Ralph's Italian Restaurant

For more than 100 years, Ralph's Italian Restaurant in South Philadelphia has been serving up sweet and savory Italian favorites to locals and out-of-towners alike. From the homemade spaghetti to the veal marsala, Ralph's has a flavor monopoly on Italian specialties. After all, a run-of-the-mill Italian restaurant wouldn't survive a decade, let alone more than a century.

Having seen its fair share of celebrity customers, Ralph's is no newbie when it comes to serving even the most famous of people. Theodore Roosevelt was the first notable name to dine at Ralph's in the first years of the twentieth century, and in the following years, big names like Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Michael Keaton and Sergio Franci ate at Ralph's.

Quite possibly the most attractive culinary lure at Ralph's is the homemade spaghetti, which is served fifteen glorious ways; each distinctively different from the others. Whether you prefer a hearty marinara, meat, mushrooms, garlic and anchovies or butter and cheese; or whether you're up for a more gourmet spaghetti treat like lump crab or steamed mussels in red sauce, there is a spaghetti that will have even the most scrutinizing taste buds loving every second of the meal.

House favorites like eggplant and chicken parmesans, veal cacciatore, chicken marsala and pork chops pizzaiola are among the favorites of Ralph's frequenters. Oh, and don't forget to order a cup of Ralph's famous Green and Pastine soup: it's the perfect addition to your favorite entree.

Ralph's wine list is extensive, featuring not only Italian imports, but imports from all around the globe. From bubbly champagne to light whites to robust reds, Ralph's has the perfect wine to accompany your menu choice.

Reservations are very helpful, as Ralph's is a bustling establishment and long waits are to be anticipated otherwise. Dress is business casual. Be sure to bring cash, because Ralph's does not accept checks or credit cards.

- by LeeAnn Mullen, Philadelphia Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

LeeAnn Mullen

LeeAnn Mullen is a freelance journalist from Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism is currently furthering her education by studying for an additional degree in information systems management. Mullen has written for several Cleveland-area newspapers, online publications and dozens of private clients. Her topics of specialty include health, technology and travel.