Harper’s Garden Relaunches with an Outdoor Bar

Harper’s Garden Reinvents Itself in the Heart of Rittenhouse

The vibrant Rittenhouse dining scene has welcomed back an old favorite with a fresh new twist. Harper’s Garden, a beloved Center City staple, has officially relaunched with a refreshed culinary identity, lower price points, and a reinvigorated outdoor experience. Spearheaded by owner Avram Hornik and newly appointed Executive Chef Chris Keyser, Harper’s Garden now offers a homestyle Italian menu that’s approachable, shareable, and thoughtfully crafted—anchored by an expanded patio bar that’s quickly becoming one of the most coveted cocktail destinations in the city.

Located at 31 South 18th Street, Harper’s Garden has long been known for its charming ambiance and open-air energy. Now, with Keyser’s culinary vision and a reimagined space that blends natural elegance with urban chic, the restaurant is poised for a new era—one that speaks directly to Philly’s discerning diners and design-conscious food lovers alike.

Harper’s Garden Delivers Comfort-Driven Italian Fare

The centerpiece of the Harper’s Garden relaunch is undoubtedly the menu. Curated in collaboration with Drew DiTomo of Meetinghouse—named one of Bon Appétit’s top 20 restaurants in the nation—Executive Chef Chris Keyser brings a pedigree that includes the award-winning Union in Pasadena and Philly’s own Vetri Family.

The result is a menu that leans into rustic Italian comfort while remaining clean and modern. Start with small plates like the Shrimp Scampi in garlic butter with focaccia, or the Cacio e Pepe Arancini, delivering a crispy, creamy bite of pecorino-laced risotto. The Burrata with Pesto Rosso is an instant favorite, balanced by peppery arugula and velvety olive oil, while the Braised Meatballs and Antipasto Classico set the tone for warm, convivial dining.

Pasta lovers are well catered to—think Spaghetti & Meatballs, Potato Gnocchi in basil pesto, and a standout Rigatoni a la Vodka that brings all the creamy, tomatoey indulgence one could ask for. Those craving heartier fare can opt for classics like Chicken Parmesan, Eggplant Parmigiana, or the robust Grilled Hanger Steak with arugula and fennel. And don’t overlook the Prosciutto & Arugula Sandwich, a perfect midday bite paired with crispy fries.

Even the happy hour menu is a hit, offering a range of $7 bites like Tomato Bruschetta, Meatballs by the Piece, and Buffala Mozzarella with Pesto—making Harper’s Garden one of the most value-packed options in the neighborhood.

Harper’s Garden Introduces Center City’s New Favorite Patio Bar

Beyond the plate, Harper’s Garden is redefining the Center City cocktail experience with a brand-new outdoor bar that seats 22, surrounded by high-top seating for 20 more. The bar is designed for both relaxation and social buzz—surrounded by lush greenery, sculptural wood accents, and floral installations courtesy of New York’s famed Floratorium.

Whether you’re sipping a Negroni in the golden hour or catching up with friends over an Aperol spritz under twinkling lights, the space captures the essence of European sidewalk café culture, right in the heart of Philadelphia. It’s no surprise that Harper’s Garden is also participating in the beloved Center City District Sips program, offering another reason to linger longer.

Harper’s Garden Brings Weekend Brunch to Life

Brunch at Harper’s Garden is no afterthought—it’s a full-on celebration. Menu highlights include French Toast Short Stack with brûlée butter, Avocado Toast with crème fraîche and pickled onions, and a bold Nashville Hot Chicken & Grits layered with cheddar cajun grits and hot honey. Classicists will appreciate the Eggs Benedict—offered with lemon hollandaise over ham and spinach, or crabcake and avocado—and the indulgent Monte Cristo French toast sandwich draped in raspberry coulis.

Each brunch dish can be paired with light salads or potato hash, and optional add-ons like eggs, smoked salmon, and bacon keep customization easy for every appetite.

With refreshed energy, a focused culinary direction, and one of the most appealing al fresco settings in Philadelphia, Harper’s Garden has successfully redefined itself. The fusion of classic Italian flavors, accessible pricing, and an aesthetic that feels both homegrown and elevated ensures its spot as a go-to for weekday lunches, date-night dinners, and celebratory gatherings.

Whether you’re popping in for a casual plate of pasta or hosting a 200-person garden soirée, Harper’s Garden proves that reinvention—when done right—is just as sweet as the original.

About Post Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

See author's posts