10 Hidden Gem Italian Spots in Philly

You’re not average, so why consume average eats? If you demand excellence from your cuisine, read on. If you have a boring palette satisfied with subpar food, move on with your day. 

Now that we got rid of the non-foodies, we are calling all cheesesteak enthusiasts and connoisseurs of comfort food. Philadelphia boasts a rich Italian heritage, evident in its vibrant culinary scene. But beyond the iconic cheesesteak lies a world of flavorful pastas, bubbling pizzas, and heartwarming Italian specialties waiting to be devoured. So, ditch the tourist traps and join us for our guide to the top 10 Italian restaurants in Philly!

1.    Villa di Roma (Bella Vista): This charming ristorante in Bella Vista transports you straight to a cozy Italian trattoria. Opened in 1932, Villa di Roma is a local institution, once frequented by the legendary Frank Sinatra himself! Fun fact: The original owners even received a handwritten note from the Chairman of the Board thanking them for their hospitality. Their signature dish? Dive into the decadent Chicken Cannelloni, a symphony of tender pasta sheets filled with a creamy ricotta and chicken ragù, sure to leave you wanting more.

2.    Barbuzzo (Center City): Craving a touch of Mediterranean flair with your Italian fare? Look no further than Barbuzzo. Chef Jamie Malfatt's innovative menu blends Italian classics with seasonal Mediterranean influences. Don't miss their signature Pappardelle with Lamb Ragu, a dish that redefines comfort food. The wide, house-made pappardelle pasta perfectly complements the slow-cooked lamb ragu, creating a textural and flavorful masterpiece.

3.    Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti (East Passyunk): East Passyunk's vibrant restaurant scene welcomes Positano Coast, a haven for all things Amalfi Coast. This upscale eatery boasts a stunning raw bar and an open kitchen, allowing you to witness culinary magic firsthand.  Planning a special occasion? Their Branzino al Sale (whole baked sea bass) is a showstopper, presented tableside and expertly filleted for a truly memorable dining experience.

4.    Trattoria Carina (Fairmount): This family-owned gem in Fairmount offers a taste of authentic Abruzzese cuisine, a region in central Italy known for its hearty pasta dishes and fresh seafood. Trattoria Carina's signature dish is the Spaghetti alla Chitarra, a unique Abruzzese specialty. The chitarra, a long, rectangular tool with thin strings, creates a square-shaped spaghetti that perfectly captures the rich tomato sauce.

5.    Pizzeria Vetri (Fairmount): Calling all pizza purists! Marc Vetri's acclaimed Pizzeria Vetri is a haven for Neapolitan-style pizzas. Here, the focus is on simplicity and quality ingredients.  Each pizza emerges from a wood-fired oven, boasting a perfectly charred crust and a symphony of flavors. Opt for the Margherita D.O.P. – a classic combination of San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil – to truly experience the magic of Neapolitan pizza 

6.    La Viola (Rittenhouse): This Rittenhouse Square gem offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic date night or a celebratory dinner.  La Viola's menu features seasonal Italian fare with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.  Their signature dish, the Tagliatelle al Ragu di Cinghiale (wild boar ragù), is a must-try. The rich and flavorful ragù perfectly complements the house-made tagliatelle, creating a truly decadent dish.

7.    Ristorante Pesto (Society Hill): Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you!  Ristorante Pesto, a cornerstone of Society Hill since 1979, is a local favorite known for its extensive menu and generous portions. Fun fact:  Their signature dish, the Penne alla Vodka, was invented in Philly! This creamy tomato-vodka sauce with a touch of pancetta is a crowd-pleaser, and the generous portions ensure you won't leave hungry.

8.    Via Locusta (Rittenhouse): Modern Italian cuisine takes center stage at Via Locusta. Chef Nicholas Elmi's innovative menu features seasonal ingredients and creative reinterpretations of Italian classics.  Looking for something unique? Try their signature Tonno Crudo, a dish featuring thinly sliced raw tuna with fennel, olives, and citrus. The combination of textures and flavors is a refreshing departure from traditional Italian fare.

9.    Ralph's Italian Restaurant (Italian Market): Step back in time at Ralph's Italian Restaurant, a cash-only institution in the heart of the Italian Market. This no-frills eatery is a local favorite known for its classic Italian-American fare and generous portions. Fun fact:  They don't have all their items listed on their menu – the specials are recited by the waitstaff, adding to the old-school charm.

10. Craving Comfort in Manayunk? Look No Further Than The Couch Tomato Cafe! Nestled in the heart of Manayunk, The Couch Tomato Cafe isn't your average Italian eatery. Sure, they've got all the classics – steaming plates of pasta, cheesy pizzas, and crisp salads – but with a twist. This BYOB spot offers a relaxed, bistro-style atmosphere perfect for a casual lunch with friends or a cozy date night.

Here's the real kicker: while their Manayunk location boasts a simplified menu, they also offer catering. Fun fact: Did you know The Couch Tomato offers an expanded menu for events, featuring a wider selection of entrees and sides? So next time you're planning a gathering, consider The Couch Tomato for a stress-free and delicious catering experience.

Whether you're unwinding after a day of exploring Manayunk or fueling up for a night out, The Couch Tomato Cafe offers a warm welcome and a delightful taste of Italian-American comfort food.

There you have it, folks! Our delectable journey through Philly's top 10 Italian restaurants comes to a close. From classic trattorias to modern interpretations of Italian fare, this list offers something for every palate and craving. So, grab your friends and family, dive into a plate of steaming pasta, and savor the rich flavors of Philadelphia's Italian culinary scene!