Three Philadelphia notables share their favorite restaurants for hosting clients and entertaining friends.
DESTINATION: The Palm Philadelphia (200 S. Broad St., 215.546.7256, thepalm.com)
THE BACKSTORY: “All of my favorite restaurants are philanthropic and believe in supporting our vulnerable communities in various ways. I love investing my time and money in places that invest in the people that I care about. I could eat lunch at The Palm every day and not get tired of it. The new renovations and amazingly professional staff compel you to want to be a part of the mix there, as well. They have hosted important events to address the challenges facing the Philadelphia community, including an event in which former Attorney General Eric Holder spoke to at-risk kids from Camden and Philadelphia about the importance of finding a mentor, education and setting goals.”
FAVORITE DISH: Chicken paillard with basil pesto, baby arugula, cherry tomatoes, and grilled asparagus salad
DESTINATION: Alpen Rose (116 S. 13th St., 215.600.0709, alpenrosephl.com)
THE BACKSTORY: “Alpen Rose, which is part of the Schulson Collective, is very sexy, sophisticated and intimate. This time, Michael [Schulson] really outdid himself. He created a phenomenal addition to the city with a steakhouse that is very outside-the-box from what Philadelphia is used to. It is by reservation only. When you arrive, you ring the bell, and the hostess slides open a small slot asking for your name before quickly closing it. Then, they whisk you inside—you almost feel like you’re sneaking into an exclusive private party. The steaks melt in your mouth and the cocktails are phenomenal. It is a must-try.”
FAVORITE DISH: Beef tartare
DESTINATION: Ruth’s Chris Steak House (1800 Market St., 215.790.1515, ruthschris.com)
THE BACKSTORY: “I lived in New Orleans, where Ruth’s Chris Steak House started. It’s still a favorite, especially for lunch, because the menu has that New Orleans feel and taste. If you want gumbo that tastes like it came from New Orleans, get it here. I lived there for over four years, so I know. Service is also important to me because when I go out, I am often entertaining someone for work. So if I am going to go somewhere, I try to go where it’s representative of Philly. So great food, atmosphere, service... to make my guest go ‘wow.’”
FAVORITE DISH: “Louisiana seafood gumbo. Whenever I go to a restaurant that has gumbo on the menu, I order it, and this has to be the best in the city.”
Photography by: PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE PALM; RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE; SCHULSON COLLECTIVE
