Not-So-Typical, But Totally Worth It: My Two Favorite Rittenhouse Square Bites

When most people think of Rittenhouse Square dining, they picture polished bistros, rooftop cocktails, and multi-course dinners. And yes, those have their place but if you're in the know there are two low-key spots that you can’t skip: Vibrant Coffee Roasters and 1-900-Ice-Cream.

They might not be traditional “restaurants,” but these two are absolutely essential if you’re in the neighborhood. They’re fast, delicious, and have serious personality.

Vibrant Coffee Roasters

Right off 20th Street, Vibrant Coffee Roasters is a cozy little café that offers really good seasonal options. Their menu is small, but every item is done just right. If you’re a coffee snob, you’ll love it here.

Bonus: their pastries are underrated gems (get the croissant if it's still warm). It’s my go-to for a quick pick-me-up before a walk through the park or an afternoon work session. No fuss. Just really good coffee in a space that feels like a hidden gem.

1-900-Ice-Cream

Tucked into a small storefront just off Rittenhouse, 1-900-Ice-Cream serves some of the best ice cream in Philly. And yes, the hype is real. Each flavor is made in small batches with seasonal, often local ingredients. Think roasted strawberry shortcake, brown butter chocolate chip, or mandarin creamsicle - it’s a full-on flavor experience. They rotate their menu frequently, so there’s always something new to try.

Next time you're in the area, skip the fancy reservation and try something a little more spontaneous—you might just find your new favorite too. Got another favorite little spot near Rittenhouse? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking for my next quick fix.