Kanella
Mediterranean restaurant · Washington Square West
1001 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Highlights
Chill Greek BYO spot dishing up perfectly seasoned kebabs, crispy halloumi, and unforgettable mezze in a cozy, sunlit neighborhood nook.
Chill Greek BYO spot dishing up perfectly seasoned kebabs, crispy halloumi, and unforgettable mezze in a cozy, sunlit neighborhood nook.
"The menu at Kanella in Wash West has everything you’d expect from a neighborhood Greek place—piled-high salads, gyros, and lots of kebabs. But go-to restaurants don’t have to be exciting or innovative; in fact, simplicity is exactly why we like this long-standing Greek BYOB. Whether you walk in for lunch or dinner, the menu is always the same, save for the dips of the day or a grilled fish special. The fragrant lamb kebab platter is piled just as high as it was the last time we were here, and the fries in the gyro always maintain a little crisp, even though they’re rolled up with vinaigrette-y vegetables and tangy tzatziki. While you’ll never leave Kanella disappointed with your meal, it’s not necessarily worth going out of your way for, either. But if you’re looking for a plentiful dinner for under $50 (they have a three-course deal for $45), or for a warm, casual place you can always snag a last-minute reservation for a casual date, you can’t do much better in the neighborhood. photo credit: Rachel Lerro photo credit: Rachel Lerro photo credit: Rachel Lerro photo credit: Rachel Lerro Food Rundown Dip Trio We’re partial to the hummus and the smoky muhammara with walnuts on top, but you can’t go wrong with any of the dip choices. Plus, the pita is always warm and fluffy. Grilled Octopus The well-seasoned octopus is occasionally too charred and overcooked, making it chewier than it should be. But this is still one of the better starters here. Always get it alongside some halloumi. Moussaka The roasted eggplant and zucchini moussaka is tender, deeply flavorful, and comforting. It’s served in a creamy bechamel sauce, making it one of the more substantial vegetarian options." - Alison B. Kessler
"The menu at this charming Center City restaurant draws influences from across the Mediterranean. Its extensive mix of mezze and mains features crowd-pleasers like Cyprus potato chips, filo rolls (made with goat cheese, shishito peppers, and za’atar), lamb and chicken kebabs, and falafel." - George Banks-Weston
"Kanella Grill is a BYOB at 10th and Spruce serving Greek and Cypriot dishes. It's a solid weeknight alternative to Zahav if you require mezze and grilled halloumi, but it's admittedly much more casual. Bring a bottle of wine and a friend, and enjoy chicken shish or falafel while you remind yourself that Zahav will always be there. " - candis mclean
"Kanella Grill is pretty small inside, which makes it a tough place to go with anyone who prefers to eat without making accidental contact with their neighbor. But on sunny days, you’ll want to grab one of the wooden tables on the sidewalk. The Wash West BYOB is pretty affordable, and for around $45 a person, you’ll be fed a family-style Greek feast. The kebabs are perfect for sharing, as are all of the dips, and they’ve got lots of options for anyone with dietary restrictions." - candis mclean
"Kanella Grill is a staple in Philly, and even though it’s changed locations a few times, their excellent and affordable Greek food keeps them busy no matter where they end up. For around $40 a person, you can get a family-style Greek feast, with things like kebabs, hummus, and dolmades spread out in baskets across your table. Roll to the Center City restaurant on a Thursday night with a date and a bottle of pinot grigio and pretend you don’t have to get up the following day for work." - candis mclean
