Gilda — Restaurant in Philadelphia

Okay, so I am going to be pretty picky purely because of my Portuguese heritage, so forgive me for the longer review-

The original natas were GREAT. Like some of the best I’ve had in the states. I can only think of better places in Portugal, so that is extremely praise worthy.

I personally did not enjoy the chocolate nata though my friend did. I think it is an interesting option for anyone who just wants more chocolate flavor and doesn’t mind losing some of the nata essence. It just felt like a lot of chocolate and a bit burnt, personally. I actually would like to give the berry one a shot!

The Antonio sandwich was interesting. The linguica had a nice little kick to it - I wasn’t wowed by the texture. But the beauty of sausages is the variety of flavors and textures which some people will like and others not. The bread…I was a little disappointed by, but probably still prefer over a typical amoroso roll.

I am ashamed to say I haven’t tried the espresso and bifana yet. Tis on my list.

Thanks for bringing some Portuguese flare...

Being portuguese by birth and living in USA, knowing this was around the area I was looking forward to see what it was there to taste and have some moments with my spouse.I was a bit disapointed with Bifana ( where I was born at - Azores islands; we just have bifana simple as it comes. Of course we marinate it the usual way but the condiments is NOT what I received on mine) mustard, purple cabage and horse rasdish(this last one I am not sure but something tasted like a cleaning solution and that could be it). On the islands we make the dish with out those condiments and only at times we add butter on the bun and MAYBE have some seared onions with the sauce that is fried on. the other one was The Antonio, that was more tastier and flavoured... I have eaten somethning like that when I visit Lisbon years ago. As for the rest, the place was nice and clean. The owner was amazing with is customer service skills, very polite and professional and yet friendly! His staff was also nice...

Gilda, Gilda, Gilda. My god. We ordered the pastès de natas, macaroons, and a bola de berlim (vanilla cream filling), and not one of them disappointed. Gilda has set what is, in my opinion, an unreasonable standard for pastries going forward. As someone with an unapologetically critical palate, I had difficulty finding flaws in their execution.

I feel the need to address some of the critical reviews here. First, the sandwiches are an appropriate size and price for what you're getting. My wife and nephew (who I've watched consume a newborn-sized burrito in minutes-- to give you an idea of his appetite) ordered the Antonio and felt satiated. Also, the ingredients are top-notch. People are crazy giving this place one star. If you think it's too expensive, try reading the menu beforehand. Get real. Go to McDonalds.

For the record, I don't know the owners -- this is as honest as it comes. Great staff, great food. Hell...