The 25 Best Restaurants In Philadelphia - Philadelphia - The Infatuation

"Illata, a modern American spot in Fitler Square, strikes the perfect balance between casual neighborhood bistro and sexy, sophisticated BYOB. The candlelit restaurant is definitely intimate—they only have 20 seats, plus a tiny bar area that's reserved for walk-ins. But the laidback atmosphere means you’ll probably get a glimpse of the chefs dancing to Lou Reed in the open kitchen. The small menu of seasonal seafood and produce is full of surprises like lobster hidden inside a squid ink crepe, and the marinated mussels in miso chili oil and the brown butter tart are some of the best bites in the city. Almost every dish costs less than $30, so it’s great to bring a few friends and order all 10-ish dishes. What a feeling." - candis mclean, alison kessler