a.kitchen+bar

The Rittenhouse neighborhood in Philadelphia is packed with places to eat... but this one really stands out from the crowd. The decor is pretty zen and minimal, without being cold – exactly what we love.

No fewer than four people are bustling around in a tiny open kitchen churning out about twenty plates inspired by classic French cuisine recipes and beyond. Inspired only.

Creativity is definitely there and the result is frankly convincing. You'll love the brilliant corn velouté topped with poached lobster, peanuts and lobster roe sambal.

The frisée with lardons twisted with grilled octopus and a soft-boiled egg with salmon roe is just as impressive and emotionally takes me back to my parents' table… the only recipe my dad could master. A small selection of natural wines that happily introduces us to those from Old Westminster estate in Maryland.

The service is warm, quick and efficient, as is often the case in the United States. Definitely worth a visit.