Gran Caffe L'Aquila

1716 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
$$$ Italian restaurant
(3050 Reviews)

Step into a delightful slice of Italy right in the heart of Philadelphia at Gran Caffe L'Aquila, a charming Italian restaurant that promises an authentic culinary experience. Nestled at 1716 Chestnut St, this establishment brings the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine to the United States, offering guests a beautiful dining atmosphere that feels both welcoming and sophisticated.

As you enter, the enticing aroma of freshly prepared dishes fills the air, beckoning you to explore their diverse menu. The restaurant's offerings feature genuine Italian classics, with standout dishes like the Fritto Misto, a deliciously crispy semolina-crusted calamari, shrimp, and zucchini, perfect for sharing or savoring alone at just $16.50. The Bruschetta presents a canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to choose from an array of mouthwatering toppings on grilled casereccio bread for only $10.70. For seafood enthusiasts, the Cozze Tarantina, featuring fresh mussels sautéed with garlic, tomato, and a touch of pepperoncino, is a must-try at $61.50, while the Scamorza, a fire-roasted aged mozzarella topped with Prosciutto di Parma, is a delightful indulgence at $52.90.

The experience at Gran Caffe L'Aquila is not just about the food; it's a celebration of Italian culture. The dining ambiance is enhanced by friendly staff who are eager to provide exceptional service, making every visit memorable. Guests rave about the team's ability to handle large bookings smoothly, ensuring everyone's needs are met with efficiency and warmth, as highlighted by one satisfied customer who exclaimed, "Their teamwork was impressive!"

For breakfast enthusiasts, the café offers Italian-inspired morning treats, such as the Nutella Cornetto, a fresh-baked croissant filled with rich Nutella for just $4.60, and a selection of house-roasted artisanal coffees, including the Espresso Doppio at $4.90, providing that perfect start to your day.

No visit is complete without indulging in their remarkable gelato, often touted as the best in town. Pair your sweet treat with a glass from their impressive wine selection, featuring premium options like Tignanello 2019 offered by the glass at reasonable prices.

Feedback from patrons only solidifies Gran Caffe L'Aquila's standing as a beloved spot in Philadelphia. One customer described it as "a little Italian embassy in central Philadelphia," while another adored the lively ambiance created by both the staff and the genuine Italian offerings. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely breakfast on the sidewalk or celebrating a special occasion with friends, the restaurant captures the essence of Italy through its delectable menu and welcoming atmosphere.

Gran Caffe L'Aquila is more than just a restaurant; it's a heartfelt homage to Italian cuisine. With carefully crafted dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and an environment that invites you to linger, this establishment is a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers alike in the City of Brotherly Love.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Has great wine list
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves healthy options
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Trendy
Upmarket
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Lunch reservations recommended
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Paid multi-storey car park
Paid street parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

7:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Tuesday

7:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

7:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

7:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

7:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Saturday

7:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Sunday

7:30 AM - 10:00 PM

3050 Reviews
Rahaf Mihyar

15 Sep 2025

If I could give more than 5 stars, I would happily do! They professionally arranged a table for 26 people (even though our initial booking was for 15), served us nothing but great Italian dishes pretty quick, and figured out how to split bills with no hassle!! Their teamwork was impressive!!

Kate Kohn-Parrott

11 Sep 2025

The food that I’ve eaten here is always incredible. The menu offers a nice variety of genuine Italian dishes. The gelato is some of the best I’ve ever had. Service is fine. Efficient and perfunctory.

Tiffany T

04 Sep 2025

This was my first time here and I got the Parma Panini. It was extremely delicious, and fresh. I’m not a big fan of the $12 for a 3 ingredient sandwich, but I understand the location and the prices in the neighborhood. And hey, it was a really good little treat for myself. All of the staff I interacted with were super friendly, and that alone made me want to come back. The market was super cute and I’m excited to come back and peruse it, and try more food!

sick Devon

05 Aug 2025

Definitely a little Italian embassy in central Philadelphia! Best gelato in town doubtless; Stunning service and super friendly environment; Authentic traditional Italian food with a meticulous attention to the weekly specials; The wine cellar selection is incredible and gives the chance to taste premium wines as Tignanello 2019 by the glass for a very reasonable price; As well as the signature cocktail list (the coffee-infused negroni is a hit, espresso martini likewise). Highly recommended *****

Jeremy Alfano

24 Jun 2025

First off, the place is beautiful and the staff were very friendly. Great service. Went here for a work event so was fortunate to try most of the menu. Every appetizer was great; the Parmesan gelato on the charcuterie board was a unique addition. All the pastas and meat dishes blew everyone away. And can’t leave without trying the gelato. It’s the best in town.

Valeria Cappabianca

05 Jun 2025

it really is a little piece of Italy in Philadelphia. We had a deliciously flavory colazione ( breakfast in Italian) with croissant and frutti di bosco(berries) tiramisu, an espresso italian coffee, on a little table on the sidewalk, admiring the beauty of the city. My family and I were in heaven

Alex and Jenny Spano

29 May 2025

Everything was great .... The food, the drinks, and the service. The car came is amazing. Little load crapped in a small space... But very good .. I would highly recommend and I would go again

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