Philadelphia restaurants to try before summer is over

As sad as it is to say, summer in Philly will soon come to a close. Before schedules get busier and the weather gets cooler, take advantage of the lazy days of the season and indulge in a leisurely meal at one of these Philly restaurants. From Rittenhouse to South Street, there’s something for everyone in your party.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday
261 S. 21st St.
fridaysaturdaysunday.com

Since its reopening less than a year ago, Friday, Saturday, Sunday in Rittenhouse has flourished under new owners Chad and Hannah Williams. The elegant-meets-retro bar downstairs is perfect for meeting with friends for a catch-up drink (try the Stone Cold Stunner) but if you’re looking to be transported, dining upstairs is a must. The light-filled space feels like eternal summer with paintings of lush gardens on the walls and their summertime menu is out of this world good. The scallop ceviche (cape may day boat scallops, grilled pineapple, radish, tosazu) and octopus (menudo, rancho gordo beans, pickled red onions) make great starters and the halibut (brussels sprouts, sweet potato, coconut citrus) is so good it will be hard to eat it anywhere else.

Russet
1521 Spruce St.
russetphilly.com

If you’re looking for cozy and special, Russet (also in Rittenhouse) stands in a league of its own with Chef Andrew Wood’s weekly changing menu that stays in tune with the season. Before falling into fall, stop by for a sumptuous evening to try some of his specialties like the peach and porcini ravioli, Barnegat Light scallops and pork shoulder with long summer beans. Want to take your significant other out for some fine dining? Friday is the night to do it because it’s Date Night at Russet and you get a three-course meal for only $90 per couple. On Saturdays and Sundays, you can get a four-course meal for $38 per person.

The Good King Tavern
614 S. 7th St.
thegoodkingtavern.com

This adorable French bistro near South Street puts an American spin on French cuisine and even has outdoor seating — perfect for an end-of-summer meal on the town. The French picnic is a great way to kick off your meal (daily charcuterie, cornichons, baguette) along with mixed olives, the cheeseboard and the red endive salad (pistachio-pepper pesto, parmesan). If you love duck, The Good King Tavern offers a Duck of the Day (guess we could say “quack of the day” instead of “catch of the day” here), which is dressed up with seasonal ingredients.