From world class French to Japanese cuisine, securing a reservation at one of these coveted dining destinations is no easy feat. 
Alpen Rose
This intimate Washington Square steakhouse is a deluxe elevation of your classic meat and potatoes meal: Think the bone marrow toast with rich beef check, red wine and herbs on crusty bread or a 38-ounce tomahawk ribeye smothered in roasted garlic and pickled shallots. Plus, the leather booths and swanky interiors are the perfect spot for a glass California cabernet. 116 S 13th St., 215.600.0709, alpenrosephl.com
Jean-Georges Philadelphia
Situated in the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, this upscale eatery not only treats guests to a six course tasting menu, but also stunning city views from its 59th floor. Try their signature sweet pea potstickers in a sichuan mint and sesame glaze, whipped up by chef de cuisine Cornelia Sühr who takes the lead celebrating the local ingredients and flavors of Philly. 1 N 19th St., 215.419.5057, jean-georges.com
Laurel
Nothing beats a curated six course tasting menu by chef and co-owner Chef-Owner Nicholas Elmi featuring the best of American cuisine with a French flare. Begin your meal with a palette cleansing matcha ice cream before feasting on parisian truffle-stuffed skate and roasted Hudson Valley duck. Opt for the premium wine pairing to elevate your experience—you won’t regret it. And if you’re hoping to enjoy a drink outside, arrive early as the outdoor patio only accepts guests between 7:00 and 7:30 p.m. 1617 E. Passyunk Ave., 215.271.8299, restaurantlaurel.com
Royal Sushi Omakase
With only two seatings each night, getting a spot at this eight stool sushi bar is a challenge. The 17 piece tasting is perfectly hand-selected by Izakaya’s co-owner and chef, Jesse Ito, who brings the finest fish to Philly. Bites dressed with caviar, oysters and even gold leaf are sure to delight, while the 16 nigirizushi and one temaki on the menu complete the ultimate sushi experience. 780 S. Second St., 267.909.9002, royalsushiandizakaya.com
Vetri Cucina
The elegant interiors and natural wood details at Vetri whisk guests to the rustic Italian countryside. Try sophisticated flavors from the four course menu like lamb tartare and ribiolina cheese souffle. We suggest booking the private dining room for your party—with first-class service, a separate dedicated kitchen, sommelier service and customized menu catered towards your dietary needs and preferences, you’ll think you’ve died and go to Italy. Buon appetito! 1312 Spruce St., 217.732.3478, vetricucina.com
Zahav
Enjoy a refreshing Lemonanna—a Middle Eastern mint lemonade—while you wait for your table at Zahav. James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Solomonov began his culinary career in a bakery in Israel and now churns out the restaurant's signature Laffa bread, pomegranate lamb shoulder and more. Be sure to book a table on the first of every month for this heavenly dining experience. 237 St. James Place, 215.625.8800, zahavrestaurant.com
Photography by: Courtesy of Schulson Collective; Courtesy of Jean-Georges Philadelphia; Steve Legato
