The culinary elite gathered in Las Vegas for the inaugural unveiling of the North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list, and Philadelphia made its mark with not one, but three outstanding entries.
While New York City led the way with 13 spots (including the #1 ranking for Atomix), followed by San Francisco with five and Montreal with four, Philadelphia outpaced other celebrated dining cities like Chicago, New Orleans, and Denver.
Philly’s Honored Restaurants
-
Kalaya (#7): Chef Nok Suntaranon’s acclaimed Thai restaurant not only claimed a coveted top-ten spot, but Suntaranon herself was honored as North America’s Best Female Chef.
-
Friday Saturday Sunday (#16): A perennial favorite, this refined yet deeply Philadelphian restaurant continues to impress critics and guests alike.
-
Royal Sushi and Izakaya (#32): Jesse Ito’s creation has once again proven why it’s a cornerstone of Philly’s dining culture.
These achievements join an already impressive list of recent accolades, from the James Beard Awards to features in Food and Wine, The New York Times, and Bon Appétit. Philadelphia’s restaurant scene is thriving, innovative, and, most importantly, authentically local.
Why It Matters
Recognition on such a global stage validates what Philadelphians already know: the city’s restaurants reflect passion, heritage, and exceptional talent. Each award strengthens Philadelphia’s position not just as a historic hub, but as a luxury lifestyle destination where culture, dining, and living come together seamlessly.
And this is just the beginning. With Michelin’s Northeast Cities Guide arriving in November, the spotlight on Philadelphia will only grow brighter.
Philadelphia is more than a city, it’s a lifestyle, one where exceptional dining, vibrant culture, and refined living converge. If you are considering a move to the Main Line, Philadelphia, or the Jersey Shore, let us guide you to a home that matches your vision of luxury living. Contact Sean Elstone today to begin your journey.
Photo By: Michael Persico, Linette & Kyle Kielinski, and Justin James Muir
