Three Philadelphia eateries are among the most exciting places to eat in the United States right now, according to the third annual New York Times Restaurant List 2023.

All three are newcomers to the Philadelphia restaurant scene and opened their doors after the 2022 list was published.

El Chingon on S 10th Street in South Philadelphia is run by Juan Carlos Aparicio, who previously spent decades working at upscale French and Italian restaurants. With his delicious meals, he takes the diners home to the Pueblan kitchen where he learned to cook from his mother. She provided inspiration for his current dishes, such as picture-perfect cemitas made with springy bread.

My Loup on the 2000 block of Walnut Street in Center City provides a fun experience that has been missing from many restaurants in recent years. The chefs Alex Kemp and Amanda Shulman offer the “Let us cook for you!” option that is guaranteed to both surprise and delight you. Dishes can range from a seafood platter, a hot-cold crab situation or a meaty main.

Kalaya opened last November on Palmer Street in Fishtown. Chef Chutatip Suntaranon guarantees an amazing experience with her forcefully spiced, luminous cooking. Do not miss her flower-shaped shaw muang or the fiery venison curry, among many other mouthwatering dishes.

See the entire list at The New York Times.

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