Victor Cafe
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: (215) 468-3040
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- S 13th Street
- Directions:
- Orange line to Tasker-Morris
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 5pm-10pm, Fri 5pm-12am, Sat 4:30-12am, Sun 4:30pm-10pm
Message from Victor Cafe
Intimate dining with live entertainment to swoon you while you dine.
- Fixed Menu Available
- Live Opera Music
- Site of the Rocky Balboa Movie
Paid advertisement by Victor Cafe.
Editorial Review for Victor Cafe – by Michael Alarcon
In Short
This self-proclaimed "music lovers' rendezvous," opened in 1918 by John DiStephano, features Italian cuisine served by opera-singing waiters. All ages fill this spot for Italian-American staples that range in price from $12 to $28. Meats, fish and chicken are available, but pastas---such as goat-cheese ravioli and spinach fettuccine in a champagne cream sauce--shape the menu. Don't forget cannoli for dessert.
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Insider Tips
When To GoOpen seven nights a week, but tends to close early if business is light. Call if you plan to arrive later than 8pm.
ParkingValet parking available, although it is South Philly, so finding a spot is easy.
The ExtrasServers do a fantastic rendition of "Happy Birthday" while bringing out dessert (sparkler included) for the lucky boy or girl. Skip the serious conversation here though--it'll be interrupted every 15 minutes with a selection from "Carmen."
When to GoIt's BYOB during Saturday's first setting only.
User Reviews for Victor Cafe
07/01/2008 Posted by KendrickB
Where do I begin? My dining experience at Victor Cafe was nothing short of spectacular. I took a date there a while ago on the recommendation of a friend. This is a place where "Grammy," who incidentally is pushing 90 years old, spends the entire day in the kitchen concocting new specials with the freshest ingredients available. When your server decides to break into song (which he or she will), the music may enchant you as much as gazing on the black and white photos of all the opera stars and celebrities who have patronized the restaurant over the past 80 years. If you are lucky enough, the current patroness, the latest in the family line, will come over to your table and charm you with her beauty, grace, and wit. Especially good for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations, the staff will welcome your party as if you were a guest in one of their own homes. My pasta was perfectly cooked - not too soggy as is so common these days, and the chocolate cake melted in my mouth. When the check finally comes, you are assured not to want to leave - I stayed long enough that I was afraid to overstay my welcome - but true to family hospitality, I was never made to feel that way. Though I live in New York City, I look forward to the opportunity to return again - and for the right occasion, I would make a special trip just for the dining experience. BEWARE: there are other places nearby that claim to have waiters who sing opera, but don't be fooled: Victor Cafe is the original.
Pros: Ambiance, Italian home cooking, opera...
Cons: They eventually close at night...
05/29/2008 Posted by mrsam123
I had no idea what to expect when I decided to attend the Victor Cafe. A colleague of mine had recommend it a s a must see when visiting Philadelphia. Not only was the service perfect, but the staff's incredible singing talents blew us away. The food was excellent (get the filet, it was ridiculous) and the overall ambiance is something that will stay with me and my guests for a long time. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful
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