Friday Saturday Sunday
When Chad Williams and his wife Hanna took over this beloved Rittenhouse institution, Philadelphia foodies were curious to say the least. After an elegant revamp of the two-story space and a complete menu redux, the bar is as bustling as ever and Williams’ refined take on American fare has won legions of fast fans among critics and locals alike.
Judge’s take: “Chad and Hanna Williams have accomplished something special in modernizing a landmark restaurant like Friday Saturday Sunday,” says Bar Awards judge and writer Drew Lazor, who just released his latest book, Session Cocktails: Low-Alcohol Drinks for Any Occasion. “Their bar manager, Paul MacDonald, is a significant part of this success. I admire his creativity and penchant for experimentation when it comes to cocktails.”
Runners-up: ITV, Martha, Oyster House, Palizzi Social Club, Philadelphia Distilling