
A New Era of Japanese Comfort Food in Philly
In the heart of Rittenhouse Square, the culinary scene in Philadelphia is experiencing an exciting transformation with the opening of Dancerobot. This new venture from Jesse Ito, the acclaimed chef behind Royal Sushi & Izakaya, is not just another Japanese restaurant; it's set to redefine the local palette by introducing a unique blend of traditional and western-influenced Japanese cuisine.
Breaking Tradition: What to Expect from Dancerobot
Unlike typical Japanese eateries in the area, Dancerobot boldly opts out of sushi, focusing instead on yoshoku cuisine, which reflects the comfort food culture of Japan. Diners can expect delicious dishes such as katsu curry, wagyu roast beef, and even nostalgic pizza toast. Executive Chef Justin Bacharach, a long-time collaborator of Ito, mentions, “This isn’t fusion; this is what people in Japan eat regularly.”
A Culinary Journey Inspired by Japan
The inspiration for Dancerobot stretches back to a recent research trip to Japan, where Ito and Bacharach sought to explore traditional kissaten coffee houses that offer familiar Western-style Japanese dishes. “Every dish is a piece of our journey,” reflects Ito, capturing the essence of their travels. This immersive experience greatly influenced their menu, showcasing items that are carefully crafted from scratch, reinforcing the authenticity that Dancerobot aims to offer.
Late-Night Bites and Whimsical Cocktails
The excitement continues into the night with a late-night menu inspired by konbini or convenience store dishes, featuring favorites like egg salad sandwiches and chicken donuts. The cocktail offerings will include inventive drinks made with shochu and traditional Japanese twists on popular cocktails, perfect for a night out in the vibrant Rittenhouse neighborhood.
Celebrating Community and Culture
As much as Dancerobot is about innovative dining, it’s also about community. This new eatery fills a significant gap in Philadelphia's Japanese culinary landscape, adding a familial touch that resonates through its ambiance and welcoming atmosphere. Bacharach emphasizes, “A restaurant should reflect the community it’s serving,” and Dancerobot stands as a testament to that philosophy.
Where to Find Dancerobot
Located at 1710 Sansom Street, Dancerobot opens its doors for dinner from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, and until 11 p.m. on weekends. Given the restaurant's anticipated popularity, early reservations are recommended, with tables quickly getting booked for weeks in advance.
Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur of Japanese cuisine or a curious newcomer, Dancerobot offers an electric atmosphere paired with comforting culinary delights that promise to connect diners with the heart of Japanese culture. Come experience the new depths of Japanese food in Philadelphia!
To secure your table today, visit Dancerobot's official website for reservations.
Write A Comment