Saloon Restaurant – Philadelphia’s Classic Steakhouse for 50+ Years!

Though Saloon opened in 1967, you won’t find any "Summer of Love"-type decor in this South Philly restaurant.

Instead you get that earlier era’s take on an even earlier era, with an eclectic interior made unique by the artful assemblage of one of the largest local collections of turn-of the-century signs on display in the city.

Situated in a brick corner building, take your pick of either the Ladies or the Gentleman door, as they both lead to the same entrance  - and a huge brass door knob.

You’ll be welcomed by a carved cigar store Indian - and hostess -  and led you to your table past an ornately carved backbar and gorgeous antique cash register.

Here's a close up of that register - revel in all the details. They just don't make anything like this anymore, and we're lucky that the owners of Saloon sought fit to save these antique treasures, lest they be lost forever!

During the daytime you may be on the first floor, overhearing details from business lunches, or dining in the evening you may be seated in the clubby upstairs dining room. Regardless of where you're sitting you're in for a visual and culinary experience.

White tablecloths just dare you to dribble the bright green pesto oil from your Italian bread as you review the menu, heavy on the Italian and steakhouse classics.

After you’ve ordered, marvel at the myriad antique signs lining the brick walls and wooden beams.

The antique chandeliers, signs, paraphernalia and artwork have been collected over the years by the Santore family, who opened the restaurant 50+ years ago and still run it today. Charles Santore is as well known illustrator and if you peek around you may find examples of his work!

Make an excuse to head upstairs to ogle, as ascending the wood paneled staircase - with its elaborately carved banister posts - lets you know you’re in for a treat at the top.

More vintage finds await on the second floor, and if you’re there on a Saturday evening you will be delighted with live music, jazz, old timey, classics - just as Mod Betty prefers.

Order an after dinner cocktail to sip while listening and pretend Sinatra could wander in at any moment. It's that kind of legendary, timeless place.