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World Kitchen Journal
The Ultimate French Fries of Philly
The Table
By Helen Ashworth, The Canon desk · 10d ago · United States · 4 min ·

The Ultimate French Fries of Philly

French fries, pomme-frites, tater tots—this ubiquitous fried potato is one of the most classic side dishes you can find on a menu. In Philly, our “fry-game” is unrivaled with restaurants and chefs dreaming up renditions that are larger-than-life.

Tots n’ Fries at Lucky’s Last Chance

There’s no wrong choice when making a game-time decision from the unrivaled tots and fries menu at Lucky’s Last Chance. Stop by one of its two locations (in Manayunk and Queen Village) to sample a few of its winning options like the Coney (made with homemade chili and shredded cheddar), the Cheese Amigos (fries or tots tossed in an epic blend of three cheeses), or keep it simple with its no frills classic offering (which includes your choice of Cajun or Old Bay seasoning).

Truffle Parmesan Fries at Star Fusion

While delectable chicken wings and spring rolls are the focus of this spot, the fries here are equally scrumptious. Stop by to get a taste of staples like the truffle parmesan fries or to surprise yourself with one of its specials like the jerk chicken cheese fries or oxtail fries.

Duck Fat Fries at Village Whiskey

A visit to Iron Chef Jose Garces’ whiskey-centric bar and restaurant isn’t complete without an order of his legendary duck fat fries. While they are absolutely fulfilling by themselves, feel free to kick it up a notch by adding sly fox cheddar sauce or ordering them with short rib.

Frites at European Republic

The simple yet satisfying “frites” at this European sandwich shop come in small and large portions, with the option to choose from 15 fun dipping sauces such as Jamaican curry, roasted eggplant, peanut sauce, and European ketchup.

Mussels and French Fries at Monk’s Cafe

The iconic pairing of mussels and French fries (known as moules-frites) has origins in Northern France and Belgium, but a flight isn’t necessary to get a taste of them in Philly. Center City’s Belgian cafe, Monk’s, has a menu full of mussels ready to be enjoyed alongside a fresh plate of its pomme-frites.

Brisket Poutine at Varga Bar

Varga Bar pays homage to Canada’s celebrated national dish, poutine, bringing it to life with crispy tater tots, cheddar cheese curds, beef gravy, crispy shallots, and tender braised brisket. Take it to the next level with the optional addition of truffle oil and truffle salt.

Disco Fries at Pub & Kitchen

Brunch isn’t complete at Pub and Kitchen without a piping hot order of disco fries, made with morning-time staples like Black Forest ham, a fried egg, cheddar cheese, and chives.

Kimchi Fries at SouthGate

The trendy Korean fusion sports bar in Graduate Hospital puts its spin on this classic, with french fries that feature both kimchi and a kimchi vinaigrette accompanied by crispy bacon crumbles, gooey cheddar cheese, and scallions.

Pizza Fries at Ishkabibble’s

Many Philadelphians have ended a night out with a bite from this South Street hotspot. The fan-favorite pizza fries combine the best ingredients to curb your hunger like mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, and oregano.

Zia Fries at Emmy Squared

The only waffle-cut fries to make this list are the Zia Fries at Emmy Squared, one pound of expertly fried potatoes loaded with seasoned blanco cheddar queso, scallions, bacon, and ranch dressing.

Wave Fries at New Wave Cafe

Jumbo lump crab meat, spicy jalapeños, onions grilled to perfection, and pepper jack cheese atop a bed of hand-cut fries are the crowning glory of the menu at this casual pub and sports bar in Queen Village.

Salt and Pepper Fries at American Sardine Bar

The best part of the salt and pepper fries is their accompaniments, including a vegetarian pickled dip and a vegan tomatillo ranch dressing.

Loaded Fries at Bake’n Bacon

“Loaded” almost feels like an understatement when it comes to the french fries at Bake’n Bacon. This heaping helping of fried potatoes is adorned with bacon and brisket, a creamy cheese sauce, jalapeños, and drizzled with ranch dressing.

Smothered Fries at Nifty Fifty’s

This Philly-based franchise with multiple locations across the area boasts a sizeable menu of smothered French fries, with an abundance of toppings like honey barbecue chicken, crab meat, Philly cheesesteaks, and chili cheese.

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