Rope & Anchor at the Hilton Philadelphia Penn's Landing

Philadelphia, PA - Rope & Anchor, Bar + Kitchen, located inside the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn's Landing, offers a compelling waterfront dining experience. As Philadelphia's only waterfront hotel, the Hilton provides a unique setting, and Rope & Anchor capitalizes on this with its contemporary American cuisine, emphasis on sustainable seafood, and locally sourced ingredients. This isn't just a hotel restaurant; it's a destination for both visitors and locals seeking a delicious meal with stunning views of the Delaware River.

A Vision Realized: History and Heritage on the Waterfront

The restaurant's concept is deeply rooted in the history of Penn's Landing. Dan Keating, owner and developer of the hotel, envisioned a space that reflected the "unique location, history, and culture of the waterfront." The design, executed by Floss Barber Inc., incorporates nautical references, natural textures, and weathered colors of blues, grays, and a touch of red. Artwork throughout the restaurant pays homage to the area's maritime heritage, featuring knots, ships, and scenes from the Delaware River. American artifacts, including a reproduction of a "tuck up" watercraft called Top Priority (built by and borrowed from the nearby Independence Seaport Museum), are integrated into the space, adding a unique historical dimension.

The Menu: Classic American Fare with a Seafood Focus

Executive Chef George Gilfesis leads the culinary team, crafting a menu of classic American and seafood fare. While the menu may evolve seasonally, past offerings and likely staples include:

• Light Bites & Starters: Look for options like Urban Fried Calamari (potentially with sweet and spicy cherry peppers, arrabbiata, and sriracha aioli) and Cheesesteak Landing Eggrolls (a Philly twist, possibly filled with shaved steak, green bell pepper, caramelized onion, and provolone, with sides like Yard's cheddar ale and roasted tomato coulis).
• Past Menu Highlights: Options that were once on the menu are Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, and the Goat Cheese Fritters.
• Mains: Expect a range of seafood dishes, potentially including variations on Dungeness Crab Stuffed Raviolis (perhaps with seared shrimp, roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, asiago cheese, and a lemon chive mascarpone). Land-based options might feature dishes like an Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb (possibly with smashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a natural jus).
• Desserts: Indulge in classic desserts; the Flan has been specifically highlighted as a must-try.

The Bar: Craft Beers, Wine, and Cocktails

Rope & Anchor's bar offers a robust beverage program, including:

• Craft Beers: Over 10 beers on tap, likely featuring local and regional breweries.
• Extensive Wine List: A carefully curated selection of wines to complement the menu.
• Cocktails: Expect classic cocktails and potentially signature creations, like a Classic Red Sailor Sangria.

The Space: Waterfront Views and Flexible Seating

The restaurant's design maximizes its waterfront location. With over 160 seats (both inside and out), Rope & Anchor offers a variety of seating options:

• Waterfront Bar: Intimate seating for drinks and conversation.
• Communal Dining Tables: Great for groups and a lively atmosphere.
• Traditional Café Tables: For a more classic dining experience.
• Outdoor Patio: Softly lit with bistro lights, perfect for enjoying the river views (weather permitting).
• Admiral's Quarters: A private dining room that can accommodate up to 80 guests for cocktails, dinner, or special events. This makes it an amazing event space.

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Rope & Anchor, Bar + Kitchen, at the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn's Landing, is more than just a hotel restaurant; it's a destination. The combination of waterfront views, a thoughtfully designed space, a menu highlighting classic American and seafood dishes, and a strong beverage program makes it a compelling choice for a memorable dining experience in Philadelphia. Whether you're a hotel guest or a local, Rope & Anchor offers a unique blend of history, heritage, and culinary craftsmanship.