Ambra

The Best Restaurants In South Philly - Philadelphia - The Infatuation

"This tiny, tasting-menu-only spot serves incredible Italian food, but the big draw of Ambra is the experience beyond what you're going to eat. There are only two seating options: in the kitchen with the chefs, or at the single communal table in the candlelit, plant-filled dining room where you'll have a wine, caviar, and truffle-fueled dinner party with nine new friends. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect things like handmade pasta in a veal and artichoke ragu, perfectly seared lamb loin, and 'nduja-topped oysters. Ambra also proves that exceptional service doesn't have to be so serious—only restaurants making food this good can have this much fun, but most don’t. Ambra has a community table, dining room, and kitchen counter seating (two to four people). The kitchen counter is the front-row ticket everyone wants. Reservations come out two months in advance, on the first of the month. Also, they have a reservationist who you can call at 267-858-9232 and ask about cancellations or potentially bribe." - candis mclean, alison kessler