Caffe Ida

Phenomenal chicken cutlets. Well pounded, juicy, tender, and holding a crisp crust. Intelligent and well balanced use of oil and tomatoes. Topped with sharp provolone for bitter balance (better than arugula places sometimes use to achieve this balance).I'll add, though, that the bottom half of the roll was dried out (partially stale). I didn't want to allow that to cloud the review because the interior bones of this sandwich were phenomenal and I think this is a 5-star place. However, next time I should politely ask for a new roll.

A homey place to be in with several table. We were nearby so decided to stop in for coffee. Ida made our lattes. We added caramel syrup to it and enjoyed our chat. Next time we will try the foods.

It's like a south Philly dude replicated my grandma's house. Espresso and Italian imported sodas, History channel on TV and homemade preserves in the cabinet. Pretty sure he uses the same tablecloths as her too. Unlike granny, this dude didn't ask me when I'm gonna have kids. 5/5

So, after our initial visit we went back and nothing was the same. I don't know if it was sold or what but they couldn't get any of the sandwiches right and all the things that made this place charming were gone. So sad that the change was so dramatic. I don't think I will be going back.

Ida's never disappoints. We're very lucky to live across the street from such an amazing restaurant. I just had the chicken cheesesteak for the first time and it was incredible and completely packed with meat. If you haven't tried Ida's, you're missing out!

Was I just in Italy? Double espresso, perfect with a creama on top that was superb. Everyone in the joint was speaking Italian. The food was great. Steak, pepper egg and cheese. Huge and only $8 and big enough for two. A basket of perfect crispy fries. Buddy had a feta spinach and egg sandwich. They serve lunch and dinner. The service was very warm. The restaurant was busy. Right in the heart of South Philly. This is a must visit .

Where can you get $1.50 espresso and a $2 Americano in the city? Here. And only here, at this sweet little no frills, old school Italian cafe in the heart of South Philly. You can expect some of the South Philly Italian charm....one of the dozen seasoned men who just hang out playing cards here will open the door for you, let you go ahead of them in line and call you "honey" or "swetheart". If you're a local, you may see some of your favorite neighborhoods characters here. Freshly made buttery cookies, perfectly almond toned biscotti and flaky croissants for next to nothing. The offerings changes daily. I hear they also make a pretty solid, packed sammy too. I'll have to bring hubs back to try them out and update after. Classic imported Italian grab and go items for sale also. There's a few table outside. Inside the tables are taken by the "regulars" every time I've come. It's cash only. Service is quick. Expect that crazy, unmistakable South Philly parking though.

I like bread and egg for breakfast Great cup of coffee self serve your likeSugar and creamsFriendly servers and close to my house Good for in morning coffeeSuper clean the lady was nice.

Randomly popped in to grab a bite while I was dogsitting in the area. This place is amazing! Definitely a spot for the local Italians playing cards and shootin the breeze, but they were all welcoming and so was the woman running the cafe. (Ida herself, I think!) Delicious food, fast service, and we watched her slice the meats herself ! I would definitely recommend this spot, and I'll be back.

It's incredible. From the americano, to the chicken cheesesteak, to Ida herself, to the guys playing cards, its all perfection. Go get yourself the deliciousness with no frills that is Caffe Ida