Michael Schulson's Philadelphia Picks

The Philadelphia-based chef names his favorite places to eat and drink

Michael Schulson shares his favorite Philadelphia restaurants. Photo courtesy of Michael Shulson

Philadelphia might be best known for its historical significance and fictional native son, Rocky Balboa, but it’s also a spectacular food city.

A short drive from fertile farmlands, Philadelphia reaps the rich bounties of abundant meat, produce, and even vineyards. The area’s diversity shows in neighborhoods like Chinatown, Fishtown, and Bella Vista — home to the Italian Market, which is literally 10 city blocks filled with butchers, restaurants, cafes, cheese shops, markets, and more.

Philadelphia is also home to the eponymous Philadelphia Cheesesteak — and the friendly battle between Pat’s and Geno’s — two rival cheesesteak joints that reside across the street from each other.

Philadelphia loves food so much, it converted a massive railroad terminal into a giant food hall and market. You could spend an entire day at Reading Terminal Market, eating your way through the stalls, shopping for fresh cider doughnuts, and relaxing with a drink at the on-site bar.

Big-name chefs and restaurateurs like Stephen Starr, Marc Vetri, Jose Garces, Michael Solomonov, and Michael Schulson call the City of Brotherly love home. So, when we wanted recommendations on where to eat, we consulted Michael Schulson.

As head of the Schulson Collective, the chef oversees several restaurants in Philadelphia including Harp & Crown, Alpen Rose, Sampan, Double Knot, Via Locusta, Giuseppe & Sons, and Independence Beer Garden. In addition, he owns Izakaya by Michael Shulson at the Borgata Casino Hotel in Atlantic City.

Here are Michael’s current favorite Philadelphia restaurant picks in his own words.

Friday Saturday Sunday

“Love the food and the best part of the restaurant is the owners, Chad and Hanna, are amazing people. This charming gem is on a quiet block and in an old brownstone walk-up. The charm of the space matches the charm of the food just perfectly.” 261 S. 21st St., Philadelphia