31. Pub & Kitchen

The gastropub model, done better than it has to be—that’s the draw here. That, and the space (which is rustic without sacrificing comfort and comfortable without degenerating into frat-house-y-ness), and the vibe (which is humming), and the no-nonsense crowds drawn by the smart but restrained cocktails, a carefully curated beer list, and a menu full of things like watercress salad with pork cracklings, cassolette d’escargots, and rainbow trout stuffed with crab mousse, served over fennel-scented polenta.

At the Bar: George Costa has a drink for every mood and a story for every drink.

Just a Taste: There are plenty of places where you can (and should) make a meal out of the appetizers. What’s rare is a place like Pub & Kitchen, where one can make a meal out of the sides—that is, if you don’t feel weird sitting at the bar and eating “Guts and Glory” chicken stuffing with a spoon.

Visit one of the 50 Best Restaurants in Philadelphia:
Pub & Kitchen, 1946 Lombard Street, 215-545-0350.

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