Graduation Season

After spending a year here, Philly has truly grown on me—whether it’s the city itself, the people, or just being in a great phase of life. For friends still in summer classes, if you want to treat someone special before leaving, these spots are perfect for a memorable date or farewell meal. 🔴 Vita My recent favorite—went three times in a month! It’s an Italian gelato shop at the front, with reservation-only Italian dining behind the red door. My go-to order: Appetizers: Ricotta cheese + Gamberi (grilled shrimp) Mains: Rigatoni (sweet & sour tube pasta) + Bistecca (T-bone steak, medium rare) Dessert: Their gelato and tiramisu are the best in Philly. A perfect meal, worth walking from campus for on a summer night. 🔵 Bistro Romano Cozy Italian spot with its own wine cellar downstairs. Try the Focaccia & Ricotta appetizer (bread dipped in cheese and vinaigrette). For mains, the grilled lamb chops are fragrant, and the duck is also delicious—even the side veggies are worth finishing. 🟠 Townsend EPX A homely French bistro with heart. When I booked and mentioned “for graduation,” the menu read: “Congratulations, graduate!”—a sweet personal touch. The tasting menu was delightful: oysters, scallops, rabbit tortellini, duck breast, and soufflé. We opened Champagne—total was ~$160 per person. 🟡 Friday Saturday Sunday An award-winning modern American spot—aka “What can $240 per person get you?” We tried the tasting menu (7 courses + dessert, 3 hours). Nothing was bad, but the most memorable were the dessert and complimentary canelés. With wine pairing, it could hit $700–800 for two—good, but there are more worthwhile options. 🟣 Burrata A casual-yet-classy Italian spot named after its star cheese. The burrata with prosciutto is a must, and their pastas are solid. Perfect for a relaxed but still special dinner. #PhillyFood #FineDining #GraduationEats #PhillyEats #DateNight #ItalianFood #FrenchCuisine