Shanks LLC

Local luncheonette cooking exquisite, homemade Italian specialties, such as stuffed peppers, eggplant. Be prepared to squeeze into a small space, and watch your food prepared in front of you. more

Shank and Evelyn are legends! I have been going to Shanks since about 1983 and was introduced to it by a friend who lived in the Bella Vista neighborhood. Ever since then, I've made regular visits whenever I've had the opportunity. You simply cannot go wrong, regardless of your selection. Consistently outstanding. This is one of those "real" places that you hear about, but seldom actually experience. And by "real" in this case, I mean that the food is absolutely the best in the Italian tradition, but they don't put a lot into the image or style of the place. It retains its true authentic qualities. But that's fine by me. It's part of the charm of the place. Over the years, if you're a regular, you will certainly see some of the local politicians and celebrities here, as they know about the treats here. I've since moved from the Philadelphia area to San Diego, but let me tell you, I still think of Shanks when I'm hungry in the afternoon. They just don't make 'em like this anymore. When I go back to Philly again, I will be sure to make a stop here. A great Philly restaurant treasure. Pros: Great food; fun; interesting ambiance; friendly staff Cons: None more

Saw this place in a book written by the NPR people. This is not just a great meal, but an adventure. Very small and limited seating, but well worth it. We sat in booth that Mr. Shank was occupyijng, for a break. We joined him and got his short history; very amusing. We took his lunch suggestions that were specials that day. Very good! We tried the fried spinach also; excellent. All the gals working there look like different generations of stereotypical American, Italian women. It was an old "Call Kitchen" where orders were written down and yelled out. The orders leave the kitchen via a window; "Clams in the window" are words not to be forgotten. Shank had just returned from an 8 yr. hiatus; he was going to resume the night thing in Sept. 07. I look forward to returning for the Fri./Sat. evening service. We went from there to the airport in about 15 minutes. more

First off, if your not a low life from the neighborhood these awful low life sisters will practically ignore you. The place was not busy and the alzheimers patient for a waitress ignored us most of the time. Although,the food was pretty good. It's not worth the $$&^ you have to put up with in order to get it. I found it interesting that in a place like that they would be kind to two gay men ,with a couple of kids with them, and bend over backwards to help them with their complicated breakfast order. Meanwhile, my brother and I were treated like absolute S&&@. I mean we looked like every Joe Schmoe that walked in there. These creepy cavern faced sisters are too ignorant to realize what a gold mine they could have. It's a shame. I was not expecting the ridiculous amount of rudeness I received from the entire staff. I did nothing to deserve it. Great way to ruin business. I hope they do go out of business . They certainly deserve to. more

I have been to this luncheonette many times and the food is consistently awesome, but SHANKS is now a BYOB open at NIGHT!!! The change over is impressive with the black tablecloths, candles, flowers, and Dean Martin playing on the stereo. Free Valet Parking is the best (I wish they could do it during lunch). The atmosphere is very comfortable but the food is the REAL DEAL! I had a veal dish that was so good that has me thinking I want it again for about 2 weeks now. My wife had the seafood pescatore over linguini that was so incredible words can't describe it. You have to try this place for yourself. Chef Frankie Shank puts his money where his mouth is. He said to me, "if its not the best yous ever had its on me!" Believe me when I tell you, he was right! Pros: Friendly wait staff, crazy chef, incredible food. more

All of the above is true - but their claim to fame is roast pork and roast beef sandwiches. If it's your first time you MUST get a pork sandwich with provalone and broccoli rabe. It's absolutely perfect. more

So it isn't fancy, but does it have to be when the food is that good? Shank's is by far the best lil luncheonette around. The Ladies work very hard to ensure the food always tastes great, and are quick to bring out your dish. Try the eggplant parm platter or the meatballs or the chicken cutlets and always get the soup! Pros: the soup..... more

This is probably the best place to eat lunch in all of Philadelphia. Fast, no-nonsense service. Outstanding food. Reasonable prices. You get the feeling that everybody in the place knows each other. The list of people who've dined here over the years is a virtual who's who of Philadelphia. And it's not just hype. This place really is fantastic. The inside is small and it was very crowded for lunch. If you're with a large group you may have to wait for a table to open up. I had the veal scallopini sandwich. Tasted like homemade! I will definitely be back for more. Pros: outstanding food, reasonable prices Cons: none more

What can you say that hasn't already been said about this charming little luncheonette? Great food served by the nicest ladies in all of Philadelphia. I was a first time visitor and left feeling as though I had 4 new moms. Pros: ultra friendly, food more