22 January 2026
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It's the birthplace of America (and this year's Semiquincentennial promises a big celebration) but Philadelphia is so much more than the Liberty Bell and Betsy Ross. It's a city that instills great pride in its residents. Philadelphians have an almost cult-like reverence for their city (and their sports teams — don't even think about wearing a rival team's jersey).
It's also a city of hard workers and rising stars. Philly once lingered in the shadows of larger cities to the north and south, but nobody puts this can-do city in the corner. It's just one of the many reasons The MICHELIN Guide debuted an inaugural guide to Philadelphia in 2025.
The city's food scene impressed the famously anonymous MICHELIN Guide Inspectors, who discovered a dazzling diversity of restaurants. Three restaurants were awarded the coveted MICHELIN Star, including Friday Saturday Sunday. The restaurant is owned by husband-and-wife Chef Chad Williams and Hanna Williams. A Philadelphia native, Chef Williams fell for the restaurant business during college, where he picked up a job in an Afro-Caribbean cafe to help pay the bills. He left school and began his epicurean education, working at restaurants like San Francisco's Two-MICHELIN-Star Saison and New York's Three-MICHELIN-Star Eleven Madison Park, among others.
He later returned home to Philadelphia, working at Alma de Cuba before that fateful day when Hanna learned that beloved Friday Saturday Sunday was closing its doors. The couple decided to buy the storied spot, spent two years renovating it and even got married in the kitchen just two months before opening. Reviving an icon isn't easy, but Chad and Hanna put their own stamp on it, earning many awards over the years.
We recently spoke with Chef Williams to learn more about his Philly and what makes this city stand out. He graciously shared his favorite spots for everything from cookware to coffee, serene spaces and special spots. Discover his picks below.
You're a Philly native. How would you describe the city's personality to someone who has never been?
Proud. Whether it’s our sports team, our chefs or rappers, we will always tell you why we are the best.
What are you finding interesting about the food scene now?
The new wave of restaurants opening is really exciting. Sao and Honeysuckle are just two examples.
Where are some of your top spots for:
Breakfast?Pho 75 (it's a great stop on the way to market)
Coffee?
Alchemy Coffee
Lunch?
Mawn
Treats?
Machine Shop for all things pastry, John’s water ice (always) and Second Daughter's brownie is GOAT’d.
Where would you take someone who has never been to Philadelphia before?
The Southeast Asian Market (open on weekends, seasonally). There is truly nothing like it with dozens of vendors absolutely cooking some of the best food in the city.
What are a few places/dishes that are iconically Philly?
These are my personal icons (things that stir Philly nostalgia for me personally). A macchiato at the original La Colombe on 19th. Even after selling out completely, the original store is still everything you want in a coffee shop. Another one is Sid Bookers on Broad (six shrimp, extra sauce). The coconut bun at KC’s Bakery on 10th street (RIP) was fantastic. And, don't forget the pizza at the Thunderbird, just a classic 80s/90s-style pie.Where would you go to celebrate a special occasion?
Vetri! Just always a beautiful time there.Where do you go for a family meal?
Beddia, hands down. They have world-class pizza, a cool wine list and soft serve.What are some of your favorite places to visit in the city?
Neff Cook Supply on Passyunk is a great independent cookware shop. The Mütter Museum; it’s my wife and daughter’s favorite place in the city. Do the Rocky Statue and Art Museum, then take a walk down Kelly Drive by the river. Oh, and an Eagles game tailgate is a must! It's the most Philadelphia thing you can do.Where would we find you on your day off?
The Wissahickon Trail. It’s an oasis near Center City. You can get lost and just forget that you are in a major city.Anything else you want to share about your hometown?
Philly has a reputation as a tough city, but our hospitality is truly unmatched.
Hero image: ©Ted Nghiem/Chad Williams
