Tuna Bar Philadelphia
Japanese raw bar in Old City
This Old City raw bar situated near the Ben Franklin Bridge is my go-to spot in Philadelphia for exciting sushi rolls and Japanese-style appetizers. Executive Chef Ken Sze specializes in fresh, local ingredients and hand-selected fish, as well as creative cocktails and a curated sake menu. The airy restaurant is upscale yet casual, and includes an outdoor patio for al fresco dining.
Tuna Bar first won my loyalty with their Sindy roll, a rice-free roll including crispy eel, avocado and mango, wrapped in thin slices of tuna. Try the Rittenhouse roll if you're in the mood for something unique. It's a fancy spicy tuna roll with cucumber, avocado, lobster tempura, and truffle masago sauce, wrapped in soy paper. If you like oysters, their kumamotos are always fresh and full of flavor. But don't forget the appetizers - I recommend the tuna tartare and the salmon tataki. Of course, you'll find the standard maki options like California rolls and tuna avocado rolls on the menu as well.
If you're lucky, you might be in town while they are offering one of their sushi-making classes, led by the Tuna Bar head chefs. Dinner and sake are included after your class. Check their website for event dates.
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