Sansom St. Oyster House $$

This longtime establishment is well known for its fresh oysters, snapper soup, and a fried-oyster-and-chicken-salad sandwich that is an all-but-forgotten old Philly [1] tradition.

The bar area in the front draws a big happy hour crowd that comes in to knock back a few drinks along with oysters shucked in front of them at the bar. The back dining areas cater to the sit-down lunch and dinner crowd, who come for the oyster po’ boys, crab cakes, and fresh catches of the day.

Chef-owner Cary Neff has incorporated a few creative items into the mostly traditional seafood menu, but many regulars prefer to stick to the basics in this classic spot. Don’t miss the divine key lime pie for dessert.