Neighborhood Guides

Kalaya isn’t just about bold southern Thai flavors—it’s about community. “Philly hospitality is unique. We take care of our people,” says Chef Nok Suntaranon. At Kalaya, that starts with her team and extends to every guest. “Our customers aren’t clients; they’re family, friends stepping into my home.” Like Philadelphia itself, Kalaya is built on passion, authenticity, and a deep love for the people who make the city special.

The Southeast Asian Market in FDR Park offers a true glimpse into the diverse flavors that define Philadelphia’s food scene. “If you ask someone about Philly, they’ll mention cheesesteaks, but that’s just a tiny part of the story”. The market is a perfect example of the city’s culinary melting pot, bringing together a rich mix of Southeast Asian flavors in a vibrant, community-focused space. Here, you can find everything from Vietnamese pho to Thai street food, reflecting the diverse cultures that contribute to Philly’s dynamic food scene. It’s an essential stop for anyone looking to taste the city’s full spectrum of flavors.

Bar-Ly stands out as Chinatown’s only sports bar, blending the excitement of game day with a menu packed with Asian-inspired dishes. With 60+ beers on tap and a mix of Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese flavors, it’s a go-to spot for both sports fans and food lovers. “We have a huge Vietnamese community here. Their food is really amazing,” says Nok, highlighting the rich culinary influence that makes this neighborhood special.

Royal Sushi and Izakaya stands out as one of Philadelphia's top spots for sushi and izakaya-inspired dishes. Renowned for its exceptional flavors, it’s a favorite among both chefs and food lovers. Nok Suntaranon is a frequent guest, joking about her friend and chef Jesse Ito, “I wanna go to Royal Izakaya and annoy Jesse Ito, embarrass him because I love him, saying it with love.” Royal embodies the close-knit, family-like atmosphere that makes Philly’s food scene so distinct and special.

For Nok Suntaranon, the flavor that defines Philadelphia is red gravy—“You go to any Italian restaurant, and you’ll find different gravies, different red sauces. Each one has its own take.” Villa di Roma and Ralph’s Italian are two spots that perfectly capture this essence, with their legendary meatballs and rich red sauces. Nok says, “Ralph’s has the best meatball. Villa di Roma also has the best meatball.” she claims they’re different, “but they’re all the best.”

Vetri Cucina is a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene, where the bonds between chefs are as important as the dishes they serve. Nok Suntaranon shares her admiration for Marc Vetri, saying, “He’s always super kind to me. I walk into the restaurant, we give each other a hug, chat for a bit, and then I get on with my life.” This close-knit, welcoming atmosphere is what makes Vetri Cucina a standout in the city, offering not just exceptional food, but a genuine sense of community.

Nok Suntaranon remembers her first visit to South Philly Barbacoa, where the line of people waiting caught her attention. “I sat down with my dog on the sidewalk, and when I tried the braise and consomme, I was blown away. What is this? Why is it so flavorful?” Run by the talented Cristina Martinez, South Philly Barbacoa delivers bold flavors and an authentic experience in South Philly. Nok admires how Chef Martinez, with her unique presence, has won over the city, “She represents it so well, and people love her.” It’s a top destination for anyone wanting to sample the intricate flavors that define Philly’s food scene.

For an elevated dining experience in Philadelphia, Nok Suntaranon recommends Zahav, a standout in the city’s food scene. Known for its modern Israeli cuisine and signature dishes like hummus and lamb, Zahav offers a perfect balance of bold flavors and refined dining. Whether it's a special night out or a celebration of local flavors, Zahav is a must-visit.

Nok Suntaranon recommends beginning your Philly food tour at Machine Shop for some of the city's best pastries. “In the morning, you go and have pastry at the Bok Building at Machine Shop, and then you walk down the street of South Philly to have cheese steak,” she says. After sampling the various foods in the Italian market she recommends,swinging by John’s Water Ice later in the day for another sweet treat, rounding out a perfect day of culinary exploration in Philly.

Known for its perfectly balanced cheesesteak, Angelo’s Pizzeria combines fresh ingredients with traditional flavors to create a sandwich that’s been earning rave reviews for years. Whether you're grabbing a slice or a cheesesteak, it’s a go-to for an authentic Philly experience.

A South Street legend, Jim’s Steaks is known for its perfectly sliced steak and melty cheese in a crisp, toasted roll. Whether you're a Philly local or a first-time visitor, this classic spot offers a true taste of the city’s cheesesteak tradition.

Located right on South Street, Ishkabibble's has been serving up its take on the cheesesteak for decades. The casual vibe and deliciously loaded sandwiches make it a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.

Located in the Bok Building, Machine Shop Bakery offers some of the best French pastries in Philadelphia. Each pastry is carefully crafted to not only be a visual masterpiece but also a delight to the taste buds. With its delicate, buttery layers and unique flavors, Machine Shop has become a must-visit for anyone craving expertly made pastries in the heart of the city.