Best BYO in Near Downtown Phila?

[panmalv]

My wife and I are visiting Philadelphia to celebrate her 40th birthday, staying at the Ritz-Carleton. We are being joined by two old friends for dinner out, who don't have a big budget. Any suggestions for a nice, intimate, but not too expensive BYO so we can bring in a nice bottle and keep the bill down? Ethnic is fine, and we do have a car if something is really worth the drive.

[sylviag]

I'll add my vote for Branzino. It's on 17th St, just north of Spruce - about six blocks away. Excellent food, lovely ambience (ask for the upstairs room), not too pricey. Make a reservation.

[hungry_san]

Try Mandoline. It can get cramped but its worth it and a little cheaper than Matyson.

[arizonagirl]

L'angelo's in South Philly is a very intimate not expensive BYOB. It serves Italian and is wonderful. My second choice would be Pesto on South Broad St. enjoy

[epfoodie]

other thoughts- if the bill needs to be under $50 per couple- Sang Kee in Chinatown (not fancy, cash only, great food) or Las Cazuelas (not spelled right) in N. Libs on Girard @ Lawrence b/t 4th & 5th

[idia]

Branzino. A neat BYOB in Center City Philadelphia.

Try this one.
You found a winner!
Bon appetit.

http://philadelphia.menupages.com/scr...

[epfoodie]

There are so many good BYO's-- My first choice would be Chloe in Olde City (cash only- plan on $120 incl. (apps/dinner/dessert and tip)-- well worth it. Sabrina's in S. Philly (takes cards) entrees are sizeable, everything on their eclectic menu is very good & it's reasonable. Pesto in S. Philly (on Broad, you can't walk but it's a short straight ride from the Ritz-) Italian- wonderful. Try the fried calamari late night at the Ritz in the "Rotunda"- it's really, really good! Either remember to bring wine with you - or plan for a bit of an adventure-- there are not any close liquor stores to the Ritz. Happy B'Day!

[joluvscards]

Matyson is our fav, not particularly cheap tho entrees in the mid 20's. How bout one of our fine Italian byo's like Branzino. It has a beautiful atmosphere and the prices are lower.

[illafoodie]

Melograno, Audrey Claire, and Mercato are my favorites... however, they don't take reservations on weekends, so you would probably have to wait a little while. Marigold's kitchen in west philly is also wonderful (since you have a car). You can find out more about these places on the other boards, or probably find menus online.