Philadelphia’s culinary scene received national recognition this week as Bon Appétit magazine announced its 2026 list of the 19 best new restaurants in the United States. Two hometown favorites made the cut: Honeysuckle, a Black‑owned establishment in North Philadelphia, and Sao, a Cambodia‑inspired seafood venue in South Philadelphia.
Honeysuckle: Soulful, Pan‑African Flavors
Honeysuckle, founded by local entrepreneur and chef Chef Marcus Williams, offers a fresh take on classic soul food while weaving in pan‑African influences. The menu features dishes such as smoked collard‑green tacos, jollof‑rice‑infused mac & cheese, and a seasonal okra‑gumbo that highlights locally sourced produce. The restaurant’s commitment to community extends beyond the plate; a portion of each night’s sales supports food‑security programs in North Philadelphia.
Sao: Cambodian Seafood with a Modern Twist
South Philadelphia’s Sao, led by James Beard‑award‑winning chef Chef Lorn Nguyen, brings the flavors of Cambodia to the city’s waterfront neighborhoods. The menu emphasizes seafood, offering items like lemongrass‑marinated snapper, coconut‑curry mussels, and a signature fish‑cake rice bowl that blends traditional Cambodian spices with contemporary plating. Sao is an extension of Chef Nguyen’s acclaimed Center City restaurant, Mawn, and has already become a gathering place for families seeking wholesome, globally inspired meals.
Why This Matters for Philadelphia
Both restaurants reflect the city’s growing diversity and entrepreneurial spirit. Honeysuckle’s Black ownership highlights the importance of supporting minority‑owned businesses, while Sao’s Cambodian focus adds to Philadelphia’s reputation as a culinary crossroads. Their inclusion on a national list underscores the quality of local chefs who are preserving cultural heritage while innovating for modern diners.
Community Response
Local residents have praised the recognition. “It’s wonderful to see our neighborhoods represented on a national stage,” said Maria Torres, a longtime North Philadelphia resident and frequent patron of Honeysuckle. South Philadelphia’s community council also issued a statement applauding Sao’s contribution to the city’s dining landscape and its role in promoting cultural exchange.
Looking Ahead
Both establishments plan to expand their outreach programs. Honeysuckle intends to launch a cooking‑class series for youth, teaching culinary skills and entrepreneurship. Sao is exploring a partnership with local schools to introduce students to Cambodian cooking traditions. These initiatives align with Philadelphia’s broader goals of fostering economic opportunity and cultural education.
For diners eager to experience the award‑winning flavors, reservations are recommended. Honeysuckle accepts bookings through its website and offers a limited‑time tasting menu celebrating its Bon Appétit honor. Sao’s reservation system opened last month, and the restaurant continues to fill quickly due to its growing popularity.
Philadelphia’s food lovers now have two more reasons to celebrate the city’s vibrant restaurant scene, and the national spotlight shines brighter on the city’s commitment to culinary excellence, family‑friendly dining, and cultural diversity.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
