Bastia — Restaurant in Philadelphia

So I came in for the first time somewhat spontaneously on the recommendation of a friend. It was fairly late on a Sunday, and it took me a moment to adjust after walking in the front door. The dining room feels kind of grand, but with reassuringly dim lighting. I was glad my shirt had buttons. Now at the table, my server Justin recommended a Grillo blend and helped me choose a couple small plates to get started. A little time passed, then bread and seasoned olive oil arrived, and then my first two small plates. Skate cheeks with corn and bonito beurre blanc and swordfish spiedini with fall pesto and lemon-chili labneh. The pesto with the swordfish was one of the most shockingly tasty things I can remember eating in awhile. Like just packed with deep spice and tangy acidity. Another item on the swordfish plate was a torched lemon which ended up changing the entire course of my meal. I ended up slowly dressing each bite with a little lemon, and then going back and forth from the over the top flavors on the swordfish to the sweet corn and mild skate cheek. Also all of it was amazing with the wine. I ordered a glass of red wine (frappato)and surrendered the swordfish plate, but transferred the last of the pesto and my lemon to my third plate, sea urchin butter tartine with stuffed squash blossom. I looked it over for a moment, then decided to cut it once and then eat it with my fingers. It was the only way to enjoy all of it together, and it was a little messy but worth it. At this point I was going back and forth between white and red and just marveling how well everything meshed together. The flavors in the plates, the room, the music, and the lighting felt so right together. My last two plates arrive, Trofie alla carlofortina with bluefin tuna belly, pesto, and heirloom tomato and grilled maitake mushrooms over pine nut tarrator with bottarga. I'm going back and forth between plates and wines like a fiend, but there's just something nagging at me in the back of my mind. I finally work up my nerve and ask a handsome young waiter if I could have another torched lemon from the kitchen? He smiled and said he would ask. He came back a few short moments with a freshly torched lemon and I was back at it. I was so hasty and excitable I clanged my cutlery accidentally a few times here, much to the chagrin of the more fashionable couples scattered across the banquette. At last I'm cleared and it's time for dessert. Justin says they've sold out of the Peach split, which of course reads like the most exciting one. I manage to keep my cool, and order olive oil cake and a scoop each of vanilla gelato and blood orange sorbet. Justin also helps me pick out an amaro he likes, Brucado Woodlands, as well as a small pour of Calvados. Dessert comes and it's this now familiar experience of so many incredible and over the top flavors that all blend together perfectly. First I build a bite of EVO cake with pistachio ice cream, luxardo, and vanilla gelato and chase it with a sip of Calvados. The next bite I build with the blood orange sorbet and finish with amaro. F* salt and pepper, this meal wants a bold white, a light bodied red, a pile of lemons, and a blowtorch. Thanks to everyone in the kitchen who helped make my dinner. This was really the best meal I've had in awhile and I plan to return with friends and greedily order four times as many...

From the moment we walked into Bastia in Fishtown, Philadelphia, it was clear that this would be an unforgettable evening. The ambiance is perfection, with thoughtful finishes and eye-catching details throughout the space. Candlelit everywhere and soft music at just the right volume create a welcoming atmosphere, and the pool area, beautifully lit, promises a perfect summer setting. Every corner of this restaurant has been carefully curated, making it the ideal spot for a relaxed evening with friends or family.

We began with the skate cheek and morel mushrooms. Although they were unfortunately out of zucchini, the dish was still a standout, with the delicate flavors of the skate cheek complemented perfectly by the earthy mushrooms. The cocktails were another highlight—well-executed, complex, and refreshing.

For the main course, I opted for the Wagyu, which was cooked to perfection—flavorful, tender, and seasoned beautifully. The 8 to 9-ounce portion was incredibly generous, offering fantastic value for the price. The Chicken, with its flawlessly executed potatoes, vegetables, and sauce, rounded out the dish. I rarely enjoy balsamic, but here it was a delightful addition, enhancing the dish without overpowering it. I was particularly impressed by the chicken breast, which was juicy and packed with flavor. The combination of the perfectly cooked protein and the expertly executed vegetables made for a memorable main course.

What truly elevated our experience, however, was the exceptional service. Ashley the manager she was simply outstanding. From the moment we arrived, she made us feel welcome and at ease, offering thoughtful suggestions throughout the meal. After we finished our dinner, she graciously invited us into the cocktail bar area, where we enjoyed another round of drinks. Her warm, attentive, and engaging nature made the evening even more special. Her hospitality truly set the tone for the entire experience, and I can’t wait to return in large part due to her incredible service.

This was my second time being served by Jason at the bar, and once again, he was fantastic. His warmth and professionalism always add a special touch to the evening, making each visit feel like a personal experience. I wholeheartedly recommend the Elevated Porn Star Martini, which was a delightful and innovative twist on a classic.

Bastia has quickly become my summer go-to spot, offering the perfect mix of atmosphere, exceptional service, and exquisite food. I will absolutely be back for the chicken and Wagyu, and I am already looking forward to returning to enjoy the vibrant summer atmosphere. Thank you to the entire team at Bastia, especially Ashley and Jason, for making this such a...

My husband and I (along with our 3-year-old toddler) visited Bastia to celebrate our anniversary, and it was nothing short of memorable. This rustic yet elegant restaurant, inspired by the flavors of Corsica and Sardinia, sits in the epicenter of the reimagined Anna & Bel hotel, adding a unique charm to the bustling Fishtown neighborhood.

Ambience: Bastia’s decor evokes a blend of Mediterranean simplicity and urban chic, with light, airy tones and wood accents that instantly invite relaxation. The nearby open bar adds an energetic warmth to the space, letting guests catch glimpses of the meticulous craftsmanship behind each drink.

Service: From start to finish, the service was stellar. The staff was attentive without being overbearing, guiding us through the menu with a deep understanding of Mediterranean cuisine. To our surprise, the chef sent out complimentary dishes of hamachi, skate cheeks, and a perfectly simple pasta for our toddler to mark our anniversary. This thoughtful gesture added a personal touch that elevated our experience.

Food: The food felt like a true reflection of the Mediterranean—simple, fresh, and full of flavor. The experience extended to our toddler, who enjoyed a simple yet flavorful pasta dish that was specially prepared for her—Bastia is clearly a family-friendly restaurant that doesn’t compromise on quality.

Wine & Drinks: Bastia’s wine list deserves a special mention. Featuring a well-curated selection wines, it complements the dishes without overshadowing them. My husband had white wine and I had the Melissa’s Bounty spritz, a refreshing, herbaceous, and slightly floral cocktail with a balanced mix of sweetness and bitterness—a vibrant drink that’s perfect for an unseasonably warmer Autumn night.

Dessert: No meal here would be complete without indulging in their desserts. My husband enjoyed the affogato while my toddler and I shared the strawberry sorbet. Fresh strawberries and velvety richness, with just the right balance of sweetness—making it the perfect indulgence to end the meal.

Bastia is a gem in Fishtown, offering a dining experience that is both elevated and approachable. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner for two or a lively group meal, Bastia’s inviting atmosphere and stellar cuisine make it a standout. The thoughtful gesture from the chef and the overall warmth of the service made our anniversary meal truly unforgettable. We are so glad to have this option in our beautiful Fishtown neighborhood, and we’re already looking forward...