Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about dining at La Famiglia Ristorante. For any further inquiries, please contact us.
What is the history of La Famiglia Ristorante?
La Famiglia was opened in 1976 by the Sena family inside a restored Colonial-era tea warehouse on South Front Street. Today, it remains one of Philadelphia's most respected Italian fine-dining institutions as it approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026.
Who owns La Famiglia?
The restaurant is owned by brothers Gino and Giuseppe Sena, continuing the legacy of their father, Carlo "Papa" Sena.
Who is the general manager of La Famiglia Ristorante?
The general manager is Carlo Sena, the grandson of founder Carlo “Papa” Sena.
Who is the executive chef?
The kitchen is led by Carlo Sena and Chef Luis Yauri, who preserve and elevate traditional Italian recipes cherished by the Sena family.
What does "La Famiglia" mean?
It means "The Family" — a reflection of the restaurant's hospitality and tradition-driven philosophy.
What makes La Famiglia different from other Italian restaurants in Philadelphia?
Nearly five decades of continuous family ownership, classic Southern Italian cooking, a landmark Old City setting, refined white-tablecloth service, and a world-class wine cellar set La Famiglia apart.
How do I make a reservation?
Reservations can be made using our OpenTable "Find A Table" button on lafamiglia.com or by calling 215-922-2803.
What is the largest party size La Famiglia can accommodate without a private event booking?
We typically accommodate up to 8–10 guests in the main dining room without a private event booking.
What is the dress code at La Famiglia?
The dress code is Smart Casual. We kindly ask guests to avoid athletic wear, flip-flops, or overly casual attire.
Does La Famiglia have a bar?
Yes. La Famiglia has a full-service bar offering aperitivi, digestivi, classic cocktails, and wines by the glass.
Is outdoor seating available?
Yes. During warmer months, a small number of outdoor tables may be available directly out front of the restaurant. Outdoor seating is weather-dependent and offered by request.
What are La Famiglia's signature dishes?
Guest favorites include Penne alla Famiglia, salt-crusted whole branzino (filleted tableside), and Bistecca alla Fiorentina. La Famiglia also offers a seasonal Nostalgia Menu during the summer, featuring classic dishes inspired by the restaurant's early years.
What type of cuisine does La Famiglia specialize in?
Our cuisine is Italian fine dining inspired by Southern Italian traditions, especially the flavors of Naples, while also featuring classic dishes from Rome and other regions of Italy. Expect handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and refined, sauce-driven dishes that blend tradition with a lighter, modern touch.
Do you offer a prix-fixe or tasting menu?
We offer a special prix-fixe dinner during Philadelphia Restaurant Week. Otherwise, all dining is à la carte.
Do you accommodate gluten-free or vegetarian requests?
Yes. Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free or vegetarian. Please inform us when reserving and again upon arrival so we can best accommodate you.
Do you have a children's menu?
We do not have a printed children's menu, but simple pasta dishes may be available upon request. La Famiglia's environment is best suited for older children.
What is the focus of your wine list?
Our cellar includes over 14,000 bottles, including Italian wines from Piedmont, Tuscany, Campania, and Veneto, vintage California wines dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, rare and historic Vintage Ports, and an outstanding grappa collection. It is one of Philadelphia's most significant and historic restaurant wine cellars.
Do you offer corkage?
Yes. Corkage is $35 per bottle.
Where is La Famiglia located?
La Famiglia is located at 8 S. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106, in the heart of Old City.
What are the nearest landmarks to La Famiglia?
La Famiglia is close to Penn's Landing, the Ritz Five Theater, and the Independence National Historical Park area. The Benjamin Franklin Bridge rises directly nearby as a major city landmark.
What are your hours of operation?
Dinner service is offered Tuesday through Saturday, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Do you offer parking or valet service?
Valet parking is not available. Nearby paid parking is available at the Penn's View Hotel Lot at Front & Market and the Chestnut Street Parking Lot at Front & Chestnut. Metered parking is also available throughout the immediate area.
Do you offer takeout or delivery?
Limited takeout may be available depending on the evening. La Famiglia does not currently offer delivery through third-party services.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes. Gift Certificates may be purchased online at lafamiglia.com/gift-certificates.
What private dining spaces do you offer?
La Famiglia has two private dining rooms: the Private Wine Room, which accommodates up to 25 guests, and the Banquet Room, which accommodates up to 85 guests.
What types of events can be hosted at La Famiglia?
We host wedding rehearsal dinners, corporate dinners, anniversaries, birthdays, family celebrations, and other special gatherings.
Do you offer off-site catering?
Limited off-site options may be available for select occasions. Please contact our events team for details.
How do I book a private event?
To book a private event, submit an event request at lafamiglia.com/private-events or contact vera@lafamiglia.com or 215-922-2803.
Which charitable organizations does La Famiglia support?
Giving back to Philadelphia is a core value of the Sena family. Over the years, La Famiglia has supported cystic fibrosis research, including multiple fundraising dinners hosted by Giuseppe Sena, as well as local hunger-relief and community initiatives.
Is La Famiglia involved with local community associations?
Yes. La Famiglia maintains relationships within the Old City hospitality community and supports neighborhood-focused initiatives and citywide culinary events.
Do you participate in Restaurant Week?
Yes. La Famiglia participates in Philadelphia Restaurant Week and also offers seasonal menus such as the Nostalgia Menu during select summer months.
Do you donate food or services to nonprofits?
Donation requests are reviewed individually. Organizations may email info@lafamiglia.com with details for consideration.
Has La Famiglia received any notable awards?
Yes. La Famiglia has received honors from Wine Spectator, OpenTable Diners' Choice, Best of Philly, and other dining and wine organizations.
What is a unique historical fact about La Famiglia?
The restaurant occupies a Colonial-era tea warehouse that was transformed into La Famiglia in 1976.
Has La Famiglia hosted notable guests?
Yes. La Famiglia has hosted respected business leaders, athletes, and famous musicians. The restaurant maintains full discretion for all guests.
What is the significance of the interior artwork at La Famiglia?
The dining rooms feature Renaissance-inspired murals, portraits, and fresco-style ceilings, creating the ambiance of an elegant Italian villa in Old City.
Who founded La Famiglia?
La Famiglia was founded by Carlo "Papa" Sena.
Is La Famiglia part of a restaurant group?
No. It is an independent, single-location, family-owned restaurant.
What forms of payment do you accept?
La Famiglia accepts all major credit cards and cash. Personal checks are not accepted.
Can I bring my own cake for a celebration?
Yes. Guests may bring a celebratory cake. A cake-plating fee applies, and we ask that you mention this when reserving.