, lemon spritz, olive oil, spices, and lemon zest. Chicken cutlet sandwiches are another Farina di Vita specialty — especially delicious when topped with herbed ricotta, hot soppresata, burrata, or blush sauce. Co-owners Jason Okdeh and Brandlyn Luis Ortiz know that bread is make-or-break in the sandwich game, which is why they rely on brick-oven, seeded rolls from South Philly’s family-run Cacia’s Bakery.
Find more info here.
4. Corio University City
West Philly is coming in hot this summer with the arrival of Corio, a new Italian spot by three Vernick Food & Drink alums. Chef David Feola — who also has experience cooking at Ember & Ash, Hearthside, and Southgate — is making fresh pizza and pasta dreams come true for University City’s busy population. Try Corio’s Chicken Riggies, a classic from Feola’s childhood in Central New York, or go a little fancier with gemelli with Parmesan, black pepper, sesame seeds, and pecorino. This place is family-friendly (think: margherita pizzas and highchairs) and flexible with takeout. You’ll also see a mini wine shop and a full bar, led by sommelier and former Vernick bar director James Smith.
5. Kissho House Omakase Philadelphia
Upstairs at this Rittenhouse newcomer, you’ll find solid Japanese fare: sushi, charcoal-grilled meat, fish, and vegetables, pan-fried dumplings, and cocktails. Head downstairs, though, and you’re in for Philly’s newest omakase experience. Having honed his craft at Royal Izakaya and Hiroki, chef Jeff Chen is slicing, saucing, and torching 17-19 courses of nigiri, plus small plates, at an eight-seat sushi bar, with much of the fish being flown in from Japanese markets. Kissho, which means “lucky omen,” offers its omakase at $150 a head — reasonable considering you’ll often find wagyu, truffle, and caviar on the menu.
6. Sonny’s Cocktail Joint Graduate Hospital
Anything that Chris Fetfatzes and Heather Annechiarico create, you can count on being very cool. The couple — known for their recently-closed Hawthornes Cafe and hopping nearby European-style bar Grace and Proper — had to shutter Sonny’s Cocktail Joint due to a fire shortly after it opened. Now it’s back, with the same come-as-you-are attitude and adorable back patio. There’s pizza on the menu, along with tricked-out bar food, like bang bang cauliflower, chicken-fried shrimp, and a daily hot dog special. At the bar, find wine on tap, cans of Natty Boh, splits of Laurent Perrier, and intricate cocktails you’d never expect to find at a haunt this fun.
Find more info here.
7. Mission Taqueria Center City
Mission Taqueria is looking ahead to its 10th anniversary in 2026, and it’s easy to see why it’s lasted. Owner Daniel McLaughlin’s spot above Oyster House is consistently one of the most joyful and delicious Mexican restaurants in town. It’s known for fresh-pressed tortillas made with fresh masa from heirloom Mexican corn, churros, incredible tortilla soup, frozen margs, and green or yellow juice. Go for a great lunch, happy hour (when tacos are $3.50), and or gluten-free dining. Everything — even the churros — are gluten-free! The restaurant also leans into its playful side with regular drag parties and themed events. Following along on social is the best way to catch what’s next.
8. Amá Fishtown
After running kitchens for Stephen Starr’s LMNO and Parc, chef Frankie Ramirez was ready to take the leap into ownership in a big way. He recently opened Amá, to the delight of Mexican food lovers everywhere. Even with 120 seats, Ramirez’s new restaurant has quickly become one of the toughest tables in town to snag. They’re coming for wood-fired octopus with black fried rice, shareable, seasonal tlayudas, make-your-own lamb neck birria tacos with consommé on the side, and giant curly churros with chocolate sauce and caramel-esque cajeta. Book it early and often; this place is just getting started.
9. Tequilas Restaurant Rittenhouse Square
There was a moment, after a fire forced its closure for two years, that we thought Tequilas might not be coming back. We’re glad to have been wrong. David Suro’s long-running (since 1986!) Mexican restaurant recently reopened with its beautiful dining room intact, an imported tile floor, and a (surprise!) second restaurant in the back. Head to the stately Locust Street brownstone for fine dining takes on Guadalajaran classics like beef or chicken molcajete and custard with cinnamon crumble. La Jefa — the new operation — starts with coffee and light bites in the morning, slides into brunch with barbacoa sandwiches and chilaquiles, and wraps with modern Mexican dishes at dinnertime, plus a bar full of cocktails co-created by Beard Award-winning drinks pro Danny Childs.
10. Casa Mexico South Philly
Cristina Martinez is not only one of Philly’s most famous restaurateurs, she’s one of the most influential chefs in America — thanks to both her soulful food and immigration activism. Netflix gave her flagship restaurant, South Philly Barbacoa, the “Chef’s Table” treatment in 2018 and she won the 2022 James Beard Award for Best Chef, Mid-Atlantic. Since then, the lines — as you can imagine — have been long. But now her restaurant, Casa Mexico, is on Resy and we’re low-key freaking out. Because you can now book a table for her iconic barbacoa tacos and other Mexican classics, like guac, esquites, and tres leches. Get the whole gang together for a feast.
11. Percy Diner & Bar Fishtown
From the team behind the three über-hip Forîn cafes around town comes this new neighborhood restaurant with midcentury vibes. Percy is a one-stop shop for coffee, brunch, lunch, dinner, and fancy drinks. Chef Jack Smith’s menu is familiar, but dotted with local and seasonal ingredients. Think ricotta pancakes with cinnamon sugar whipped compound butter at breakfast and crispy barramundi in a cilantro and charred onion curry for dinner. Everything at the bar — wine, beer, liquor — comes from our fair state. We’re into a cocktail called Surfin that combines rum, amaro, caramelized banana syrup, honey wine, and lime. We’re even more into Percy’s swanky, music-oriented lounge, with swivel chairs and a fireplace.
12. Cicala at the Divine Lorraine Fairmount
A husband-and-wife team run the Italian restaurant in Philly’s storied (and stunning) Divine Lorraine building, but this is no mom-and-pop operation. Plush round banquettes, crisp white tablecloths, and elaborate chandeliers fill the large, airy dining room. The wine list highlights Italian varietals from regions like Sicily and Sardinia. And Joe and Angela Cicala are not only deeply connected to Italy, but travel there frequently for inspiration. It shows. Joe brings that inspiration to dishes like Neapolitan-style meatballs, fried ricotta-stuffed squash blossoms, Amalfi-style fettuccine with eggplant and San Marzano tomatoes, and char-grilled whole Mediterranean dorade. Angela handles desserts, which change seasonally, but don’t miss “The Green Gold”: pistachio gelato with Trapanese sea salt and Sicilian extra virgin olive oil.
13. Plaza Garibaldi Mezcaleria South Philadelphia
Sometimes popular spots fly a bit under the radar; that’s the case for Washington Avenue’s Plaza Garibaldi Mezcaleria, which has been around for more than 20 years. Those in the know go here to cure taco and burrito cravings, while sipping margaritas from the full bar. Regulars like the beef cheek (cabeza), slow cooked brisket, and al pastor tacos on corn tortillas, plus tomahawk steaks, and homemade horchata. Pro tip: Stop here for lunch during a day of Italian Market shopping when your energy starts to wane. Fuel up on Mexican food and get back out there.
Find more info here.
14. Royal Sushi Omakase Queen Village
Philly’s eight-time Beard Award nominee remains one of the hardest reservations in town to snag. It’s worth the effort to experience Jesse Ito’s high-skill omakase at Royal Sushi. The fish here is carefully sourced, intensively prepared, and delivered bite by perfect bite at an intimate counter in a back room of Royal Izakaya, a busy Japanese bar and restaurant. Royal Izakaya is walk-in only; Royal Sushi you can book (or try). And of course we’d be remiss if we didn’t note that Ito’s latest, Dancerobot is now open and drawing a similar amount of attention.
15. Porco’s Porchetteria South Philly
Chad Durkin has been making some of Philly’s best pork sandwiches since he opened Small Oven Pastry Shop and Porco’s Porchetteria on Washington Avenue in 2019. The signature porchetta combines juicy porky deliciousness with crunchy cracklings into a stellar sandwich. Only now, Durkin is changing up the bread it’s served on. Say farewell to ciabatta and hello to a new seeded long roll that took him six months to perfect, in collaboration with neighbor Baker Street Bread. It’s all mahogany -toned outside and jus-soaked inside, just like we like it.
Find more info here.
16. Fleur's East Kensington
Chef George Sabatino is back in his own restaurant — which is reason to celebrate. Longtime Philly diners know him from Fork, Barbuzzo, Stateside, and his first solo spot, Aldine. He’s one of the most respected chefs in town, known for spotlighting seasonal, local ingredients to create elegant dishes. At Fleur’s, that translates to sea scallop gratin with green chile butter, cabbage a l’orange, and pork and pistachio terrine with plum preserves. Situated in a former Kensington furniture store, this 140-seat French restaurant has a central raw bar and chef’s counter in the main dining room. Co-owners Josh Mann (Starr, Defined Hospitality) and Graham Gernsheimer (Vetri, Loco Pez) bring serious hospitality and bartending chops to this big operation.
17. River Twice East Passyunk
We’re glad to welcome River Twice to the Resy neighborhood. Consistently recognized as one of Philly’s most exciting restaurants, Randy Rucker’s East Passyunk flagship serves a four-course menu that changes daily. Rucker specializes in pristine seafood with Asian and Southern infusions. One day, that could mean Jimmy Red corn grits with torched scallop, basil, and sour corn and another, mussels marinated in a black lime xo sauce with lemon cucumber, kohlrabi, sorrel, and tomato vinegar. You’ll want to get some add-ons too, like the summertime classic heirloom tomato sandwich covered in caviar, the Mother Rucker burger, sweet amalia oysters, and sourdough to sop up any juicy bits lingering on your plate.
18. Càphê Roasters Kensington
This cafe punches well above its weight, as evidenced by a recent James Beard Award nomination. Thu Pham sources coffee from small arabica producers in the central highlands of Vietnam, known for its volcanic mountain soil, and roasts it in Philly. The Olney-native’s sunny Kensington cafe is open for breakfast and lunch six days a week. Get there early to catch specials like strawberry shortcake soft serve on a strawberry cone or a Korean sweet potato and espresso einspänner (a Viennese coffee drink similar to a latte). On the regular menu, find an array of banh mi and other sandwiches, plus sweet and sour tamarind fries.
Find more info here.
19. Café Nhan West Passyunk
Mother-and-son duo Nhan Vo and Andrew Dinh Vo proudly describe their Vietnamese restaurant as a “hole in the wall.” Maybe so, but since 2014, it has gone big on flavor — and found a devoted following not only locally but beyond — in its signature bún bò Huế, Central Vietnam’s lemongrassy noodle soup that’s similar to phở, with more spice and funk. The pork blood cubes are a popular add-in. You can also get traditional phở here, plus a variety of banh mi, ultra-crunchy chicken wings (perfect for game day!), summer rolls stuffed with meat, veggies, and noodles, and marinated, grilled pork over rice.
Find more info here.
20. Harper's Garden Center City
A couple of Vetri restaurants veterans — Drew DiTomo and Chris Keyser — joined forces to reimagine Center City’s popular Harper’s Garden as an Italian restaurant. The end result reflects Philly’s affection for classic red-sauce dishes like Bolognese, caprese salad, grilled broccoli rabe, ravioli, shrimp scampi, chicken Parm, eggplant Parm, and a lot more. Keyser is sticking around as executive chef. As a place known for its outdoor dining, we were also heartened to learn that there’s a new outdoor bar on the patio.
Sarah Maiellano is a Philadelphia-based journalist covering restaurants and travel. Follow her on Instagram. Follow Resy, too.
