PHILADELPHIA - I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting restaurants in Philadelphia, especially in a neighborhood as dynamic as Fishtown. So, when I heard that Amá, an ambitious new Mexican restaurant, was opening at 101 West Oxford Street, I knew I had to check it out. What really caught my attention was the team behind it: four restaurant veterans with deep roots in Mexico, led by Mexico City-born chef Frankie Ramirez. This wasn't just another taco joint; this promised to be something special.
Walking into Amá, I was immediately struck by the spacious and stylish atmosphere. It's modern and chic, yet feels welcoming and comfortable. It's the kind of place that's perfect for a date night, but also casual enough for a relaxed dinner with friends. The full bar is a centerpiece, and it's clear they take their mezcal and tequila program seriously, which is a huge plus in my book.
The menu is where Chef Ramirez's talent truly shines. It's a modern take on Mexican cuisine, with dishes that are both innovative and deeply flavorful. I had to try the shrimp ceviche tostadas, which were incredibly fresh and vibrant, with a perfect citrusy kick. The real star of the show for me, though, was the lamb neck birria. It was rich, tender, and packed with a complex, savory flavor that was absolutely unforgettable. You can tell this is a chef who has honed his craft across the city and is now truly coming into his own.
Amá is a fantastic and much-needed addition to the Fishtown dining scene. It offers an elevated yet approachable Mexican dining experience that feels both authentic and contemporary. The combination of a beautiful space, a top-tier bar program, and a menu full of creative, delicious dishes makes it a must-visit. I can already tell this is going to be one of the hottest tables in the neighborhood. I'll definitely be back to explore more of the menu and dive deeper into that mezcal list.
