1. Royal Izakaya

    Japanese

    A windowless izakaya where regulars queue for bar seats and back-room omakase, executing a punishing menu with discipline: hamachi sharpened with ponzu, cod with crackling skin, fried chicken sandwiches, chirashi bowls layered with fish and caviar. The restraint is the point—each dish seasoned with clarity rather than ambition.

    50 Best
    2025 · #32 · North America's 50 Best Restaurants
    James Beard Awards
    2026 · Nominee · Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic · Jesse Ito
    2024 · Nominee · Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic · Jesse Ito
    2023 · Nominee · Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic · Jesse Ito
    2025 · Nominee · Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic · Jesse Ito
    2022 · Nominee · Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic · Jesse Ito
    Michelin Guide
    Bib Gourmand
    Philadelphia Magazine
    2025 · #3 · 50 Best Restaurants in Philadelphia
    2024 · Chawanmushi · Most Memorable Bites
    The Philadelphia Inquirer
    2023 · Top 10
    2023 · Taiyaki Sundae · The best dishes Craig LaBan ate
    The New York Times
    The 25 Best Restaurants in Philadelphia Right Now
    Eater
    The 38 Best Restaurants in Philadelphia
    Address
    780 S Second St, Philadelphia, PA · Philadelphia
    Online
    Website
    On the Way What's Around

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