2 Philly Spots Make Best Italian Restaurants List From Thrillist

PHILADELPHIA — For several years now, Philadelphia has been carving out its own place on the national and even international food scene.

And a new list strengthens the city's position among a top food destination in the country by listed two places among the nation's best Italian restaurants.

Thrillist recently released its list of "The 34 Best Italian Restaurants in America."

"For our little tour of Italy, we scoured the country to find a bit of everything," Thrillist wrote. "And while our focus veered from the little, old-school red-sauce joints, we’ve assembled a glorious cross-section of regional styles, innovative fusions of style, and wood-fired glory."

The two Philadelphia establishments are Little Nonna's and Vetric Cucina.

Here's what Thrillist said about Little Nonna's:

This mainstay on Locust Street has a foolproof formula that keeps diners returning. Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran offer Italian-American dishes in a space that boasts a 40-seat outdoor garden area in addition to the indoor dining room. Be sure to try the Sunday Gravy special at least once: It’s slow-braised beef short rib, stuffed meatballs, garlic sausage, and broccoli rabe in pork marinara and comes served over the day’s macaroni with meat on the side.

And this is what they said about Vetri Cucina:

This Italian spot by Marc Vetri opened all the way back in 1998 and garnered rave reviews almost immediately, in part from Vetri’s experience working in premier kitchens both in the U.S. and Italy. The operation has only grown since, as has the admiration for this nationally acclaimed spot. Dining here means a commitment to the Quattro Piatti sampling menu, featuring antipasti, pasta, secondi, and dessert selections. The menu goes for $150 per person and is among the most coveted Philly dining experiences out there.

What are your favorite Italian spots in and around Philadelphia? Let us know in the comments.

See Thrillist's full list here.