Good food really is what it takes to win diners’ loyalty and keep them coming back – decade after decade. For more than a century, this iconic Pennsylvania restaurant, Ralph's Italian Restaurant in Philadelphia, has been dishing up some of the state’s best authentic Italian food, and it’s grabbed the attention of Pennsylvanians, those passing through, and countless celebrities. It’s one for the bucket list that will keep you coming back again and again.

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Since the very beginning of the 20th century, Ralph’s Italian Restaurant in Philadelphia, a family-owned and run eatery, has been delighting taste buds with its authentic, homemade Italian dishes.

Ralph’s Italian Restaurant history includes a lot of familiar faces - from famous singers to world-renowned athletes.

Now headed by the fourth and fifth generations of the Dispigno and Rubio families, the oldest Italian restaurant in America – it opened in 1900 – has served generations of Philadelphians and some mighty big names, from Frank Sinatra to Taylor Swift.

You'll find this iconic restaurant in the Italian section of Philadelphia.

Having hosted well-known politicians like President Joe Biden and sports legends including Tommy Lasorda, the charming restaurant has developed an impressive fan club. However, you really need to see what all the fuss is about for yourself.

Adam Sandler, Jack Klugman, Sheryl Crow, Danny Bonaduce, and Kevin James are just a few other famous guests.

While you can order takeout, you definitely want to experience the ambiance of Ralph’s Italian Restaurant at least once. Diners describe this Philadelphia institution using such glowing terms as “fabulous,” “amazing,” and “the best Italian restaurant.”

Former NBA superstar Charles Barkley is pictured above. Authentic Italian food and Charles Barkley? (I'm a huge fan of Sir Charles.) Does it really get any better than Ralph's Italian Restaurant in Philadelphia?

Ralph’s features a generous selection of salads, soups, and appetizers, the perfect way to start your meal. Try such favorites as bruschetta, calamari, or meatballs, the latter of which has earned the title of the “Best of Philly.”

Perusing Ralph's Italian Restaurant menu is sure to have your stomach churning in anticipation.

When it comes to the entrée, you have a large selection of choices that range from traditional Italian dishes and seafood to chicken and veal. If you’re craving a real classic, go for one of the homemade specialties. Ravioli, manicotti, and lasagna are a few options.

Whatever you order, take a hearty appetite with you to Ralph's Italian Restaurant in Philadelphia.

Craving a taste of the Old World? You can’t go wrong with eggplant parmigiana, sausage and peppers, or broiled sausage.

Save a bit of room for dessert, too. Ask your server for the day’s offerings, which may include such favorites as homemade cannoli.

View a menu, days, and hours on the official website of Ralph’s Italian Restaurant. Or, stop by the Facebook page of this Italian restaurant in Philadelphia.

Have you been to this Pennsylvania restaurant? If so, do you think it's one of the best restaurants in Philadelphia? Share your experience in the comments! Then how about taking a peek at the past with these photos of Philadelphia in the 1900s?

With all there is to do, see, and taste in Philly, a day just won't do. Why not treat yourself to a weekend (or longer) getaway? Just book a charming Philly Vrbo.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/pennsylvania/philadelphia/early-1900s-philadelphia-pa/