5 Must-Try Hidden Food Gems in Philadelphia

Philly itself is a hidden gem, so it’s no surprise that it’s full of restaurants that follow suit. With places popping up left and right, some are going to get lost in the mix. It may be easy to go to your usuals or one of those places owned by Philly’s well known restaurant groups, but with a little help you may find one of these hidden gems might just be your new favorite spot.

Saami Somi

Saami Somi is one of Reading Terminal’s newest and most anticipated additions. They’re serving up Georgian comfort food like Khachapuri (cheese boats topped with a pad of butter and an egg yolk), Khinkali (hand-rolled oversized soup dumplings), and a handful of veggie-centric traditional small plates. You’ll be able to find me at their counter until I’ve tried everything on their menu. Run, don’t walk because Saami Somi won’t stay hidden for long!

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El Mezcal Cantina

Part of me wants to gatekeep El Mezcal Cantina, because it’s just that good. While the interior is bare bones, you’ll soon forget about that once the food starts coming out. The menu has its own aguachile (chile spiked Mexican ceviche) section, so it’s safe to say it’s a must order. However, the showstopper is the Molcajete, a
mixed grill of chorizo, flank steak, chicken, nopales and some of the best shrimp I’ve ever had, over a mix of saucy beans and cheese. It of course comes with a side of tortillas you can see being hand-made in the back.

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Caphe Roasters

You may not think Caphe Roasters to be a hidden gem if you’re a true Philly foodie, but it’s easy to overlook considering it’s all the way up in Kensington. With that being said it’s 100% worth the trip. It’s a great spot to grab an egg coffee to go, split a couple banh mis with a friend, or hunker down for the day to get some work
done. Follow them on Instagram to see what weekly specials they have going on!

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Pera

Philly is full of BYOBs, but Pera really stands out from the rest. It boasts a large menu filled with Turkish cuisine that’s simple, yet so fresh and flavorful. You can’t go wrong with the mezze platter of six, chef chosen dips and the Hunkar Begendi, a slow cooked lamb shank over smoked eggplant. I suggest going with a group so you can try as much off the menu as you can!

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Luna Cafe in Kensington

Luna Cafe is the epitome of a hidden gem. It’s located in a part of the city that’s often overlooked, especially when it comes to food. It also has a garden patio that has a vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere in Philly. Their breakfast game is strong and it won’t break the bank. Definitely don’t pass up on their baked goods – especially their pumpkin cake.

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You’re Going to Love These Hidden Gems

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5 Must-Try Hidden Food Gems in Philadelphia

Saami Somi

El Mezcal Cantina

Caphe Roasters

Pera

Luna Cafe in Kensington

You’re Going to Love These Hidden Gems

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Curated by

Cristina

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5 Must-Try Hidden Food Gems in Philadelphia

Saami Somi

El Mezcal Cantina

Caphe Roasters

Pera

Luna Cafe in Kensington

You’re Going to Love These Hidden Gems

Follow us

Follow us

Curated by

Cristina