Sally, which opened in 2020, has quickly become a popular local dining spot in the Rittenhouse/Fitler Square area. It didn’t hurt that they were named Best New Restaurant of 2021 in Philadelphia magazine, whose stellar review submits that “every so often a restaurant summons all its confidence, swings open its doors, and absolutely nails every single thing it sets out to do.”

Unable to get a reservation on a Saturday night, three women and two dogs tried for an early walk up. Success! A friendly server brought our drinks (I opted for a Wild Currant Sour Ale – nicely tart on a warm summer eve) and water for the dogs. The meal turned into something of a neighborhood social hour as we chatted with strolling friends and curious passersby. A casual and friendly restaurant and natural wine store, Sally takes food seriously.

The wood-fired oven is the focus, and it works hard churning out sourdough crust pizzas, grilled cabbage, carrots and shrimp. Tempted to try a bit of everything, we shared small plates and pizzas.  The House Ricotta with local honey and bee pollen to slather on charred toast was scrumptious; the locally sourced Simple Salad with shallot vinaigrette just right, and the Pizzaz (fresh tomato and pickled peppers) and Mushroom and Egg pizzas crunchy and piquant. A bottle of Chateau Cambon, Beaujolais would make a nice accompaniment next time (great wine list). Pescatarians will appreciate the Clam and Charred Leek pie. And why not a slice of Basque cheesecake to share?