By: Termeh Mazhari | From Summer 2007
Rittenhouse Square is home to the city’s liveliest sidewalk café scene. Ever since Rouge opened in 1998, Philadelphians have been craving more al fresco dining experiences. As of last summer, Philadelphia offers 187 establishments with outdoor seating, the largest concentration of which can be found in the areas west of Broad Street, especially around Rittenhouse Square.
Brasserie Perrier • 1619 Walnut Street • 215-568-3000
Famous local chef and restaurateur Georges Perrier’s eponymous brasserie is the epitome of Rittenhouse chic. Stop by during happy hour to take advantage of the specially priced select cocktails, beer and wine with some complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Hungry for more? Stick around for a taste of Philadelphia’s finest French cuisine – with specialties including Bouillabaisse and Alsatian Choucroute – all while basking in the sun.
Rouge • 205 Sout 18th Street • 215-732-6622
For the quintessential al fresco dining experience, look no further than Rouge. With its fantastic location and gorgeous view of Rittenhouse square, Rouge’s Parisian bistro- style outside café tables are a local institution. Besides being THE place to go for people-watching and cocktail sipping, it’s also home to the award-winning Rouge Burger: 12 ounces of tasty beef served with melted gruyere cheese and caramelized onions.
Loie • 128 South 19th Street • 215-568-0808
With its recent renovations, Loie Brasserie & Bar has become one of Rittenhouse’s coolest hang-out spots. Serving an impressive selection of beer and contemporary French bistro fare, Loie’s specialties include cheese and charcuterie as well as entrees like Gratineed Lobster Gnocchi and Confit Duck Quarter.
Continental Midtown • 1801 Chestnut Street • 215-567-1800
The hottest of the Rittenhouse al fresco dining spots, Stephen Starr’s continental midtown attracts a steady flow of ultra hip 20 and 30 somethings who come for martinis and mingling. There’s plenty of outdoor seating on the street, but even better is the penthouse rooftop balcony where crowds gather under the glowing stars every Friday and Saturday night. On the menu: giant-sized salads, Szechuan Shoestring Fries, Cheesesteak Eggrolls and loads of specialty cocktails to wash it all down.
Tria • 123 South 18th Street • 215-972-8742
Tria offers an impressive selection of cheeses, salads, bruschetta, and paninis but the real draw is their variety of beers and wines by the glass. There are over a dozen varieties of cheese offered here, with a host of national and international beer and wine to pair them with. So grab a seat outside and enjoy the good life.