Uwishunu Feature Published on December 2, 2025

Travel + Leisure Names Philly as One of the Best 50 Places to Travel in 2026

One of only two food-and-drink worthy travel destinations chosen in America …

Mawn Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia

Best book your trip to Philly now — because the world may be heading here to dine in 2026.

The editors at Travel + Leisure have named Philly as one of only two U.S. cities (we see you, Carlsbad, CA!) on their list of 50 must-visit culinary destinations in 2026, spotlighting what we’ve always known — that Philadelphia’s food scene makes our beloved city one of the best in the world to visit.

Calling the Philly food scene “electric,” Travel & Leisure gave a nod to “the innovative, award-winning chefs from around the globe who are making the city a must-experience food destination.”

Table with a variety of meals and dishes at Mawn

The publication gave a specific shout-out to chef Phila Lorn of Mawn, who took home the 2025 James Beard Award for Emerging Chef and was named 2025’s Best New Chef by Food & Wine. Other restaurants mentioned in the piece included La Jefa, Vetri Cucina, EMei, Osteria and Ocean Harbor.

The accolade couldn’t have come at a better time, because people across the globe are heading to Philly in 2026 for our year-long, can’t-miss party in 2026.

More Accolades & Awards for Philly

We’re not one to brag (OK, maybe we are!), but Philly’s restaurant scene and chefs have been getting lots of attention and recognition lately, from the dozens of James Beard nominations over the years to Food & Wine naming the city one of the Top 10 U.S. Cities for Food and Drink earlier this year.

A woman dressed in a light gray dress and a man in a white pair of shorts and striped shirt hold hands and walk past Friday Saturday Sunday.

And, after a long wait, Philly finally got its chance to shine in the Michelin Guide. Three Philly restaurants just nabbed coveted Michelin star ratings in the brand-new Michelin Guide Northeast Cities: Her Place Supper Club, Friday Saturday Sunday and Provenance.

In all, the guide recognizes 34 Philly eateries, including Pietramala with a green star for outstanding sustainability efforts, 10 restaurants with Bib Gourmand distinction and 20 restaurants with Recommended status.