Philadelphia is home to a number of bodies of water including but not limited to the East Park Reservoir, the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, and the lakes at Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park, not to mention one of the many creeks in the area. As such, it’s no surprise that there are a number of restaurants by the waterfront in the city. After all, nothing makes a good view better than enjoying great views and ambience as well. However, not all of these are created equal, as some of the establishments are better than others. Take a look at this list for some of the best waterfront dining areas in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
1. Moshulu
This option is not just by the water, it’s literally on it. Moshulu is a ship turned restaurant permanently docked at Penn’s Landing. Considered as one, if not the oldest and largest functional of square-rigged ships, it also takes pride in holding the title of being the only restaurant on a tall ship. Besides the actual restaurant, which takes up several levels, there’s an open bar at the top area. Specialties, of course, are seafood, including but not limited to lobster, crab, octopus, and swordfish. Make sure to make your reservations in advance.
Moshulu
Address: 401 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Moshulu
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 9:30pm; Fri: 4pm - 10pm; Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 9:30pm
2. Morgan's Pier
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you want to enjoy a meal with a good view and a laid-back atmosphere, head on over to Morgan’s Pier, which has a seating capacity of about 300. Come nighttime, this establishment turns into a party scene, complete with either a DJ spinning some tunes or a live band playing. Since this is more of a bar than a restaurant, expect to have a wide selection of drinks but limited options for meals, although you can get snacks and light meals such as nachos, chips, sandwiches, and some salads to choose from. There’s a dance floor for those itching to show some moves.
Morgan's Pier
Address: 221 N Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Morgan’s Pier
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 4pm - 2am; Sat - Sun: 11am - 2am
3. Chart House
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This restaurant is located right by the Delaware River and provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner date. Pro tip: make sure to head here before dark to catch the sunset. For those who enjoy kicking back with a few drinks, this establishment features a Happy Hour, for which the menu includes appetizers and drinks. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure to order a lava cake for dessert.
Chart House
Address: 555 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Chart House
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 4:30pm - 10pm; Sat: 4pm - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm
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4. Ristorante La Veranda
Come enjoy $2 Budweiser in this beautiful day!!! The flyers are playing and they are playing well! Come join us at the waterfront at Ristorante La Veranda
Posted by Amarildo Bojko on Sunday, 24 April 2016
If you’re a fan of Italian food, head on over to Ristorante La Veranda. Besides Italian dishes, the restaurant also serves seafood and steaks. Bread and bruschetta are served gratis to tide guests over as they await their food to be served. The tiramisu is worth trying out for those who can’t resist enjoying dessert after a meal. Make sure to dress well if you’re going to dine here.
Ristorante La Veranda
Address: 31 N Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Ristorante La Veranda
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 10pm; Fri: 11:30am - 10:30pm; Sat: 12pm - 10:30pm; Sun: 1pm - 10pm
Philadelphia Tour Guide
Annie Leguennec
My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the city's rich heritage and its continuing legacy as the birthplace of the United States of America. Book my tour. Explore and learn about this unique city where you will walk on the footsteps of our America's founding Fathers. My tours are conducted in English, French and Italian.
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Philadelphia Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
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Philadelphia Tour Guide
Vance Lehmkuhl
Tour operator and tour guide for American Vegan Center in historic Old City Philadelphia, administering walking tours focusing on Philadelphia's "veg history" - the vegans and vegetarians through history that started the US vegetarian and vegan movements in this city. Author of "Eating Vegan in Philly" (2016) and also "V for Veg: The Best of Philly's Vegan Food Column," a collection of my columns for the Philadelphia Daily News 2011-2016. Also a proficient musician (founded eco-conscious pop band Green Beings, 1999) and cartoonist (Philadelphia City Paper, VegNews, New York Times Syndicate). Developing french-language walking tour focusing on Anthony Benezet for March 2024.
Tours by Vance
5. Maggie’s Waterfront Cafe
Maggie's Waterfront Cafe becomes the scene for NBC drama, Do No Harm. To read the full story go to...
Posted by Northeast Times on Thursday, 6 September 2012
Maggie’s Waterfront Cafe is right along the Delaware, affording guests with views of the relaxing waters. This is a good choice for those who want to enjoy American food such as burgers, fries, pizza, and wings, all served with a twist that makes them stand out from what you usually get from a fast food place. There are seafood options served here as well. Active and retired members of the military, police, and fire department get a 50% discount every Monday.
Maggie’s Waterfront Cafe
Address: 9242 N Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Maggie’s Waterfront Cafe
Opening hours: 11am - 2am (daily)
6. La Peg
If you want to enjoy your drinks with a view, this might be the place for you. Local beers and their own take on cocktails are served here. Comfort food such as mac and cheese and pot roast, as well as light meals and finger food like sliders are served alongside heavier food options such as steaks and pork belly. Pets are welcome here.
La Peg
Address: 140 N Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA
Website: La Peg
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5pm - 10:30pm; Fri & Sat: 5pm - 11:30pm; Sun: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
7. Spasso Italian Grill
Spasso Italian Grill is another option to check out if you want to try Italian food while visiting Philadelphia, especially if they are particular about handmade pasta and sauces that don’t come from a jar. The servings here are pretty large, making this a great option for those who have large appetites or who want to take home leftovers so they can enjoy their meal for a second time.
Spasso Italian Grill
Address: 34 S Front St, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Spasso Italian Grill
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 10pm; Fri: 11:30am - 11pm; Sat: 3pm - 11pm; Sun: 2pm - 9:30pm
8. Spirit of Philadelphia
This establishment is actually a ship, providing guests with a unique dining experience. Food is served buffet-style so you have plenty of options to choose from. There are even healthy items served, perfect for those who are careful about their diet. There’s also a bar where you can order some drinks. There’s a dance floor on-board for those who want to show off some moves.
Spirit of Philadelphia
Address: 401 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Spirit of Philadelphia
Opening hours: 8am - 10:30pm (daily)
Enjoy a good meal with a good view
With all the restaurants fronting one of the many bodies of water in Philadelphia, it can be difficult to identify which of these you should try out during your visit. Use this guide to the best waterfront dining spots in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to help you in making your selection.
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