21. Amada

Seven years can be several lifetimes in the restaurant biz, but Amada isn’t showing any signs of age. Though Jose Garces has since turned into an epicurean megastar—that’s Iron Chef Garces to you—his first restaurant’s tapas always taste just as authentic as they did when he first opened the place way back in 2005. Plus, since the front of the house has always been a particular obsession for Garces, the service here is warm, knowledgeable and attentive. Don’t Miss: The crab-stuffed peppers.

For Special Occasions: The $75 lobster paella is a must.

If Only: You could get a table during normal dining hours. Make reservations far in advance, especially for weekend dining.

Visit one of the 50 Best Restaurants in Philadelphia:
Amada, 217 Chestnut Street, 215-625-2450.

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