Location

5th and Arch Streets in Northern Liberties

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Video

Click here to watch a video of the experience at Silk City, a clip from an episode of Illadates.

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Description

Illuminating a stretch of Spring Garden Street with the neon lighting from its first incarnation as a diner, Silk City has quickly become one of Philadelphia's most popular destinations since reopening in 2007. It's even gotten the attention of the New York Times, who call the place "the hottest party in town."

Silk City can be described as a diner/restaurant/bar/nightclub hybrid — the kind where you can get beer (or mojitos) and a burger, then spend the rest of the night dancing to your favorite guilty pleasure tracks from the 90s.

New owner Mark Bee also runs the show at a nearby gastro-pub (North Third). Together, the restaurants are bringing a new generation of the hip and hungry to the artistic Northern Liberties neighborhood.

The Food

It's important to recognize immediately that Silk City does not serve your typical diner food. It's a veritable destination for dinner even if you have no interest in dancing afterward. And while you can order diner staples like a roast beef or a grilled cheese sandwich, they are modern variations on classics that will not disappoint. And you will also be tempted by more gourmet options — like duck and mushroom spring rolls, pulled pork empanadas and the much-praised Thai chili glazed ribs.

Also consider ordering the "Ultimate BLT." This monster of a sandwich is loaded with wild boar bacon, crisp lettuce and the very rare fried green tomato. Don't worry about counting calories — you can dance off the sandwich after dinner.

And brunch at Silk City is simply outstanding. The huevos rancheros are spicy and flavorful; the omelets incorporate ingredients like crab and avocado; and with an impressive array of microbrews behind the bar, you have plenty of reasons to tap the hair of the dog.