Unfortunately,
Philadelphia has yet to earn any Michelin star. There's no denying that the city has a good number of exceptional restaurants, but they seem to fall short of getting this highly coveted recognition. Now, this isn't to say that having a Michelin star is the end-all or be-all of restaurants, but there's also no denying that they're great to have. Luckily, some are pretty close. Connoisseurs and gourmands alike consider the likes of Hiroki on N Front St., Vernick Fish on Arch St., Alpen Rose on S 13th St., and Forsytha on Chestnut St. as must-try hotspots at the cusp of becoming Michelin-starred. Check them out to see why!
Alpen Rose
Located on S 13th St., Alpen Rose is the ultimate hotspot for indulging in the best steaks in Philadelphia. Chef Michael Schulson serves such succulent beef and barbecue dishes, it's no surprise that it's on its way to earning a Michelin star. The menu features a feast fit for a king, with rich mains that will satisfy any foodie instantly. But don't think it's just meat here! Alpen Rose also offers sumptuous seafood that's a nice contrast to all the steaks and pork chops. If you're absolutely starving, you couldn't have found a better place.
Source: Alpen Rose Facebook Page.
Amada
You may think that Spanish tapas doesn't sound all that fulfilling at first, but a visit to Amada on Chestnut Street in the Downtown
neighborhood of Philadelphia may change your mind. Chef Jose Garces prepares the most scrumptious bites you'll ever get in Philadelphia, especially when paired with their finest red wines. The hotspot's Serrano ham croquettes and crab-stuffed peppers will take your taste buds on a tailspin! With one bite, you're suddenly transported to Madrid, Seville, or San Sebastian. Such is the culinary excellence of Garces, his kitchen, and his exceptional tapas!
Source: Amada Philly Facebook Page.
Forsytha
A high-class French restaurant in Philadelphia's Old City quarter? It's no wonder the place is close to earning a Michelin star! This isn't to say that just because a place is French, it's automatically good. It's just that Forsytha is that amazing of a hotspot. Chef Christopher Kearse's delicious twists on French cuisine are enough to make the hotspot rival even the
Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris. Try their Foie Gras Mousse, for example, which is a delight with every cracker. You might be hesitant to try the infamous Escargot, but when paired with white wine, it's a feast worth spending for.
Source: Forsytha Facebook Page
Hiroki
Locals and tourists alike—especially the foodies among them—agree that Hiroki on N Front St. is Philadelphia's definitive omakase. Chef Hiroki Fujiyama prepared the most delicious sushi in the city. Be it sashimi, wagyu, or nigiri, every one of his bite-sized delicacies bursts with flavors of a rural Japanese fishing town. Hence, it's no surprise that many consider this one of the
best eats in Philadelphia. This is the kind of place where businessmen take their clients to seal the deal or lovers who are spending their anniversary and other milestones.
Source: Hiroki
Laurel
Care for another French restaurant in Philadelphia? Try Laurel on E Passyunk Avenue. Chef Nick Elmi leads the kitchen here and fuses both American and French cuisines to come up with a continental menu for the ages! Try their cod, for example, which is prepared well with chanterelles, nettles, and toasted yeast. Are you up for some escargot? This place serves it with sourdough and saffron. As for dessert, some Corn Mousse with Mille-Feuille and Blackberry is the way to go! With all of that on offer, it's no surprise that Laurel would someday earn a Michelin star!
Source: Laurel Facebook Page
Vernick Fish
The best place for seafood in Philadelphia is arguably Vernick Fish. Located near Logan Square, this place has perfected the art of serving fish, crab, squid, and more. Even its starter bites like Crispy Calamari and Crab Toast would instantly satisfy. As for their mains, you should try their Yellowfin Tuna Rice Bowl, Swordfish Sandwich, or Chilled Shrimp Salad. Any of these would fill your mouth with so many flavors, you'll practically burst with satisfaction. After just one visit here, you won't go anywhere else for seafood ever again.
Source: Vernick Fish Facebook Page
Vetri Cucina
Finally, there's Vetri Cucina, a much-beloved Italian restaurant on Sprice Street. If you're a huge fan of the cuisine, you'll find this place the best restaurant in the city. Especially if you're into pasta! The hotspot's Foglie D'ulivo or Lobster Bisque Cappelletti (with tomato butter) are more than enough to keep you coming back. The same goes for their Dry-Aged duck with Charred Endive & Fig or Iberico Pork Wellington with Mustard Greens and Potato Gratin. And for dessert? Don't miss their classic Panettone with Pistachi and Zabaglione or Baked Chocolate Custard with Caramel and Creme Fraiche.
Source: Vetri Cucina Facebook Page
Though there are no Michelin-starred restaurants in Philadelphia today, there are a few that are close to getting one. Check these hotspots out and see why many connoisseurs and foodies are confident about their prospects.
