Nobody puts on a suit and tie anymore to go out to eat, as formal dining continues its quick fade. But Philadelphia's restaurants still have some serious style. Here are eight great destinations, from cutting-edge city hot spots to cool suburban classics, a Paris-style boite, and a parkside perch where the people-watching is as prime as what's on the plate.
Adsum
(not yet formally rated)
700 S. Fifth St., 267-888-7002; www.adsumrestaurant.com
This fall's hottest no-reservations table comes courtesy of ex-Lacroix chef Matthew Levin, whose debut as an owner-chef is refining contemporary bistro style in Queen Village with a menu that's both cutting-edge and affordable. The largely sub-$20s prices should appeal to a young neighborhood crowd. But this is also an adventure eater's dream, where the cocktails come infused with smoked fruit, the already decadent poutine (of duck-fat fries and gravy) is crowned with foie gras, and spare-parts cookery (roasted marrow bones; KFC-fried sweetbreads) is elevated to a pedestal most local foodies will want to experience.