Café Spice $$

35 S. 2nd St., 215/627-6273,
www.cafespice.com [1]

HOURS: Mon.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10:30 p.m.,
Fri. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–11:30 p.m.,
Sat. 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. and 5–11:30 p.m.,
Sun. 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. and 5–10:30 p.m.

COST: Most entrées between $10–20

Part of a small and relatively upscale chain of restaurants in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, Café Spice offers well-prepared Indian fare in a trendy lounge atmosphere.

It has been quite a hit in Old City, attracting a mix of tourists, business people, and the young, beautiful people overflowing from the nearby Continental.

The large menu features Indian favorites and, this being Old City, a large selection of cocktails and martinis. It also offers Sunday brunch and delivery.

There is a Café Spice Express in the food court at the Shops at Liberty Place (1625 Chestnut St.), offering lower-priced versions of many of the same Indian specialties.