4 Best Dinner Experiences In Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s dinner scene combines historic flavors with unique dining experiences. The South Philly Italian Market tours showcase authentic local cuisine in one of America’s oldest outdoor markets, while river cruises offer a different perspective of the city. We love the Delaware River dinner cruises for their combination of good food and stunning skyline views – especially during holidays like Christmas Eve and Thanksgiving when special menus are offered.

What makes these experiences memorable are the well-planned routes and timing. The Italian Market tours hit all the right spots when shops are bustling, and the cruise schedules align perfectly with sunset views of the city.

Check out these top-rated dinner experiences in Philadelphia.

Key Points

• Immersive guided tours of Philadelphia’s historic Italian Market with a 5-star rated dinner experience at renowned Cucina Maria.
• Festive Christmas Eve gourmet brunch or dinner cruises on the Delaware River with a 3-course buffet and unlimited mimosas.
• Year-round buffet brunch, lunch, or dinner cruises offering breathtaking river views and live entertainment.
• Thanksgiving early dinner cruises featuring a traditional Thanksgiving-themed buffet and panoramic city skyline views.
• A diverse range of unique and memorable dining experiences that showcase Philadelphia’s rich culinary heritage and local ingredients.

Nostalgic South Philly Italian Dinner Tour by Chef Jacquie

The Nostalgic South Philly Italian Dinner Tour by Chef Jacquie offers a delightful immersion into the rich culinary heritage of Philadelphia’s historic Italian Market. This 5-star rated experience, with a 100% recommendation from travelers, takes guests on a mouthwatering adventure through the vibrant neighborhood.

Led by a multilingual guide, the tour includes dinner at the renowned Cucina Maria, as well as opportunities to sample artisanal cheeses, pastries, and other local delicacies.

Guests can expect a maximum group size of 10, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation to and from the attractions.

Regardless of weather, the tour operates year-round, with rain ponchos provided if needed. With its rave reviews, highlighting the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, the Nostalgic South Philly Italian Dinner Tour is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Philadelphia’s Italian culinary scene.

Read our full review: Nostalgic South Philly Italian Dinner Tour by Chef Jacquie Review
Book now: Check availability

Philadelphia: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise

A delightful Christmas Eve experience awaits aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia, where guests can indulge in a gourmet brunch or dinner cruise along the city’s historic waterfront.

The 2-hour brunch or 2.5-hour dinner cruise offers a festive 3-course buffet with seasonal favorites, along with unlimited mimosas, coffee, tea, and more. Guests will enjoy private seating, a live DJ, games, and a beautifully decorated yacht with twinkling lights and panoramic views of Philadelphia’s landmarks.

This seasonal experience runs from December 1st to January 1st, allowing visitors to fully enjoy a Winter Wonderland setting. Guests can stroll the spacious decks, sip themed cocktails, and enjoy live entertainment.

While the cruise is wheelchair accessible, the casual attire is recommended. Priced from $93.60 per person, the non-refundable experience has received mixed reviews, with some feedback on food quality and staff service.

Read our full review: Philadelphia: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability

Philadelphia: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise

Beyond the festive Christmas Eve cruises, the Spirit of Philadelphia offers year-round brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises along the city’s iconic waterfront.

These buffet-style cruises provide a unique dining experience with breathtaking views of the Delaware River and the Philadelphia skyline. The brunch cruise features a bountiful spread of breakfast classics, while the lunch and dinner cruises offer a variety of salads, entrees, and desserts.

Guests can enjoy live entertainment and a fully stocked bar as they sail past landmarks like the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

The cruises are perfect for special occasions, corporate events, or simply a memorable night out. With flexible departure times and easy access from the Penn’s Landing marina, the Spirit of Philadelphia’s buffet cruises offer a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the city’s waterfront.

Read our full review: Philadelphia: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability

Philadelphia: Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise

As the holiday season approaches, the Spirit of Philadelphia offers an early Thanksgiving dinner cruise, providing a unique and convenient way to celebrate the occasion.

The 2.5-hour cruise features a bountiful Thanksgiving-themed buffet, serving traditional favorites like roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Guests can enjoy the meal while taking in panoramic views of the city’s skyline and the Delaware River.

The cruise also includes a cash bar, allowing passengers to pair their meal with festive cocktails or non-alcoholic beverages.

With a new activity designation, the Philadelphia: Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise is an excellent option for those seeking a stress-free Thanksgiving celebration.

Priced at $74 per person, the cruise offers a fun and memorable way to enjoy the holiday season in the heart of the city.

Reservations are recommended, as this popular event is likely to sell out quickly.

Read our full review: Philadelphia: Thanksgiving Early Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability

The Sum Up

Philadelphia offers a range of delightful dinner experiences, from nostalgic Italian tours to festive cruises with gourmet buffets. Whether you’re seeking a cozy neighborhood eatery or a panoramic river view, the city caters to diverse tastes and occasions. With these options, you’re sure to find the best dinner to suit your preferences and create lasting memories in the City of Brotherly Love.