This summer, Friday and Saturday evenings at Penn’s Landing are getting a smoky upgrade with the launch of Sunset Sizzle on the River, a brand-new July BBQ series hosted by Keating’s Rope & Anchor at the Hilton Penn’s Landing. With Executive Chef Matthew Andrew manning the smoker and live music setting the tone, this waterfront celebration is a bold, flavorful homage to National Grilling Month. From 5 to 9 PM every weekend in July, guests are invited to kick back on the patio, sip seasonal cocktails, enjoy sweeping river views, and indulge in rotating grill specials that bring both surf and turf to the flame.
Sunset Sizzle on the River: Live Music and Waterfront Vibes
Keating’s Rope & Anchor has long been a favorite for seafood lovers and riverfront diners, but Sunset Sizzle on the River adds a festive and fiery twist to the experience. Each weekend in July, the patio transforms into a sizzling cookout destination with Chef Andrew working the smoker in full view of guests. Live acoustic sets from local artists—Nick Horan on Fridays and Michael James on Saturdays—create an easygoing atmosphere perfect for date night, group outings, or casual hangouts after a stroll through Spruce Street Harbor Park.
“We want this to be your go-to Friday and Saturday evening,” said Chef Andrew. “It’s all about good food, good music, and one of the best sunset views in the city.”
Sunset Sizzle on the River: July Menu Highlights
What truly sets Sunset Sizzle on the River apart is the evolving weekly menu—a rotating lineup of grilled specialties that celebrate the bold spirit of summertime cooking. Each weekend offers three standout dishes, ranging from indulgent burgers to elevated seafood and carefully smoked meats.
July 4–5 opens strong with the Rocky Burger, a decadent cheesesteak-topped burger smothered in cheese whiz, onions, and peppers. Alongside it, diners can savor Smoked Clams Pasta in a zesty puttanesca sauce, or fall off-the-bone Coffee Rub Pork Ribs served with a refreshing coleslaw.
July 11–12 introduces the globally inspired Asian Burger, topped with Sriracha mayo and Asian slaw, while the Grilled Lobster Tail dazzles over smoked mozzarella ravioli dressed with corn, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, basil oil, and truffle oil. The hearty Pork Loin Rib Chop, paired with smoked apples and rosemary spinach mashed potatoes, delivers rustic elegance.
July 18–19 highlights lighter, vibrant options like the Turkey Burger with spinach and feta on brioche, a flaky Grilled Seabass served over couscous with asparagus and sun-dried tomato, and the Apple Cider Brined Beef Tenderloin with Hasselback potatoes and asparagus—each a refined take on cookout classics.
July 25–26 ends the month with a fiery kick, starring the Hot Honey and Pepperoni Burger, the umami-rich Grilled Ahi Tuna Steak with jasmine rice and baby bok choy, and BBQ Smoked Chicken and Pineapple Skewers over rice pilaf—a tropical twist that closes the series with flair. Pair these grill specials with the zesty Blood Orange Margarita ($15) or explore the full dinner menu, which remains available throughout the series.
Located on the first floor of Hilton Penn’s Landing, Keating’s Rope & Anchor offers not just impeccable food but an immersive waterfront experience. Whether you’re looking to unwind after work, plan a memorable evening out, or celebrate the season in style, Sunset Sizzle on the River checks every box: live music, expertly grilled fare, and the unmistakable ambiance of the Delaware River as your backdrop.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through OpenTable. After your meal, take a riverside walk, check out Summerfest, or just linger a little longer with a cocktail in hand as the sun sets.
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