If you’re a college student, your eating and sleeping schedules are probably not that normal. We all find ourselves hungry late at night, especially if you’ve been up studying till 4 am or are going out with friends at night. Next time you need a late-night meal, ditch McDonald’s and check out these delicious local restaurants in Philadelphia that are open late night.
David’s Mai Lai Wah
This Chinatown establishment is quite possibly the king of late night food in Philadelphia. It’s not a luxury experience or gourmet food by any means, but this no-nonsense, affordable menu is great for late night eats after a night out. Salt and pepper wings, fried dumplings, and fried rice are some favorites.
Open till 3 am on weekdays and 4 am on weekends
Fountain Porter
Locals think of this bar as a great coffee shop, except they serve beer instead of coffee. They offer a special daily tap selection and they also have a $5 burger every day. Fountain Porter’s drinks pair well with their delicious, simple menu items, including veggie burgers, fries, dill chips, and green tomatoes. Head over to this Beer Bar and check it out.
Open till 2 am daily
Standard Tap
Located in the Northern Liberties neighborhood, this gastropub offers a carefully crafted, delicious menu with local brew options. Standard Tap prides itself on using local produce and seasonal ingredients, serving dinner every day in addition to brunch on the weekends. They offer dishes such as pulled pork sandwiches, duck confit salad, salmon crepes as well as Chef Joel Mazigian‘s daily creations, such as pâtés, wild game, and fish.
Open till 1 am daily
Silk City
Also located in the Northern Liberties Neighborhood, this diner/bar has a little bit of everything— they serve brunch, dinner, and great drinks for happy hour every day of the week. Their menu, which includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées, and desserts, takes a contemporary spin your reliable favorites. Some notable items include Fried Chicken and Honey Chipotle Waffles, Seitan Veggie Wings, and Tomato Soup with Pesto. As a nightclub, bar, and diner all in one, Silk City knows how to throw a party, so you can start your night there or come just for the food. The best part is that it’s in a 1950’s stainless steel car (making it very Insta-worthy).
Open till 2 am daily
Johnny Brenda’s
This music venue is a go-to in Fishtown for dinner and a show but also serves food until late. They also offer local beers and draft wine, which are paired with local ingredients and seasonal items such as BBQ seitan sandwiches, raw oysters, and cheddar and sausage croquettes— all written on their chalkboard menu. Johnny Brenda’s serves dinner daily and brunch on the weekends. Stop by the next time you want to check out Philly’s hipster scene and enjoy some local rock music.
Open till 1 am daily
McGillin’s Olde Ale House
This establishment, located near Reading Terminal Market, opened in 1860, making it the oldest tavern in Philly and one of the oldest taverns in the country. McGillin’s definitely has an Irish feel with a bar that serves great late night eats to keep you going such as fried shrimp, nachos, pizza, Tex-Mex fries, salads, and Shepherd’s pie. Given the menu, it makes sense that this was a favorite location for Eagles’ fans to celebrate the Super Bowl this year. It’s open on the weekends for brunch, too.
Open till 2 am daily
Khyber Pass Pub
This Old City favorite is known for its Southern and Creole cuisine and its selection of beer. Khyber Pass Pub serves the classics, including gumbo, fried green tomatoes, and po’ boys. But, they also take a modern twist; they’re known for their amazing vegan versions of your favorite comfort foods such as vegan BBQ pulled pork and vegan chili. Check it out late at night or come in for brunch on the weekends.
Dinner served till 1 am daily
Dim Sum House
Dim Sum House is a new favorite in University City for college students and Philly natives alike. Their food is delicious at all times of the day, making it a great option late at night. The menu includes dim sum, scallion pancakes, soup dumplings, Peking duck, cocktails, and teas imported from China. Their private dining rooms can also be booked for dinners, meetings, cocktail receptions, and other events.
Open till 10 pm on Monday and 2 am Tuesday-Sunday
Good Dog Bar
Located near Rittenhouse Square, this dive bar serves what might be considered some of the best pub food in Philly. Some menu favorites include burgers, Thai pork meatballs, mac and cheese, and blueberry cornbread. Good Dog also serves a list of changing craft beers to go with these late night eats. Check out the full menu here.
Open till 2 am daily
North Third
This gastropub in the Northern Liberties neighborhood boasts great food and a friendly atmosphere. North Third is known for its wings (choose from a variety including Thai Chili Glazed and their “Famous” wings) and globally inspired cuisine, such as potato and cheddar pierogies, Moroccan spiced lamb burgers, fish tacos, and Asian spiced tuna burgers. Come for the food and stay to enjoy the energetic vibe.
Open till 2 am daily
From Asian food and Irish pub fare to favorite neighborhood joints and upscale gastropubs, Philadelphia’s late night food scene has something to offer everyone and anyone. Whether you need to fuel up after a night out or you’re craving a midnight meal, these restaurants are sure to satisfy.