Chiarella Ristorante

A group of 10 of us went to Chiarella's Saturday night. The food was very good and the staff very attentive and pleasant. However, it was extremely hot in the restaurant, so much so that we had to go outside several times to cool off and get some air. I asked several of the staff to please turn off the heat and turn on the air conditioning. Although I was assured that the air was on, I never noticed a difference. I ended up taking home most of my entrée because I was too hot and uncomfortable to eat. more

We went here for the first time as a family party of nine. We were all acquainted with the old Wildwood location but I am sure our impeccable service had nothing to do with that fact, and suspect that every table gets treated like family. Our group ordered Tilapia, Chicken, Veal, Steak and Lobster. An appetizer special, seafood-stuffed mussels were as fabulous as they were different! A huge, family-style salad with garlicky toast was another success. They do not list steamed clams, but happily offered to serve up two super-large orders for us to share. The escarole soup was rich and tasty. My husband was sick but the soup made him feel well enough to enjoy the rest of the evening thoroughly. My nephew mentioned that the Lobster Francaise at the old Wildwood place was one of his favorites and the owner cheerfully offered to have the chef prepare it even though it wasn't on the menu or a special of the eving. My nephew declined as he had his heart set on veal, but I quickly requested it and can only say that it was not one of the best I""ve ever had; it was THE BEST--EVER! Tho not on the menu, it should be. it was perfect--two large tails so tender, sweet, and succulent that I was sorry to see the end of them. The lemony francaise sauce was just the right balance. This is a BYO and your beverages are cheerfully accommodated. We brought beer, wine, and some pre-mixed Bay Breezes. We enjoyed the friendly banter with the owner and our server (his nephew) and were made to feel more like we were in his home than his business. Desserts were all fresh & tasty, and again, one was produced that wasn't on the menu. To prevent disappointment , take the Filet Mignon off the menu (they only have Strip Steak) and this place is 5-Stars all the way. Never have I been offered so much off-menu food so graciously. Remember, it's South Philly, so parking is tricky, but worth driving around to find. This is a not to be missed experience! Pros: Personal service, willingness to prepare off-menu requests, friendly atmosphere. Cons: Street parking only more