Philadelphia’s First Espresso Martini Bar “The Elephant” Just Opened in Rittenhouse

Okay espresso martini fans, this one is for you. Craft Concepts Group’s Teddy Sourias is once again offering a special experience at The Elephant Restaurant & Bar located at 1500 Locust Street.  The latest concept produces Philly’s first espresso martini bar.

Formerly recognized as the  seasonal pop-up,  Sourias acknowledges it’s origins while incorporating a new experience centered around the iconic Espresso Martini. Located in the heart of Rittenhouse Square at 1500 Locust Street, The Elephant looks to become the go-to chic haven for cocktail enthusiasts and will feature a lush garden-themed interior adorned with sumptuous velvet accents and sparkling embellishments, evoking a rustic yet upscale ambiance. Many of the materials used to design the space are sourced locally within Philadelphia, and from antique shops – including the original eight-foot-large fiberglass elephant head that was originally installed at the White Elephant’s entrance way, which still graces the facade at the new location.

The cocktail program, with a specific focus on refined variations of espresso martinis, features a menu with over ten imaginative takes of the much-loved sipper. Selections are subject to rotate, but currently include options such as Brûlée All Day ($15), crafted with Absolut Vanilla Vodka, espresso, crème brûlée cold foam, and Southern Tier Crème Brûlée Stout, the Rittenhouse Perk ($15) comprised of Absolut Vanilla Vodka, espresso, whipped cream, Frangelico, and lady fingers, the Banana Cream Pudding ($15) featuring Absolut Vanilla Vodka, Irish cream, banana liqueur, espresso, and caramelized bananas, and The Italian Way ($16) made with espresso, limoncello, simple, and lemon. The lounge also offers various fruit-infused as well as classic espresso martinis.

Complementing the vast selection of cocktails is a thoughtfully-curated menu of elevated New American cuisine. Features on the menu include various starters, flatbreads, salads, and entrées, including a Guniess Smash Burger ($17) comprised of an 8oz patty with cooper cheese and marinated whiskey onions served on a brioche bun, Mushroom Flatbread ($13) with maitake, shiitake, portabella, beschamel, thyme, and white wine, and a Beet Salad ($15) with red, golden, and candy cane beets, house made citrus ricotta, pickled shallots, walnuts, and orange slices.

The Elephant will also host a daily happy hour, offered every day from 4pm – 6pm. Specials include discounted espresso martinis and Stateside cans, as well as $7 flatbreads and $8 salads. Opening hours will be Monday – Thursday from 4pm – 12am, Friday and Saturday 4pm – 2am, and Sunday 4pm – 12am.