If you have read any of my blog posts about Philadelphia, you have probably read that I think Philadelphia is one of the most underrated cities in the US for food. The city is covered in unique restaurant after unique restaurant. If you so choose, you could eat an awesome meal three times a day for more than a year and never have to go to the same place twice. This Fall, that trend is continuing with a host of new restaurants opening all over the city. Here are some of the highlights that I am most excited about.
Abe Fischer (16th and Sansom St.) - From the chef who created Zahav (my favorite restaurant), Percy Street BBQ, Federal Donuts and Dizengoff, comes a new spin on Eastern European inspired cuisine. With food inspired by the Jewish Diaspora, Chef Michael Solomonov hits another home run with his newest venture. When I went this week, I tried two veggie starters, two smaller fish selections, meatballs and lamb over a potato pancake. For dessert, we had hot apple strudel and a chocolate egg cream over a vanilla custard with bacon and oreos mixed in. This place is truly a gem! Open now.
Capofitto Forno (23rd and Chestnut St.) - If you have read any of our previous food blogs or spent a summer with us at Penn, you know that Capojiro is the spot for good gelato in Philadelphia. If these great minds could master gelato the way they did, I am sure they can do the same with pizza - another Italian specialty. This wood burning pizza spot is sure to impress and I can't wait to try it! Opening in early September.
Bing Bing Dim Sum (16th and E. Passyunk Ave.) - From the creators of one of my go-to spots, Cheu Noodle Bar, comes this incredible dim sum location in the heart of one of the hottest neighborhoods in Philly, Passyunk Ave. Opening in early October.
Bonchon (10th and Cherry St.) - Normally, I wouldn't promote fast food, but this is a unique one. This Korean chain specializes in fried chicken. One of my favorite weekend spots for lunch is Federal Donuts, because they make great Korean fried chicken and now we have another option. With only a few locations throughout the US, this chain is not so easy to find. Now, in Philly, you can find it. This chinatown spot is sure to please. Opening in mid-October.
Let us know what you think of these places so that we can recommend them to the hundreds of students who join us each summer in this great city! We can't wait to hear what you think!