What New Restaurants are Coming to Philadelphia in 2024? A Local Realtor’s Guide to the Must-Try New Spots
As a Philly Realtor with a passion for food, I’m always excited to explore new dining spots and share the latest on the city’s ever-growing food scene. Whether you’re a longtime resident or considering a move here, Philadelphia’s culinary landscape is one of its standout features, and 2024 is shaping up to be an amazing year for food lovers. This year, we’re welcoming some unique and innovative additions to our diverse restaurant scene that are sure to excite anyone looking to savor something new.
From Southeast Asian fusion to deep-dish pizza, Mediterranean fine dining, and vegan comfort food, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to four of the most anticipated openings: Pig & Khao, Emmett, Mona, and Doom. These newcomers are set to bring fresh flavors and exciting atmospheres to some of Philly’s favorite neighborhoods.
Why Philly’s Restaurant Scene is Always Worth Watching
Philadelphia’s food scene has been growing steadily for years, and it’s easy to see why. With a range of dining options that span from classic comfort foods to cutting-edge culinary experiences, Philly’s restaurant culture has become a defining feature of the city. Each neighborhood brings its own flavor, and there’s always something new to try.
One of my favorite parts of living in Philadelphia is seeing how each neighborhood contributes to our diverse dining scene. When I first went to South Philly, I was blown away by the range of Italian eateries, trendy brunch spots, and local food trucks offering everything from authentic tacos to fusion fare. And with new places opening every year, it’s like discovering a new side of the city all the time.
So, let’s take a closer look at what’s coming to Philly in the remaining part of 2024!
Pig & Khao: Southeast Asian Flavors with a Modern Twist
Opening in the lively Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, Pig & Khao is one of the most anticipated additions to Philly’s food scene in 2024. Created by Chef Leah Cohen, Pig & Khao originally made its mark in New York City with vibrant Southeast Asian-inspired dishes that draw from Cohen’s Filipino heritage and Thai culinary influences. This spot is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy unique, bold flavors right in the heart of Philly.
What to Expect at Pig & Khao
The menu is expected to bring some of Pig & Khao’s signature dishes, like sisig—a traditional Filipino pork dish with rich, savory flavors and crispy textures—and green papaya salad, which balances spice and zest for a refreshing, layered bite. These dishes are packed with flavors from chili, lime, coconut, and herbs, making it an exciting choice for anyone curious about Southeast Asian cuisine.
Insider Tip: If you’re planning a move to Rittenhouse or nearby, you’ll want to make Pig & Khao a go-to spot for weekend brunch or dinner dates. Their New York location is known for a lively brunch scene with bottomless mimosas, so expect the Philly location to deliver the same kind of vibe!
Emmett: Mediterranean and Levantine Flavors in Olde Kensington
Philadelphia’s Olde Kensington neighborhood is about to get a taste of the Mediterranean with the opening of Emmett, a restaurant that’s set to elevate comfort food with dishes inspired by Middle Eastern and coastal Mediterranean cuisines. Known for its creative, wood-fired cooking, Emmett’s menu will feature savory offerings like lamb neck dolmades, Moroccan-spiced oxtail, and dishes that celebrate the smoky, bold flavors of the region. Perfect for a unique dining experience, Emmett is expected to be a hit with locals and visitors looking for something new and vibrant in Philly’s culinary scene.
What to Expect at Emmett
Emmett will bring Mediterranean and Levantine flavors to Philadelphia with an upscale take on comfort foods inspired by the Middle East and Mediterranean coasts. Located at 161 West Girard Avenue, Emmett’s menu will feature dishes like lamb neck dolmades and Moroccan spiced oxtail, with a focus on wood-fired cooking. The full bar will offer Mediterranean-inspired wines and cocktails for an authentic experience of regional flavors
Mona: Mediterranean-Inspired Fine Dining in Midtown Village
Located in the trendy Midtown Village, Mona will bring Mediterranean-inspired fine dining to one of Philly’s most dynamic neighborhoods. This elegant spot is perfect for anyone seeking a refined, yet inviting dining experience. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and draws on flavors from Mediterranean coastal cuisine—think grilled seafood, fresh herbs, and citrus-infused dishes.
What to Expect at Mona
Expect dishes that blend rich flavors with a light, refreshing twist, including grilled fish, vibrant salads, and small plates that are perfect for sharing. The restaurant is committed to using high-quality ingredients and combining them in creative ways that highlight the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Midtown Village is a favorite area of mine to recommend to clients because it has such a great mix of casual and upscale options. Mona is bound to add to that diversity, offering a fantastic new choice for date nights or celebrations. Personally, I can’t wait to try their seafood dishes, especially during spring and summer when Mediterranean flavors really shine.
Local Tip: With its intimate atmosphere and refined menu, Mona is set to become one of Midtown Village’s go-to spots for special occasions. If you’re celebrating an anniversary or birthday, it’s the kind of place that will make the night memorable.
Doom: Vegan Junk Food in Northern Liberties, Next Door to Franklin Music Hall
Northern Liberties is known for its artsy, eclectic vibe, and Doom is set to fit right in, offering a fresh take on vegan dining with its playful menu of comfort foods. Located next door to the iconic Franklin Music Hall, Doom’s plant-based menu will feature vegan takes on classic junk food, making it a perfect stop before or after a concert.
What to Expect at Doom
A metal bar in Northern Liberties. Doom’s menu will put a vegan spin on beloved junk food staples, such as loaded fries, “cheesy” burgers, and unique takes on fast-food favorites—all plant-based. Think juicy veggie burgers, crispy fries loaded with toppings, and vegan milkshakes that don’t skimp on flavor or indulgence.
Philly has a strong vegan food scene, but Doom brings something fun and unexpected. As someone who enjoys trying all types of cuisines, I’m excited to see this creative twist on comfort food. This will be an excellent option for casual nights out, especially if you want a laid-back atmosphere.
Neighborhood Note: Northern Liberties has become a hotspot for unique dining and entertainment. If you’re thinking about moving here, you’ll love the mix of food, art, and live music in the area. With Doom located right next to Franklin Music Hall, you can grab a bite before catching a show or relax afterward with a delicious plant-based meal.
Final Thoughts: Philly’s Culinary Scene is Thriving in 2024
Philadelphia’s restaurant scene is one of the city’s best features, and with these exciting new additions, 2024 is set to be a banner year for food lovers. From the unique Southeast Asian flavors at Pig & Khao to Mediterranean and Levantine flavors at Emmett, Mediterranean dining at Mona, and vegan comfort food and metal vibes at Doom, there’s truly something for everyone.
As a Realtor who loves sharing what makes Philly special, I can confidently say that the diversity of our restaurant scene is one of the biggest perks of living here. Each new restaurant brings a taste of something fresh, adding to the vibrancy and character of our neighborhoods. So whether you’re new to Philly or a longtime resident, these new spots offer plenty of reasons to get out, explore, and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
