Restaurants Near the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal
Philadelphia is one of America's great food cities, and cruise passengers lucky enough to have a few hours before boarding have excellent options. From the iconic Philly cheesesteak to James Beard-recognized fine dining, the city delivers. Note that the cruise terminal itself is located near Philadelphia International Airport, so most of these spots are a short drive away in Center City or South Philly rather than walking distance from the pier.
Quick Bites Before Boarding
Reading Terminal Market — 12th and Arch St, Center City. Philadelphia's legendary indoor market has been feeding the city since 1893. Pick up a DiNic's roast pork sandwich (frequently called the best sandwich in America), fresh pretzels, Bassetts ice cream, or Amish baked goods. A must-visit if you have time before sailing.
Jim's Steaks South Street — 400 South St. One of Philadelphia's most beloved cheesesteak spots. Get the classic Philly cheesesteak — whiz wit' (Cheez Whiz with onions) is the traditional order.
Geno's Steaks / Pat's King of Steaks — Both at 9th and Passyunk Ave in South Philly, open 24 hours. The legendary cheesesteak rivalry. Try both and decide for yourself.
Casual Dining on the Center City Waterfront
These waterfront spots are in the Penn's Landing/Old City area of Center City — worth a stop if you're spending time downtown before or after your cruise, though they're a drive from the actual terminal near the airport, not next door to it.
Xfinity Live! — 1100 Pattison Ave. Large entertainment and dining complex near the sports stadiums, popular for groups.
Spruce Street Harbor Park (seasonal) — Delaware River waterfront near Penn's Landing. Seasonal beer garden and casual food vendors right along the water — a nice stop if you're spending time in Old City.
Morgan's Pier — 221 N. Columbus Blvd. Waterfront bar and restaurant with outdoor seating on the Delaware River in Center City.
Fine Dining in Center City
Zahav — 237 St. James Pl, Old City. James Beard Award-winning modern Israeli restaurant from Michael Solomonov. One of Philadelphia's most celebrated restaurants. Book well in advance.
Parc — 227 S. 18th St, Rittenhouse Square. Classic French bistro on one of Philadelphia's most beautiful squares. Excellent for a pre-cruise dinner the night before.
The Bourse Food Hall — 111 S. Independence Mall E, Old City. Historic exchange building converted into a modern food hall with diverse vendors — great for groups with different tastes.
Near the Terminal (Airport / Essington Area)
The Essington/airport area, right by the cruise terminal, has the full range of chain options for a quick pre-cruise breakfast or meal. The Clarion Hotel Philadelphia International Airport has a restaurant on-site, and nearby chains include Denny's, IHOP, and various fast casual options along Route 291 — convenient if you're parking there or just want something close before heading to the terminal.