Almyra

Certain expectations come with restaurants like Almyra, an untz-untzing Rittenhouse spot that belongs in an adults-only all-inclusive in Tulum. One look around and it seems like the food might be an afterthought. Hot pink floral arrangements drape down from the ceiling. A DJ plays house music at “I’m sorry, I can’t hear you” volumes. And you can’t get to the bathroom mirror without pissing off an influencer in leather shorts. But Almyra's dishes, which are sorta Mediterranean, sorta Asian, and unsurprisingly expensive, are better than these details suggest.

Spanakopita Mantiphoto credit: GAB BONGHI

The menu is a bit all over the place and requires some strategizing to order well. Most of the food is Greek, but Japanese dishes make a few cameos. We don't know why. We do know that the duo of tuna and salmon tartare tastes fresh and bright. On the Mediterranean side, start with a trio of spreads with earthy smoked eggplant and tangy whipped feta balanced by jalapeño. Then go for the buttery sea bass in a sherry vinaigrette—the best main here—or the well-seasoned (though once over-seasoned) lamb chop. But skip the kebabs, which are far too salty and difficult to eat for $22.

photo credit: Gab Bonghi

Lavrakiphoto credit: Gab Bonghi

Anthosphoto credit: Gab Bonghi

Like its sister restaurant Estia, Almyra's sprawling, over-styled room was destined for big groups. But this place has considerably more energy, which means it's better for the neon cocktail crowd than those looking for a calm meal before a show at the Kimmel Center.

If your main objective is to eat great food, there are plenty of better restaurants in the neighborhood. But if you’re into vibe dining, and “stranger's bachelorette party” is your vibe, head here on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night when the place is bumping, and be pleasantly surprised by your dinner.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Gab Bonghi

Almyra Chips

One of the best starters at Estia are the Estia Chips. These are the same, but with a new name. Thinly sliced eggplant and zucchini get lightly fried and served with a tangy, garlicky tzatziki. It's a good salty starter to share over cocktails.

photo credit: Gab Bonghi

Shrimp Kadaifi

The spicy aioli is the most exciting thing on this plate. Which tells you what you need to know about the flavorless jumbo shrimp wrapped in crispy phyllo strands.

photo credit: Gab Bonghi

Duo Tartare

Chilled salmon and tuna tartare served with light, crunchy lotus crisps. It's a great choice for a quick meal at the bar.

Chicken Kofta

Skip these tough chicken sausage skewers. They’re too salty and just plain difficult to eat.

Crispy Rice

If you have a hankering for sushi, get the duo tartare instead. Or just go elsewhere. We're not sold on the chunks of green olive in the tuna, or why these three bites of crispy rice cost $18.

photo credit: Gab Bonghi

Lamb Chops

Few combos in life measure up to that of meat and potatoes. If you’re here and eat red meat, get this stack of herb-marinated lamb chops and crispy-on-outside, creamy-on-the-inside fries. The chops are well cooked, medium rare with a ruby red center, and good to share.

photo credit: Gab Bonghi

Chilean Sea Bass

This sea bass is beautifully seared, flaky, and complemented by umami-heavy sherry vinaigrette. It’s the best entree here.