Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Center City | Upscale & Vegan

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

• Bob and Barbara's — American · rated 5/5: Bathed in the crimson glow of neon and the soulful hum of a Hammond B3 organ, this legendary haunt invites guests into a world of unpretentious charm and gritty charisma. Here, the clink of a cold PBR can against a shot of Jim Beam marks the start of an evening fueled by sizzling patty melts and snap-casing foot-long hot dogs served straight from the seasoned griddle.
• 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.
• Fergie's Pub — American · rated 5/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt hums with a convivial energy, drawing guests into a warm, lived-in space where the rich aroma of Guinness-infused onion soup mingles with the spicy zest of crispy buffalo wings. The kitchen elevates communal dining with playful touches, serving up golden cheesesteak spring rolls and oversized pretzels alongside steaming bowls of PEI mussels that invite lingering over a pint. It is a soulful retreat where the unpretentious charm of a classic pub meets a menu built for shared stories and hearty appetites.
• Prohibition Taproom — American · rated 4/5: Step into a moody, vintage-inspired haunt where the air is thick with the savory aroma of bubbling French onion soup and the irresistible crunch of golden-fried snacks. This lively taproom invites guests to linger over shared plates of zesty wings and crispy Brussels sprouts, pairing elevated comfort food with a spirited atmosphere that feels like a well-kept neighborhood secret.
• Lucky Strike — American · rated 4/5: Lucky Strike pulses with a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere where the buzz of social connection meets a menu of bold, shareable indulgences. Guests gather over towering "Nacho Avalanches" and crispy, golden cauliflower bites, while the savory aroma of slow-cooked birria tacos and warm Bavarian pretzels fills the air. It is a spirited destination that transforms casual dining into a communal celebration of elevated comfort and modern flair.
• 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.
• Strangelove's — American · rated 4/5: Strangelove’s pulses with a spirited energy, inviting guests into a lively haven where bold, global inspirations transform classic comfort fare into a vibrant culinary adventure. The air carries the tantalizing aroma of thirty signature wing glazes and golden, truffle-kissed fries, while flaky Northern Argentinean empanadas and molten mac-and-cheese balls offer a decadent symphony of textures. It is a social sanctuary where every shared plate, from zesty buffalo cauliflower to savory crab fries, celebrates a playful and unpretentious love for big, unforgettable flavors.
• 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.
• Van Leeuwen — American · rated 4/5: This bright and inviting parlor serves as a vibrant sanctuary for the senses, where the nostalgic aroma of toasted honeycomb and freshly churned cream fills the air. Guests can indulge in a kaleidoscope of imaginative flavors, from the tropical brightness of mango sticky rice to the decadent depths of peanut butter brownie honeycomb, each scoop crafted with an obsessive dedication to velvety texture. Whether sipping a frothy malted cookie dough shake or lingering over a sophisticated coffee affogato, every visit offers a playful yet refined escape into the world of artisanal frozen treats.
• Scoop DeVille — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant dessert destination invites guests into a world of playful nostalgia, where the air is thick with the sweet aroma of hand-dipped treats and the joyful hum of a modern-day soda fountain. Creative confections take center stage, blending rich textures and bold flavors into imaginative masterpieces like the chocolate-drenched Oreo Mudslide or the zesty, refreshing Kite & Key Lime. Every custom creation, from the crunchy PB Dough Boi to the whimsical Cookie Monster 2.0, is a celebration of pure indulgence designed to spark a sense of childhood wonder.
• 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.
• McGillin's Olde Ale House — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this historic landmark feels like a warm embrace from the past, where the walls are layered with generations of memorabilia and the air is thick with the convivial spirit of a classic ale house. The kitchen turns out soul-warming comfort, from the satisfying crunch of golden cheesesteak eggrolls and zesty buffalo wings to the rich, melted indulgence of bubbling French onion soup. It is a timeless gathering spot where the clink of glasses and the aroma of hearty pub fare create an atmosphere of enduring hospitality and shared stories.
• 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.
• Howl at the Moon — American · rated 4/5: Howl at the Moon pulses with a high-octane energy where neon lights and live music set the stage for a night of uninhibited celebration. The air is thick with the irresistible aroma of warm Bavarian pretzels and bubbling personal pizzas, perfectly paired with whimsical, oversized cocktails that keep the party glowing long into the night. Indulgent comfort snacks like loaded cheesy tots and crispy popcorn chicken fuel an electric atmosphere of pure, social revelry.
• 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.
• Good Dog Bar — American · rated 3/5: Bathed in the warm, unpretentious glow of a beloved neighborhood haunt, this spirited spot invites guests to settle in amidst the lively hum of conversation and the irresistible aroma of crisp, saucy wings. The kitchen masterfully balances pub-style indulgence with contemporary freshness, pairing legendary stuffed burgers and vibrant poke bowls with everything from hoppy craft IPAs to a timeless, stiff Old Fashioned.
• 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.
• Van Leeuwen — American · rated 3/5: This vibrant, pastel-hued sanctuary reimagines the classic scoop shop experience, blending nostalgic charm with a bold, artisanal approach to frozen indulgence. Velvety textures and imaginative flavors collide in every bite, from the tropical sweetness of mango sticky rice to the decadent, chewy depths of peanut butter brownie honeycomb. Whether lingering over a sophisticated coffee affogato or sipping a frothy malted cookie dough shake, guests find a playful celebration of flavor that elevates the simple joy of dessert.
• Zio's Brickoven Pizzeria — Italian: The golden glow of the brick oven serves as the heart of this inviting neighborhood retreat, where the comforting aroma of toasted crust and simmering seasonal soups fills the air. Vibrant, farm-fresh salads and crispy calamari provide a bright, textural contrast to soulful Southern-style sides, creating a menu that balances rustic indulgence with modern bistro flair. Whether lingering over a zesty chipotle chicken salad or enjoying the simple comfort of creamy mashed potatoes, guests find a sanctuary of honest flavors and warm hospitality.
• 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.
• SouthGate — Korean: SouthGate pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern gastropub, where the bold, fermented tang of traditional banchan meets the comforting soul of elevated neighborhood fare. Pillowy bao buns and golden, seasoned fries find their perfect match in frosty pints of craft beer or a bright, fruit-forward sangria, creating a social atmosphere that feels both familiar and adventurous.
• 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.