The Team Behind Forsythia Is Opening a New Cocktail Bar, Known Associates, Featuring Inventive Cocktails and a European Café-Style Menu
The Team Behind Forsythia Is Opening a New Cocktail Bar, Known Associates, Featuring Inventive Cocktails and a European Café-Style Menu
Philly’s cocktail scene just got a compelling new address. Known Associates, the highly anticipated new bar from Chef Christopher Kearse and design firm PS & Daughters, opens its doors this Friday, June 26 at 3 PM at 941 Spruce Street — and if their previous collaboration is any indication, this one is worth paying attention to.
Kearse and PS & Daughters last teamed up in 2019 on Forsythia, which earlier this year earned recognition from the Michelin Guide. Known Associates marks their second act together, and the concept feels like a natural evolution — more intimate, more layered, and built entirely around the art of the neighborhood cocktail bar.
“I’ve always loved the idea of an experience that’s fun, interactive, and a little whimsical,” said Kearse. “It was part of my original vision for Forsythia, and I’ve kept that idea tucked away for years. I’m excited to finally bring that vision to life at Known Associates.”
The 1,500-square-foot space seats 40 guests and leans fully into a maximalist aesthetic — think well-worn opulence, richly layered details, and an atmosphere that feels simultaneously intimate and sophisticated. Every corner is designed to reward repeat visits; the kind of place where you notice something new every time you walk in.
The program, led by Beverage Director Chris Harrop, balances inventive originals with thoughtful twists on classics. The Goldeneye Estate — a nod to Ian Fleming’s Jamaican estate and the James Bond franchise — reimagines the classic Vesper with gin, vodka, plum wine, mango-infused Lillet, and lemon oil. The Bittered in Bond is a spirit-forward riff on a boulevardier, built with house-made mezcal amaro, Bonal Gentiane, Cappelletti Aperitivo, Licor 43, and a touch of salt. For something lighter, Between Harvests offers a refreshing Martinez variation with Hayman’s Old Tom Gin, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, Nardini Rabarbaro, and muddled cucumber.
Sustainability also makes an appearance on the menu with the TNT — a zero-waste cocktail featuring tomato water and a dehydrated tomato chip garnish made from the very tomatoes used to produce it.
Unlike most cocktail bars, Known Associates takes its culinary program seriously, drawing inspiration from European café and bar culture. The menu spans playful snacks to refined bar fare, including the Cool Ranch Crunch Peas, a nostalgic and elevated bar snack, and the Burger Au Poivre — a reimagined version of Forsythia’s beloved cheeseburger, made with caramelized onions, comté cheese, and peppercorn sauce. Dessert options include Toasted Rice Milk Ice Cream and a decadent Chocolate Mousse.
Known Associates is open daily from 3 PM to midnight. For more information visit knownphilly.com.
