Best Upscale Paleo Restaurants in Center City | Upscale & Paleo

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Paleo Restaurants in Center City | Upscale & Paleo

• El Vez — Mexican · rated 5/5: Bathed in neon glows and eclectic kitsch, this high-energy destination pulses with a festive spirit that transforms every meal into a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture. Zesty aromas of sizzling taquitos and fresh cilantro waft through the air as the kitchen turns out artfully plated classics, from creamy avocado toast to hearty breakfast burritos bursting with bold, spicy flavors. The experience is rounded out by a playful cocktail program that invites diners to linger in the electric atmosphere, where time-honored culinary traditions meet a modern, punchy flair.
• Tapster — American · rated 5/5: Tapster hums with a playful, high-energy spirit where the nostalgic scent of warm, buttery popcorn and freshly baked cookies fills the air. This social sanctuary invites guests to linger over frosty pints and savory snacks, from giant soft pretzels dipped in rich cheese to artisanal beef jerky and crisp kettle chips. Whether you are settling in for a casual beer night or indulging in a golden Belgian waffle topped with Jeni’s ice cream, the atmosphere is one of unpretentious joy and effortless community.
• U-Bahn — American · rated 4/5: Descend into a subterranean sanctuary where the cool glow of neon and the rhythmic hum of conversation evoke the edgy, industrial spirit of a Berlin metro station. Here, bold street-inspired flavors and chilled craft pours come together in a vibrant social hub, offering a gritty yet sophisticated escape that pulses with urban energy.
• The Library Bar — American · rated 4/5: This sophisticated retreat invites guests to sink into plush seating surrounded by the quiet elegance of leather-bound volumes and the warm, amber glow of candlelight. Expertly crafted cocktails like the zesty Hemingway Daiquiri and the botanical Darling Daisy are served with artistic precision, transforming classic mixology into a refined sensory journey. It is a timeless sanctuary where the rhythmic stir of crystal glassware and the complex notes of a spirit-forward Old Fashioned allow the outside world to simply fade away.
• Butcher Bar — American · rated 4/5: Butcher Bar welcomes guests into a high-energy, rustic retreat where the rich aroma of wood-smoke and slow-cooked meats sets the stage for a decadent feast. The kitchen masterfully balances smoky traditions with playful innovation, serving up everything from glistening candied pork belly burnt ends to golden, cheddar-stuffed pretzel bread that pulls apart with ease. It is a soulful destination where hearty racks of baby back ribs and vibrant, globally-inspired small plates come together to create a communal dining experience rooted in bold, savory indulgence.
• Federal Donuts & Chicken — American · rated 4/5: The air is thick with the irresistible scent of spiced sugar and savory brine, drawing guests into a vibrant space where the boundaries between breakfast and lunch blur beautifully. Golden, crispy fried chicken sandwiches and tender sliders share the stage with an array of "fancy" and hot-fresh donuts, creating a playful symphony of salty and sweet that feels like a celebration in every bite.
• Revolution Taco — Mexican · rated 4/5: This vibrant urban eatery serves as a culinary crossroads where the humble taco is reimagined through a global lens, blending bold international spices with street-food soul. Guests are treated to a playful symphony of textures and tastes, from the savory crunch of duck-filled scallion pancakes to the smoky, sweet heat of honey chipotle chicken. It is a high-energy destination that celebrates culinary boundary-breaking, offering a worldly dining adventure tucked inside every warm, hand-pressed tortilla.
• The Dandelion — British · rated 4/5: This spirited gastropub transports diners to a cozy London corner, where eclectic nooks and polished wood accents create an inviting backdrop for spirited conversation and communal dining. The kitchen reimagines British classics with artisanal flair, serving up crispy Billingsgate crab croquettes and rich, savory Welsh rarebit alongside velvety duck liver parfaits and vibrant pickled beetroots. Every visit feels like a warm embrace of timeless tavern culture, where time slows down over a curated cheese board and the comforting hum of a well-loved neighborhood haunt.
• Ocean Prime — Seafood · rated 4/5: Ocean Prime invites guests into a world of sophisticated coastal luxury, where the soft glow of elegant lighting meets the dramatic flair of a dry-ice-shrouded shellfish tower. The air carries the comforting aroma of a warm bread basket, setting the stage for a decadent journey through briny West Coast oysters, succulent chilled lobster, and golden, jumbo lump crab cakes. Every detail, from the delicate goat cheese ravioli to the vibrant seafood cocktails, is crafted to transform a meal into a refined celebration of the sea.
• Monk's Cafe — American · rated 3/5: This dimly lit sanctuary hums with the warmth of a storied neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of golden pommes frites and simmering seasonal soups. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between casual comfort and culinary artistry, pairing silky chicken liver mousse and smoky trout dip with inventive plates like lion’s mane mushroom cakes. It is a place designed for lingering, where guests gather over fiery "Spanish Flies" and tender lamb meatballs in an atmosphere that feels both timeless and vibrantly alive.
• Grandma's — American · rated 3/5: This vibrant eatery captures the soulful essence of a family kitchen, where the air is perfumed with the bright, citrusy steam of lemongrass and the comforting aroma of golden curry puffs. The experience centers on a bold balance of heat and heart, ranging from the refreshing, zesty crunch of traditional papaya salads to the fiery, deep-flavored intensity of the signature Crying Grandma. Every bowl of aromatic noodle soup and coconut-laced broth feels like a warm embrace, inviting guests to savor the nostalgic, punchy flavors of authentic home-style cooking.
• Walnut Garden — Chinese · rated 3/5: Walnut Garden unfolds as a cozy, open-air sanctuary where the crackle of fire pits and the warming aroma of spiced sangria create an enchanting backdrop for communal gathering. Guests delight in the interactive charm of roasting DIY s’mores over open flames and sharing vibrant, flavor-forward squash salads, all while savoring decadent caramel apple cheesecakes under the soft glow of garden lights.
• OCF Coffee House — American: Sunlight streams into this vibrant neighborhood hub, where the comforting aroma of freshly roasted house coffee mingles with the scent of golden baked goods cooling on the counter. Wholesome breakfasts of organic eggs give way to a bustling lunch scene defined by hearty sandwiches served on iconic, crusty Sarcone’s-style rolls. It is a welcoming retreat that captures the effortless charm of a local gathering spot, perfect for a slow morning or a satisfying midday escape.
• Sabrina's Cafe - Art Museum — American: Sunlight streams into this lively neighborhood gem where the playful spirit of the Art Museum district comes alive through towering stacks of Oreo-crusted pancakes and golden, cinnamon-dusted bread pudding. The air hums with the savory aroma of smoky pulled pork hashes and zesty southwestern scrambles, creating a vibrant sanctuary where indulgent comfort food meets the creative energy of a bustling Philadelphia morning.
• Paulie Gee's Soul City — Italian: This vibrant urban haunt pulses with a soulful energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of wood-fired dough and bubbling mozzarella. Masterfully charred pizzas take center stage, offering a symphony of textures that range from the spicy, honey-drizzled heat of the Hellboy to the thick, golden-edged crunch of the legendary Freddy Prinze squares. It is a space where artisanal tradition meets modern flair, ensuring every guest finds a seat at the table with a menu that celebrates both savory meats and inventive plant-based creations.
• Sahara Grill — Middle Eastern: Step into a vibrant oasis where the air is fragrant with fresh herbs and toasted spices, inviting guests to linger over colorful spreads of zesty tabbouleh and velvety hummus topped with savory, seasoned meats. This lively gathering spot celebrates the communal art of the mezze, offering a rich tapestry of flavors from smoky charred eggplant to tangy house-made pickles that turn every meal into a shared celebration.
• Quick Fixx — Italian: This vibrant neighborhood haunt transforms classic comfort into an art form, where the steam from bowls of Pasta Fresca and the savory aroma of Chicken Mushala invite diners to settle in for a soul-warming feast. From the indulgent, bubbling layers of Nina's Gnocchi Lasagna to the bold, fiery notes of the Diavolo, each plate balances rustic Italian tradition with a playful, modern energy. It is a welcoming retreat where the simple joy of a perfectly executed pasta meets the cozy, bustling atmosphere of a local favorite.
• DBG — American: DBG pulses with a vibrant, social energy where friends gather over overflowing boards of elevated comfort food and chilled drinks in a lively urban setting. The kitchen masters the art of the shared plate, serving up crispy cheesesteak egg rolls and golden-brown Amish pretzels that pair perfectly with zesty, house-made dips and mountain-high nachos. It is a spirited retreat where the satisfying crunch of house-made pickle chips and the warmth of melted mozzarella create the ultimate backdrop for spirited conversation and late-night cravings.
• Wood Street Pizza — Italian: Sunlight catches the dusting of flour on the counters at Wood Street Pizza, where the comforting scent of bubbling mozzarella and spicy roasted longhots fills the air. Whether you’re sharing a rustic, thick-crusted Grandma pie or a classic white pizza finished with garlic and herbs, each slice offers a perfect harmony of crisp, charred edges and rich, savory toppings that define the ultimate neighborhood hangout.
• Gran Caffe L'Aquila — Italian: Stepping into this lively Italian landmark feels like a journey to the heart of a bustling piazza, where the air is perfumed with the savory scent of charred lamb and the bright, citrusy notes of Calabrian bergamot. Artisanal platters of Tuscan delicacies and bowls of silken, seafood-strewn pasta anchor a dining experience that celebrates the art of the leisurely meal, perfectly complemented by a refreshing, bitter chinotto or a fragrant cup of chamomile tea.
• Tria — Mediterranean: This sophisticated urban retreat invites guests to linger over a curated selection of artisanal bites, where the air is thick with the scent of rosemary-infused oils and the briny promise of fresh East Coast oysters. The kitchen transforms simple ingredients into elegant revelations, serving up velvety truffle egg toast and warm mission figs stuffed with sharp gorgonzola that melt against the palate. It is a space designed for the art of the slow graze, where every shared plate and glass of wine feels like a quiet celebration of refined, soul-warming flavors.
• Marathon - 16th & Sansom — American: This vibrant Center City cornerstone hums with the energy of a classic urban bistro, where floor-to-ceiling windows invite the city’s pulse into a space filled with the comforting aroma of simmering matzoh ball soup and golden, pan-seared pierogies. The menu celebrates elevated comfort, offering a soulful journey from bubbling pots of vegetarian chili to the nostalgic indulgence of creamy, oven-baked mac and cheese. It is a welcoming sanctuary where the bustle of the street fades behind plates of crispy calamari and shared flatbreads, making every meal feel like a warm neighborhood homecoming.
• Pizzeria Vetri — Italian: The air at Pizzeria Vetri hums with the warmth of a wood-fired oven, where the scent of bubbling cheese and charred dough invites guests into a vibrant, modern space. Diners share golden, crispy spirals of signature rotolo and artfully composed boards of creamy burrata, while a parade of wood-roasted seasonal vegetables brings a rustic, garden-fresh elegance to the communal table.
• Yamitsuki Ramen — Japanese: Steaming bowls of rich, soul-warming ramen take center stage in this vibrant space, where the air is thick with savory aromas and the lively energy of a modern Tokyo noodle shop. The experience extends beyond the broth to include the delicate artistry of chef-special sushi and inventive appetizers, all perfectly paired with a crisp Japanese lager or a refined pour from their curated sake collection.
• Pub & Kitchen — American: This lively neighborhood cornerstone hums with energy, inviting guests to settle in amidst a backdrop of warm hospitality and the briny scent of freshly shucked oysters. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between casual tavern snacks and sophisticated seasonal plates, where golden-fried pickles and honey whiskey wings share the table with vibrant winter salads and earthy roasted beets. It is a place where soul-warming bowls of chili and artfully prepared deviled eggs turn a simple meal into a celebratory gathering of friends and flavor.
• Good Karma — Indian: Good Karma serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary where the invigorating aroma of organic fair-trade coffee mingles with the refreshing scent of freshly blended greens. Guests find nourishment in vibrant, wholesome plates like creamy avocado toast and hearty breakfast bagels, each bite designed to fuel the body and soul with mindful energy. Whether lingering over a chilled iced tea or a velvety protein cup, the experience is a bright, revitalizing pause that captures the essence of balanced living.
• Oyster House — Seafood: Oyster House captures the spirited essence of a coastal celebration, where the rhythmic clinking of shells and the briny scent of the raw bar set the stage for indulgent, communal feasts. Diners dive into overflowing lobster platters and glistening, freshly shucked oysters, often pairing their meal with flowing drinks or even a hands-on lesson in the delicate art of the shuck. It is a vibrant destination where the bounty of the ocean is shared through interactive experiences and sun-drenched flavors, ensuring every visit feels like a festive seaside escape.
• The Happy Rooster — American: The Happy Rooster pulses with a spirited energy, inviting guests into a vibrant space where global comfort food meets the refined flair of a coastal bistro. Sizzling plates of charred octopus and herb-crusted lamb chops share the table with indulgent lobster quesadillas and golden, loaded tater tots, creating a playful yet sophisticated feast designed for sharing. Whether lingering over a Mediterranean platter or diving into a bowl of fragrant steamed mussels, diners find a convivial retreat where bold, eclectic flavors and a relaxed atmosphere make every visit feel like a celebration.
• Scarpetta — Italian: Scarpetta invites guests into a world of sophisticated Italian soul food, where a warm, polished ambiance sets the stage for an indulgent exploration of coastal and countryside flavors. The kitchen transforms simple ingredients into sensory masterpieces, from the signature velvet-smooth polenta and fork-tender braised short ribs to the earthy, aromatic crunch of truffled mushroom schiacciata. It is a dining experience that balances rustic tradition with modern elegance, ensuring every bite of smoky charred octopus or delicate seared scallop feels both timeless and vibrantly contemporary.
• DanDan — Chinese: Steeped in the aromatic heat of toasted Sichuan peppercorns and pungent garlic, this vibrant destination pulses with the bold, soul-warming energy of authentic regional flavors. Silky wontons and tender ribbons of pork belly arrive bathed in pools of shimmering crimson chili oil, offering a masterful balance of numbing spice and savory depth that pairs perfectly with the shatteringly crisp crunch of golden scallion pancakes.