Welcome to South Street, one of Philadelphia’s premier restaurant destinations for international cuisine. Located in the vibrant Queen Village neighborhood, the .6 mile stretch from 8th Street to Front Street is home to dozens of amazing restaurants featuring over 20 different ethnic cuisines that make Disneyworld’s Epcot look like a strip mall.
Looking for the best South Street restaurants in Philadelphia? The Queen Village stretch is the perfect spot for a date night or a day trip – with its close proximity to Center City and its abundance of unique shops and fooderies.
Many of the places to eat and shop on South Street cannot be found anywhere else in the city, making it a truly unique neighborhood and experience. Just a short walk from Center City, South Street is definitely worth the walk to experience a more “local” scene of Philadelphia. Not to mention, the Queen Village and Society Hill neighborhoods to the north and south of South Street offer even more opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and exploration.
So if you’re looking for the best places to eat on South Street, be sure to check out these incredible restaurants in Queen Village. Whether you’re in the mood for Venezuelan, Italian, Chinese, or Thai food, you can likely find a restaurant on or around South Street in Queen Village. From unique fooderies to traditional sit-down restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Starting in Europe and the Mediterranean, we’ll work our way East around the globe and finish back in the Americas:
Europe & Mediterranean
Italian – La Nonna’s
La Nonna’s Italian Restaurant on South Street in Philadelphia is a great place to go for a classic Italian meal. The dishes are all authentic and made with fresh ingredients.
The spaghetti and meatballs are delicious, and the lasagna is hearty, what more can I say? Whether you long to remember your Italian grandmothers cooking or you’re just craving some classic Italian fare, La Nonna’s gnocchi is definitely worth trying if you’re
Irish – Oneals Pub
Just off south street sits an Irish Pub that serves up more than just adult beverages — O’Neals Irish Pub. Located just off South Street, you can’t miss the orange, white, and green Irish flag painted above the pub’s entrance. The bar is a neighborhood staple and has been in the same spot for years.
The kitchen serves up a few Irish favorites like Irish Beef Stew, Shepard Pie, fish and chips, and a loaded baked potato alongside classic bar food and a long list of different domestic and local beers.
If classic Irish pubs are your thing and McGillians just isn’t your vibe, ONeals is a great vibe for both a happy hour or late night.
German – Brauhaus Shmitz
The German people have a long history in Philadelphia (see – Germantown), one of the best examples is Brauhaus Schmitz. The german brew house and restaurant is located directly on South Street and serves a variety of German food and beverages, including but not limited to Haus-made Sausages, Schnitzels, and their famous Schweinhaxe.
If you’re a local or happen to visit Philly in October, the section of South Street in Queen Village in front of the restaurant shuts down for an Oktoberfest celebration that would make the motherland proud. With pretzels and bratwurst plenty, and steins of German beer in hand, you can listen to traditional German music while rocking your lederhosen in public.
French – Bistrot La Minette
Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and impeccable attention to detail, Bistrot La Minette offers a truly authentic French dining experience. Located just off South Street on 6th, it is one of Queen Village’s best places to eat.
With a menu featuring classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin, and crème brûlée, as well as a selection of carefully curated wines, this restaurant is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic date.
In the warmer months, their outdoor dining is a fantastic way to achieve the full Parisian experience.
Greek – South Street Souvlaki
Located on South Street in the heart of Philadelphia’s Queen Village neighborhood, South Street Souvlaki is a Greek restaurant that offers authentic and delicious Greek cuisine.
A classic of South Philly, the restaurant features a menu of classic dishes such as gyros, spanakopita, and baklava, as well as a variety of vegetarian options.
With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner with a loved one. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try some of the best Greek gyros food in the city at South Street Souvlaki.
Honorable Mention: Olympia II
Moroccan – Marrakesh
One of South Streets’ best restaurants – or experiences, if you will – is a small Moroccan joint called Marrakesh, named after one of the largest cities in the country. The North African restaurant offers a unique dining experience with traditional Moroccan cuisine, atmosphere, and experience that will transport you to Northern Africa.
With over 30 years of operation (in the same location, mind you), their award-winning dishes are touted as some of the most delicious in the city, let alone Queen Village. From traditional Morrocan chicken dishes to B’stella (layered pie with chicken, assorted nuts, almonds, eggs, parsley, and onions, topped with confection sugar and traced with cinnamon), there is something for everyone.
At Marrakesh, diners can enjoy a 7-course meal (with your hands) with a traditional Moroccan show – Belly Dancers!
Middle Eastern
Turkish – Isot
Isot is a Turkish restaurant that offers a unique dining experience for both local foodies and travelers alike. The restaurant features traditional Turkish cuisine with modern flair, including dishes such as lamb kebabs, hummus, and baklava cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with colorful decor and comfortable seating.
At Isot, diners can enjoy a variety of flavors and spices that are characteristic of Turkish cuisine. The Queen Village restaurant is BYOB, so be sure to grab some Turkish beers and wines to complement the dining experience.
Whether you’re looking to try something new or want to enjoy a taste of Turkey, Isot is a great option for travelers in search of authentic Turkish cuisine.
Mediterranean/Middle Eastern – Cilantro
If you’re in the mood for middle eastern food, Cilantro is a Middle Eastern fusion restaurant just off South Street with plenty of great options to get your fix. Featuring multiple different dishes from around the middle east, you may have a hard time choosing what to order.
Cilantro’s menu features everything from Mooussakay and Kunafa to Lebanese Baba Ghanoush. Hungry for something quick and simple? You cannot go wrong with their shawarma platters, hummus, and pita – I personally can vouch for Cilantro, one of my favorite casual Queen Village restaurants.
Afghani – Alyan’s Middle Eastern & Mediterranean Restaurant
Alyan’s is an Afghani restaurant that offers a unique and authentic Middle Eastern dining experience. The restaurant features traditional Afghani cuisine, including dishes such as kebabs, naan, and biryani. The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with colorful decor and comfortable seating.
At Alyan’s, diners can enjoy a variety of flavors and spices that are characteristic of Afghani cuisine. Whether you’re looking to try something new or want to experience the flavors of Afghanistan, Alyan’s is a great option for those seeking authentic Afghani cuisine.
Asia
Indian – Lovash Indian Kitchen
Lovash is an Indian restaurant that I recently had the pleasure of visiting and I must say, I was blown away by the flavors and spices of the food. The South Street Indian Restaruant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with colorful decor and a lively kitchen.
The menu at Lovash features a wide variety of dishes, including classic Indian favorites like tandoori chicken and lamb vindaloo, as well as several vegetarian and seafood options.
I highly recommend trying the chicken korma and the goat biryani, both of which were incredibly flavorful and delicious. And be sure to save room for dessert, as the gulab jamun and mango kulfi are not to be missed. Overall, Lovash is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to experience the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine.
Chinese – Golden Empress Garden
Golden Empress Garden is a Chinese restaurant that has been serving the citizens of south Philly for decades. Located right on South Street, the restaurant features traditional Chinese cuisine, including dishes such as wonton soup, Peking duck, and kung pao chicken.
At Golden Empress Garden, diners can enjoy a variety of flavors and spices that are characteristic of Chinese cuisine. You really cannot go wrong at Golden Empress Garden, so order your favorites for a delicious traditional Chinese food meal.
Vietnamese – Banh Mi and Bottles
Aside from cheesesteaks and pretzels, Philly’s love for hoagies (outsider translation: sub sandwiches) is unmatched – we take our sandwiches very seriously around here.
I recently visited Banh Mi and Bottles, a fantastic Vietnamese restaurant serving up more than just booze and Banh Mi (think Vietnamese hoagie). The menu features a wide variety of dishes, including classic Vietnamese favorites like pho and bánh mì sandwiches, as well as several vegetarian and seafood options. I highly recommend trying the braised pork belly banh mi or the beef pho – they were incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
The atmosphere is modern and stylish, with sleek decor and a chic ambiance. And be sure to save room for dessert, as the chè is not to be missed.
The shop also offers over 200 craft beers as well as 12 rotating beers on tap. The myriad of cocktails is handcrafted in front of your eyes and for the early birds, the Vietnamese Coffee is made fresh. With plenty of booze and beers to choose from as well, Banh Mi and Bottles is a great, casual option for lunch and dinner on South Street.
Thai – Tamarind Thai Restaurant
Tamarind is a laid-back Thai restaurant that serves authentic Thai dishes that are both beautiful and delicious. The menu is packed with classic Thai favorites like pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup, as well as an array of tasty appetizers and refreshing drinks.
The Queen Village restaurants’ atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with colorful decor and comfortable seating. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a full meal, Tamarind is a great spot to enjoy some tasty Thai food in a relaxed setting.
Japanese – Neighborhood Ramen
South Street is home to multiple Japanese restaurants, all with unique takes on traditional Japanese dishes
Neighborhood Ramen is a Japanese-inspired restaurant that specializes in ramen, a type of Japanese noodle soup accompanied by proteins like pork and eggs. The restaurant offers a wide variety of ramen dishes using fresh ingredients.
The menu includes traditional options such as tonkatsu and shoyu, as well as more unique flavors like spicy miso and vegetable ramen. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and comfortable, with modern wall murals and core decor that make for cozy seating.
Japanese – Midori Sushi
Midori Sushi Philly is a casual Japanese restaurant that serves sushi and sashimi alongside other Japanese Food, like ramen, poke, and teriyaki bowls. The restaurant is located just off South Street on 5th, serving both Queen Village and Society Hill.
While most of Midori’s menu is authentic and delicious, we can recommend a few Staples from the times that we have ordered. The Zen Garden Black Rice Roll is a unique and tasty piece of sushi with black rice instead of traditional rice (un-shamefully makes for a cool photo).
For specialty sushi rolls, the Lobster & Kani Twister and Dragon King Roll are well worth the price and are two great reasons to stop by – Reservations can be made on the website
Japanese – Sakana Omakase Sushi
For a more high-end experience, Sakana Omakase Sushi is a sushi restaurant just south of South Street and one of Queen Villages’ most sought-after restaurants.
At Sakana Omakase Sushi, diners can enjoy a wide variety of sushi and other Japanese-inspired dishes, made with the freshest ingredients and expertly prepared by skilled chefs. In fact, it is known for its exceptional sushi and overall dining experience (Best of Philly 2019, 3 Bells from Phila Inq), making it one of the best sushi restaurants in the city.
In addition to its impressive sushi selection, Izakaya also offers Wagyu beef and jasmine pudding in their 20-course dinner.
Truly a must-try for any sushi-loving visitor or local, I can say with confidence that Izakaya is one of, in not the best sushi restaurants in Philadelphia.
Central and South American
Argentinian – Malbec Argentine Steakhouse
Calling our local meat lovers – if you have a hankering for red meat cooked to perfection, you must try Malbec Steakhouse. The Argentinian restaurant is located just off South Street in Headhouse Square. Malbec truly brings the flair of the Argentinian grill and its rich culture to the Society Hill neighborhood.
The drink menu features a variety of wines, many from Argentina, as well as beer and craft cocktails. For the adventurous foodie, anything from their grill is sure to satisfy – but we can’t not recommend the seafood pasta and any milanesas on the menu.
Venezuelan – Puyero Venezuelan Flavor
I’m excited to tell you about Puyero Venezuelan Flavor, a funky and flavorful Venezuelan restaurant that’s bringing the heat to the world of Latin American cuisine. Located just North of South Street, Puyero Venezuelan Flavor is a vibrant and lively spot, with colorful decor and a fun and energetic atmosphere.
The menu at Puyero Venezuelan Flavor features a wide variety of dishes, including arepas, empanadas, and cachapas, as well as several entrees that showcase the unique and delicious flavors of Venezuelan cuisine. There are also several vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of refreshing cocktails and desserts.
Puyero Venezuelan Flavor is the ideal destination to indulge your taste buds and discover the vibrant and flavorful world of Venezuelan cuisine, whether you crave a quick and casual meal or a more relaxed dining experience.
Mexican – Nora’s Kitchen
Nora’s is a quirky Mexican restaurant that will transport you to a whimsical world of delicious Mexican cuisine. The South Street restaurant is filled with vibrant colors and playful decor – but their food is truly a work of art.
The menu at Nora’s features a wide variety of dishes, including a variety of tacos, burritos, and nachos, as well as several entrees that showcase the unique and quirky flavors of Mexico including Quesabirria tacos and Enchiladas. There are also several vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of refreshing Mexican drinks like horchata and Jarritos. There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options as well.
Nora’s is truly a must-try for any local or visitor looking for authentic Mexican cuisine that will make your tastebuds sing.
North America & Caribbean
Caribbean – Reef Restaurant & Lounge
Reef is a Caribbean family-owned restaurant that has been operating in the same off-South Stree location for 18 years – specializing in the flavors and dishes of the Caribbean islands with dishes named appropriately like Rasta Pasta and Montego Bay Salmon.
The menu at Reef features a wide variety of dishes, including jerk chicken, ox tail, curry goat, and conch fritters. There are also several vegetarian and seafood options, as well as refreshing tropical cocktails and desserts.
Reef doubles as a lounge and nightclub, so come early if loud music and bright lights are not your scenes.
Jewish-American – Famous 4th Street Delicatessen
Located one block off of South Street is a corner Jewish deli, bakery, and diner that has brought joy to the citizens of Queen Village for over 80 years. Famous 4th Street Deli is a Jewish-American restaurant specializing in deli sandwiches stacked larger than you’ve ever seen.
With other staples like matzah ball soup, latkes, and Reubens, you cannot go wrong with anything on their menu. Oh, and, DO NOT FORGET to try their chocolate chip cookies – just trust me on this one.
American BBQ – Twisted Tail
If you’re in the mood to listen to soothing live jazz and drink whiskey or cocktails for a couple of hours, Twisted Tale is the spot for you. This American restaurant offers a unique twist on classic American dishes in a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, with dim lighting and cozy booths that create a warm and inviting space.
The menu at Twisted Tale features a wide variety of dishes, including steaks, burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as several entrees that put a modern twist on traditional American fare.
There are also several vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of cocktails, beers, wines, and an eclectic mix of over 120 different whiskeys.
Check the events page for any live music scheduled.
Hawaiian – Red Poke Express
Located on the corner of the popular residential street, Headhouse Square, Red Poke Express is a fast-casual poke restaurant that offers a modern and convenient way to enjoy this popular Hawaiian dish.
The restaurant has a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, with red accents throughout and an open kitchen where customers can watch their poke bowls being prepared.
The menu at Red Poke Express features a wide variety of poke bowls, including classic options like tuna and salmon, as well as more creative options like mango and avocado. There are also several vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of side dishes and beverages.
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy fast restaurant in Queen Village, Red Poke Express is a great option and one you’ll likely return to.
Philadelphian – Jim’s and Ishkabibble
While not technically an ethnic cuisine, we would be remiss if not to mention our hometown hero, the sandwich synonymous with the city itself, the Philly Cheesesteak. As long as every country, city, and town outside of Philly labels their steak and cheese sandwiches “Philadelphia cheesesteaks,” we’ll include it as a cuisine.
While Pat’s and Geno’s in South Philly gain most of the recognition for their ongoing neighborly competition, some of Philly’s best cheesesteaks can be found right on South Street.
Located at the corner of 4th and South you’ll find a double-decker restaurant that looks straight out of the 60s called Jim’s steaks. This fine establishment has been serving South Street visitors greasy cheesesteaks for decades. Jim’s is one of my favorite cheesesteak places (particularly after a few drinks) due to their chopped-style ribeye steak. While many places will slice the steak into long strips, Jim’s sandwich purveyors chop the stake into smaller bits, making it amalgamize with the cheese and soak up more of the greasy goodness.
Another Philly staple just down the street is Ishkabibbles (1 + 2). Ishkabibbles is another crowd favorite, you really can’t go wrong with South Street cheesesteak.
