You may have thought that New York City has the best food on the East Coast, but according to Travel + Leisure Magazine, the city of brotherly love has the best food of any east coast city. The city's young demographic gives an opportunity for talented chefs and restaurant owners to test new ideas while creating unique dishes. Some of the notable restaurants incorporate influences from cuisines around the world, and tend to be more affordable than many restaurants in New York City, Boston, or Washington D.C.

The Love, a Stephen Starr restaurant which just launched in Philadelphia made the list of recommended spots. Stephen Starr is a Philadelphia native who owns 20 restaurants in his home city. "I've always thought that Philadelphia and New York shared a lot of the same energy, virility, and heart. But in Philadelphia, we have bigger footprints in which to create," Starr tells Travel + Leisure.

Another restaurant to check out is Walnut Street Cafe. Don't miss out on quality brunch dishes by famous baker, Melissa Weller. Branden McRill, owner of Walnut Street Cafe, tells Travel + Leisure that he's excited with what's happening in Philly, "People are coming on weekends and finding there are reasons to relocate here. The quality of life is high."

The next time you are looking for a nice restaurant to try, there is no need to trek to New York City for an exceptional dining experience. It's right here in our own city!  Click here for a list of recommended restaurants in the area. 

 

 

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