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Power Lunch

Pictured: Parc Restaurant

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In 1998, Rouge opened the first sidewalk cafe in Philadelphia’s posh Rittenhouse Square neighborhood. Since then, the number of restaurants offering alfresco dining has increased exponentially, as diners rush to hit these spots each year at the first sign of spring.

The region is now home to more than 200 restaurants with outdoor seating, and that number continues to grow. Here’s a look at some of the hottest fresh-air seating in Philadelphia and The Countryside.

Featured Listings

  • Water Works Restaurant and Lounge

    A gorgeous restaurant and lounge on the banks of the Schuylkill River

    The Water Works Restaurant and Lounge

    More than 140 years after it closed for business, Fairmount Park’s famed Water Works — onetime home to the engine room for Philadelphia’s cutting-edge water department — reopened as a chic destination lounge and restaurant.

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  • Standard Tap

    Widely considered “America’s First Gastropub”

    Standard Tap

    A multi-room Northern Liberties gastropub — some say America’s first — that pairs local microbrews with excellent, gourmet pub fare like chicken pies, fried smelts and double burgers.

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  • Rouge

    Rittenhouse Square’s original bistro-cafe

    Rouge

    The Rouge Burger alone will make you an instant devotee.

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  • Parc

    Stephen Starr’s popular Rittenhouse Square bistro pays homage to Paris

    Parc on Rittenhouse Square

    With Parc, famed restaurateur Stephen Starr brings a certain je ne sais quoi to Rittenhouse Square. Parc offers an authentic French bistro experience, fully equipped with a chic Parisian ambiance and gorgeous sidewalk seating overlooking the Square.

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  • Moshulu

    Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Philadelphia skyline with your meal

    Moshulu

    During the warmer weather months, you can enjoy a drink or a meal on the historic ship’s multi-level decks and take in the Philadelphia skyline and the shimmering lights on the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

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  • The Porch at 30th Street Station

    Fresh air and fresh fare

    A new initiative spearheaded by the University City District, the Porch at 30th Street Station attracts both travelers and locals with food trucks, farmers markets and live entertainment.

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  • Sang Kee Noodle House

    Delicious dumplings and fantastic noodles

    Dumplings, noodles and more are served inside the sleek dining room or outside on the expansive patio. Those in need of a refreshing snack can try fresh fruit smoothies and bubble tea flavors.

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  • Picnic

    Everyday is a good day for a picnic

    Specializing in gourmet prepared foods, this carryout cafe also offers both indoor and outdoor seating for onsite indulging in decadent desserts, hearty sandwiches and more. Most ingredients are seasonal and sourced locally.

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  • Green Line Cafe

    Organic coffee and locally sourced fare in two Spruce Hill locations

    Owned by an artist and her brother-in-law, all three Green Line and its twosister locations serve only organic, free trade-certified coffee and locally sourced sodas and food.Plus, the artwork on the walls changes frequently and is always for sale.

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  • Copabanana

    Can’t miss Tex-Mex cuisine

    Margaritas, burgers, Spanish fries and Tex-Mex dinners served by friendly waiters make this a popular happy hour spot. The plentiful outside seating makes this a happening place in warm weather months.

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  • City Tap House

    Craft beer lovers’ paradise

    Reclaimed wood, slate and tile create a handsome space for this beer lovers’ haven, boasting 60 taps and 120 seats, plus outside seating. Classic American fare includes brick-oven pizzas, free-range chicken, mussels and plenty of vegetarian-friendly options.

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  • Kite & Key

    Local bar that would make Franklin proud

    Enjoy the evening air at Kite & Key.

    Named for Ben Franklin’s famous experiment with electricity, Kite & Key has one cask, 16 taps, countless bottles and even some cans of local, domestic and foreign beers.

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  • St. Stephen’s Green

    Relaxing pub atmosphere on Green Street

    The owners of The Black Sheep and The Bishop’s Collar teamed up to open this neighborhood spot, featuring an extensive beer list. Executive chef David Shuman adds the “gastro” to the pub experience.

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  • Route 6

    A celebration of seafood traditions

    Stephen Starr’s airy seafood house shucks and sears specimens from up and down the East Coast.

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  • Green Line Cafe

    Joyous neighborhood java

    Outside at the Green Line Cafe in Powelton Village.

    Owned by an artist and her brother-in-law, all three Green Line locations serve only organic, free trade-certified coffee and locally sourced sodas and food.

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