The Laurel
Condominium complex · Rittenhouse
1911 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Highlights
Chef Nick Elmi's French-American fusion, now a la carte
Chef Nick Elmi's French-American fusion, now a la carte
"What makes this modern French spot in East Passyunk one of the best restaurants in Philly? Well, it’s like a chameleon. The mirror-lined space works for a big-deal date, but it’s still casual enough to sit at the bar by yourself and blend in. The real reason Laurel is at the top of the list, though, is that we’re always blown away by the originality of the dishes, which are now offered a la carte instead of strictly via tasting menu. Try the mussels hiding under shiso leaves and scallops in an oyster cream that you’ll want to bottle and take home. It'll feel Iike eating the ingredients again for the first time." - candis mclean, alison kessler
"Critically acclaimed restauranter Nicholas Elmi partnered with general manager Jane Fryer and chef Kevin McWilliams to transform his once French tasting menu-only extravaganza into a more creative, free-flowing a la carte experience. Here, pork au poivre pairs with quince; monkfish joins turnips and sorrel; and corn mousse is dressed blackberries for dessert. Fancy and flavorful is an understatement." - Emma Orlow
"Laurel, chef Nick Elmi’s small flagship restaurant, recently shifted gears from fine dining with a pricey tasting menu to a neighborhood restaurant with high-end dishes and a mean bar program, full of natural wine and fine cocktails. The new a la carte menu will feature international and local influences in dishes like sourdough with cultured butter, beef tartare, and scallops with oyster cream. The business has also expanded into Elmi’s bar next door." - Ernest Owens
"Chef Nick Elmi’s embrace of French and New American cuisine has garnered national recognition for years. Parisian gnocchi, wagyu beef coulotte, and fluke crudo are bold standouts on an ambitious menu that has been impressing critics and diners alike." - Ernest Owens
"Nick Elmi, chef of the acclaimed Laurel, is a finalist in the Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic category." - Rachel Vigoda
