Restaurateur extraordinaire Stephen Starr opened Buddakan in 1998 to critical praise and overwhelming popularity. The sleek décor — including a waterfall and a 10-foot golden statue of the Buddha — makes Buddakan, like all Starr restaurants, a theatrical dining experience and a place to be seen. Under the direction of star chef Scott Swiderski, the Asian Fusion cuisine does not take second billing to the glamorous atmosphere and bar scene, though. Artfully designed entrées such as the Japanese black cod or the roasted duck breast with five-spice jus are meant to be shared, as portions are colossal. Full bar. Serving lunch Mon–Fri, dinner nightly.
Where the Locals Eat Rating
Best Asian Fusion/Pacific Rim
Top 100 Restaurant, Philadelphia
“Slick, sexy, and spectacular, Buddakan is one of Philadelphia’s hottest spots for dining, drinking, and lounging.”
— Mobil Travel Guide
“Without benefit of stage or band, Buddakan buzzes like a nightclub. And the food, delectable Asian fusion dishes constructed as avant-garde architecture—edamame ravioli, duck breast with roast garlic five spice jus—is a show all by itself.”
—Philadelphia magazine
“…Buddakan has already done well in striking that rare balance between those seeking fine dining and those in search of a scene.
—Craig LaBan, Philadelphia Inquirer
“It's an experience that will leave you as sated, as spiritual and as destitute as Buddha himself, but a whole lot closer to home.”
—34th Street magazine
How Others Rate Buddakan
Zagat 2009
26 food rating (extraordinary to perfection)
Philadelphia Inquirer
*** (excellent)
Frommer’s
** (very highly recommended)