Andra Hem — Restaurant in Philadelphia

Cute spot that we happened to stumble upon. We were able to walk right in on a Saturday night, so that was cool.

I think this place has some things going for it, but hits the mark on others. I think the Nordic vibe, with the interesting decor and clean and elegant furnishings are spectacular. Something you don't get very often in the US. The idea of a fobbed entrance to the upstairs bar is cute and adds a layer of "specialness" to the experience. The drinks are interesting and different for sure.

I think my negatives also lie with the taste profiles of the drinks. Lambhattan - a lamb fat washed Manhattan. In theory this drink was exciting to me, execution was not great. Instead of the lamb fat wash adding to the drink it was the only flavor you tasted, it actually just felt like you were drinking lamb fat, which isn't a super enjoyable experience. The fig martini was okay, to be your "best known" drink I think it left me wanting. I think the issue I had is that the drinks boast a lot of flavor profiles, but they either over deliver or under deliver the promised flavor.

The potato pancakes...

This is strictly a cocktail bar. The drinks are INCREDIBLE but there are no meals, just snacks for pairing.

The Pear Jordan was delicious and I also got a kick out of the little pear cutout of the Air Jordan symbol on my ice cube. I didn't actually get the reference when I ordered initially but it had me giggling when it arrived. I really liked the squared-off bench seating, as it allows for a closer (but not weirdly close) seating arrangement.

The only issue I had was that it was such a clean, intimate atmosphere and then later on they started playing upbeat music much louder, and it completely killed the vibe. I couldn't hear what my date was saying which made the conversation difficult, and I felt like I had to yell everything.

If they had turned it down a bit, it would have been an easy 5 stars. I will say in retrospect, I should have asked and it's entirely possible they would have done so.

Regardless, I will probably go back in the future and try sitting downstairs instead! I still recommend this location just maybe not for...

Embarrassing slightly to admit, but I've been to a significant amount of bars and lounges in my time here in Philadelphia, but none stand out more than this place. While it's extremely cozy, I suggest securing a reservation upstairs at one of their corner booth style tables. The ambience is surpassed however with the extraordinary service levels of their waitstaff and the attention to detail by its bartenders. A true masterful experience, that should be had by all, especially if you're with a significant other or you just want to escape and hide from the hustle and bustle. An oasis of sorts, smack dab in the middle of center city. A delightful night is sure to be had here. The added picture is of their GM, Patrick. My expectations were exceeded here, so much in fact, that I requested a photo with the man behind this incredible operation. Honorable mentions to both Allyson...