Bomb Bomb Restaurant Reviews

This was a restaurant I thought I would check out on the way to a soccer game at Lincoln Financial Field. Coming from NY, I had very little knowledge of South Philly or the Italian eateries in the area. I have to agree with prior posts that this restaurant is a bit inconspicuous and you could easily drive by it if not careful. The streets are all one-way in the area so make sure you don't miss it! I went with a relative at 4PM on a Saturday and the place was empty, however, about an hour later it started filling up fast. From the start of the meal to the end, everything was incredible. The sangria and birch beer they serve were both excellent and then came the appetizers. We ordered their calamari and the Bomb-Bomb Mussels. The calamari was well done, not rubbery and came in a very flavorful pepper sauce (it wasn't too spicy, kind of sweet actually). The mussels were out of this world and were some of the best I ever had. You could tell the mussels marinated in a home-made sauce for hours and that they were not playing around. They also gave a huge amount so don't worry if you think they got light on you. Next were the entrees; I had the chiopinno (red sauce) and my dad has clams with linguine (white sauce). My chiopinno looked like a work of art; it had shrimp, scallops, clams, and mussels with crabmeat on top. I can't even describe how good it was, I wish I could give it 6 stars. The dad's entree was really good too, and goes to show that they could do both red and white. By the time dessert came, we were too stuffed to order any, but I bet it would have been good. This place is by far one of the best Italian restaurants I have ever been to in my life. I will absolutely go back any time I am in the area and highly recommend to anyone with a love for Italian food.

We went here tonight as it was not far from our AirBnB...and what a great place! The people were SO nice and friendly...and the food was great... Being from the South we were skeptical when they touted there BBQ, but it was excellent! And the folks both employees and patrons were just so nice and welcoming to us as visitors...we are hoping to go back again before we leave!

This restaurant has been around forever and a day..ask about how it got its name. The place is so friendly as to servers and owner cooks etc. The food is so delicious most esp. anything with 'gravy' (sauce) i love the chicken parm the soups great, meatballs are tasty not bland..they use to have salad w/ your meal i think they now have it as an option.. the mussles are just so good in that garlicy sauce even though i dont eat them. (my sis usually gets it) i will dip into the juice with the nice warm bread..as the juice is that tasty. Desserts awesome..and such a nice choice as to what u might choose on the menu.. the few times i had the ribs i was very pleased.though i've heard some complain. It's such a cozy place really tiny with your square tables w/red checkered type tablecloths..but also has a nice bar attached w/ separate walk in..but if your looking for a good place to take a few people who visit and want a nice relaxing not fussy higher end Italian meal in the heart of south philly this is a good place. I would check though as i'm sure weekends being so small there will be a wait. Again..you can do an early dinner a lunch.. etc. from sandwiches ..burgers or just some appetizer and grab some drinks! i feel at home here...

In the mood for eating out we head to this place, look like a bar from the out side and they have just few table but the food ( we split a shellfish plate) was great and the service super friendly. Be back again

Frank, the longtime owner, couldn't be more delightful. He's 91 and sits out front. This mom-and-pop restaurant specializes in BBQ and Italian food--yup, that's right--your choice. It's like Mom prepared dinner. Way comfortable and casual--it's just good eats at a reasonable price. It's fun. Get to know the staff. Cabs take a while to get to and from there, but it's worth the trip!

My granddaughter moved into this neighborhood about 1 year ago and introduced us to Bomb Bomb. Located in South Philly, this is a real gem. A small bar in front is backed by a cozy dining room. Nothing fancy, but plain very clean. We had lunch at the bar and found the staff very friendly and willing to go the extra mile. Neighborhood patrons at the bar were very friendly, and having moved out of Philly many years ago, was able to relive some old memories. The food was well-prepared, nicely presented and excellent in all respects. The tripe on the menu was prepared "a la Romano" style in a tasty red sauce and cooked to perfection. The brisket sandwich and fries were great as was the pepper and egg sandwich. A wide selection of quality wines and beers was evident on the shelves and cooler, and homemade sangria made for a nice light appertif. If you're driving in the neighborhood and find a place to park, don't miss it!

Get the mussels!! Get the antipasto. Get any pasta with red gravy. Service is off the wall. Super friendly and very personal. Small seating area and small bar area. Go more then once and everyone will know your name. Just another reason to visit south Philly. Mangia !!!

Crab Fest! One of the few South Philly Italian places to get crabs n macaroni! Blue crab cooked in marinara served over linguini. 18.95 n you get three nice sized blue crab! $170 for 5 adults and one child. We had two appetizers, pitcher of Sprite and two delicious deserts. Reservations made but had to wait 20 minutes as we arrived earlier. Great service. We enjoyed the Mussels and fried calamari appetizer!

Flew in and searched Open Table for close restaurants to the airport. The name Bomb Bomb and combination BBQ & Italian sounded interesting so we gave it a try. This is in a historic corner location in a neighborhood. It's not far from the stadiums. The service was quick and welcoming. The food was very good. We had the calamari to start which was excellent. My co-worker had the ribs and I tried the mussels with red sauce. We both cleaned our plates! I would go back again when in town.

Lay over night in Philly. Deep in the heart of South Philly, heard about this bar that serves Italian and bar b que. ordered Italian and sea food, no BBQ. Place is chaotic, service is rushed but super friendly. Place very small and frequented by locals. Good super good and prices are fair. If you can find it, go there.

When my brother-in-law took us to this restaurant as one of his favourites, I firstly couldn't figure out what it is so special about this tiny place in between nowhere. The homemade Italian food served by most friendly lady answered all the questions. It's a very local and friendly restaurant, serving only homemade authentic Italian food, which was to die for!!! Absolutely brilliant!

Home made Italian fare Constant quality There for 60 years Family owned Best ribs period Muscles red gravy wife's favorite All orders al dente Never a bad meal here A must stop here when I go to South Philly open lunch dinner and late night

yo, you want south philly? THIS IS SOUTH PHILLY! I was born and raised around the corner from this place, and had not had dinner there till I was well into my thirties. Go figure! a fine, yet small eatery deep, deep in the heart of South Philadelphia. Traditional Italian recipes, yet somehow became noted for their BBQ RIBS, which I must say lived up to the hype. the place was built in the 1920's, and the name suggests a somewhat nefarious history (let them explain) and it harkens back to scenes from films like THE GODFATHER. 2 things to know, they get crowded early and they don't take reservations. and a parking spot is worth its' weight in gold. so, if you're not claustrophobic, you will absolutely love this place,

All you need for a real South Philly dining experience is the Bomb Bomb. We live in South Philly, very near the trendy hip E. Passyunck section. We like our neighborhood, but for us it is well worth it to walk the extra few blocks and eat at Bomb Bomb. No pretense, and wonderful food. I love the seafood linguine and partner is a crazy about their bbq, so our two very different palates can be satisfied. Step outside the box and try this place! Its a fun experience.

We have eaten here several times over the last 2 years and enjoyed it each time. It does get VERY busy so calling ahead to check on table availability and wait time is advised. The mussels are a favorite, but I've also enjoyed the crab cakes and chicken. Portions are generous and service is very friendly and casual. The bar is always busy! They run out of desserts early in the evening - just a caution if that is a problem for you!

Been hitting the Bomb Bomb since 2005 during Navy business trips. Never miss an opportunity for a great meal whenever I'm in Philly. Tripe cooked exactly as my Grandmother did in the 1960s and is a real treat for those who enjoy it in a red sauce over linguini. Freddy the chef is spectacular!!!

Love this place. Corner neighborhood bar doing their own home cooked Italian food. All was delicious with a real sense of home cooking. Oyster stew was a fun change of pace. The braciola was a special and quite a treat. Service was perfect south Philly hosting.

Nice Bar where you can have snacks. Restaurant behind for a la carte service. Really good seafood pasta. Outside only 2x2 seats at road.

Always good, always friendly, full of local charm and great food and drink. Get the mussels, or any pasta on the menu and you'll be happy!!

I needed food for 30 people for an event. Bomb Bomb did a fantastic job providing recommendations, giving guidance, and the day of the event had everything ready on time. The food was exceptional - we were all so happy! I recommend it for catering AND dinner!

Excellent simple Italian and very good BBQ Ribs in a old Italian Neighborhood setting. We eat at the bar before going to a Phillies or Eagles game. Joint is less than 10 blocks away. try the house draft beer which is excellent. The mussels with red sauce are as good as it gets! We usually eat at the bar and trade insults with the bartender. A fun place! When you are there check out how the restaurant got it's name.

A typical South Philly eatery. Off the beaten path but true home made dishes. Outstanding Italian food as well as South Philly Staples. A great place. Ask about the name when you visit.

My wife and I were returning from a post holiday gathering and decided to stop somewhere for a drink this pass Thursday My wife mentioned Triangle tavern but I convinced her to stop at bom boms since it’s closer to our home It was not quite 8pm and the closing time is 9pm on Thursday per their website We were dropped off by our Lift at Bom bom . The outside metal door was propped open & the lights were on. However when we tried to enter we found the inner door was locked. We could see a shadowy figure moving around through the frosted glass of the inner door, however no one responded to our knock. We have decided as much as we like the place & most of the staff, we will not waste our time going there if it’s 6pm or later. Frieda cantina is another fine place only a block or so farther than bomb bombs, or to triangle tavern a bit down 11th street. They are both professionally managed and keep their posted hours, unlike bom boms.

Everything is just perfect!! Good service, and very nice people You should try seafood! And burgers)))))))))))))))))

My husband had been here previously & insisted on bringing me here! Quaint bar up front and tables in the back. The Hostess was most Welcoming & Cheerful! I needed a coffee drink for my cough -- Irish Coffee, she brought -- Perfect! There is a good lookin' rack of ribs they offer, but most cuisine is Italian. Great salad & Great Seafood Linguini! Yes, I saved some room for dessert! Yum! The apple pie & ice cream were Delish!

I expected a bigger restruant when walking in but all the staff was very friendly. Our waitress was great and friendly. We tried the new root beer beer and it was good. Also had calimari as an appetizer which was really good. Our entrees weren't as good but we're decent. I thought it would be better given the reviews but maybe it was just what we had ordered.

I saw this restaurant on Tripadvisor and decided to give it a try. I had the half ribs lunch special with spicy barbecue sauce. They were very tasty. The meat fell off the bone and there was very little fat. My mom had the chicken parm sandwich. She loved it. It was obviously home made. Would definitely go again.

Ileana our bar tender welcomed us and made us feel so warm. Her welcome was sincere. Linda was our server. She made us feel like family and welcomed us graciously to her table. The Food was awesome. Reservations are a must, depending on the day of week. Price range is middle of the road.

Stumbled upon the Bomb Bomb while daughter was staying at a nearby hospital. It was the perfect place to get a bite to eat. The place is bright and clean and the staff are all super friendly. The food is very good, particularly the crab cakes and chicken parm. We will be back!

Friendly people take care of you. Starters were very good and the ribs out of sight. It's best to take a taxi there nowhere to park

South Philly special. Great italian & BBq menu, great service. 5 of us split two orders of the bbq pork ribs for appetizers - so tender they fell off the bone. For dinner we all had the Fra Diavolo or Fish Special (Sea Bass). Seafood and pasta were all cooked perfectly. Carafe wine is cheap & cheerful. Neighborhood spot so they are cleaning & closing by 9pm. Get seated by 7pm. Highly recommend.

Place is very small but the food is good. Ribs are very good. Had specials the night we went. Good service.

Always stop in before a game for the mussels and great Italian food. But the service is always the best. She has been there forever and treats everyone like family. Bad on names, but she is the only one there. Love the basic macaroni and meatballs. Great ribs, gnocchi and soup. You will love this place.

What a quaint little place. We really loved it here. Homemade pasta. Homemade PEACH pie! Huge plate of mussels, WOW! Great service too.

Great place! It is on the small side but the food is really good for a local bar. Worth a try.

excellent food!!! had the chicken marsala--it was the best i ever had---great little place in the heart of s. philly--my hometown

Never disappoints.me with the taste, quality and quantity of food provided when ordered. In the summertime they do cleaned crabs and spaghetti in red sauce. Yummy. I enjoy their gnocchi and escarole soup. Always have ice box cake for dessert. Like being in your Grandmom’s kitchen bac in the day.

Visited for the first time and won't be the last. Calamari Fest was advertised and delivered! Stuffed calamari was so tender and well seasoned. Ribs were tender and not over sauced. Getting hungry writing this! Staff was super friendly and attentive.

We love this place! It is a small place with big heart and great food! The service is top shelf. You must ask for Linda DeCero as she is the best. G is in the kitchen and fantastic. I come home to Philly about 5x a year, and Bomb Bombs is a must stop. Everything on menu is great. Known for barbecue ribs. They have awesome seafood too.

This South Philly fixture lives up to being a great place for crabs, seafood, and old fashioned pasta dishes with gray/ I have had the crab cakes, just like Maryland style. The Ribs here are fantastic as well as the chicken. There is a full service bar and they have their own Larger on Tap. Service is family friendly. On street parking is hard to come by so plan accordingly well worth the trouble.

We love love love this place. Great people and great food. Love G.. great chef. Always friendly and food is amazing. Eileen was terrific. Missed you, Linda! 5 of 5 always!!!

This is one of my favorite south philly restaurants. They have fantastic Italian dishes on the menu that you can never go wrong with. They also have seasonal seafood dishes that you can never go wrong with. If your in the mood for something different they also serve great ribs. The staff is fantastic with a family atmosphere. The place is small so if its a peak time you would definitely need reservations.

Tucked into a cozy South Philadelphia neighborhood, this place is a jewel! Love the homemade vinaigrette dressing. The menu has good South Philly variety, but If you like ribs, this is the place. .......falling off the bones and a generous portion. The prices are great! ($13 for a 1/2 rack of ribs, fries & cole slaw; basic salad $1.50!) The place is, of course, packed for dinner on the weekends and pretty crowded with locals for dinner during the week. There’s about 20 seats in the dining room so go early to avoid waiting or go for lunch.

Found this using the trip advisor app for nearby BBQ places. I was pleasantly surprised by my experience here. The lady working the bar was very funny, and interactive with the table. She told me the story about the name Bomb Bomb...and I will leave you to go there to find out why it's called that. I got the pulled pork sandwich with fries...the meat was seasoned well and cooked very nicely. The person I was with got the Brisket and it was really good also. The best thing about the place is their sauce, which they sell also...so of course I had to buy some. If you are in South Philly and looking for some awesome BBQ...check this place out!

What a wonderful time we had at this hidden gem in South Philadelphia. Everything we ate come out hot and delicious. We had mussels white, salad, wings, seafood, bar b q chicken and ribs. We topped it off with sinfully delicious desserts that we are still dreaming about! Friendly service and cozy restaurant. Never felt rushed while talking with friends.

I have been hearing my SIL and BIL rave about Bomb Bomb forever so I was really thrilled when we had dinner there during my Christmas visit to Philadelphia. We'd just seen the movie, 10th and Wolf that was set in this South Philly neighborhood (the it was filmed in Pittsburgh), so that led to even more fun! Though I was born in NYC, I have lived in Alabama since I was 17 so it was really neat to drive through this Italian neighborhood of row houses similar to where I lived as a child, to find the restaurant right on the corner, all lit up with Christmas lights and its famous sign--two bombs! We entered through the bar, bellied up, and ordered drinks. Even before we had two sips, a table was ready for us. We didn't have reservations, but we must have timed it just right because the sining area was full. I would recommend reservations because there are only about ten tables. The staff is extraordinarily friendly which rubs off on the patrons, I think. My husband, wearing a University of Alabama jacket, was greeted with "Roll Tide" from several patrons! The food was delicious. I had veal parm, The red sauce/gravy was So Good! My SIL ordered the mussells and she raved. My husband and his brother had one of the specials, hot and sweet sausage with linguine. We were all very happy with our meals. No room for dessert! All in all, it was a great experience and I look forward to dining there again on another visit.

We have come here several times as my BF is from S. Philly. This was his old stomping grounds. WE LOVE THE Pork wings and meatballs. We especially love Linda.

Small quaint neighborhood South Philly Restaurant. Great food and appetizers. Staff is very friendly and aim to please. Try their fried calamari. They do crab and spaghetti in red during summer months

Found this restaurant by accident and sure glad I did. They recommend reservations but were able to accommodate my friends and I. This place has a great atmosphere and the food was great. Definitely try the ribs and chicken!!!!!

Worst meal we ever had. Started with wings and mozzarella sticks that were frozen and deep fried like you get at a carnival. The special pork chop for the night was not special at all. Was so tough it could not be cut with a steak knife or chewed. The spaghetti and clams were swimming in grease and butter. Almost thought it was soup. For dessert the ice box cake should have been left in the icebox. Don’t waste your time going there when there are so many other great restaurants in the area.

Bomb Bomb is a wonderfully small south Phili gem. The place keeps you coming back time after time. Everything is fresh and prepared with care and you can taste it! You can tell that the seafood and meats are sourced somewhere special. Nothing is overlooked at this place and the staff is great.