Philadelphia

I had six wonderful years of studying, bar tending, partying, and eating in this underrated town.  I’m always thrilled to go back.

 

Vetri: Over-the-top Italian tasting menu (see Meals of My Life) ($$$$)

Cochon: killer little BYOB joint serving awesome plates of swine ($$$)

Koch’s Delicatessen: the best sandwich in the world; wait in line and go for the triple deckers ($)

Dimitri’s: I don’t even like Greek food, but I love it here; long waits! ($$)

Pat’s Steaks:  the original South Philly cheesesteak…best time to go is during an Eagle’s game ($)

Gino’s: not quite Pat’s, but definitely close; the neon has gotten to be a little too much ($)

Nick’s Original Roast Beef: Roast beef combo overboard + gravy fries and a Yuengling ($)

Abner’s: I’m still looking for the best Hoagie…this is pretty good ($)

White Dog Cafe: my favorite brunch in the city! ($$$)

Fork: great classic contemporary new American cuisine (aka fresh) ($$$)

Pudge’s:  Killer cheesesteak; not worth making a trip to Consho, but if you happened to be there… ($)

Del Frisco’s: Great space, solid steaks; one of the better DF’s; check out the Vault…and the Stall of Fame ($$$$)