Philadelphia's buzziest food neighborhood, from a James Beard-winning Thai flagship to live-fire grills and destination pizza.
Once a working-class fishing district, Fishtown has become the single most exciting place to eat in Philadelphia. Its blocks of converted factories and rowhomes now hold some of the city's most acclaimed restaurants, side by side with great bars and coffee.
Here are the Fishtown tables worth crossing town for.
Kalaya
Nok Suntaranon's award-winning Southern Thai flagship is Fishtown's crown jewel, serving vivid curries and whole grilled fish. The stylish, buzzy room makes it a destination worth booking well ahead.
Laser Wolf
The Zahav team's live-fire shipudiya builds a full meal around grilled skewers and an endless spread of salads, pita, and hummus. The set-price format and lively vibe make it a great group destination.
Suraya
A sprawling Lebanese cafe, market, and restaurant with a gorgeous garden patio. Mornings bring pastries and coffee, while dinner delivers mezze and wood-fired kebabs in one of the neighborhood's prettiest spaces.
Wm. Mulherin's Sons
Set in a restored former whiskey distillery, this rustic-chic restaurant turns out wood-fired pizzas and Italian plates. The handsome, brick-and-timber room also anchors a boutique hotel upstairs.
Middle Child Clubhouse
The sit-down big sibling of the beloved Middle Child luncheonette, serving inventive sandwiches by day and a whimsical American menu by night. Its playful, retro-clubhouse energy makes it a Fishtown favorite.
Amá
An upscale modern Mexican restaurant with sharp regional cooking and a serious cocktail program. Dishes like crisp tostadas and inventive small plates give it a polished, date-night energy.
Bastia
Tyler Akin's coastal Mediterranean spot channels Corsica with wood-fired seafood and bright, sun-washed pastas. It's one of the most talked-about recent additions to the neighborhood.
El Chingon
A casual, craveable taqueria known for its in-house baked tortas and sourdough flour tortillas. Bold salsas and a relaxed vibe make it a reliable neighborhood go-to.
Pizzeria Beddia
Joe Beddia's pizzeria, once dubbed home of the best pizza in America, serves meticulously crafted pies in a bright, plant-filled room. A patio and natural-wine list round out the low-key but destination-worthy experience.
Frankford Hall
Stephen Starr's sprawling beer garden pours giant steins alongside pretzels, sausages, and pub fare. Communal tables, ping-pong, and fire pits make it a go-to for a big, laid-back group hang.