In the heart of South Philly, a new restaurant has emerged, Waltz, with an old-soul charm that's hard to resist. It's a place that feels like a hidden gem, a cozy corner haunt that whispers stories of bygone eras while tantalizing your taste buds with modern twists on classic Italian cuisine.
A Nostalgic Journey
Waltz, nestled at the intersection of Front and Ritner, is more than just a dining establishment; it's a passionate project that pays homage to the neighborhood's rich history. With its wood-paneled bar, stained-glass windows, and soulful Philly tunes, you'd be forgiven for thinking it's been a beloved fixture for decades.
The crowds that flock here, even on weekdays, are a testament to its allure. They gather around heaping platters of spaghetti, their forks clinking against the plates, creating a symphony of satisfaction. But Waltz is not just about nostalgia; it's a vibrant celebration of Italian-American cuisine that has been slowly fading away due to changing times and tastes.
Culinary Craftsmanship
What sets Waltz apart is its commitment to craftsmanship. From the hand-pulled mozzarella to the wood-fired oven, every element is carefully curated. The menu, crafted by consulting chef Eric Leveillee, offers a delightful blend of familiar favorites and innovative creations.
Take, for instance, the burrata. It's not just any burrata; it's a masterpiece. The milky white burrata, stuffed with rosemary-infused mascarpone, is a sensory delight. Draped with salty prosciutto, juicy cantaloupe, and peppery olive oil, it's a perfect balance of sweet and savory. And the pizzas? They're a work of art, with sourdough crusts that crackle with complexity and tang.
A Taste of Tradition
The pastas at Waltz are a celebration of tradition. The house-extruded pastas, with their springy texture, are a delight to the palate. The lumache elbows, for example, bounce with resilience, standing up to the spiced blush sauce that's rich with crab and cream. It's a nod to the hard-shell history of the address' previous occupant, Anthony's Crab House.
A Neighborhood Gem
Waltz is a tribute to the Whitman neighborhood, an area rich in casual dining options but lacking in date-night destinations. Joey Dougherty, the co-owner and manager, aimed to fill that void by transforming this corner haunt into a polished dining experience. And he did so with meticulous attention to detail, from the restored exterior brick to the framed collage of The Inquirer editions used as insulation.
Culinary Excellence
The kitchen at Waltz is a force to be reckoned with. Despite a brief air conditioning hiccup, the table remained upbeat, thanks to the delicious food. The carbonara pizza, with its béchamel and fontina, was a standout, as was the piccante pizza with pepperoni, soppressata, and sweet-tart onion agrodolce. The pastas, too, were consistently excellent, from the tortellini stuffed with mushrooms to the pappardelle cradling a rustic duck ragù.
A Memorable Experience
Waltz offers a memorable dining experience, from the superbly tender strip steak roasted to perfection in the pizza oven to the exceptional gelati spun daily. The tiramisu, with its lady fingers dunked to order in coffee, is a unique take on a classic, and the chocolate mousse, made with Valrhona chocolate, is a decadent treat.
A Bright Future
While Waltz's drink program may need some refinement, the overall experience is impressive. The cocktails offer trendy twists, and the wine list provides affordable Italian basics. With dinner averages of $55 to $65, it's a fairly priced gem in an area lacking upscale dining options.
Waltz is a testament to the power of fresh touches and a passionate vision. It's a place where old-soul charm meets modern culinary excellence, creating an experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression.
