Top Budget-Friendly BYOB Spots in Philadelphia
Take it from a true fan of great food and a good deal (admittedly not a hard thing to cop to), BYOB restaurants are a total win. These bring-your-own-bottle eateries offer the perfect mix of great food and easygoing vibes—ideal for a night out with friends, cozying up on a date, or just enjoying a low-key evening with your favorite flavors and good company. Dine smart, drink what you love, and save money!
Mercato: Mercato combines Italian flavors with fresh local ingredients. Classic entrées like Chicken Parmesan and Braised Short Rib Raviolo range from $25 to $30, making it a stylish but budget-friendly spot to enjoy pasta dishes and more.
Marrakesh: For a truly unique experience, walk through the front door at Marrakesh and you’ll land right in Morocco, complete with rich colors and fabrics adorning every seat, wall, and ceiling. Offering a fixed-price menu, you’ll find an extravagant six-course meal for about $25 to $35 per person. Bring a large group to share the lively ambiance and unique, berber-influenced dishes.
Giorgio on Pine: Giorgio on Pine (and Giorgio on Pine II) can be found on – yup – Pine Street. The original and the sequel provide a homely Italian dining experience. Bring your crush, your mom, your best friend, share a bottle of wine, and dig in to authentic Italian dishes priced affordably with main courses typically between $17 to $27. Do NOT miss their gnocchi!
L’Angolo Ristorante: South Philly’s L’Angolo Ristorante brings classic Italian vibes and flavors, offering homemade Italian cuisine in a cozy, family-friendly setting. With entrées in the $20 range, it's an affordable way to indulge in Italian classics like veal scaloppini and seafood pasta.
Almaz Cafe: For a taste of Ethiopian and Mediterranean mixes, Almaz Cafe on Chestnut Street serves delightful options at reasonable prices, with entrees hovering around $15 to $20. Try out new flavors with samplers and hot Ethiopian platters.
Perla: Take a trip to the Philippines without leaving Philly at Perla, located in South Philly. This modern Filipinx spot offers a contemporary take on traditional dishes. The Kamayan-style tasting menu over banana leaf spreads, a communal meal enjoyed without utensils, is a must, costing approximately $40 per person.
Mawn: New on the block, Mawn injects Vietnamese flare into the BYOB scene. Situated in Kensington, their innovative dishes like their all star seafood rice (uni, lump crab, bay scallops, shrimp, crab fat butter, trout roe) and many noodle dishes make for an immersive experience, They’ve got choices that go easy on the wallet, plus a few splurge-worthy options if you’re feeling fancy - think $20 to $50 per entree.
Tabachoy: Another Filipinx wonder on the list – this time a modern feast at Tabachoy, located in Philly’s Bella Vista neighborhood. Enjoy elevated street food and comfort classics in the range of $15 to $30 per dish, perfect for sharing with friends along with your chosen drinks.
Tips for the Perfect BYOB Night in Philly
1. Bring Your Favorites – Since it’s BYOB, make sure to bring drinks that pair well with the food you’ll be enjoying.
2. Check Corkage Fees – Some places may have small corkage fees, so it’s always good to check before you go.
3. Make a Reservation – Many of these spots are popular and have limited seating, so reserve in advance if you can.
With a little planning, you and your friends can enjoy a fantastic night out without blowing your budget. And if you’re looking to continue the fun for a unique night out in Philly, check out our latest article on the city’s best themed bars!