Jeff from Philadelphia
Alyan's Restaurant Philadelphia
Middle Eastern paradise
There are several fine Middle Eastern Restaurants in center city Philadelphia, but there is one I always head to when my hummus craving overwhelms me. Alyan’s Café is a small, simple restaurant located on 4th street just off South Street. A lot of visitors head to South Street to check out the eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, probably overlooking this middle eastern gem.
Don’t let the modest surroundings cloud your judgment. The food is fresh and delicious. Don’t miss out on their hummus, falafel and the wonderful Alyan’s fries. The owners have mixed in peppers, onions and spices to make these fries a can’t-miss.
My favorite is the Chicken kabob sandwich, a fresh pita stuffed with tender chicken and a delicious tahini sauce. They also have a large selection of platters if you have a big appetite. Prices are reasonable. At lunch, a couple could easily get your fill for under $25.
If you're lucky and there are tables open, ask for one in the back room. It is smartly decorated to give you an almost garden feel and adds to the experience.
About this spot
Our Philadelphia City Guide
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Join as a Spotter?
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Long in the Tooth Record Store
High fidelity
"Long in the Tooth Record Store" in Philadelphia is a family-owned business that reminds me of one of my favorite films, High Fidelity...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Abstract Mural Callowhill
Artist Tim McFarlane
Philadelphia’s Mural Arts has helped create literally thousands of gorgeous murals all over. I'm in love with the new abstract mural by Tim McFarlane...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Bio Pond U. Penn
Urban oasis in West Philly
The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park in Philly (known by locals as the Bio Pond) was University of Penn’s first botanic garden. Makes for a romantic date...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Stina Pizzeria
Delightful Mediterranean fare
"Stina Pizzeria" in Philadelphia offers an enticing blend of pizza but also the best spanakopita I've ever tasted and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
The Modern Republic
Midcentury home decor
"The Modern Republic" in Philadelphia is a midcentury modern home decor shop that is colorful, ebullient, high-ceilinged, and tastefully curated!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood
LGBTQ icon
"Lil Nas X Mural Gayborhood" in Philadelphia is 36-feet-large and portrays the early 21st-century LGBTQ+ icon that's conquered the world...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Dream Garden
Beautiful free art
When you see it for the first time you are struck by its size.
by
Jeff
Landis
Contrafuerte
Outdoor sculpture
"Contrafuerte" in Philadelphia is Miguel Antonio Horn's latest sculpture which comprises of eight entangled nude bodies holding a small concrete bridge...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Poquessing Creek Trail Ruins
Prison farm ruins
These old farm ruins outside Northern Philadelphia are covered in graffiti and belong to a now-abandoned prison...
by
Holly
Miller
Two Persons Coffee
Excellent coffee zen space
"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Merchant Exchange
Greek Revival architecture in Old City
My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Heading to Philadelphia?
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Philadelphia?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Philadelphia
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
