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European restaurant in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
What should I order at Monk's Cafe?
What to order
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Mussels
The most frequently praised item across the reviews, with multiple mentions of classic mussels, Ghent mussels, Brussels-style moules frites, and Thai curry mussels. Reviewers consistently call them outstanding, delicious, and addictive.
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French Fries
Repeatedly recommended as a standout side, often described as famous, super delicious, and even the thing that stole the show. Several reviews say they were so good that every fry was finished.
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Duck Salad
Frequently singled out as excellent and award-worthy. Reviewers specifically note that it is best as a salad, though the sandwich version is also enjoyed.
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4
Burger
Mentioned several times as very good and one of the dishes people would return for. One review even says they would fight a bear for it, showing how strongly it impressed diners.
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5
Trout Dip
Recommended in more than one review and described as very good. It appears as a popular appetizer that people would gladly order again.
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6
Veggie Mushroom Cheesesteak
Highlighted as one of the best vegetarian options in town, with reviewers praising how well executed and unexpectedly good it is.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 5 to 11:45 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM to 11:45 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 11:45 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 11:45 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 11:45 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM to 11:45 PM |
| Sunday | 11:30 AM to 11:45 PM |
About Monk's Cafe
Mussels, fries, craft ales & other Belgian-accented offerings dispensed in a brewpub setting.
Amenities
Service options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked
What is Monk's Cafe known for?
Monk's Cafe is best known for mussels and fries, especially the Brussels-style moules frites and the classic mussels that many reviewers call the standout dish. Its beer selection is also a major draw, with craft ales, sours, and beer-bar style service repeatedly praised alongside the food.
What dishes are most recommended at Monk's Cafe?
Reviewers most often recommend the Ghent mussels, classic mussels, duck salad sandwich, burger, and fries, with the smoked trout dip and lamb meatballs also getting strong praise. Several people also mention the butternut squash bolognese and chicken liver as memorable orders.
What is the atmosphere like at Monk's Cafe?
The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, historic, and trendy, with a small, narrow, rustic pub interior. It suits solo diners at the bar, groups at tables in the back room, and people looking for a warm, European-style beer hall feel.
Is Monk's Cafe a good value?
Monk's Cafe is in the $20 to $40 range, and reviewers say the food feels fairly priced for the quality, especially the mussels and fries. The beer selection and table service add to the value, even though the place is often crowded and can require a wait.
When is the best time to visit Monk's Cafe?
Going early is the easiest way to avoid a wait, since reviewers say the restaurant is usually busy and often has a line, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. If you arrive later, the bar is a useful fallback while waiting for a table.
Is parking available at Monk's Cafe?
Yes. Paid street parking, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Monk's Cafe have vegetarian options?
Yes, Monk's Cafe offers vegetarian options.
