Mantra
122 S. 18th Street / 215-988-1211
$25 - $25 for two (Free spirited, urban sanctuary with a cool vibe)
Call ahead?: Not necessary

▲ Chef and proprietor, Albert Paris (no stranger to the Philly dinning scene) bears his soul is on the walls and in the kitchen of this popular, neighborhoody spot. The art of sharing is alive and well at this restaurbar where Asian influences are artfully woven through menu selections. There are no rules—you can gorge yourselves or order smaller apps and be content, mostly due to flavors that pop and kicked-up and creative, visual presentations. What we like best about Paris’s joint is its unpretentious, eclectic vibe. Even better is his dude-those-sixties-were-good-to-you personality. He’s often found making rounds in the main dining area, schmoozing with patrons (in a good way). Sommelier, George Parkinson’s knowledge of perfect pairings provides a counterbalance of sophistication. Our prime picks include: Skillet Roast Chicken Potstickers bathing in a Soy-based amalgamation of brown sugar and spiced rice wine (a measly $9 bucks) and Far East Mussels and Lo Mein which includes black beans in a tasty cilantro and oyster sauce ($15). Can’t decide, blow your wad on Mantra’s inventive twist on a Pu-Pu Platter ($26), which includes lip-smacking firecracker shrimp, crab cakes, potstickers, ribs and Persian Nut rub chicken drummettes – all yummy and finger-friendly.

Above: Mantra's Specials Borad
Below: The Bar at Mantra