Best Open Kitchen Restaurants in Rittenhouse Square

17 restaurants available nearby

1. Little Water

4.6

Exceptional(109)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Center City

Booked 40 times today

Located in the historic neighborhood of Rittenhouse Square, Little Water is the latest restaurant from husband-and-wife team, Chef Randy Rucker and Amanda Rucker. Inspired by the Ruckers' experiences living along the Gulf Coast, New England, and Mid-Atlantic regions, Little Water is a contemporary coastal restaurant that celebrates the ecological diversity of life by the sea.The sister restaurant to the acclaimed East Passyunk Avenue gem, River Twice—which has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer and The New York Times, and has earned Chef Randy’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently, a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic—Little Water continues the Ruckers' dedication to sustainability and local sourcing. With an a la carte menu inspired by the dynamic ecosystem of tranquil marshes, expansive bays, and secluded coves, Little Water captures the coastal spirit in a warm and lively atmosphere.

A photo of Estia - Philadelphia restaurant

2. Estia - Philadelphia

4.8

Exceptional(8811)

Price: Very Expensive

• Greek • Center City

Booked 81 times today

The stunning restaurant, which is first of its kind in Philadelphia, will transport guests to the Greek Islands with an atmosphere reminiscent of an inviting Mediterranean home & a menu of authentic specialties, simply prepared, that represent the best of Greek cuisine. The restaurant specializes in whole grilled fish which are flown in from the Greek Islands, the shores of Morocco, Tunisia, & Portugal. Guests are able to choose from Estia’s expansive display & watch chefs cook their fish to perfection over a charcoal grill in the sparkling open kitchen.

3. Melograno

4.8

Exceptional(1652)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 24 times today

Melograno was established in 2003 by Chef Gianluca Demontis & Rosemarie Tran. The couple met in Rome when Rose was studying abroad. When Luca relocated to Philadelphia they wanted to represent his roots. Located in the beautiful Rittenhouse Square, surrounded by shops and entertainment. Melograno is a warm haven for good food and comforting service. A place to enjoy with friends and family. We are a BYOB so bring the spirits of your choice, we are happy to serve you.

4. Chika Ramen Bar

4.3

Awesome(20)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Center City

Booked 19 times today

The Japanese word “chika” means basement/cellar/underground place. The cuisine at Chika is traditional sushi & ramen (cold & hot) dishes with Japanese bites prepared by Dean Leevongcharoen, a 12-year chef who was trained in Japan. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dining options are also available.

A photo of Steak 48 - Philadelphia restaurant

5. Steak 48 - Philadelphia

4.8

Exceptional(5121)

Price: Moderate

• Steakhouse • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 88 times today

At Steak 48 in Philadelphia, we serve the finest steaks and high-quality seafood in an intimate and vibrant setting. The diverse menu at our Philadelphia steakhouse location will satisfy any personal craving, as we serve the best USDA prime steaks, succulent seafood and shellfish along with inventive and classically inspired side dishes and appetizers. Our master butchers custom cut 28-day wet-aged steaks by hand for cooking in our 1800-degree broiler. Much of our beef comes from Midwestern farms in Michigan and Wisconsin as well as premium Wagyu beef brought in from the Mishima Reserve. Enhance your meal with a hand-crafted cocktail made from local ingredients. Make your reservation today. We can't wait to see you!

6. Vernick Fish

4.7

Exceptional(2211)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Center City

Booked 64 times today

Vernick Fish presents Philadelphia’s own, Chef Greg Vernick’s exploration beyond the boundaries of a seafood restaurant. His ingredient-driven cooking style, paired with a love for global flavors, results in an inventive menu of fish and shellfish dishes, and a range of vegetable preparations. Taking a detailed, seasonal, and sustainable approach with small and large plate offerings, the kitchen brings new life to the favorite hallmarks of American oyster bar fare and raw bar. Complementing the experience are well-crafted cocktails, and a focused wine list of seafood-friendly white and sparkling offerings, as well as light, fresh reds.

A photo of Fork - Philadelphia restaurant

7. Fork - Philadelphia

4.7

Exceptional(5135)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Old City

Booked 54 times today

Fork has been part of Philadelphia's exciting dining scene for over 25 years. Always evolving , Fork has stayed true to its mission, with a commitment to seasonality, carefully sourced local ingredients grown and produced by local farmers, producers and fishermen. Located in Old City, a neighborhood of art galleries, shops and independent small businesses, Fork is completely consistent with that spirit. The dining room includes gorgeous contemporary murals and a newly updated central bar where you can watch the action in our open kitchen or relax and enjoy the warm hospitality offered by our team.James Beard Winner-Outstanding Restaurateur, Ellen Yin, 2024James Beard Foundation Finalist - Outstanding Restaurateur, Ellen Yin, 2018, 2019, 2021; Best Chef Mid-Atlantic, Eli Kulp 2016Esquire - "100 Restaurants We Can't Afford to Lose" 20% gratuity added to all parties of 6+.

A photo of Dolce Italian - Philadelphia restaurant

8. Dolce Italian - Philadelphia

4.1

Excellent(124)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Center City

Booked 4 times today

Capturing the timeless spirit of Fellini’s 1960’s Rome, Dolce Italian truly brings ‘la dolce vita’ to life with its effortless charm and approachable sophistication. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with house-made pastas, Neapolitan-style pizzas, and other signature Italian dishes.

9. River Twice

4.6

Exceptional(37)

Price: Very Expensive

• American • South Philly

Booked 14 times today

River Twice is a Modern American restaurant that celebrates the richness of our regions bounty located on East Passyunk Avenue in South Philadelphia. Our menu frequently changes to reflect the finest of what local purveyors have in season to give guests a unique experience with every visit in our intimate but casual atmosphere. Our thoughtfully curated beverage list and wine pairings coincide with our dedication to develop a sincere connection to the Delaware River Valley and mid-Atlantic region. Our intimate, window-lined dining room offers a charming view of the iconic Singing Fountain on East Passyunk Avenue. The dining room surrounds an open kitchen where you will be able to see our chefs at work.River Twice has been recognized by The Philadelphia Inquirer, The New York Times, has earned Chef Randy Rucker’s Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best Chef” and, most recently Chef Randy Rucker garnered a James Beard Award nomination in 2024 for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic.

10. Roxanne

4.7

Exceptional(8)

Price: Expensive

• American • Queen Village

Booked 3 times today

Welcome to Roxanne—a brilliant, wild, revolutionary project by chef Alexandra Holt, sparked behind a purple door in South Philly two years ago. Named after her mother, Roxanne is a true labor of love. The vibe is cozy, open, and personal: with an open kitchen, you’re right in the action, catching Alexandra plating each dish and pouring her journey into every detail.Tables are handcrafted by Alexandra and her mom, the entire space designed with their hands. Roxanne’s menu brings ‘American Expressionism’ to the plate, inspired by Alexandra’s life across 30 countries. Expect fearless flavors—seafood, a burger, caviar, organ meats; there’s nothing off-limits.Whether you’re here for the tasting menu at reserved tables, exploring the à la carte board, or diving into the bar snacks with a drink, Roxanne is all about big, unapologetic vibes and dishes crafted with passion.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
Jacqueline
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Always amazing food and great drinks here highly recommend the Tori Karaage and bang shrimp for appetizers and the spicy chicken miso ramen is the perfect spice level, enough heat to clear the nose without overpowering the flavor.
More info
Chika Ramen BarPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Center City
•
4.3
M
Mari
Atlantic City / South Jersey Shore •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Excellent experience, starting with delicious drinks at the bar, and carrying through to a wonderful dinner. Service was also terrific, with special kudos to our waiter, Finn.
More info
Steak 48 - PhiladelphiaPrice: Moderate• Steakhouse• Rittenhouse Square
•
4.8
C
Chris
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Our second time at Little Water and quickly becoming our favorite restaurant in the city. Upon walking in, the hostesses greeted us by name and our server knew of our food allergies from our last visit. From their non-alcoholic drink options to every flavor on the menu, each item we ordered was fantastic and just as good as we remembered from the first visit. The fried sea bass is definitely a star of the show and we have literally told no less than 3 dozen people about it lol. I’m not normally one to leave a long detailed review, but Little Water really delivers a phenomenal dining experience in every way — best food/drink and service/hospitality in recent memory no question!
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Little WaterPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Center City
•
4.6
W
William
Philadelphia County •36 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We love Estia when we come to Philly to see a show at the Academy of Music. Friendly, efficient servers. Great food and drinks. Clean bathrooms!!
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Estia - PhiladelphiaPrice: Very Expensive• Greek• Center City
•
4.8
L
Liz
Denver / Colorado •18 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Just fabulous. Food. Great vibe. Superb service. Go!
More info
MelogranoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Rittenhouse Square
•
4.8

Best Open Kitchen Restaurants in Rittenhouse Square

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17 restaurants available nearby

1. Little Water

2. Estia - Philadelphia

3. Melograno

4. Chika Ramen Bar

5. Steak 48 - Philadelphia

6. Vernick Fish

7. Fork - Philadelphia

8. Dolce Italian - Philadelphia

9. River Twice

10. Roxanne

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