Saturday

10-18-2025 Vol 2117

Rockwell & Rose Opens in Philadelphia, Redefining the Steakhouse Experience

The culinary scene in Philadelphia has just welcomed a fresh addition with the opening of Rockwell & Rose, strategically located just steps away from the well-loved P.J. Clarke’s.

This innovative restaurant aims to combine gourmet steak and seafood with an enticing bar program, creating a new haven for locals and visitors alike.

According to Tim Killeen, General Manager of P.J. Clarke’s, Rockwell & Rose has been a personal passion project.

Killeen expressed the restaurant’s intent to serve not just as a place for special occasions but as a community hub where locals can gather and enjoy a great meal, regardless of the circumstance.

“We want to tempt new faces across the city and the region to visit our part of the city and enjoy a great meal after experiencing its historical treasures,” he stated.

Designed to be more than just a special occasion destination, Rockwell & Rose strives to cater to a diverse clientele, providing a comforting space for diners winding down after a long day or looking for a quick bite before heading to the theater.

The ambiance of the restaurant is a fusion of vintage Americana with a modern twist, housing a spacious, dimly lit dining room complemented by a vibrant bar area and a front dining space with views of Washington Square.

Additionally, the venue features a private dining room and incorporates elements from the original Norman Rockwell Museum, ensuring a unique atmosphere for patrons.

The menu is carefully curated to include traditional steak and seafood offerings, elevated with creative twists that set it apart from typical steakhouses.

Guests can indulge in a variety of meat options, including dry-aged bone ribeye, lamb chops, and porterhouse for two, with an array of enhancements like cognac cream and tellicherry peppercorn crust.

Seasonal specialty dishes have also made their way onto the menu, such as the “Freedom From Want,” inspired by Thanksgiving, featuring rolled turkey with sourdough stuffing and sweet potatoes, alongside more inventive dishes like Pear & Gorgonzola pasta and Poached King Salmon with Thai chili and miso.

The culinary team has prioritized local and seasonal ingredients, collaborating with nearby suppliers for meats and seafood, while local brands also provide their bread and ice cream.

On the raw bar, seafood enthusiasts will find a variety of options, complemented by an enticing selection of sides that include lobster mac and cheese and sweet chili glazed Brussels sprouts.

For dessert, patrons can treat themselves to indulgent offerings such as Monkey Bread served with bourbon caramel, S’mores Cheesecake, and a classic Key Lime Pie Brûlée.

The bar program, overseen by Killeen and Michelle Zarallo, features an impressive assortment of drinks, including eight taps showcasing beer and cider, a vast wine selection curated by a sommelier, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails.

Consumers can expect high-quality ingredients in drinks like The Autumn Stroll with tequila and pear or Grandma’s Chine featuring bourbon and black tea.

For guests seeking a more refreshing option, the menu will also feature a range of soft drinks and mocktails, alongside a Happy Hour from 4 to 6 p.m. every Wednesday through Sunday.

Killeen emphasized the restaurant’s commitment to forming relationships with its patrons, aiming for a familiar atmosphere.

Their motto encapsulates this philosophy: “Come in once, we will know your name; come in twice, we will know your order; come in three times, and you’re family.”

Rockwell & Rose opens its doors as a new culinary destination in Philadelphia, inviting guests to experience a unique blend of tradition and modernity in dining.

Fans of P.J. Clarke’s have yet another reason to visit the area, with Rockwell & Rose’s diverse menu and inviting ambiance promising a dining adventure unlike any other.

image source from:metrophiladelphia

Benjamin Clarke