In a city like Philadelphia dotted with Italian eateries and bistros, we’re always on the lookout for the next hidden gem worth discovering. Tucked along a narrow block of Lombard Street, Bistro Romano earns a place of its own. Step inside and you’ll feel it immediately—the shift from city rush to timeless charm.
If you’ve been craving a dining experience that lingers long after the last bite, this one’s made for you!
🍝 Bistro Romano isn’t your average Italian restaurant
The first thing you’ll notice is the sound: a live pianist upstairs near the bar greets you with gentle tones that are instantly calming.
The air smells of garlic, wine, and something faintly sweet.
Next, a friendly hostess welcomes you with warmth that makes you want to stay awhile.
The stunning ambiance envelopes you with a sultry glow.
But the real secret lies below.
A winding staircase curls downward, the scent of aged wine and warm bread grows richer with each step.
The rustic brick walls, flickering candlelight, and tables tucked neatly among old stone arches adds to the allure of it all.
It’s easy to forget you’re in Philadelphia and not a bistro somewhere along the Amalfi coast.
But beyond that, hidden behind a small archway, is the Wine Cellar Room: a secluded enclave for two to four guests, with rose petals scattered across the table, and long-stem candles to set the mood.
Indeed, this is more than just dinner—it’s an intimate experience.
👨🏼🍳 A Chef’s tasting you’ll never forget
During our dining experience, we opted for the Wine Cellar Chef’s Tasting.
Five meticulously crafted courses unfolded one by one, each paired with the perfect wine flight.
Our server was friendly but also knowledgeable, taking away the work of decision-making and allowing us to just enjoy the moment.
Every dish arrived perfectly seasoned—the Gnocchi Bolognese was our favorite. A classic comfort food done right with an authentic slow-simmered meat sauce we wished we could bottle and take home.
But just when we thought we’d reached the finale, another plate appeared—proof that at Bistro Romano, satisfaction is layered like the courses themselves.
By the time our dessert, a satisfying pistachio gelato, and Limoncello arrived, we were blissfully full.
We realized we’d lost track of time in that wine cellar beneath Lombard Street. And we were more than okay with that.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or seeking a date-night gem, it’s the perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and slow down time in an atmosphere that’s nothing short of spellbinding.
✨Bistro Romano: One of Philly’s most romantic restaurants
In a city overflowing with Italian restaurants, Bistro Romano stands apart not because it’s louder or newer, but because it’s deeper.
It’s layered in history, heart, and hidden beauty.
The candlelight, the piano, the food, the wine— it’s all part of a rhythm that makes you forget where you are.
When you finally climb those stairs back to Lombard Street, the night air feels different as if you’ve just left another world behind.
But, Bistro Romano isn’t just a restaurant.
It’s one of Philadelphia best-kept secrets…and maybe one of the city’s most romantic ones, too.
Be sure to stop by the on-site Wine Shoppe so you can take a bit of the evening home with you.
To see the full menu or make reservations, visit here.
