You don’t need a passport or plane ticket to enjoy a European-inspired summer — Philly offers plenty of ways to experience the sights, flavors and atmosphere of Europe right here in the city.
From al fresco dining and riverfront views to lush parks, historic landmarks, art and cuisine inspired by European traditions, there are plenty of opportunities to feel like you’ve traveled abroad without leaving the city.
Here are a few ways to embrace worldly experiences without crossing the Atlantic.
A taste of Greece
Dear Daphni
At this Mediterranean restaurant from Michael Schulson, guests can taste the coasts of Greece with mezze, kebabs, charcoal-grilled meats and fish, as well as vibrant salads. Dine outside along Rittenhouse Square or in the European-inspired dining room.
Ezme
Chef Antimo DiMeo’s new restaurant in Wilmington is inspired by his travels along the Aegean coast and the vibrant Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes are inspired by various coastal regions, including “simit,” a Turkish-influenced bread service, and salt-baked Dorade inspired by traditional Greek cooking methods, plus mezze and ‘on hummus’ selections.
Jet Wine Bar
Join archaeologist and wine expert Jill Weber for unique tasting experiences or enjoy a glass of Greek wine in the garden. Jet Wine Bar’s expansive selection offers wines by the glass and by the bottle, not just from Greece but from lesser-known wine regions including Spain, Portugal, Georgia, and Turkey.
“Jet’s fun, diverse wine list lets guests explore the flavors of Europe from Portugal, through Greece, to Georgia,” says Weber, who is also the owner of Jet Wine Bar.
Stina
Chef Bobby Saritsoglou’s cuisine is inspired by family recipes from the Thessaly region, like the braised snail dish and traditional recipes such as spanakopita and peinirli.
“When guests walk into Stina, we want them to feel like they have been transported to a hidden Greek neighborhood in Athens or Thessaloniki,” says Saritsoglou. “The dishes here are inspired by my culture and my family, so our guests feel a sense of comfort and discovery through the interpretation of our kitchen.”
Stina is BYOB, but the menu features Stina’s signature mint iced teas.
Savoring Italian flavors
Corio
Chef David Feola blends traditional Italian dishes with modern and regional influences, and a range of menu items like Neapolitan-style, wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and large plates. The extensive wine list highlights Italian winemakers and Italian-inspired signature cocktails, like the Amalfi Spritz (limoncello, elderflower, sparkling wine). Guests can also pick up a bottle of wine at their retail bottle shop for picnics in nearby Clark Park.
Frankie’s Summer Club
Frankie’s Summer Club has partnered with Irwin’s to feature a number of Roman and Sicilian-inspired dishes on their summer menu. Handheld Triangolos, Chef Michael Ferreri’s take on Trappezino, a Roman street food, is stuffed with fried swordfish, roast pork, and crispy pancetta, arugula and tomato. Guests can also enjoy soft-serve sundaes with toppings like pistachio and olive oil.
“The menu at Frankie’s Summer Club is inspired by Roman street fare — fresh, simple ingredients with no need for utensils,” says Ferreri. “The Swordfish Triangolo was influenced by Irwin’s signature swordfish dish, and we’ve added our take on a Philly favorite with our Roast Pork Triangolo, and a seasonal P.A.T., with pancetta, arugula, and tomato, our twist on the summer B.L.T.”
Via Locusta
The al-fresco dining and seasonally inspired Italian menu at Via Locusta sets the scene for a European summer in Rittenhouse Square. Fresh, handmade pastas are accompanied by locally sourced produce, like the Doppio Ravioli with fig, gorgonzola, and rosemary, or Mafaldine Bolognese Bianca with pork, thyme, and carrot. Grab a table outdoors and sip on a Tuscan Spritz (Aperol, sweet vermouth, orange liquor, sparkling wine).
“Via Locusta is located just off Rittenhouse Square, one of Philadelphia’s most scenic, European-inspired parks, making it the perfect setting for our al-fresco dining experience,” says Via Locusta’s Miriam Powell. “Our menu draws inspiration from both classic Italian recipes and modern interpretations, creating dishes that feel authentically Italian while distinctly our own.”
Wilder
At Wilder, you’ll be transported to the southwestern coast of Italy with the classic Neapolitan dish, Crab Mafaldine. Summer Fever, a wood-fired pizza, is made with mixed heirloom tomatoes, basil pistou, ricotta salata, and aged balsamic. The new Antipasto Sandwich is served on wood-oven bread with crispy artichoke, eggplant, Jimmy Nardello peppers, local chevre, and herb aioli.
Appreciate the arts
The Barnes Foundation
Visit Thursdays through Mondays for a gallery talk led by gallery specialists, then visit the Rodin Museum and its scenic sculpture garden (the garden bar will be open Aug. 21 and 28).
Bok Bar and Cira Green
If you can’t make it to Europe for a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower or along the banks of the Seine, soak up views of the Philadelphia skyline instead while sipping on signature cocktails.
Calder Gardens
Stroll through the garden before entering the museum to explore rotating artworks.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Van Gogh’s Sunflowers: A Symphony in Blue and Yellow runs through Oct. 11. The exhibit features a rare presentation of two of Vincent van Gogh’s celebrated sunflower paintings side-by-side — one completed in August 1888 and on loan from the National Gallery in London, and the other in 1889 from the museum’s own collection.
MORE: Center City is packed with lunch deals, drink specials and free events this month
Keywords
Philadelphia,
things to do in Philadelphia,
Philadelphia restaurants,
summer in Philadelphia,
outdoor dining,
arts and culture,
Greek food,
Italian food,
Philadelphia museums
Dining and Cooking