Philadelphia Food | Is This Crispy Pork Belly Your Cup of Tea?

I drove to Philadelphia for Thanksgiving and couldn’t get a reservation at the Israeli restaurant Zahav—then I found Talula’s Garden, a spot specializing in New American cuisine, and it was such a nice surprise! Smoked Pork Belly ✅ The smoked pork belly was incredible—crispy on the outside and tender, juicy on the inside (I almost screamed!) 😱. One bite hits you with a perfect mix of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors—so layered! The sides are stir-fried cabbage and peanuts, giving it a fun hint of Asian fusion that balances the richness of the pork perfectly. No greasy aftertaste at all—just that satisfying crunch and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Lamb Bolognese ⭕️ This lamb and tomato pasta uses wide noodles, which were cooked al dente (not too soft, not too chewy). The bolognese sauce is hearty—you can taste the slow-cooked lamb (no gamey flavor!) mixed with ripe tomatoes, and the basil ricotta on top is silky smooth. It’s creamy but not heavy; the fresh basil cuts through the richness, making every bite feel indulgent but not overwhelming. Mushroom Soup ⭕️ If you’re a mushroom lover, you have to order this soup! It’s packed with intense mushroom flavor—deep, earthy, and naturally sweet—with just the right amount of cream to make it luxuriously smooth (no grainy texture here). Each spoonful tastes like a hug—warm, comforting, and full of umami. It’s not overly thick either, so it’s a great light start to the meal. The Baker 🍹 This drink is a white wine sangria, and it has a hint of cinnamon—probably a holiday special! It’s light and fruity, but I still prefer the classic sangria (without cinnamon) since the spice gives it a slightly warm, festive twist that’s nice for Thanksgiving but not my go-to otherwise. Still refreshing, though—pairs well with the pork belly! Ambiance & Tips ✨ The outdoor seating is super romantic—tables are surrounded by vines and twinkly lights, making it feel cozy and intimate. The food is solid, the service is friendly, and the average cost is around $50 per person—perfect for a date night! You can chat under the lights while savoring the food, and it never feels rushed. Talula’s Garden 📍 210 W Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106 #PhiladelphiaFood #PhiladelphiaFoodTour #PhiladelphiaLife #PhiladelphiaRestaurants #PhiladelphiaDateSpots #Philadelphia #FoodieFinds