Phrankly Philly

When the September issue of Elle Decor landed in my mailbox, I couldn’t help but get giddy with excitement.  It’s my style Bible.  I must admit, however, that it breaks my heart a bit each time I read an issue and Philadelphia has been stiffed again.

Granted, we’re not as design-forward as NYC or L.A., but come on! We are the 6th largest city in the country (by population) and we have forward-thinking design.  Take Morimoto: New flash for New York: it started in Philly.

BUT THEN, as if reading my mind, Elle Decor highlighted a new restaurant on Sansom Street between 20th and 21st: Noble American Cookery.

As you approach, you can’t help but be impressed by the large fold up window that opens the entire front of the store to the street.  It’s the most welcoming restaurant entrance in the city, without a doubt.  The front door is fabulous, too.  Custom, I’m sure, it is a glass panel door with wood grain design inlay.  Its large wooden dowel handle has been worn for a great faux- patina. I’m reminded of opening a barn door.

Once inside, the first thing I thought was, “hey, nice Eames chairs!” Clearly no expense was ignored in the furniture selection.  One one side of the room is a long banquet and a row of Eames molded plywood chairs. Opposite the seating is the bar.

The bar is pretty standard with a shelf of wine storage above. The wine is stacked horizontally and held in place by small little pegs which seem to be too short. Honestly, I see a disaster in their future…but anyway…

You walk upstairs to the main dining room and your immediately hit with natural light. So much light enters through the skylights that you feel like you’re outside. It really combats the stuffiness of most restaurants. The decor is sleek with dark wooden beams balancing an simple interior that appears to have had an industrial past.

All in all, it’s a beautiful restaurant. And the food isn’t bad either. What a plus.

Thanks for noticing, Elle Decor. Philadelphians appreciate it.