"Open since 1899, this is Philadelphia’s oldest Italian restaurant. It's overwhelmingly old school—think white tablecloths and candlelight, chandeliers, black and white photos, and multiple dining rooms throughout converted townhouses. The South Philly spot uses that century of experience to whip up top-notch pastas like the gnocchi romano, fettuccini filetto with filet mignon and sun-dried tomatoes, and a baked lasagna that’s the best in town. And even though the interiors look fancy with paintings on the wall that look like they belong at a museum, you can eat here without dropping some serious money—none of the entrees cost more than $30." - candis mclean, alison kessler
