I love and have recommended Matyson in Center City: http://matyson.com/ A sweet BYOB, with creative modern food and reasonably priced.

Probably not too different, but we like brunch at http://www.farmiciarestaurant.com/ in Old City and http://www.continentalmidtown.com/ (not the martini bar one) near Rittenhouse.

I was just there this past weekend. Heard Morimoto's was awesome, but the food was not as great as you'd think for the money. However, our group went to a sushi restaurant called Fuji Mountain that was fab! Also, the rehearsal dinner for the wedding we were attending was at an Italian restaurant near Rittenhouse called Pietro's- also delicious.

Standard Tap or Johnny Brenda's are my faves.

I second Dmitri's. Don't know if they still have a 2nd location at around 24th and Spruce, but if they do, that one is much less crowded.

I think one of Morimoto's restaurants is in Philly, and I've heard it's awesome http://www.morimotorestaurant.com/

Dmitri's in Queen's Village is awesome. It's BYOB (as are many of the best restaurants in Philly), and they don't take reservations, but the food is fantastic.

El Vez for Mexican

Farmer's Cabinet for beer & cheese

I ate at both last month. Both in Center City. Both great.

I have had brunch several times at Jones.

http://www.jones-restaurant.com/

(Apologies for the incredibly irritating website.)

Food was great and atmosphere was hip without being too hip.

I can't vouch for the rest of their menu, but brunch was top.

I've also been to Tria several times for wine and cheese. Very good.

http://www.triacafe.com/

I don't know if these are the kinds of recs you are seeking , but I hope they help.

Hi,
I want to get a gift card for a friend and her new husband who live in the Philly area. Any nice, different rest't in that area you can recommend?
Thank you.