Philadelphia Family Restaurants

If you want to sample good Philly cheese steaks, try Campo's Deli. It's casual and friendly inside, and Campo's is only three blocks from the Liberty Bell and Independence Visitor Center.

This authentic early 20th century soda shop with tin walls and ceilings, mosaic tiled floors, and original marble counter is charming. Here you can find malteds, ice cream sodas, and a large assortment of homemade ice creams. They even carry no sugar added flavors that are quite good too. Dessert for the three of us came to $20.

Right next door is Shane's Candies. This old fashioned candy store sells an assortment of chocolates, fudge, and other sweets. The store is famous for its vanilla cream candies.

We stopped at Hershel's East Side Deli for a bowl of matzo ball soup and my son ordered potato latkes. One of the owners is affiliated with Katz's Deli in New York City. The food is authentic Jewish delicatessen, and our server Steve Saffron said some days they serve more than 500 sandwiches. A lunch for three is about $30. The prices are quite reasonable.

Jones has the best macaroni-and-cheese we've ever tasted. Or I should say, that my kid has ever tasted. When it comes to mac-n-cheese, he's the expert. The restaurant is open seven days a week and serves weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner. It's always crowded too. If you go on a Friday or Saturday night, call ahead for reservations. Here is where you will find comfort food: lots of meat dishes and rich desserts. The price for dinner for three of us came to $80, and included one appetizer, two desserts, and alcoholic drinks for the adults.

Another must is a visit to Reading Terminal Market at 12th and Arch Streets. If you enjoy food as much as my family does, this is a treat for all of the senses. Even our child enjoyed eyeing the wide assortment of jellybeans, chocolates, and other confections. Every type of food from cheeses to meats to seafood and more are available here.

If I lived in Philadelphia I would do all of my grocery shopping here. They even have a bathroom in the back. The Reading Terminal Market was established in 1893 when trains came into the train shed. It is the nation's oldest continuously operating farmer's market. Sit down eateries, like Hershel's, are scattered throughout. You can also purchase homemade soaps, cookware, plants, books, and other items.