While Table 31 has seen more than its share of concept changes inside the Comcast Center, shifting from luxury steak to Italian, its sibling outdoor cafe has remained one of the city's most exceptional alfresco locations. It's trimmed by dancing fountains and a wall of trees to screen the traffic, and the affordable menu is perfect for an informal lunch of flatbread pizza, seafood salad, or a panini.
THE SWIFT HALF PUB
Not formally rated
1001 N. Second St.
215-923-4600
There are nearly half a dozen restaurants with outdoor tables flanking the vast Piazza at Schmidts in Northern Liberties, a unique new public space that evokes modern Europe more than Philly. This second venue from the crew behind the Good Dog Bar is one of the more interesting options, with a small but smart craft beer list (and half-sized pours) to pair with a gastropub menu that ranges from great cheeses to Buffalo-sauced fried shrimp, cucumber sandwiches, and a daily "fudge board" trio of house-made sweets.
Contact restaurant critic Craig LaBan at 215-854-2682 or claban@phillynews.com.
