Dining Out!
Dining Out! is the Mike McCann Team’s new column about all of the great places to eat in Philly, from the classic spots to the hidden gems. Read up on all of these fantastic restaurants that keep our city de-licious!
Rex 1516
Rex 1516 is a culinary treasure located in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse neighborhood. The restaurant combines a stylish and comfortable atmosphere with fantastic Southern cuisine. The staff strives to make customers feel right at home, allowing them to feel at perfect ease in the family-style, New Orleans inspired environment. We spoke with Rex 1516’s General Manager, Heather Rodkey, about all of the reasons to fall in love with this great local spot!
The Style
We told the designer to mimic an old, Southern mansion. He definitely channeled the quaint, old world charm of NOLA
The Food
We specialize in elevated Southern cuisine. One of our signature dishes is a crawfish pot pie that is made with a house-made mushroom soup, diced vegetables, a three cheese blend, and loads of crawfish. Chef Justin Swain is also very interested in regional BBQ and smoked meats. We feature 6 different house-made BBQ sauces which are great on dishes like our smoked brisket, chicken wings, and fried green tomatoes. The fried chicken, house burger, and huevos rancheros for brunch have won several “Best of Philly” awards. We also have a full list of specialty cocktails, with a focus on New Orleans classics, and a varied, cost-conscious craft beer selection. Our wine list is well thought out with selections that can stand up to bold, Southern flavors.
The Service
We like to have a staff of seasoned professionals and people brand new to the industry. We start our less seasoned staff members as a host, then promote to busser, then server. By the time they’re at the server level they have a very strong understanding of the brand of hospitality that I like to provide in the restaurant. I stress down-to-earth service backed up with excellent product knowledge and, more important than anything, emphatic hospitality.
Special Features
We offer a ‘Citywide Special’ every Tuesday and Wednesday that includes a burger, a pint of Newbold, and a shot of Devil’s Cut for $15. A new guest chef is invited every week to create their own burger with a ‘punny’ name.
Rex 1516 does an excellent job of bringing the cuisine and style of New Orleans to Philadelphia and they are an amazing addition to our thriving Restaurant scene. They are extremely thankful for the support they have received from Philadelphia and credit their success to Philly’s passion for small businesses. We recommend spending your next night out at Rex 1516! It will quickly become one of your favorite restaurants in Philly!
Written by Patrick Kaisinger (Mike McCann Team Blogger Extraordinaire)
