The Best Contemporary Restaurants in Pennsylvania

White Dog Cafe University City serves American comfort dishes and brunch favorites, from creative French toast to fresh salads with simply prepared seafood. A whimsical dog motif runs through multiple intimate dining rooms and a sidewalk patio on a quiet street. Service is generally attentive and personable, contributing to a lively, memorable atmosphere.

Fish Nor Fowl offers seasonal Italian-inspired cooking in a contemporary space with an open kitchen and a dramatic green plant wall. Shareable starters and housemade pastas, including comforting baked specialties, are frequently praised for their depth of flavor. Service is described as friendly, professional, and accommodating for both small and large groups.

The Twisted Tail combines a whiskey-focused bar with modern American tavern cuisine. An extensive selection of bourbon, rye, and Scotch is complemented by crafted cocktails and a concise wine list. The kitchen offers flavorful small plates and hearty dishes such as oysters, fried chicken, and steak. A pub-like setting with an upstairs lounge and live music creates a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.

White Dog Cafe Haverford offers contemporary American fare in a colorful, dog-themed setting with a clubby bar and refined dining room touches like white tablecloths. The menu features dishes such as salmon with risotto, poultry and duck entrées, a vegetarian burger, and truffle fries. Guests note attentive service and appreciate clear labeling for vegetarian and gluten-free choices.

Apollo Grill offers a broad American bistro-style menu, from seafood starters and hearty soups to generous salads, sandwiches, and pizzas. Cocktails, mocktails, and a thoughtful wine selection complement the dishes. Attentive, efficient service and a bustling dining room create an energetic setting suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.

Honey offers a contemporary small-plates experience focused on shareable, inventive dishes. Guests highlight the consistently flavorful food, from items like spring rolls to bao buns, alongside well-crafted cocktails. The ambiance lends itself to a lively, social meal where sampling multiple plates is encouraged. Attentive, personable staff help guide the pacing and pairing of dishes for a satisfying dining experience.

Bar Marco offers a cozy, stylish setting that blends neighborhood charm with a touch of European flair. The kitchen focuses on seasonal, Italian-inspired dishes, with fresh pasta, risotto, and brunch favorites noted for their rich flavors. A changing menu, thoughtful cocktails, and a well-composed cheese selection enhance the experience. An inviting upstairs event space provides a polished backdrop for gatherings.

Twigs Restaurant & Cafe offers an eclectic menu of American favorites, from hearty sandwiches and grilled burgers to seafood plates like shrimp scampi and fish and chips. Fresh salads and comforting sides, including mac and cheese, appeal to a wide range of tastes. Guests highlight the welcoming, flexible staff and an inviting, casual atmosphere suitable for both everyday meals and relaxed gatherings.

Whisk Cafe offers a creative brunch-focused menu featuring hearty breakfasts, Belgian waffles, and fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. Guests highlight flavorful egg dishes, sandwiches, grain bowls, and house-baked treats. Specialty coffees and playful adult beverages add to the appeal, while both indoor and outdoor seating create a lively, welcoming setting for a wide range of diners.