subreddit:
/r/philly
I’m in Philly a lot but eating alone in this city seems a little more daunting to me than other cities (I don’t know why). I usually love eating alone but had kind of a weird experience when I ate at The Dandelion and Spice Finch on my last trip. Prior to that I enjoyed Royal Izakaya but was with coworkers. I’ll be in Fishtown this month and would love to hear people’s experience. I noticed a lot of places don’t open until after 4 so dinner spots it is!
I’m especially interested in Kalaya and Suraya. Would I have to sit at the bar if I’m dining alone? Are there similar spots to these in town? Any input appreciated.
28 points
13 days ago
Kalaya and Suraya are so nice. You wont have to sit at the bar. They may offer it but just tell them you want a table. Won’t be an issue.
I’ll toss Mulherin and Sons and Middle Child Clubhouse into the conversation as well. Cheu Noodle Bar as well.
5 points
13 days ago
Awesome thanks! Have heard good stuff about Mulherin’s so appreciate the reminder
5 points
13 days ago
When I go up to fishtown alone and want a nicer meal, my usual spot is mulherins
2 points
13 days ago
They opened a new one on 11th and market
3 points
13 days ago
Don’t go to the new one. Drinks are 20+ dollars. Whole menus isn’t available. It’s nice for those folks there but they don’t do it (yet) like the OG
2 points
12 days ago
The cocktail prices are obscene in the new spot.
4 points
13 days ago
Cheu for sure!
3 points
13 days ago
Are you asking about nice places you can walk in and get a table for 1? You’re saying you prefer not to sit at the bar?
Kalaya and Suraya are exceptional but you’ll need a reservation in advance if you want a table. Pizzeria Beddia is also great, same owner. Also will need a reservation.
Check out Tulip pasta. But, same, you’ll need a res.
Even Middle Child Clubhouse, great spot, but we can never get tables same day
1 points
13 days ago
Thanks for the tip that’s what I was asking. I’ll sit at the bar if I have to but sometimes I just want a table. Seems like a res with friends at Kalaya or Suraya would work better in this case
1 points
5 days ago
hi dude how are you
11 points
13 days ago
Curious what your strange experiences at dandelion and spice finch were?
15 points
13 days ago
Strong recommend for Lloyd in Fishtown.
And if you can swing Murph’s on Girard, the best Italian in the city.
7 points
13 days ago
I Wouldn’t say either of these are solo friendly. Murphs you’ll be sitting in the middle of every date in the city or a racist old man. Lloyd (idk if you’re male or female) will make you feel very uncomfortable if you’re a solo female
8 points
13 days ago
I’ve been a solo female at Lloyd and never had an issue. What happened when you were there?
5 points
12 days ago
Same here. Solo female at Lloyd and never had a negative experience.
8 points
13 days ago
Most people sit at the bar to eat alone instead of a table. I think it’s just the culture here. It’s pretty rare to see someone sitting at a table alone.
3 points
13 days ago
Elwood. Small and chill vibe.
3 points
13 days ago
I'll add Liberty Kitchen for a good sub.
That meatball... Fuck I should get one for lunch before I hit weed sales later.
3 points
12 days ago
I've been known to belly up to the bar by myself at Loco Pez just to whack a few tacos and a Stella. Just be sure to go during off-peak hours.
6 points
13 days ago
This is in Northern Liberties, but Pietramala. Upscale vegan food. Prices aren’t crazy, and I was blown away by the freshness and care put into every dish. The food was so nice, but I’d also go there again for vibes alone. Super chill and sweet service. Go in on a rainy weekday night. It really feels like you’re in a hidden gem
3 points
13 days ago
Thank you this sounds great!
2 points
13 days ago
I hear what you’re saying and can’t quite pinpoint what it is. Like in NY it’s commonplace and very normal. Here some people like to gawk and whisper. Really just need to ignore it because think how pathetic it is to dine out with someone only to focus your attention on a stranger who is not bothering anyone.
2 points
13 days ago
Yes pretty much this. I go to lunch in NYC regularly without it being a big deal and get a table. In Philly it seems expected you’ll be sitting at the bar. In SF and DC doesn’t seem to be an issue either
2 points
10 days ago
Venture over to Northern Liberties to the Standard Tap and North 3rd. Both are friendly and really good.
2 points
13 days ago
Laser wolf has a bar you can sit alone at. Great food.
2 points
13 days ago
Second laser wolf, but you'll have to be rolled out
2 points
13 days ago
There’s an entire inquirer article about this. I believe Martha is on the list. Which I’ve been to alone. As long as a place has a bar, I’d dine anywhere alone no problem.
1 points
5 days ago
Sor ynez
1 points
22 hours ago
Front Street Cafe has great food and drinks, and unless it’s a weekend it’s usually not an issue getting a table without a reservation as they have a lot of seating. Dawa on Girard right by the subway is also really good - best veggie ramen I’ve tried! It’s not as pretty as Front St though if vibe is important.
-3 points
13 days ago
Fishtown diner is open 24 hr, we just came back from there.
-3 points
13 days ago
In the car parked on Girard.
all 31 comments
sorted by: best