Highest-rated delis in Philadelphia by diners
Highest-rated delis in Philadelphia by diners
Delis hold a cherished place in the tapestry of American culture, tracing their origins to Jewish immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the mid-19th and early 20th centuries. It didn't take long for their rich culinary traditions (including food preservation methods like pickling) and communal spirit to lead to the creation of delicatessens (which translates to "delicacies" in German).
Jewish delis became essential hubs for gathering, sharing meals, and maintaining their heritage, particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles. Iconic delis such as Katz's Delicatessen in New York City, founded in 1888, and Canter's Deli in Los Angeles, which opened in 1931, are still gastronomic landmarks in American food history. Katz's, famed for its hand-carved pastrami on rye and iconic appearances in films like "When Harry Met Sally…," exemplifies the deli's role in shaping urban cultural identity. Similarly, Canter's in Los Angeles is renowned for its extensive array of Jewish classics, like matzo ball soup and corned beef sandwiches, attracting a diverse clientele and fostering a strong sense of community across generations.
These historic delis have not only preserved Jewish culinary traditions but have also significantly influenced American food culture with iconic dishes that have become staples nationwide. Once primarily found in Jewish neighborhoods, items like knishes and bagels with lox are now celebrated across the country.
In the 21st century, delis continue to thrive, adapting to contemporary tastes while preserving old-world recipes. The modern deli has evolved to encompass a variety of offerings, often blending influences from different cuisines. Diners and food enthusiasts can expect to find deli menus today that feature a harmonious mix of classics and innovative twists. Sandwiches piled high with corned beef, pastrami, and brisket are staples, complemented by sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and pickles. Breakfast items such as bagels with cream cheese, lox, and assorted spreads are ubiquitous, as are soups like cabbage borscht and chicken noodle. Additionally, many delis now offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a wider range of dietary needs and preferences.
Today, the term "deli" signifies more than just a place to eat; it embodies a cultural institution where food serves as a bridge between past and present. Whether in bustling metropolitan areas or smaller towns across America, delis continue to be beloved destinations where people can enjoy good food, share stories, and celebrate a tradition that has become an integral part of the American culinary landscape.
Want to know which delis are worth a visit near you? Stacker examined data from Yelp, collected in November 2024, to find the highest-rated delis in Philadelphia. In an effort to highlight independent businesses and local chains, restaurants with seven or more locations in Yelp's data were not included. Keep reading to see if your favorite deli made the list.
Note: The photos in this article are stock images and do not necessarily depict the specific restaurants listed or the dishes they serve.
#30. 4 Seasons Food Market
- Rating: 4.5/5 (63 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 236 South 21st St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Beer, Wine & Spirits
- Read more on Yelp
#29. Tina's Kitchen And Deli
- Rating: 4.5/5 (8 reviews)
- Address: 1500 John F Kennedy Blvd. 2 Penn Center Concourse Unit 14 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Korean, Breakfast & Brunch, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#28. Riehl Deli & Cheese Shop
- Rating: 4.6/5 (25 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 51 North 12th St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Cheese Shops, Delis, Meat Shops
- Read more on Yelp
#27. Dolores
- Rating: 4.6/5 (30 reviews)
- Address: 1841 South 2nd St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#26. N & E Agora Gourmet
- Rating: 4.6/5 (7 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Address: 917 Tyson Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#25. American Joe's
- Rating: 4.6/5 (7 reviews)
- Address: 132 South 8th St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#24. Old Nelson Food Company
- Rating: 4.6/5 (7 reviews)
- Address: 1100 West Montgomery Ave. Ste D Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Grocery, Beer, Wine & Spirits
- Read more on Yelp
#23. Vincenzo's Deli
- Rating: 4.6/5 (43 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1626 South 9th St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Cheesesteaks, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#22. Liberty Kitchen
- Rating: 4.6/5 (93 reviews)
- Address: 1400 North Front St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Grocery, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#21. T & F Farmers Pride
- Rating: 4.6/5 (123 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 8101 Ridge Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Specialty Food, Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#20. Mike & Matt's Italian Market
- Rating: 4.6/5 (18 reviews)
- Address: 1206 Mifflin St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Grocery, Meat Shops
- Read more on Yelp
#19. Li'l Nick's Deli
- Rating: 4.6/5 (26 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1311 West Moyamensing Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#18. Chase's Hop Shop
- Rating: 4.6/5 (125 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 7235 Rising Sun Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Chicken Wings, Beer Bar, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#17. Dattilo's Delicatessen
- Rating: 4.6/5 (114 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 8000 Horrocks St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Meat Shops, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#16. Polka Deli
- Rating: 4.7/5 (12 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 2719 East Allegheny Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#15. Antonio's Italian Specialties
- Rating: 4.7/5 (9 reviews)
- Address: 1138 West Ritner St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Italian, International Grocery
- Read more on Yelp
#14. Frankford Corner Store & Deli
- Rating: 4.7/5 (6 reviews)
- Address: 7544 Frankford Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Grocery, Water Stores
- Read more on Yelp
#13. Tony's Market
- Rating: 4.7/5 (10 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 153 West Porter St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Grocery, Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#12. South Deli and Grocery
- Rating: 4.7/5 (40 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1739 South St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#11. Butcher Boys
- Rating: 4.7/5 (7 reviews)
- Address: 7342 Frankford Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Grocery, Butcher, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#10. Macho's Delish Mix
- Rating: 4.8/5 (22 reviews)
- Address: 6249 Catharine St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Juice Bars & Smoothies, Tex-Mex
- Read more on Yelp
#9. Farina Di Vita
- Rating: 4.8/5 (31 reviews)
- Address: 250 Catharine St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Italian, Pasta Shops, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#8. Christie's Deli
- Rating: 4.9/5 (199 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1822 Spring Garden St. Unit B Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Breakfast & Brunch, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#7. Antonio's Deli
- Rating: 4.9/5 (86 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1014 Federal St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#6. D&C Deli Grocery
- Rating: 4.9/5 (8 reviews)
- Address: 543 East Thompson St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#5. Choice Beer Deli
- Rating: 4.9/5 (8 reviews)
- Address: 1642 South St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Beer, Wine & Spirits, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#4. Ferrante's Meats & More
- Rating: 4.9/5 (32 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 7534 Haverford Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Meat Shops, Delis, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
#3. Castellino's
- Rating: 4.9/5 (87 reviews)
- Price level: $
- Address: 1255 East Palmer St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Italian, International Grocery, Delis
- Read more on Yelp
#2. Antonio's Deli
- Rating: 5.0/5 (7 reviews)
- Address: 3849 Lancaster Ave. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, Sandwiches, Salad
- Read more on Yelp
#1. Quillio's Delicatessen
- Rating: 5.0/5 (5 reviews)
- Address: 6125 West Thompson St. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Categories: Delis, American, Sandwiches
- Read more on Yelp
This story features data reporting by Wade Zhou, writing by Cynthia Rebolledo, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 191 metros.
