We are headed to Philly for the weekend and are staying at the Marriott Courtyard - and are interested in simply parking the car and doing it on foot. We are particularly hoping to be able to walk to and from dinner in the evening. We are leaning towards Pasion, Tangerine, Roy's, Bliss, or Cuba Libre. How close are some of these from our hotel? And are there any other good suggestions for really great cuisine and a little romance? We aren't interested in going TOO dressy, by the way...just casual dressy. Thanks!!

Pasion, Roy's, and Bliss are within 5 blocks south of your hotel. Certainly walkable. Tangerine and Cuba Libre are located in Old City which is about a dozen blocks away from where you're staying.

Courtyard by Marriott is at 13th Street between Market & Filbert. The restaurants are located as follows (with number of blocks in parens)

Pasion -- 15th & Walnut (4 blocks)
Tangerine -- Market & 3rd (10 blocks)
Roy's -- 15th & Chestnut (3 blocks)
Bliss -- Broad & Walnut (3 blocks)
Cuba Libre -- Market & 2nd (11 blocks)

Sorry that I can't help you pick between them. Although I've walked past all of these several times, I've never gone into any of them!

We have been to Pasion twice and didn't care for it. Tangerine and Cuba Libre are a long walk.

We liked La Boheme, 246 S. 11th, a small French BYOB. Pleasant, quiet.
Vetri, 1312 Spruce, is hightly rated and expensive. Not our favorite.
Sotto Varelli, 231 S. Broad, has always pleased us with the food and atmosphere.

I was in Philly last year for the first time, and I had a GREAT meal at Fork! I'm not sure how far it is from your hotel, but the atmosphere and the food were fantastic.

Fork is at 306 market, about 9 blocks. We found the food to be variable, the place 'busy'.

Whatever you decide, I'm sure we would all benefit from your evaluation when you return.

Hi. I really liked Tangerine and Cuba Libre and was underwhelmed with Roy's. Very small portions, very big prices.

We loved Tangerine and hope to do Cuba Libre on our next visit.

Loved Fork.
We went to Cuba Libre and I cannot remember anything about it lol so that must mean it was not bad
Also loved Friday Saturday and Sunday...on S 21st Street..lovely small intimate space and very good food.

Cuba Libre is great -- although I must that the only one on your list I've been too. I've been twice and receive great food & service both times. If you're up for the walk, great. If not, no more than a $5 cab ride. SG

We have eaten at Pasion and Cuba Libre and really enjoyed both, but the best meal we had in Philly was at Alma de Cuba at Walnut and 16th. You can dress casual at any of these restaurants.

Another recommendation for Tangerine but I don't know what you are looking for. It is not a quiet, romantic place. More hip,with fabulous decor. Great people watching. The menu is kind of traditional comfort food with exotic twists. Steaks with seasoned rubs, roast chicken with couscous. Ample portions served family style for everyone to share.

LOVE Roy's. We're going for Valentine's for our 8th or so time (plus we've gone in NY, the Big Island, San Fran...) We've often goen after work and business casual is just fine. If you want to dress up you wouldn't feel out of place at all either.

I was underwhelmed with Cuba Libre the first time but have been twice in the last few months and have loved it.

I had a lovely meal at Lula's last week(12th & Locust abouts.) You can do a tapas-style meal. Then walk up the street to Capogiro for excellent gelato!

Has anyone dined at Pompeii - close to the Forrest Theater? I do thank everyone who is helping me with this!
Our favorite has always beem Alma De Cuba - and our great summertime lunches on deck at Moshulu. Walking doesn't have to be an issue since cabs are so accessible, so we are open to anywhere within a few miles.

If you're open to more suggestions... my favs for great food & service are:

Buddakan -- Asian, very trendy, biz casual

El Vez -- Mexican -- funky decor

Both are Steven Starr restaurants (same owner as Tangerine & Alma de Cuba). I'd go to both of these before Cubra Libre (esp if you've been to Alma de Cuba, get a different taste).

http://starr-restaurant.com/

Thanks everyone - for all of the great suggestions. Many places are booked... due to the Car Show, I guess. I took some advice from a friend and booked at a "newbie" - Estia. We love Greek and Mediterranean food, so I hope that it's perfect for us!

I must share our experience at the new Estia on Saturday night...and we highly recommend it. The decor is one of rather romantic ethnic elegance, the attentiveness of the waitstaff and the owner was perfect - not hovering, but so very helpful (since much on the menu and the wine list is indeed Greek-inspired), and the food was beautiful and seasoned to perfection. The main theme is to cook whole fish - there are nearly a dozen varieties - and order one side for two. And do NOT miss the octopus appetizer!
We are partial to ethnic restaurants since we do travel a lot - and also have a major executive chef in our family - so I can be trusted with this recommendation if you are a "Foodie" who wants great cuisine in Philly. Check out their website. Had lunch at Cuba Libre, too, and it, of course, did not disappoint.