Philadelphia is a come-as-you-are city where dining out doesn’t require wearing a tie or breaking the bank. That’s thanks to a crop of new generation chefs offering tasting menus that are more casual and affordable — no special occasion needed. Think progressive-course menus that often highlight seasonal ingredients and global influences, cost $100 or less per person, and last under two hours.
What to Know Before You Book
- Reservations are the best way to secure a table, as seating times and options may be limited.
- Tasting menus are prix-fixe: The menu and cost are pre-determined, and diners must commit to the full experience. So substitutions, dietary restrictions, and allergies may not be accommodated.
- Pro-tip: Check sample menus online or contact the restaurant if you have questions.
- Beverages and pairings, like wine, are separate costs. So are tax and tip.
Here’s where to book some of Philadelphia’s most affordable tasting menus right now.
Tabachoy | 932 S. 10th St. (Bella Vista)
Chef-owner Chance Anies’ Filipino-American BYOB is best enjoyed with a group as dishes are served family-style at the cozy rowhome-turned-restaurant. For $55 per person, you get a feast of family-inspired recipes: three appetizers, a small plate, an entree, and dessert.
Morimoto | 723 Chestnut St. (Washington Square West)
Stephen Starr’s Morimoto has been serving up some of the best sushi in town since 2001. Can’t decide what to get for the table? Share the Chef’s Combination for $75, which includes a mix of five kinds of sushi (10 pieces), Tamago egg omelet, and two maki rolls (six pieces each). Or order the $125 combo to double the amount of food.
Messina Social Club | 1533 S. 10th St. (East Passyunk)
Don’t let this members-only, polished South Philly spot intimidate you — the menu and service are approachable. Chef-partner Edmund Konrad’s six-course menu takes inspiration from Italian, Polish, Pennsylvanian, and Japanese cuisines. It’s only $95 per person, plus $65 for the beverage pairing. It also rotates thematically and seasonally, with the salmon crudo being a constant day-one signature dish.
Her Place Supper Club | 1740 Sansom St. (Rittenhouse)
Having just earned a Michelin star, booking a table at this 24-seat restaurant that’s only open Monday through Friday for two seatings (6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.) might prove difficult. But it’s worth it! The $97-per-person seven-course menu reflects a blend of French, Italian, and American Jewish cuisines through both shareable and individual plates. It changes every few weeks (and sometimes day-to-day), so set an alert for the third Sunday of the month on OpenTable to reserve a spot.
