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The pateis de nata at Gilda in Philadelphia on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024.
The pateis de nata at Gilda in Philadelphia on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024.Read moreMonica Herndon / Staff Photographer
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Gilda

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River WardsPortuguese, Breakfast, Sandwich, BYOB, Cafe$

Sunny in both disposition and physical footprint, Gilda — named for chef-owner Brian Mattera’s grandmother, it’s pronounced Jill-Dah — is the quintessential cafe for 2024 . The drinks skew fun (the Mazagran consists of cold brew, honey, fresh lemon, and mint), while the distinctive Portuguese fare can fit the bill from filling breakfast (see: the Antonio sandwich, with housemade linguiça) to breezy lunch (tinned sardines, or the piri piri chicken) to craveable treat (the rightly famed pastéis de nata, along with whatever else might be lurking in the pastry case). Of course, these days no cafe is worth its weight in Instagram followers without two other things: hype merch and a persistent line.

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The Inquirer aims to represent the geographic, cultural, and culinary diversity of the region in its coverage. Inquirer staffers and contributors do not accept free or comped meals — all meals are paid for by the Inquirer. All dining recommendations are made solely by the Inquirer editorial staffers and contributors based on their reporting and expertise, without input from advertisers or outside interests.

Restaurant Details

300 E. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA , 19125
https://www.gildaphilly.com/
gildaphilly
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