Philadelphia/Harrisburg, PA

Eating out in Philadelphia/Harrisburg, PA

It would practically be criminal to visit Philadelphia and not try a genuine Philly cheese steak, but beyond that pop-culinary claim to fame, there is a sophisticated dining scene. The city's finer cuisine, vaunted by many including the editors of Gourmet magazine in their "America's Top Tables" reviews, focuses on European and American traditions, with outstanding seafood selections. A recent surge in new and youthful restauranteurs has increased the trend toward chic bistros and lively cafés, while simultaneously lowering the cost of dining out.

Gourmet

Le Bec-Fin stands apart as Philadelphia's finest and most popular restaurant. A dessert cart that should be famous in its own right complements the world-class Classic French cuisine. Stellar service and a gorgeous decor enhance the dining experience. There is also an affordable prix fixe lunch and an award-winning wine list. 1523 Walnut Street.

Highly Recommended

Pasión's success is as much a tribute to its excellence as it is to Philadelphia's friendly diversity. The Nuevo Latino menu has earned rave reviews, and highlights specialties from ceviche to sea bass. The tropical ambiance and plush décor have contributed to its emergence as a culinary hotspot. 211 South 15th Street.

Romantic

Friday Saturday Sunday has been dubbed by the local press as Philadelphia's "best, tiny romantic restaurant." The American menu has a Continental flair, featuring items such as Tuscan Crab Cakes and Chicken Genovese. There is the cozy Tank Bar upstairs for after-dinner lounging. 261 South 21st Street.

Going party in Philadelphia/Harrisburg, PA

There is an overflow of nighttime activities for everyone from frat boys to club kids, jazz aficionados, and wine connoisseurs. Irish pubs and laid-back bars are plentiful for casual drinking and sports TV. Columbus (previously Delaware) Avenue is the center of the dance music and nightclub scene, with clubs like Maui and Egypt attracting clubbers from as far as Atlantic City. Comedy clubs a-plenty keep the city in stitches and an impressive but often overlooked jazz scene thrives in Philadelphia.

Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant

Fans of Dock Street beer or any beer become fast fans of this Philadelphia institution in the Reading Terminal. The beer is brewed on the premises, backed by a full bar and outstanding American pub food.

McGillin's Olde Ale House

A roaring fireplace and high-beamed ceilings add a nice touch to Philadelphia's oldest Irish pub. It's the perfect place for someone who just wants to prop up on a stool and settle in for the evening with a pint and engaging talk.

Dave and Busters

This energetic club mixes styles and comes up with a happening collection of bump-and-grind music, pool tables, a bar that'll serve you a pint of Guinness as fast as a frozen umbrella drink, virtual reality games, fine cuisine, and pinball!.

David Brenner's Laugh House

Co-owned by comedian David Brenner, this club draws big crowds and bigger stars to the hip South Street neighborhood.

Monte Carlo Living Room

As the name implies, this club caters to an older, upscale clientele and strictly enforced its jacket-and-tie dress policy. The sophisticated atmosphere is spiced with South American and European music.

Zanzibar Blue

The hottest jazz joint in Philadelphia brings in the big-name talent, as well as respected local up-and-comers. A favorite event is the Sunday morning jazz brunch.

Brazil

Ever had a Caipiñha? It's a rum cocktail famous in Brazil..the country, that is, and just one of the many treats you'll get at this sizzling salsa club. Fun-filled dance lessons each night get even the most rhythm-less gringo into the groove.

Common events in Philadelphia/Harrisburg, PA

Mummer's Parade

Ring in the New Year with revelers in spectacularly elaborate and outlandish costumes, strutting from South Philadelphia to City Hall, strumming banjos and waving feathers. January 1.

George Washington's Birthday

In keeping with its patriotic traditions, Philadelphia honors the nation's first president at the site of one his greatest challenges, Valley Forge. Each year, the Valley Forge National Park holds a Cherries Jubilee weekend in memory of the valor of the General and his troops. February.

Peco Energy Presidential Jazz Weekend

President's Day Weekend hosts more than 90 jazz events, including concerts, screenings and banquets around the clock. Phenomenal performers participate every year. February.

Philadelphia Flower Show

America's oldest and grandest flower show is nationally-acclaimed and features a daily Afternoon Tea Banquets, "hands-on" demonstrations of the best gardening products and techniques, QandA with horticulturalists, and more. Lavish fresh floral arrangements, of course, adorn every event. March.

Philadelphia Antiques Show

For nearly forty years, this event has been one of the finest antique shows in the country. Over 50 exhibitors, mainly from England and the United States, display their greatest treasures for serious collectors as well as weekend antiquers. April.

Sunoco Welcome America

The entire city enjoys a "town reading" of the Declaration of Independence, theater, regattas, free shows, and pageantry for the nation's birthday, as well as one of the best fireworks shows in America along the Delaware River. Another highlight is the presentation of the Freedom Medal in Independence Square. No one throws a 4th of July bash like Philadelphia! July.

Super Sunday

Most museums and art academies have reduced admissions, and the Parkway is lined with craft vendors, a flea market, clowns, mimes, and various other street performances. October.