Taste: Dining Out: Where We Are Eating: Village Whiskey

VW may be Jose Garces’s fifth Philly establishment, but it’s his first non-tapas, non-Latin one, and this corner spot feels more like a bar than an eatery. There are only seven tables inside; a gorgeous bar takes center stage; and stars include a well-researched list of 130 whiskeys and classic cocktails like the old-fashioned. But since it’s Garces, people come for the food. While the vibe is understatedly cool, the menu items are totally—in a good way—over the top. The duck fat french fries are layered with short ribs and cheddar cheese sauce; the lobster roll has bacon; and quail is salty, meaty and deep-fried.
Insider tip: Avoid the crowds by going for lunch.
villagewhiskey.com, 118 South 20th Street, 215-665-1088

Where We’re Eating Contributors: Alex Haas, Ashley Primis and Bridget Salmons.