Chef

Jose Garces

"These raw oysters are the freshest in the city. Watch the guys shuck them to order in the center of the restaurant; it shows they're serious about their product. It's hard to choose a favorite from the dozen or so varieties—they're all so good!"

"I’ve traveled through many places that specialize in carnitas and having many Latin restaurants myself (including a taco truck) I know carnitas. These ones are perfect and simple. They're served with onions, cilantro, lemon and warm, soft taco shells. The pork has such an intense flavor, too. I could eat these every day."

"You can only order the tasting menu at Vetri, so I can’t name one particular dish because it’s always changing with the seasons. But trust me, it’s all good. This is the best Italian food in the country and it’s all served by an impeccable staff with a phenomenal wine list to pair."

"When the weather starts to chill, this is the ultimate thing I crave to warm me up. I go here a lot with my staff when we’ve got the munchies after a long night at work. The congee is the best in the city, perfectly seasoned and delicious. I also love the crispy salt and pepper shrimp."

"I love the chew of the whole-wheat crust at this South Philly pizzeria, and the sauce is perfectly balanced, not too sweet or acidic. When I want to keep it lean, I order just mushrooms, but it's even better with the pepperoni and extra cheese."

"This Indian restaurant in West Philly serves the most succulent pieces of lamb shoulder in its vindaloo. The curry is nicely spiced according to your own specifications, but I always order it hot."