Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse neighborhood welcomes a new dining concept that blends Italian tradition with a family‑friendly atmosphere. Bar Cicci, opened by restaurateur Ellen Yin at 1620 Sansom Street, is designed to feel like a vintage Milan aperitivo bar where friends and families can linger from morning until night.
All‑day menu rooted in Italian hospitality
The concept draws on the Italian custom of gathering before dinner to relax, converse, and enjoy light fare. Yin’s team spent weeks traveling through Venice and Milan, sampling cichetti bars and studying how those establishments balance quick bites with a leisurely pace. The result is a menu that moves fluidly through the day.
Morning guests are greeted with classic espresso drinks and a selection of Italian pastries. Options include buttery cornetti (Italian croissants), cannoli cruffins, tiny cannoli, fruit‑topped crostata, and a maritozzo—a sweet brioche filled with lightly sweetened whipped cream and vanilla. For a refreshing twist, Bar Cicci serves shakeratos, including an orange‑infused version.
Midday and evening offerings
Lunch shifts to savory panini and pizza bianca, while the evening menu expands to feature a curated wine list, craft cocktails, and a variety of small bites inspired by the Venetian cichetti tradition. Diners can share plates of cured Italian meats sliced on a flywheel slicer, artisanal cheeses, and other seasonal small plates.
The dessert program continues after dinner, offering sweet treats for those seeking a final indulgence. Whether stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a full evening experience, Bar Cicci aims to provide a consistent, relaxed vibe throughout the day.
Design and philosophy
Yin describes the space as more than a restaurant; she sees it as a work of art shaped by the emotions it evokes. Vintage Milanese décor, warm lighting, and an open kitchen invite guests to leave the stresses of the outside world behind, “one bite and sip at a time.” The emphasis on lingering aligns with the broader cultural shift toward slowing down and prioritizing quality time with loved ones.
Local impact
Bar Cicci joins a growing roster of independent eateries that enrich Philadelphia’s culinary landscape while supporting local jobs. The venue is part of High Street Hospitality’s expanding portfolio, known for its commitment to quality sourcing and thoughtful menu development. By introducing the aperitivo concept to Rittenhouse, the restaurant offers residents a new gathering place that celebrates both food and community.
Bar Cicci is open daily, with breakfast starting at 7 a.m., lunch at 11 a.m., and dinner service beginning at 5 p.m. Reservations are accepted for evening seating, and walk‑ins are welcome throughout the day.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
