The Philly Restaurants Food Writers Want You to Try in 2021

The best Philadelphia chefs weave their life experiences into their culinary creations resulting in irresistible, unforgettable food — and the world has taken notice.

New write-ups from Esquire and Food & Wine pay tribute to some of the city’s most beloved restaurants, as well as new food experiences to look forward to in 2021.

In a celebration of 100 American restaurants the nation can’t afford to lose, Esquire editors pay homage to West Philadelphia’s beloved Ethiopian spot Abyssina, Old City’s iconic Fork and South Philly’s Kalaya Thai Kitchen (which the magazine also recognized in 2020 as the Best Restaurant in America), writing, “if we lose them, we lose who we are.”

All three conjure memories for Esquire’s food writers of unparalleled meals and welcoming staff — sentiments that stand out in other accolades Philadelphia has received in 2021. These publications aren’t the only ones singing Philadelphia’s praises. Travel + Leisure’s nine-page love letter to the city highlights top food and neighborhood experiences, while Condé Nast Traveler, Frommer’s and Fodor’s say Philly is one of the top destinations to visit in 2021.

Food & Wine takes a look ahead in its article 15 Highly Anticipated Restaurants Opening in 2021, and devotes three full spots to Philadelphia.

The Honeysuckle community center is on the nation’s radar following Chef Omar Tate’s successful pop-up series. Later this year, Tate — along with his wife and business partner Cybille St. Aude-Tate — will debut his grocery shop, cafe, library, meat market and supper club honoring Black food. Tate (Esquire’s 2020 Best Chef in America), in Episode 23 of Visit Philly’s Love + Grit podcast, describes his work as speaking back to the community, rather than of the community.

Also on Food & Wine’s list: Middle Child Clubhouse, the coming-soon Fishtown edition of the Washington Square West sandwich spot; and a two-for from chefs Nicholas Elmi (Laurel, Royal Boucherie) and Fia Berisa (the recently closed Aether). The all-day cafe Landing Kitchen and coastal restaurant Lark are set to open in February and March, respectively, bringing more dining options to Bala Cynwyd.

Supporting local restaurants is one of the easiest — and tastiest! — ways to help Philadelphia’s small businesses recover from the effects of COVID-19. These unfailing standbys and soon-to-be favorites are a great place to start.