The beloved Old City mainstay takes a path not yet traveled.
Roast duck with torchon confit.
A long-celebrated fixture of Philadelphia’s dining landscape, Fork has just embarked on a deliciously luxe new chapter. Nestled in the heart of Old City, this iconic restaurant—a flagship of the High Street Hospitality Group—continues to dazzle under the stewardship of James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Ellen Yin. As it evolves, Fork embraces change through both culinary innovation and a thoughtful redesign, ensuring its place as an exemplar of modern dining while honoring its storied past.
Central to Fork’s reinvention is the appointment of new executive chef Sam Henzy, whose culinary journey includes tenures at acclaimed establishments such as Noma in Copenhagen and Quince in San Francisco. Henzy’s vision for Fork is to bridge his experiences from Michelin-starred kitchens with Philadelphia’s vibrant food culture, spotlighting the same reverence for local ingredients that has long been Fork’s hallmark. Reflective of his artistry and precision, Henzy’s debut menu is a celebration of flavors from the amberjack crudo’s delightful interplay of sweetness and crunch to the richness of the grano arso pappardelle with braised beef cheek.
Amberjack crudo with butternut squash and sicilian pistachio.
But Fork’s transformation extends beyond the kitchen. Under the discerning eye of interior designer Marguerite Rodgers—returning once again to refresh her original design—the dining space has been renewed to harmoniously blend vintage charm with vibrant sophistication. A focal point is the new U-shaped bar, an elegant structure crafted from cherry wood collected by Rodgers herself, surrounded by custom seating that beckons patrons to linger over drinks and conversation. This artful renovation echoes Fork’s dedication to sustainability, with restored materials cleverly intertwined with smart modern touches.
As diners explore the refreshed environment, they encounter layers of texture and style—from the warmth of custom wood paneling to soft sconces casting gentle light. These elements, balanced with a carefully curated selection of vintage prints, breathe new life into the main dining room, cloaking it in deep, inviting green hues. Central to the redesign is the newly configured waiting area and a striking wood-and-tile server’s station, adding seamless functionality that enhances the holistic dining experience.
Marguerite Rodgers introduces a fresh, refined style.
Fork’s seamless blend of old and new, underscored by Henzy’s inventive cuisine and Rodgers’ elegant design, ensures its place as a beacon of what Philadelphia dining and hospitality is all about. As it moves forward, Fork remains committed to delivering elevated experiences in both hospitality and gastronomy, inviting guests to indulge in its ever-evolving story.
Photography by: COURTESY OF STUART GOLDENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY
