What do you get when you combine Philly’s best wine bars or craft breweries with the art of Italian cooking? We’d wager it’d look something like these Italian BYOs, representing the best of their kind in Philadelphia.
Modo Mio
Priced under $40, the four-course “Turista” prix fixe menu yields the most happy diners at Modo Mio, a compact corner BYOB in Fishtown. Insider’s tip: This cash-only spot is just steps from a liquor store.
161 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19123; (215) 203-8707
Mercato
The grilled artichoke is a must-have prelude to the ricotta- and lobster-stuffed pyramid pasta, arguably the most popular dish at this loud, lively and cash-only spot in Washington Square West.
1216 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19107; (215) 985-2962
Giorgio On Pine
What this BYO lacks in elbow room it more than makes up for through made-from-scratch pasta and lick-the-plate-clean desserts. The option of gluten-free noodles and bread is a serious perk among diners with dietary restrictions.
1328 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19107; (215) 545-6265
Melograno
If you order the crowd-favorite mussels at Melograno, be sure to leave some of the garlicky white wine broth behind in your bowl. You’d be remiss not to soak it up with a slice of the carb-y goodness nestled in your complimentary bread basket.
2012 Sansom St., Philadelphia, PA 19103; (215) 875-8116
Monsu
The cash-only Monsu serves authentic Sicilian cuisine within its cozy corner space in Philly’s Italian Market. Priced at $40, the four-course tasting menu (app, pasta, entree, dessert) is a popular choice here.
901 Christian St., Philadelphia, PA 19147; (215) 440-0495
Radicchio Cafe
Tight quarters and candlelight impart a little romance to this out-of-the-way eatery under the Vine Street overpass. The acoustics of the snug space put a wrench in plans for chit chat, but consider that more reason to direct focus toward your plate of crabmeat- and garlic-studded pasta.
314 York Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19106; (215) 627-6850
Bufad
Pizza receives the Neopolitan treatment at the hipster-friendly Bufad on the fringe of Philly’s Callowhill neighborhood. Your best bet here is to dine al fresco (get a seat near a heat lamp to ward off any chill), and be sure to precede your pies with the burrata appetizer.
1240 Spring Garden St., Philadelphia, PA 19123; (215) 238-9311
La Locanda Del Ghiottone
Rust-hued walls, exposed brick and kitschy decor add to the old world vibe at this cash-only stalwart in Old City. The menu follows suit, offering traditional Italian fare favorites: braised pork shank, seafood risotto and a wealth of pasta dishes, the latter relying on made-from-scratch noodles.
130 N. Third St, Philadelphia, PA 19106; (215) 829-1465
Fiorino
Existing fans of this under-the-radar gem in East Falls would be reluctant to let you in on their little secret, so allow us to spill the beans: Fiorino might be home to some of the best gnocchi within Philly city limits. Here, it’s smothered in a gorgonzola sauce — and made fresh on premises.
3572 Indian Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129; (215) 843-1500
