Business Details
Authentic Italian Dining in Historic Philadelphia
Bistro Romano has been a cornerstone of Philadelphia's dining scene for 38 years, offering an authentic Italian culinary experience in a historic 18th-century granary building. Our commitment to quality is evident in our locally sourced ingredients, house-made pastas, and signature dishes like our award-winning Caesar salad, lobster ravioli, and truffle gnocchi. The restaurant's ambiance combines old-world charm with modern elegance, featuring candlelit stone walls, a private wine cellar, and a lively piano bar. Our team of experienced professionals, including Chef and General Manager Jessica Simms, curates innovative tasting menus and hosts memorable private events in our 120 Wine Room. Recognized with accolades such as Wine Spectator's Best of Excellence Two Glasses Award and OpenTable's Most Romantic Restaurant, we continue to deliver exceptional dining experiences.From our five-course Chef's Tasting Menu to our extensive global wine selection, every aspect of Bistro Romano reflects our dedication to culinary excellence. Our commitment to hospitality extends to our private dining options, including the intimate Wine Cellar Experience and the versatile 120 Room for corporate or social events. Whether guests visit for our Wednesday-Thursday Pasta e Vino special or our weekend piano bar entertainment, we strive to create unforgettable moments through food, service, and atmosphere.
Services
Italian Dining
Wine Cellar Experiences
Piano Bar Entertainment
Private Events
Wine Shoppe
Highlights and features
- 38 years of culinary excellence in Philadelphia's Society Hill
- Award-winning dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients
- Unique private dining experiences in our historic wine cellar
- Extensive wine list with global selections and expert pairings
- Live piano entertainment in our weekend Bistro Bar
Associations and certifications
- Wine Spectator Best of Excellence 2 Glasses Award
What people say
Award-winning Caesar salad
Truffle gnocchi excellence
Romantic wine cellar
Live piano ambiance
Attentive service
Services
Italian Dining
Our historic restaurant offers an elevated Italian dining experience with candlelit ambiance and stone walls. The menu features house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and premium meats prepared with innovative techniques while maintaining traditional flavors. Guests enjoy attentive service in a romantic setting that combines 18th-century architecture with modern comforts.
Wine Cellar Experiences
The Wine Cellar accommodates intimate gatherings of 2-4 guests with a curated five-course tasting menu. The experience includes rose petal table decor, candles, and limoncello, served in a secluded space with wine crate walls. Reservations available at 5PM and 8PM for special occasions like date nights and proposals.
Piano Bar Entertainment
Our Bistro Bar transforms into a piano lounge on weekends with live performances by Craig Satchell. Guests can enjoy cocktails and dinner while listening to popular favorites and requests in an atmosphere that encourages social interaction and memorable evenings.
Private Events
The 120 Wine Room on our second floor hosts private events for 20-125 guests. This versatile space accommodates weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate meetings, and holiday parties with AV equipment, Wi-Fi, and customized menus. Our expert team assists with planning to ensure memorable occasions.
Wine Shoppe
Our Wine Shoppe offers US and international varietals with discounts up to 50%. The selection includes award-winning wines from Italy, California, and beyond. Guests can special order specific wines not in stock, with assistance available for bulk purchases and wine pairing recommendations.
People
Jessica Simms
General Manager
Jessica Simms brings extensive hospitality leadership to Bistro Romano, overseeing daily operations and guest experiences. With deep industry knowledge and a commitment to excellence, she ensures the restaurant maintains its reputation for exceptional service and culinary innovation in Philadelphia's dining scene.
Corey M. Glackin
Assistant General Manager
Corey M. Glackin contributes operational expertise as Assistant General Manager, supporting Bistro Romano's service standards and team development. His hospitality experience helps maintain the restaurant's balance of historic charm and modern Italian dining excellence in Society Hill.
Questions
What makes Bistro Romano unique?
Our historic 18th-century building, stone walls, and wine cellar create a distinctive setting for Italian dining. The combination of traditional recipes with modern techniques and our extensive wine program differentiate us.
Do you offer private dining options?
Yes, we have the Wine Cellar for 2-4 guests and the 120 Wine Room for events up to 125 people, both offering customized menus and special ambiance for occasions.
What are your signature dishes?
Our award-winning Caesar salad, lobster ravioli, and truffle gnocchi are signature favorites. The five-course tasting menu showcases our culinary expertise with seasonal ingredients.
When is piano bar available?
Live piano entertainment occurs Friday and Saturday nights in the Bistro Bar, featuring Craig Satchell performing popular favorites and guest requests.
Do you have gluten-free options?
Yes, we offer gluten-free pastas including penne pesto, fettuccine Bolognese, and spaghetti pomodoro, clearly marked on our menu with dedicated preparation.
Can I purchase wine to go?
Our Wine Shoppe offers US and international varietals with discounts up to 50%. Many wines are available by the glass, bottle, or special order for take-home purchases.
