Best Upscale Vietnamese Restaurants in Philadelphia | Upscale Vietnamese Food

26 restaurants in Best Upscale Vietnamese Restaurants in Philadelphia | Upscale Vietnamese Food

• Vietnam Cafe — Vietnamese · rated 5/5: Stepping into Vietnam Cafe, you are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered bone broth infused with star anise and charred ginger. The vibrant space hums with energy as diners tuck into bowls of fragrant pho piled high with fresh herbs and golden spring rolls that offer a satisfying, delicate crunch. It is a soulful retreat where traditional flavors and warm hospitality transport guests to the bustling heart of Southeast Asia.
• The Franklin Fountain — American · rated 4/5: Step back in time at this turn-of-the-century soda fountain, where bow-tied staff serve hand-crafted ice cream behind gleaming marble counters and polished antique brass fixtures. The air is thick with the sweet scent of house-made hot fudge and toasted marshmallows, inviting guests to indulge in decadent sundaes and fizzy phosphates that capture the nostalgic magic of a bygone era.
• Crust Vegan Bakery — American · rated 4/5: The air inside this charming bakery is a heady perfume of warm cinnamon and toasted sugar, drawing visitors into a world of plant-based indulgence. Golden, flaky danishes bursting with tart raspberry preserves sit alongside decadent, fudge-swirled brookies and oversized chocolate chip cookies that offer a nostalgic, comforting taste of home. It is a sweet sanctuary where artisanal craftsmanship transforms simple ingredients into soulful masterpieces, from crumbly blueberry coffee cakes to pillowy, glaze-drenched cinnamon buns.
• Pho 75 — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: The air at Pho 75 is thick with the comforting, aromatic steam of slow-simmered beef broth infused with star anise and charred ginger. Diners tuck into oversized bowls of silken rice noodles while sharing golden, shatteringly crisp pork egg rolls and savory Vietnamese crepes bursting with fresh, vibrant herbs. From the smoky char of beef wrapped in grape leaves to the refreshing snap of hand-rolled spring rolls, every dish offers a soulful balance of heat, crunch, and time-honored tradition.
• K.C.'s Pastries, Inc. — American · rated 4/5: The air inside this vibrant bakery is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted yeast and sweet custard, drawing guests toward glass cases brimming with golden, flaky treasures. From the delicate, buttery snap of a traditional egg tart to the soft, airy embrace of a savory-filled bun, every bite captures a sense of nostalgic craftsmanship in a lively neighborhood atmosphere.
• The Bakeshop on 20th — American · rated 3/5: This sun-drenched neighborhood gem envelops guests in the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked babka and golden morning buns cooling on the counter. Beyond the sweet allure of sea-salt-flecked brownies and brown butter treats, the kitchen turns out savory, griddled breakfast sandwiches and elegant smoked salmon specials that make every morning feel like a celebration.
• Pho Palace — Vietnamese · rated 3/5: Pho Palace serves as a lively sanctuary where the air is thick with the aroma of charred meats and the bright, herbaceous scents of traditional Vietnamese fare. Guests gather over platters of golden, shatteringly crisp spring rolls and delicate summer rolls, while vibrant papaya salads topped with succulent shrimp offer a refreshing burst of citrus and spice. From the rich, savory depth of fried quail to the intricate textures of tau hu ki, every dish captures a masterful balance of crunch and freshness that transforms a simple meal into a sensory journey.
• Paris Banh Mi Cafe Bakery - South Philly — Vietnamese: This vibrant South Philly destination marries the crisp, golden crunch of a French baguette with the bold, aromatic soul of Vietnamese street food. Sunlight streams through the modern bakery-cafe where the scent of buttery, flaky croissants mingles with the savory aroma of grilled pork and rich, house-made pâté. Each sandwich offers a symphony of textures, from the bright snap of pickled vegetables to the tender richness of savory meats, creating a welcoming neighborhood escape that celebrates a perfect fusion of cultures.
• Cafe Nahn — Vietnamese: The scent of slow-dripped Vietnamese coffee and toasted baguettes fills this bustling neighborhood haunt, where the vibrant energy of a Saigon street market comes to life. Every sandwich is a masterclass in balance, layering rich, savory meats with the crunch of pickled vegetables and a burst of fresh herbs inside a perfectly shattered crust. It is a sensory journey that transforms a simple lunch into a vivid exploration of bold, traditional flavors.
• 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.
• Nom Wah — Chinese: Tucked away on the winding curve of Doyers Street, this storied tea parlor invites guests into a nostalgic world of vintage red vinyl booths and golden-era charm. Steam rises from stacked bamboo baskets to reveal delicate, pleated dumplings and pillowy roast pork buns, creating a timeless communal feast where the rich heritage of Chinatown is served one savory bite at a time.
• Cafe Cuong — Vietnamese: The air at Cafe Cuong is thick with the intoxicating aroma of slow-dripped coffee and the fragrant steam rising from bowls of aromatic, spice-infused broth. This vibrant neighborhood haunt invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the crunch of crusty baguettes and the brightness of hand-torn herbs create a sensory journey through soulful, traditional flavors. The rhythmic clinking of ice against sweetened condensed milk provides the perfect soundtrack to an unpretentious dining experience that feels both bustling and deeply comforting.
• Kayuh Bicycles — Vietnamese: Kayuh Bicycles serves as a spirited urban sanctuary where the rhythmic clinking of bicycle gears harmonizes with the gentle hiss of espresso machines and the vibrant energy of a community hub. Guests find themselves surrounded by sleek frames and cycling gear while savoring the unexpected, bold aromas of Indonesian-inspired fare and artisanal coffee. It is a welcoming space that invites you to linger over a fragrant bowl of coconut rice or a perfectly toasted sandwich, capturing the adventurous soul of the city in every bite.
• Em Oi Vietnam Cafe — Vietnamese: This vibrant neighborhood gem captures the soul of Vietnamese street culture, where the air is thick with the scent of star anise and the rhythmic chop of fresh herbs. From the satisfying crackle of a house-made banh mi to the comforting warmth of a steaming noodle bowl, every dish offers a bright, balanced journey through the bold flavors of Southeast Asia.
• Terakawa Ramen — Japanese: Steamy and inviting, this bustling destination envelops guests in the savory aromas of simmering broths and the rhythmic energy of a busy open kitchen. Diners gather over shared plates of pillowy, hoisin-glazed pork buns and golden-fried karaage chicken, where the delicate crunch of shrimp tempura shu mai and savory takoyaki offer a perfect prelude to a comforting meal. The atmosphere hums with a cozy, urban charm, creating a soulful retreat where every ginger-scented gyoza and charred bite of sausage feels like a warm embrace of Japanese street food culture.
• Hello Vietnam — Vietnamese: Hello Vietnam welcomes guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched space where the intoxicating aroma of star anise and slow-simmered bone broth drifts from the bustling kitchen. The experience centers on a delicate balance of textures and temperatures, pairing the garden-fresh crunch of traditional herbs with the deep, soulful warmth of authentic noodle soups and savory street-food classics that transport the senses to the heart of Saigon.
• Sampan — Chinese: Step into a high-energy oasis where dim lighting and a buzzing atmosphere set the stage for a playful reimagining of modern Asian street food. The kitchen transforms traditional dim sum into bold, inventive bites, from pillowy bao buns stuffed with savory cheesesteak to delicate soup dumplings that burst with the nostalgic heat of General Tso. Each plate arrives as a colorful mosaic of textures and spices, inviting diners to linger over shared cocktails and a parade of small plates that bridge the gap between classic technique and contemporary flair.
• Dim Sum House by Jane G's — Chinese: Bathed in a warm, modern glow, this bustling destination pulses with the convivial energy of shared plates and the constant hiss of steaming bamboo baskets. Artfully pleated dumplings and pillowy bao buns arrive in a continuous parade of flavors, ranging from the delicate snap of shrimp har gow to the rich, savory depth of ginger-scented soup dumplings. The experience bridges the gap between time-honored tradition and contemporary flair, inviting diners to linger over fragrant jasmine tea and an endless array of Cantonese and Shanghai-style treasures.
• Xe Lua Vietnamese & Thai Restaurant — Vietnamese: Steaming bowls of aromatic pho and vibrant Thai curries take center stage at Xe Lua, where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted star anise and fresh Thai basil. This lively destination captures the bustling energy of a Southeast Asian eatery, inviting diners to linger over zesty lemongrass-infused stir-fries and silky noodles that masterfully balance bright heat with soul-warming comfort.
• Brown Street Coffee & Banhery — Vietnamese: Sunlight dances across this inviting neighborhood haunt, where the deep, nutty aroma of small-batch roasts and the gentle hum of the espresso machine create a warm, communal sanctuary. From the precise, concentrated punch of a velvety cortado to the indulgent, chocolatey swirl of a rich mocha, every cup is a masterclass in craft that invites guests to pause and savor the simple artistry of a perfectly pulled shot.
• The Continental Mid-Town — American: Step into a vibrant, multi-level playground of mid-century glamour where retro-chic aesthetics and whimsical hanging chairs set the stage for a high-energy social experience. The kitchen turns out a playful parade of global small plates, blending the gooey richness of French onion soup dumplings with the spicy crunch of Szechuan shoestring fries and tender short rib bao buns. Whether you are sipping cocktails on the breezy rooftop or sharing eclectic bites in a plush booth, the atmosphere hums with a stylish energy that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
• Mawn Noodle House — Vietnamese: Steaming bowls of hand-pulled noodles take center stage at this vibrant Southeast Asian sanctuary, where the air hums with the fragrance of toasted spices and charred lemongrass. The intimate space invites guests to dive into a symphony of bold, "no-rules" flavors that bridge the gap between soulful tradition and modern creativity, creating a dining experience that is as comforting as it is adventurous.
• Heng Feng — Chinese: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table filled with delicate, hand-pleated treasures, from the rich, broth-filled Nan Xiang soup dumplings to the savory elegance of Shanghai-style shao mai. The air carries the enticing aroma of searing dough as pan-fried buns achieve a perfect golden crunch, while sweet, silken custard buns offer a pillowy finish to this masterclass in traditional craftsmanship.
• Baby's Kusina + Market — Vietnamese: Baby’s Kusina + Market captures the soulful warmth of a Filipino home, where the sweet, yeasty aroma of fresh-baked pandesal and charred bibingka invites guests into a space brimming with nostalgia. Every artfully packed pastry box and festive meal kit serves as a culinary love letter to family traditions, offering a vibrant communal experience that turns every gathering into a celebration of heritage and heart.
• Yummy Pho — Vietnamese: Steaming bowls of aromatic broth take center stage at this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the comforting fragrance of star anise, charred ginger, and slow-simmered beef. Guests customize their experience with heaps of bright basil and zesty lime, swirling silky rice noodles into a savory, soul-warming masterpiece that captures the essence of traditional comfort. The lively, unpretentious space offers a restorative escape, inviting diners to linger over every fragrant spoonful in an atmosphere of genuine warmth.
• Jerry's Bar — American: This vibrant neighborhood haunt blends a relaxed, soulful atmosphere with a menu that celebrates the art of elevated comfort food. Mornings begin with the irresistible aroma of warm, gooey sticky buns and sizzling loaded homefries, while the evening transitions into a social affair centered around golden homemade pierogies and savory meatballs served over thick-cut toast. It is a place where the familiar crunch of a Philly pretzel bite meets the sophistication of a well-crafted plate, creating a versatile sanctuary for both sun-drenched brunches and spirited late-night gatherings.