ILLATA
Restaurant · Schuylkill
2241 Grays Ferry Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19146
"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
"Graduate Hospital restaurant Illata has been called Philly’s “most unforgettable menu” for a reason. In chef-owner Aaron Randi’s hands, dishes (which are often rotating) like tortellini with eggplant tomato consommé are deceptively simple, always packing a surprise flavor and burst of creativity. Randi specializes in hidden ingredients: a bed of farro peaking below a puntarelle salad or a chocolate cake beneath a swirly blanket. Warm lighting melded with a minimalist interior design makes for a cozy date-night option that’s not overly dressed." - Eater Staff
"Illata offers a menu of frequently changing but perfectly executed shareable plates and some of the city’s most memorable desserts in a BYOB setting." - Regan Stephens
"You met someone you really like in the baseball offseason, saw a couple of Phillies tchotchkes in their living room, and thought nothing of it. Now, it’s the regular season, and most of your conversations revolve around Bryce Harper’s at-bats. If you’re in the mood for a solo meal or a friend takes pity on you, head to Illata in Fitler Square. The BYOB's candlelit space is an ideal low-key backdrop for unwinding with miso-marinated mussels and housemade pasta. Bring one of your favorite bottles, finish your night with an unforgettable brown butter tart, and head home to hear about a game you couldn't care less about." - candis mclean
"This Greys Ferry charm has been impressing diners across the region with their unique take on New American cuisine. Try their sizzling New York Strip steak (served with cucumber and Anaheim pepper) or impressive vegetarian dishes (such as their unforgettable tortellini served with eggplant and tomato)." - Ernest Owens, Eater Staff
