New Restaurant Alert: Stephen Starr Is Set to Open the All-New Italian Restaurant Borromini in Rittenhouse Square
On August 25, Stephen Starr will open Borromini, a new Italian restaurant at 1805 Walnut Street overlooking Rittenhouse Square. Reservations are available through OpenTable.
The 15,000-square-foot, two-story space is Starr’s latest project in Philadelphia, located steps from his French bistro Parc. According to Starr, Borromini has been a long-planned concept, aiming to balance traditional Italian cooking with a contemporary approach.
The kitchen will be led by Executive Chef Julian Baker, whose career spans Michelin-starred restaurants, hotel kitchens, and Italian dining institutions. Originally from Sheffield, England, Baker trained at London’s Savoy Hotel before cooking in Milan, Tuscany, and Trentino. He also helped open Bice restaurants across Europe and the U.S. The menu was developed in collaboration with chef Mark Ladner and will feature pasta dishes such as a 100 Layer Lasagna, Carbonara, Spaghetti al Limone, and Tortelloni di Ricotta. Entrées include Branzino, Lamb Scottadito, and Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
Borromini’s beverage program will include a wine list centered on Italian regions, a small Champagne selection, and a cocktail menu with both classic and original options, including a Pomodoro Martini. Dessert offerings range from panna cotta and tiramisu to a frozen lemon sorbetto called Limone di Amalfi. The restaurant will also carry one of Philadelphia’s larger amaro collections.
The interiors were designed by Keith McNally and Ian McPheely in collaboration with Stokes Architecture & Design. The design references Roman architecture with vaulted ceilings, mosaic tilework, reclaimed oak, and 1920s-inspired finishes. Local artists and makers contributed to the project, including a mural by Zach Bird and lighting by Outcast Studios. Outdoor seating will also be available.
Borromini will serve dinner Sunday through Wednesday from 5 to 10 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m. Lunch and brunch service are planned for later in the year.
