Kristian's Ristorante has been creating lasting impressions with its patrons and food critics alike since opening its doors in June 1998. The combination of exquisitely prepared Italian dishes and an atmosphere of relaxed elegance is getting high praise from Philadelphia's food critics in the Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Daily News, Philadelphia Magazine, South Philadelphia Review and City Paper.

Your table is waiting
Your table is waiting!
Kristian Leuzzi, the restaurant's namesake, learned at a young age that he belonged in the kitchen and dreamed of one day owning a restaurant. Nine years of experience at one of Philadelphia's leading restaurants perfecting his risottos, pastas and meats paved the way to Kristian turning his dream into a reality. In true Leuzzi family tradition, father Dominick and brothers Sonny, Joseph worked together with Kristian to transform a butcher shop located right next to their childhood home in the heart of South Philadelphia, into a one of the city's best restaurants.

Kristian's continues to be a family affair. Sonny will greet you at the door while Joseph waits on your table to ensure excellent service. Chef Kristian, of course, is in the kitchen, working his cooking magic supported by Sous Chef, Mark Ulrich, who also cut his teeth at several of the city's finest restaurants. And that's where the fun really kicks in…

"It is no small thing to perfect risotto, a dish that requires love and attention rarely found in restaurants," wrote Craig LeBan, Philadelphia Inquirer Restaurant Critic. "But Leuzzi has it down, drawing pure flavors and natural creaminess from Arborio rice."

Osso Buca on risotto
Osso Buca with saffron risotto
Kristian notes that "Pride" is the secret ingredient in each dish he creates. A menu of contemporary and traditional regional Italian cuisine includes a specialty, Osso Buca, as well as Agnello-roast rack of lamb with roasted garlic lamb jus, which Harriet Lessy of the Daily News called, "...to die for."

From great crab cakes and risottos to perfectly prepared meat and fish entrees, Kristian's is opening our neighborhood (and all of Philadelphia) to the pleasure of fine Italian cooking.

Come see what you have been missing - Sonny's waiting to seat you.


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Kristian's Ristorante
1100 Federal Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone 215.468.0104