We splurged and ordered lots of appetizers instead of main courses, so we could try a bunch of different dishes without a lot of commitment. The meat and cheese tray was decent, but not $28 worth. The crab cocktail was killer - highly recommended. The shrimp cocktail, good, but overpriced. The xix salad with crab cake? Skip it. Calamari? Rubbery. Caesar salad? Good, but overpriced. The bill was close to $150 for two adults and a child, which is ok. We had great seats though, by one of the double doors to one balcony - the weather was perfect and the decor was a tad outdated but still swanky. Our waiter was really self-confident which a lot of people like, but I'm not one of them. I prefer my waitstaff to be attentive, respectful, and more about US and less about them. Or how awesome they are. Or what kinds of things they like. A little pet peeve. Our son dropped his fork on the floor in front of our waiter. He walked away. My son picked up the fork and said 5 second rule: mommy overruled and instead called the waiter back over and asked for a clean fork. It came almost begrudgingly. Little doth he know that the little one plays piano when he hits The Prime Rib in Baltimore, popping escargot like skittles. He is just as worthy of a clean fork as the next customer. Our son is quiet, mannerly, respectful, and does not make demands like a little Napoleon. Get the damned fork. It's a mixed bag. If I went back, it would be for the same table, but a different waiter and I would know what to steer away from in terms of menu.
(3)
Anupma S.
Checked out XIX again this past weekend and had a much different experience than the first time I went. Two wedding parties were having after parties it seemed at the lounge/bar area and the place was fulll. Everyone was dressed up (I'd hope so since they were wedding peeps!) so we felt a little out of place but I really wanted to show my friends the view! Aside from the "we don't belong here" feeling, I was able to show my friends the XIX experience! The interior is just amazing and it feels like you aren't even in Philly. The bar has your standard drinks, the average beer is somewhat marked up but cocktails are around $10 and are strongggg. Bartenders are very pleasant! Music was nondescript but had a good vibe! Crowd was fancy of course, but you won't find wedding parties there every night. Can't wait to come again.
(5)
Tina K.
I went to XIX for Restaurant Week and felt that the dining experience was not worth even the RW price tag. For three courses, we stayed there for over two hours because service was super slow. We only started to order desserts one and a half hours after we were seated, which is unacceptable. I've been to other restaurants that are busier and yet only take one hour from the time I'm seated to the time I walk out the door. For the foods, I ordered a sashimi, seared scallops, and a dessert (I don't remember which one) that were all not remarkable in any way. While I can see how the ambiance can be romantic, there seems to be an architectural phenomenon where you can hear what people sitting across the room are talking about. It was pretty uncomfortable because my group felt like we couldn't talk freely. Bottom line, I would not go to XIX again.
(2)
Matthew R.
I have wanted to try this restaurant for quite some time, and decided to bring my date to nice meal. Regardless that the layout was slightly confusing and hard to find the host/hostess, the decore was absolutely beautiful and the views were stunning. My date and I decided to split the artisian meat & cheese tasting. Sadly, the only thing memorable about this dish was the waitor telling us that he has had so many complaints about the one cheese since it was added to the menu (approximately a month ago). For the main course, I ordered the steak frites and my date ordered the paella. After waiting for quite some time, the waitor asked if we were ready for our entrees. When my steak was delivered by a food runner, it was cooked a little more than I had requested, but decided not to nit-pick. However, approximately ten minutes later, the waitor had returned to the table asking where my date's food was? The paella was never actualy made, and my date and I ended up splitting the overcooked steak. I was hoping to have fallen in love with this restaurant based on previous reviews. Sadly, I would much rather revisit other establishments than return to this. After reviewing my bank account, I realized that the amount charged to my card was not the amount I authorized. Due to the poor service provided, only receiving one entree (when two were ordered), and my steak being over cooked, I left a tip that was slightly over ten percent (10%). Interestingly enough, this was disregarded and a twenty percent (20%) tip was added to the already overpriced bill. I called the restaurant the following Friday and left a voice message for the general manager (Adam, if I recall the name on the message correctly). I examined the situation and have yet to be contacted.
(1)
Nathan F.
This review is for the bar, only. I've yet to actually dine at XIX, however many a happy hour have been spent viewing the city from its lofty perch over Center City. This is far and away one of my favorite places to spend the hours between 5:00 and 7:00 PM on summer, spring and fall afternoons. When the weather warms, the balconies are open so that you may enjoy one of the finest views of the city to be had. When it's not so nice, they may close them off, but the view of a sunset from the bar area in the fall and winter is a sight to behold. As has been said before, and will be said again, this is one of the most nicely appointed dining rooms in the city, if not the best. Its soaring ceilings are draped with pearls, featuring grand classical architecture with modernist furnishings. The drinks during happy hour are quite reasonable, especially considering the setting and location (hotel in the Rittenhouse area). My favorite, a Kentucky Straight Orange, is quite tasty and well mixed. They have a nice selection of light bar fare. Their cheese and charcuterie plates are generally worth sharing with friends to have a snack while imbibing their various drink specials. If you want to impress your date with a nice before-dinner drink, bringing in friends from out of town, or just want to enjoy a sunset in a relaxing environment after a day of work, XIX is a great place to be. The only thing that keeps it from getting 5 stars is the fact that, after happy hour, it is quite expensive for drinks, and I'm not entirely sure it's worth it, and the bartenders have a tendency to be a bit, well, inattentive. I would like to give this 4.5, but I don't want to round up, as 5 stars is only for that which is truly unique to the area and explosively good everywhere. Do not take the 4 stars to mean that there is any serious problem with XIX, because there isn't. Come to think of it, I think that's where I'll be around 5:00...
(4)
Tough Crowd T.
The smell overwhelms you -- practically overtakes you -- as you step off the elevator. It lingers for a while; disappearing eventually. But do not go to the restroom (located one floor below, strangely), or risk experiencing the same smell all over again. I have no idea what it is. My friend suggested it was manure. Pretty close, I'd say. I had been to XIX once before, for drinks right after they opened. I remember the rooms being lovely, but also remember this smell. We had buffet lunch ($20, a good deal), made lovely only by the company. The food was underwhelming, to say the least. Every salad in the buffet (4-5) was apparently dressed with the same garlic-heavy concoction, which really had no place anywhere but on the Caesar. I come from a long line of garlic lovers -- my father has been known to eat it raw -- but this was heavy handed. Garlic on the endive/pecan/cranberry salad? Why, prey tell? The sturgeon with fingerling potatoes and orange cauliflower I ordered as my entree (a special) suffered from being overcooked (the fish) and undercooked (the cauliflower). The sauce on the fish -- which, by the way, was wild caught and that's not a good choice for sturgeon these days -- was pure butter. Okay, but not particularly inventive. Desserts were fine, but their pastry chef should consider using half the amount of sugar. Needless to say, I will not be going back.
(2)
Ed D.
We went here for drinks and appys on a Sat night. We were able to find seating with ease and really enjoyed the drinks and the cheese plate that we had there. Service is good, the ambience is awesome and the prices are not that expensive considering its a rooftop inside the hyatt. Its on the nineteenth floor and the view of philadelphia is splendid! We couldnt sit in the outdoor balconies due to a private event but its a nice place to check out for pre-drinks.
(4)
Ryan P.
I am writing this review on the happy hour only. I had a full dinner about 2 years ago and it was fine. I keep coming back here for the happy hour instead. The happy hour is 50% off or something like it. The Lychee Kiss Martinis are outstanding-and ONLY $6. They have sliders for $5 and the service is great. Realistically, I can't see myself making a night of it. It's really fancy-over the top fancy with the ceilings, views, and caviar samplers. You can chill there from 5-7, but it may get a bit stuffy shortly after.
(4)
pracheta t.
beautiful beautiful place. so classy and the view of Philly from here is breath taking! I was here for my birthday, it was a Wednesday night, and we ran into Mayor Nutter =] fancy fancy fancy. I've never ate there, but I've had many a drink there. It is pricey and I always feel under dressed. Also, just a but of trivia, Legionnaires' disease started in the Bellvue (where XIX is) in 1976. But no worries, no more bacteria in the air that'll cause a respiratory disease.
(4)
Bonnie C.
I hear the bar is a great place to hang out. This review is not a reflection of that. This review is for the food and my dining experience. The establishment is absolutely stunning. I don't know what else to say about this place except "wow". Beautiful, lovely and gorgeous. We had reservations in the Wine Room and it was exactly that. A room with walls made of wine bottles resting on racks sandwiched between sliding glass doors. The food I tasted was delicious. Their lamb is probably the best I've ever had. The "gamey" taste wasn't there and the sauce didn't overpower the flavor of the meat. I had the foie gras appetizer special with pickled strawberries (you can pickle strawberries??!!!) and that was sooooo good. Their jumbo lump crab salad wasn't anything special. I'd pass on this. I've never tried Lemon Olive Oil cake before but now I can say I have. It wasn't bad (I couldn't really taste the olive oil which is good....I guess...) but I'm not going to wake up in the middle of the night craving it. Their peanut butter and chocolate beignet was divine. It was like eating a battered and fried Reese's Peanut Butter cup! There were three dipping sauces (chocolate, caramel and....some other one I didn't try). The idea of a Nutella waffle made me drool in anticipation (sexy, I know) but in the end, it wasn't as good as I had thought it would be. The waffle looked like they had added Nutella to the batter but sadly, it didn't send me to Nutella Carb nirvana. So sad. I had to send my first cocktail back. It was their Ginger Gin Tea. It tasted like cough syrup. Yuck. The second cocktail was a winner. Blackberry Caipirinha. It's so good, I'm going to try and make it at home. So the reason why I only gave 3 stars instead of the 4 I would've given. Our waiter was terrible. I don't know if the quality of service goes down once the obligatory large party gratuity of 20% is automatically added to our bill but that's what I'm thinking. Our waiter was condescending, sleazy and I felt like he was some kind of slimy eel because he would wink at me every time I ordered something or asked him something. Not cute. Next time, I'm gonna just sit at the bar and nibble on food there.
(3)
Ryan E.
I'd imagine this would be a pretty cool place in its hay day of 1994, when cosmos and Sex and the City was the symbol of elitism. But taste have changed and so should this place. The arched windows, high ceilings, and overall architecture are pretty cool, but the food and drinks are really nothing special for what you pay. (Disclaimer: I'm not one of those people that gripes about anything over $6 as overpriced. Believe me, I'll pay for good food.) The best part about XIX is the view of Walnut and Broad Street where you can look at all the other restaurants you should have gone to. **As a side note, the last time I was here it wreaked of kitty litter. I really don't know what the awful smell was but it was horrid. The only thing I could think of was that maybe they had their carpets shampooed?
(2)
Wei T.
Wonderful lunch spread! They have an a la carte menu or you can choose the buffet option - there's an appetizer/dessert buffet and you choose your entree from a selection 5-7 items. Such a good deal. Ambiance is elegant and sexy. If I didn't work in the 'burbs, this would definitely be my frequent lunch spot.
(4)
Andrew Z.
This review is for the bar and lounge only, as we went late one saturday night for only a drink. We went on a freezing and wet December night after dinner in the city. My friend recommended going to Nineteen after frequenting the happy hour. I was very impressed with the mojito I order. It was probably one of the stronger mojitos I have ever had, and certainly one of the more tasty ones. I am lucky I took the R5 back, because granted I'm a lightweight, that mojito hit me hard lol. The bar menu had some interested selections on there, but we were way stuffed. I am definitely going to take some friends to Nineteen either for happy hour before dinner or for another late night drink.
(5)
Le L.
Came here for brunch. The dessert was my favorite part! Lots to choose from. Greedy me almost took one of each. I love their croissant! It's so rich and buttery! They also had a small selection of asian dimsum style food, which was ok, nothing special. The oysters, shrimp cocktails and salad was good though. I might consider coming here for dinner. We'll see.
(4)
Jessica M.
XIX has everything - delicious food and drinks, beautiful atmosphere and a breathtaking view. I have been here for breakfast and lunch in the cafe as well as dinner in the main restaurant and have never been disappointed. XIX offers a lovely $19.00 Cafe Lunch which offers a buffet for your first course (think salads, cheese, meats), an entree and then another trip back to the buffet table for scrumptious desserts. Lunch items to try: Crab Salad with Champagne dressing and the baked farmers omelet. Happy Hour at the bar is not to be missed either - 1/2 price specialty cocktails, draft beer and $6.00 house wine. The bar menu is perfect and the complementary wasabi peas and pretzels give you the little crunch you need to accompany your Rubitini or Kentucky Straight Orange. Great place for a special dinner, or take your family for brunch....either way, you will enjoy your visit to XIX.
Had a 5:30 reservation on a Saturday night for dinner before the orchestra. I walked in and the dining area and its view were breathtaking. We were escorted to our seats and our server took our drink order. From the reviews I read here, a lot of people come just for the bar. I came with high expectations for the bartender and was disappointed. My Blue Coat Martini (up with olives) was sub-par tasting with chunks of ice floating in it. My wife wasn't impressed with her fruity cocktail either. The menu didn't have anything special on it and the food was fine. Fine as in it met minimum expectations, despite the distinctly higher-than-minimum price. I had the NY strip steak and my wife had fish and chips. I had a 'meh' blueberry cobbler and my wife had an okay chocolate something and that was it. I will say that the service was better than I'd read from reviews here on Yelp. A manager was circulating to see how things were and I told him that I'd left my orchestra tickets at home. He gave me access to a business center to quickly print out the tickets and we made it to the show on time. We were looking for something special, but this wasn't the place. Both Vetri and Bibou had a 3-week wait for reservations when I planned this spur-of -the-moment outing. I'll plan ahead next time and avoid XIX's cookie-cutter menu dressed up with hype.
(2)
Philly P.
Have had a better meal in Philadelphia. The restaurant is gorgeous and is my absolute favorite for Center City Sips. The drinks are very good here, better than the food. The bar food here such as the sliders are better than a more "gourmet" choice" I do have to say that this place had the BEST Mother's Day Brunch I have ever been to. Good raw bar!
(3)
Judy T.
Heard about their fabulous lunch deal, and finally went a few weeks ago for a friend's birthday. Totally worth it and special enough for celebrations. XIX has a $19 cafe lunch, which includes a choice of entree and their buffet spread of cheese, salads, meats, and a large spread of desserts. The dining room was beautiful with nice views, the service was great, and the food was delicious. Made sure to save room for dessert, and I had a whole plate full to try. A few disappointed but for the most part I was a happy camper with my spread. Park in the Bellevue garage located right next to the Hyatt, and XIX will validate your parking ($6.50 for 3 hours).
(4)
Joe B.
I went here for my cousin's graduation dinner last night and it hit the spot. We had our own room for fifteen people and the service was very good. I had the ribeye with yukon gold potatoes and broccolini. The ribeye was cooked perfectly to medium and the red wine reduction sauce that accompanied it made the steak even better. The potatoes and broccolini were good, but it would help if I had a bit more since the steak dwarfed the amount of sides that came with it. I tried a bit of the lobster risotto as well and it was very creamy and delicious. Everyone loved their food and had nothing but good things to say about it. All in all, we had a good night and enjoyed dining here.
(4)
Laura S.
XIX was dangerously close to a one-star review, but I have to acknowledge the fact that it is a really, really pretty restaurant. The view is spectacular - and you can be seated on the balcony and have a great view of the city. The view inside is also great - super-high ceilings, beautiful architecture. The tables are spacious and comfortable. Ambiance is the best thing XIX has going for it. Unfortunately, that was the only thing XIX had going for them. The hostess seemed distracted when we arrived - she greeted us, but then turned her back to us to tap on the touch-screen seating chart while speaking to someone on the phone. It was an awkward set-up - it probably wouldn't have been weird if like a traditional hostess stand the screen did not face the entrance, but it seems like any way you come into the restaurant you're going to be walking up behind the hostess. Our server asked if we were ready to order about 3 minutes after we sat down, but after that disappeared for unconscionable amounts of time. I was considering timing how long my water glass stood empty. Food was a disappointment. The bread was good, but was brought out 30 seconds before the first course arrived at the table. My dish, a risotto served in a cast-iron dish, was passed to me over the head of one of my dining companions. I was dumbfounded - I expect this somewhere like Friendly's, but anywhere I'm paying more than $10 for my dinner my waiter can come put my plate in front of me rather than awkwardly reaching over the table with a hot, heavy dish. The risotto was OK and had a nice amount of lobster, but wasn't particularly memorable. The crab cake and corn soup were some of the highlights of the meal. For my second course I ordered the steak. It was blah - it was cooked fine, but had no seasoning and the quinoa it was served with also had no flavor. There was a vegetable with it, it might have been a carrot. I couldn't tell you what my dining companions ate, nobody liked their food enough to suggest that the others have a taste. Desserts were almost great - I loved the flavor of the sticky toffee pudding, but wish the cake had been a little more moist. The vanilla cream it was served with was phenomenal. The ice cream that came with it was delicious, but one of my friends ordered the same dessert and got nothing but melted ice cream with hers. Sad. Two of my dining companions ordered the pound cake and were very happy with it, but it only arrived after quite a lot of confusion - one had ordered cheesecake, which we were later informed they did not have. She ordered another dessert, but was brought a different one - in fact, most people at the table started off with a dessert other than the one they ordered. Eventually we sorted it out, and I will say our waiter handled the problem very quickly and efficiently. (This was *not* the same waiter who pounced on us for our orders just after we sat down then abandoned us for most of our evening.) By midway through the meal I was regretting the decision to waste one of my Restaurant Week excursions on this place. I think it would be a lovely place to come for drinks, but absolutely will not be back for the food. The icing on top of the cakewreck that was our dinner was when the emergency alarm - complete with strobe lights and a calm voice telling us not to enter the fire stairwells or elevators - went off for around 15 minutes at the end of our meal. After a few minutes our waiter stopped by to tell us that everything was probably fine, but we were never told whether there was an actual emergency or what we should do. Eventually the sirens just stopped, and after a long wait for the elevators to be put back into service we finally got to leave. At that point I could recognize the humor in the situation, and saw it as the perfect end to a very imperfect meal.
(2)
Adie R.
I once told someone that if had to describe heaven on earth, it would exist at during lunchtime in the rotunda of XIX. The well lit, manicured setting can make any guest feel like they're out for a luncheon with kings. It's the perfect escape from a busy work day, and I always take advantage of the lunch buffet special: spread of meats, cheeses, and salads to start. Then you order your entree of choice, and you complete the meal with another buffet of desserts. Be forewarned, you should definitely attend on an empty stomach and get ready for a food coma if you overindulge. However for $22 (price recently increased from $20), I'd say this is a discounted rate for high class entertainment. XIX is where I will go for birthday celebrations and to charm out-of-town guests.
(5)
Christine W.
This is one of our go-to spots for cocktails. The stylish interior, customer service, and stunning views never disappoint. Best part- a visit to the restrooms on the floor below is like a walk through the Shining. You might see the twins.
(4)
Jesse B.
Pricey for what you actually get... Great view of the city and a really fun bar. Great place to take a date.
(3)
Alexa R.
I was here with two girlfriends for dinner Saturday night and we were so excited. We did not get seated in the glamorous pearl chandelier room, but instead in the front room. It was still beautiful and we sat at a four top near a window. I have to say, the service was pretty bad. Two of the three of us started with the tomato white bean soup, which was cold. And not supposed to be. My skate wing was very mealy and I actually ended up spitting part of it out into my napkin. For dessert, I had the tasting of three gelatos/sorbets. The server sets it in front of me and says, "In the middle, you have mango sorbet." My friend asks, "Well, what are the other two?" He replies: "Hmm. What do you have there?" I love my dining companions, so I did not mind the slow service. I could see, however, how others would be really irritated. Also, XIX is not cheap, so the service should certainly be up to snuff!
(2)
sako R.
Went for a late dinner on Friday night. What started out as a potential disaster turned into a surprisingly great night. It was restaurant week so we expected it to be crowded, but long story short, after a very long wait, our entrees were brought out before our appetizer... At the point when it becomes apparent that the ball got dropped somewhere, is when the great restaurants can turn it all around, while the rest of the pack falls apart. XIX definitely put themselves in the former category. The manager came to speak with us, the waiter followed up several times, and once the appetizer came, the rest of the service was flawless... and the food was, indeed, delicious. We had the sashimi and the gnocchi, the chicken and the short ribs, and the cheesecake and chocolate. My sushi/sashimi preference is strictly old school, but this fish was fresh and combined nicely with its toppings - it was closer to a carpaccio, not quite as thin; delicious. The short rib was fantastic, but its combo with the sides - cauliflower risotto and crispy brussels sprouts leaves - was a winner. Would definitely go back for a non RW menu. The dining room is beautiful, definitely a place to go for a special dinner that requires the ambiance.
(4)
Clay G.
I don't know where the reviewers below were eating, it wasn't at the XIX where I dined last evening. I have dined at more than a dozen of Philadelphia magazine's top 100 restaurants, and this is near the top. First, the room, with its soaring domed ceilings, and large windows looking out over the city , is one of the best restaurant settings in the city. Next, the Octopus appetizer I ordered was perhaps the best octopus that I have been served, and my venison entree was equally fabulous. My wife could not stop raving about her Monkfish entree. The service was friendly and not over attentive, and when the entrees were a bit slow to arrive, our server topped up our wine glasses for free. Finally, the prices were very reasonable for the high quality of food and service. This is a definite favorite.
(5)
Glenn J.
I was staying at the Hyatt downstairs so I figured a trip to the bar was in order. You can't beat the view. It's a nice upscale bar but again the view of downtown Philly is awesome. Unfortunately, we could't go on the patio but that didn't hurt their score at all. Nate was serving drinks and made some outstanding original cocktails. We were lucky since he made some of the concoctions that day to use up some of the specialty gin. Not only were the drinks tasty but if you need to find a great restaurant, Nate knows the lay of the land. Good drinks, excellent service. Highly recommend stopping by. If I had to find a gripe, I'd say the drinks were a little on the pricey side but that makes sense given the location and view.
(5)
Rachel U.
My boss took us up here for celebratory cocktails the other day, and I felt very posh to say the least. We sat out on the terrace, which has this very old-money feel to it; I suddenly had the urge to have a tiny dog on my lap =P They have great happy hour deals: $6 cocktails, half price glasses of wine and beer, and they give you a bowl of wasabi peas to snack on. And they are not messin around with their cocktails. She had the Pineapple Mint Julip, and I had the Peach Martini, both delicious, and made for quit a buzzed walk home. I noticed they have a prix fixe deal on every 3rd Thursday, $55 for 3 courses w/ wine pairing. Looked promising and I'll def have to come back to try their food.
(4)
PP F.
Sat outside on the balcony with a beautiful view of Philadelphia for a late dinner. Got the flat bread pizza as a starter. Enjoyed the sweet tomato sauce and was glad the goat cheese was not overpowering. Decided on the diver scallops for my entree. I forgot the name of the name of the sauce I chose, but it was buttery with a hint of wine. Definitely pleased with my choice. An ideal place for a dinner date or a late night drink.
(4)
Timothy D.
Menu has changed. No specials. Feels like a hotel catering menu. Still a beautiful place. But the food is suffering.
3 words: pretention, pretension, pretenshun! Talk about uncomfortable. I'm a normal, friendly guy who expects a little class and respect from at least the staff when I'm on a date... that did not happen. After waiting 10 minutes for service I flagged down a server who was ignoring me and politely asked for a beer for me and a cosmo for my date. The drinks came promptly, but she took plenty of time before she asked if I wanted a second round (my glass was empty for a while). I found the other patrons and the wait staff to be disgustingly phony. This one experience was enough for me to never want to set foot in this "i'm too good to look at you, (and so much hotter because I spent $500 on my shoes)" place again.
(1)
Luis G.
One of the best cheese plates in the city! It's worth going there just for the cheese plate. Five cheeses served with a variety of jellies and chutneys, my mouth is watering just thinking about it. It's also a good place to go have some drinks during happy hour and have a great view of the city from above.
(4)
Caroline H.
I had never been here before and I was absolutely amazed at the space when we walked in. So very stylish and open...I love it! My girlfriends and I stayed in the lounge area by the bar for drinks the whole time. The bartenders were very attentive even though it was super crowded and I never had to wait more then a minute or two to be waited on. We were there during Sips so there were discount drinks available which I took advantage of since its very expensive normally. Sangria was pretty decent...not the best but good for $4! I would love to go back here to eat at some point, as the food looked very delish.
(4)
Robert D.
Fine dining without draining your bank account - that is the XIX experience. What was once Founders at the Bellevue Stratford Hotel - which was the place where red velvet curtains and stuffy chairs went to die - XIX has been transformed into a clean, soothing dining room overlooking the Avenue of the Arts from its 19th floor location within the Park Hyatt Philadelphia at the Bellevue. Now, dining in the main room can still be quite expensive - but I've an offer that will make it well worth the trip to the 19th floor! BTW - to get to XIX, enter the main lobby of the Bellevue and walk past the main bank of elevators - to the left of the security desk and you'll find two elevators to your left. These place you within XIX when they open onto the 19th floor. Once you get the lay of the land, then you can just take the main bank of elevators to the 19th floor and navigate yourself to XIX. When you first enter XIX from the elevator, you are in a grand rotunda; complete with comfortable seating as well as a quaint outdoor balcony that offers a wonderful view of the city, south. This is the XIX Cafe. Then, to the right of this rotunda you'll find a hall that connects you to the OTHER rotunda, which is their main dining room. However, within the hallway is one of the best hideaway bars in the city; complete with leather chairs and a fireplace during the winter season! A great night-cap location after a night of theatre. The XIX Cafe is where you can partake in the Cafe Dinner menu - for $30 per person you get access to what I think is the 2nd best salad bar in the city (the first being Fogo de Chao). The salad bar offers a mix of greens, vegetables and several pasta dishes - along with meats and cheeses and fresh breads. You also get to select one of five entrees from the menu; including a daily fish dish, a wonderful flatbread pizza and a mouthwatering steak entree. Once you're finished your entree, you head to their dessert table - all that is needed is a chair so you never have to leave! From fresh-baked brownies, to parfaits to mini-cheesecakes - you will easily channel your favorite child character from Willie Wonka as you dive into the dessert displays. Just be grateful you don't have to walk down 19 flights of stairs afterwards! **I originally submitted this review to phillygrub.ning.com in spring 2008**
(4)
Emilia M.
4.5 stars I went with my friend after receiving a $100 gift certificate to the restaurant. We decided to go on a Tuesday night, which was an interesting choice. On one hand it was nice and quiet and we had our choice of table, on the other hand it was EMPTY. No big deal though, because we sat outside on the balcony and the view was so incredible! My only regret is that I wasn't on a hot date (no offense Rachel!). Some heaters outside would also have made the balcony more enjoyable. The food was incredible. We both had salads, and my crab salad alone would have made enough for a dinner! The wine was paired very well, and the rolls were better than at most places. For dinner I had the fish stew which was very flavor-able and had a generous portion of lobster in it, which I definitely approved of! I hesitate from giving this place 5 stars because a) I wasn't digging the empty ambiance, and b) our waiter, while nice, was awkward and raggedy looking. His coat was all frayed etc. For the amount they charge for a dinner, you think they could get their waiter a coat! I'll be back! I definitely want to check out their happy hour, as all of the other reviewers have said such great things about it!
(5)
Evelyn K.
Located on the 19th Floor of the Park Hyatt Bellevue Hotel. (Yes, it is part of the hotel but, like most hotel restaurants, it is open to the public.) Enter from Broad Street or the adjacent parking garage. Take the elevator from the lobby. You would never guess that this breathtaking place hides inside the building, and perched above the city on the 19th floor! Nineteen (XIX) is a gem in this city - we need more places like this in Philadelphia! One of my favorite places to get dessert. Yummy! Gorgeous decor and ambiance make this a rare find in Philadelphia. Super high ceilings - my fave! Great views of the city. Cozy yet modern / chic / upscale place to share cocktails with a date or a small group of friends. Great place to bring a date after dinner for cocktails / dessert.
(4)
Joe W.
The $20 lunch deal here is awesome. I find the combination buffet and served entree to be great for business lunches and picky friends. The salads and cheeses and imported meats buffet has something for everyone and is kept fresh right up to closing. For main course, I've had the pizza, the steak, the fish, the pasta - each is perfect portion and freshly prepared. I'm addicted to that never ending ginger peach iced tea. The sugar syrup on the side is nice touch, though I don't use it. I used to sneak a couple cookies back for my office staff. Then the waitress saw it and offered me and a carry bag. Smart move - now everyone in my office knows about XIX. I haven't needed reservations yet but if they keep up this great deal, you may. Finally, check out the salt and pepper containers - so cool. I've got to get them.
(4)
Patricia K.
The food was delicious. The atmosphere was quiet and beautiful. The service was phenomenal. Rasheed was our waiter and he did a fabulous job. We would highly reccomend this restaurant!
(5)
brad C.
This is a review for the 2 hours I spent here for CC Sips. The Sips menu was alright on paper, with two types of Sangria, house wine, beer, and apps. First off, the place was packed to the brim for Sips. No place to sit, but we found a nice place to chill out on the balcony. I had the Sangria and wine. The red sangria was a travesty, and I'm sad that I spent 4 bucks on it. The white sangria was pretty tasty, so remember that if you go. We didn't get a chance to try the apps because of the crowd, but they looked good (sliders, calamari, etc) Brad's rating (out of 5): Drinks: 3 Price: 5 Decor: 4 (beautiful space, even nicer at night for dinner) Service: 4 Wild card: We got the last drinks at 7pm and about 1 dozen people in line behind us were cut off. Gotta love little victories
(4)
Chan K.
Classy. But pricey. I'm more of a dive bar with PBR person. But I still had a great time for happy hour. Bartender was nice and made strong drinks. Not a big beer selection but the beer was great. Great view of the city. I would go back. I didn't like the out-of-towner business folks, but you can't fault the bar for that. It is in the Hyatt. Wasabi peanuts were addictive.
(4)
Kristopher B.
Went here during a philadelphia restaurant week. The whole look and feel of the place is very nice. The architecture has a very grandiose ballroom appeal. In the center of the main dining room is the raw bar. The ambiance of the place is enough to go alone. The food was very well done. I liked their menu selections. This was a restaurant week special, so their menu was greatly reduced. The service was very good. They were very accommodating to our tastes. If I have the chance to go again I'll try to sit in one of the corner tables. It is said that if you sit in one of these tables you will be able to hear the conversation at the table on the other side of the room due to the way the buildings architecture is designed. They also have a cozy bar area too, but no bathroom. When I asked to point me in the direction of the restroom on the way out. The host referred me to the bathroom on the floor below. They have a private elevator within the restaurant to take you there. There are many hallways and elevators in the building to make for quite the romantic moment with a special someone. 4 stars goes to XIX
(4)
Carrie E.
I've been thinking about my top dining experiences for 2008 and, after dining at XIX for dinner recently, I'm adding it to my list. We were seated in the far dining room (not the one when you first come off the elevator; although it is nice, go for the other one if you have the chance). The decor is gorgeous, there's a raw bar in the center of the room and the nighttime views are magnificent. I'm still swooning over my meal of crabcake, grilled octopus (prepare to be amazed) and duck. The bartender very kindly obliged my request for a nonalcoholic cocktail and served up a delicious virgin raspberry mojito that blew me away. And the service: ce magnifique! It was attentive without being pushy and Wilmer, one of our waitstaff, will have you cracking up throughout your dinner. I loved this - since XIX is such an upscale restaurant, it took a little of the edge off and made for a really enjoyable evening. One of my favorite parts of the night was a dessert sampling and probably the best pot of tea I've ever had in my life. The Bellevue has its own blend of tea (Bellevue Blend) that consists of different flowers. It's pink, fragrant and delicate. Much like me :) While it's obviously not a place to dine at on an everyday basis, this is one of my go-to restaurants for a fancypants experience. So if you're looking to impress someone, have a night to remember, seal the deal or all of the above, I highly suggest you make a reservation at XIX!
(5)
C A.
beautiful venue in terms of architecture and the interior. wonderful date place for dinner. cute place for tea and lite fare with the ladies. the food was delicious but the prices were high. definitely the type of place to dress fancy and eat properly. My seafood dish was a bit too salty but still good. I went for a late lunch on a weekday and only 1 other table was being served. The service was pretty slow but it didn't appear that there were many staff on duty, which made sense since there weren't many customers. I am curious about what it's like for happy hour or just cocktails.
(3)
Erik R.
Certain things in life aren't about the price. It does cost to have the finer things, yes. But, the experience itself is what lasts much longer than the receipt, tab, or bill. Restaurant XIX is such a place. It has an Old City authenticity that must be whetted on your palette. You want ambiance? You want 1st Class service and attention to detail? Restaurant XIX has it in aplomb. So much of an experience is also about the clientele or the company you keep. It can make the memory outstanding, like a Lunar eclipse. Restaurant XIX is fine dining at its best. Conveniently located on the 19th floor of the famed Bellevue Hotel downtown. It's the perfect hide-away for the elite. My parents and I went for restaurant week. This is a gorgeous restaurant. The dim lighting just flows up through the walls and into the ceiling. The architecture is a mix of Neo-Classicism and a bit of French Modernism. There are 4 separate areas for dining, drinking, Wine tasting, and conferencing. In the main dining hall, the rotunda and French doors look out onto the the city that is Philadelphia. The hustle and bustle of the days slip away as the luminescence rises to a warming glow. In theater beyond the 8ft chandeliers and the hanging replicas of giant Pearls is the Oyster bar. You are surrounded by silk and exquisitely upholstered furniture. These are time pieces from an era gone by. Lovely etched Pussy Willow glass adorns a semi-circular dining couch. It stands as a barrier to the kitchen and host stands. The doors themselves are delicately adorned with the same Pussy Willow curtain motif [look closely]. The whirl of the Winter wind is just a summer breeze when submerged in the panache of Restaurant XIX. The actual bar area for me was the penultimate experience. Rich in Walnut wood, housing perfectly detailed shades with coordinated trimmings. Everything about this place is an experience in interior decorating. The lightning just sunk into the room. The floors are also hard wood to meet with the very fine lounge chairs approval. There is a full bar and wine closet available. The paintings are a mix of modern abstraction and classical Renaissance. It creates the perfect symmetry from what was and what is... And what is Restaurant XIX??? It is A LA MODEEEE!
(5)
BC L.
Generally, great ambience and good food. Avoid for Valentine's day, it was overpriced and we left hungry.
(3)
Brian M.
Granted - it was during restaurant week... but I was left with a "meh" about XIX. Atmosphere was beautiful. Service was great. But the food seemed to be a bit overpowering. The squash soup wasn't just spicy - it was SPICY. The chicken wasn't just salty - it was SALTY. The flavors just didn't blend. Happy hour here has always been worthwhile (excellent wine list) - so I'll probably try again... but as it is I'm leaving the restaurant at three stars. If I go back I think I'll go with seafood fare - I'll bet the wet bar is good. I hear this may need to be added to my brunch list as well.
(3)
Lauren Q.
XIX is like the shiny thing that you dangle in front of a baby to enable you to do other things like change her or stop her from crying. The atmosphere and views are so breathtaking that you don't mind that the food is not really that great, certainly not worth the price. My date, a staunch foodie, was really unimpressed... downright mad actually. I was doe-eyed, just staring at the architectural accents and biding my time before escaping to one of their balconies overlooking the city. Yes restaurant week is a GREAT time to go to this place, but get there early because the main dining room gets filled quickly. I have never had lunch there before, but I would imagine that is also a phenomenal way to experience XIX. Their bar seems nice enough, very masculine w/ dark wood and leather seating... it kind of makes you feel like you should be holding a cigar in one hand and a double malt scotch in the other, talking about your much-younger mistress or the state of your off-shore accounts (none of which I have).
(3)
Parisa S.
Decent food (the dessert was the best part), but HORRIBLE, TACKY service. Absolutely classless. Not only was my party of 5 forced to wait 30 minutes to be seated for our reservation, but the host/management wasn't the least bit apologetic. Once finally seated, service at the table was unprofessional and practically nonexistant. Our waiter looked about 19, his suit was clearly 3 sizes too big for him, and he described the monkfish as "poor man's lobster". This kid should definitely never go into sales. Other signs of terrible service: my iced tea was never refilled - not a single time!, we waited literally 30 minutes to place our order and another 30 minutes for our 1st course to arrive, the waiter forgot about our coffee order, the list goes on... The kicker, though, was after all this horrible service, the waiter tries to claim that b/c our reservation was for 6 and we only had 5 people, they were going to charge us for the 6th person. HONESTLY?! And to bring it up while we're eating our appetizers? Totally tacky. And if you think the waitstaff is terrible, wait until you see the managers. The Park Hyatt should be embarrassed that a place like this occupies space in their hotel.
(1)
Kathryn M.
Restaurant Week favorite. Center City Sips favorite. Definitely worthwhile, just be prepared for the looming bill. Make sure to try the raw bar!
(5)
Dredge K.
Happy Hour (5-7) drinks are half price, that means my two drinks with tax/tip cost me only $17.50-you decide if this is a good deal. Went with three others, one commented on "how blond" the room was. If I was just out of college, working downtown, and looking for booty, this would be the place to be!
(3)
Caitlin C.
They have $20 appetizers, but the food and atmosphere are well worth it. The view from this circular restaurant is incredible, and in the center of the main dining room, under the hanging pearls, is a circular raw bar that will amaze. I once got the pork chop here and was disappointed (tasteless and dry), so be careful when ordering. I'd opt for a pasta (like the Roasted Squash Ravioli with parsley pesto, pine nuts and Gruyere; $20). This is a high-class establishment with modern additions and lots of old money dine here.
As good as it gets!! (for restaurant week, that is) For $35 a person, for 3 person. We got: Butternut Squash Soup (so sweet, so delicious) Tempura Frog Legs (best frog legs I've had) Beet Salad (my friend said its good but I was never a beet kind of person) Roasted Quail (decent portion and taste) Monkfish (so so so good! I gobbled it all down without offering to share. It was THAT good) Perogies (pretty good, however, still perogies) Strawberry Shortcake (my friends loved this and devoured it completely) Lychee-Huckleberry Parfait (it's okay) Overall, the service and food were great for the price we paid. However, if it were full price, it would be a completely different story. Come for the view : the city looks amazing at sunset from the 19th floor.
(5)
David S.
Great 3 course lunch. Everything from the wait staff to the expresso was wonderful. If you haven't had lunch here, it is a must.
(5)
Marie S.
I love it! Great food with a creative menu and nice bar food. The appetizers are a bit pricey (not so for dinner) but it has a fabulous happy hour with $6 cocktails. It makes for a lovely evening if you can get there early and start with happy hour and end with dinner in one of the main dining rooms. It's in a beautiful location, the Bellview. Built in 1914, it's the oldest hotel in Philadelphia, and the architectural elements add to the atmosphere's elegance. Love the Mushroom Risotto made with local mushrooms and asparagus. The Steak and Shoe String Fries were great. And we loved the presentation (and taste) of their cheesecake.
(4)
Bruce E.
Wear a suit, order scotch. Be awesome.
(3)
David S.
Good food, terrible service. Went for special occasion dinner, service ruined the special occasion, didn't stay for dessert, coffee. Server, management appeared oblivious. In city with many excellent dining options, XIX-Nineteen has been crossed off our list.
(1)
Greg G.
I hate to give a bad review for the place I proposed to my wife a few years ago but things have gone downhill for XIX. Two and a half years ago I proposed on the balcony of this restaurant and remember everything from her saying yes to the decor to the dinner was excellent. The decor is the same but things have changed. Atmosphere: First and foremost this restaurant is beautiful. Besides the incredible views from the 19th floor every detail is perfect. If reviews were based on looks alone, this would be 5 stars. Unfortunately they are not. Food: The last time I was here in Nov the menu was completely different. Last night I found out that since then they have a new chef and completely new menu. The menu is like a restaurant totally unsure of which direction to take. Fish and Chips next to Cioppino with a Raw Bar, a Steak, Poultry and Fish menu, and a cheeseburger. Anyway the 6 of us order. A ceasar salad that looked like it was from TGI Fridays (no anchovies on top or in the dressing?), mussels that were very tasty, jumbo shrimp that were excellent, overpriced parma ham, and a gazpacho (also ok). For dinner 3 of us had the cioppino over bucatini. The seafood on top was very good. Very fresh. The sauce was some kind of white wine and butter sauce. To call this Cioppino is a total mistake. Cioppino is a tomato based sauce. This was so laden with butter I could not eat much of the pasta because I fear what my stomach would have felt like later. The other diners had the Red Snapper (meh), the NY Strip (pretty good, but for the same price other steak houses are much better), and ahi tuna (best thing of the evening). Overall the food was ok but not worth the price. Service: Terrible! They took drink orders and got almost every persons drink mixed up (pouring martinis for the wrong guest and then trying to move it across the table without spilling), and the only drink that took no effort, the wine, was served 5 minutes after everyone else. Waiter was all over the place not know answers to questions. Dinners were served timely, however desert took so long that at one point I asked another guest if they were out finding a goat to make the goat cheese ice cream (surprisingly good). Lastly, they added a 20% gratuity because we were a party of 6. Is that why the service was terrible? Because they already knew they would get a tip? Regardless, what happened to the days of an 18% grat and I could decide if I wanted to up it to 20% or more Overall, unless something significantly changes, I can't go back again. There are too many much better options in this city.
(2)
Barry G.
I have been several times...last night, however, was awful! I had to get the attention of the busser to get a refill and the check. The female server was unprofessional and unappealing. I will not spend another dollar there.
(2)
Kelly S.
3.5 stars for the food 2 for the view 6 for the service The food was good but not as amazing for such a pricey restaurant. However, XIX sure makes a banging butternut squash soup. My friend claimed that the monkfish was amazing. The tenderloin I had was soft but had a slightly burnt skin. Dessert was quite good though. The chocolate cake was super thick and espresso-y tasting. The lemon lycee parfait was funny at first but after the first couple of bites - delicious. The view wasn't spectacular but that may have been because of where we were sitting. The service earns this place its four stars. The waiters and waitresses were quite attentive and extremely pleasant!
(4)
Elizabeth B.
This is a very classy place and I felt a little classy showing my face in here. It's true. I came during the 5-7p happy hour, lured by the half price cocktails. The cocktails are delish, that's for sure. Worth the price, even at half price? Um... maybe. They do have some surprising concoctions. We ordered our drinks at the bar and then snagged a table (it is very crowded at happy hour). The bartender informed us that the tables are waitress service only ... however, in the 1.5 hours we were there, I saw neither hide nor hair of any waitress. Alas, the last diners' leftover dishes remained on the table for the duration which was unpleasant to say the least. Would I come back? Probably, because it's a very nice setting with a nice view (I am a sucker for a view) and unusual cocktails. I wouldn't expect to have poor service every time ... I am giving 19 the benefit of the doubt.
(3)
Rebecca C.
This review is ONLY for the $20 Prix Fixe Cafe Lunch. I have only had a couple of drinks at XIX and never eaten dinner here. I have been XIX for lunch twice since I discovered the Prix Fixe Cafe Lunch option on their website. I had been there for drinks before, so I knew that it was quite a handsome place, and I'm glad I gave it a try. The atmosphere here is classy and peaceful-- I feel like I'm waiting for Betty Draper to walk by at any moment! My mom and sister were very impressed when we went out for a birthday lunch in the spring, so I returned with a couple of friends from out of town last week with the same outcome. Though I think that it would be hard not to enjoy lunch at a place like XIX simply because it is so beautiful, I'm sure it's possible. However, they set the bar as high for food-- even lunch-- as for decor. For the first course, in addition to fresh, hot rolls on each table, several delicious (and some non-traditional) cold pasta, salad, vegetable, cheese and cold meat options are beautifully laid out on half of a huge, round table in the center of the dining room. Honestly, I would be happy enough if that was ALL there was to lunch here! The second course options my party chose most recently were the steak, mahi-mahi, and pasta with chicken. The steak was cooked a little more than medium, but was still great, as were both of the other dishes-- flavorful yet simple; large enough to share, but small enough to save room for the third course. A panini and pizza were also offered as second-course options. For the third course, the other half of the cafe table is laid out with a mini-dessert spread that rivals most wedding receptions I've attended. Mini blackberry pies, rich chocolate mousse, and fresh berries with homemade whipped cream and ladyfingers are just a couple of my personal favorites from this course, and are a perfect ending to a fabulous meal. This is now my number one go-to place when I want to impress a guest with a wonderful lunch. And at only $20? My vote for best leisurely lunch spot in the city.
(5)
Anna Marie C.
i have yet to eat here, but i do have to say that this is one of my favorite spots for center city sips. why, you ask? it's shwanky. for reals. the bar is beautiful, there's an outdoor area, and you get to look over philadelphia. the specials rock. the $1 sliders are to die for. be careful to not eat too many. and people are, for the most part, pretty. and it's not so crowded that you won't get served. et voila!
(5)
Jill T.
Wow, was I too quick to review originally. My husband and I decided we would return to XIX for dinner, after having a great experience in their bar earlier in the summer. We made a reservation for 8:30 and arrived early to have a cocktail before dinner. The bartender was less than friendly, but was efficient and had our cocktails ready very quickly- Raspberry Pepper cocktail is still stellar, but the rest of our experience was not. We were a 1/2 hour early for our reservation, and we were happy to wait at the bar, but they insisted on seating us early. Not a problem. we have a seat and 5 minutes go by, 10 minutes, then 20 minutes and not a single person had been over to greet us. While in the bar we did notice that there was a wedding going on, but the dining room was not that crowded. We're looking around- there is waitstaff everywhere, but no one to wait on us. My husband finally got a hold of someone (a hostess) who took our drink order, then was MIA for 15 more minutes. Then we got a hold of another person- a manager - who got us some water and retrieved our drinks. The hostess returned again about 10 minutes later to take our order. So 40/45 minutes into our dining experience we still do not have an actual server. Color me crazy, but 40 minutes in shouldn't we have had a server? Our food came out relatively quickly after placing the order, but with that being said- my husband's "Medium" steak was about as rare as it could possibly get. No one came by to check to see if we were OK, so he ate the edges that were cooked and left the center. 20 minutes after we had finished eating was the first time we were able to get someone to check in on us, and it was only to clear our plates. At which point they said "how was everything?" and my husband explained he had ordered a Medium steak and received a steak that bled all over his mashed potatoes instead. (I'm not kidding about that, my husband loves mashed potatoes, but could not eat them because they were covered in bloody steak juice, it was gross) At this point the manager says "Oh, do you want me to make you a new one?" Are you kidding me? No we don't want a new one! Thankfully they did take that off of the bill. I had the shrimp scampi, which was actually pretty good, but the shrimp were over cooked. I also had a really bad taste in my mouth considering the horrible service. I will say that when we did have someone attend to us they were very nice, but at no point in the meal did we ever have an actual server. It was the manager and the hostess tending to us, and not well. Considering it's not really their job to wait tables I can somewhat understand why they weren't very good at it. The fact that between the two of us we were going to be spending well over $100 I expect the service to be top notch. You cannot charge the kind of money they charge for second rate service. I've had better service in Red Robin, where my bill comes to under $20. What are the inflated prices for? Surely not the overall dining experience, and the food was lackluster at best. The best part of the evening were our cocktails, which we couldn't even enjoy thoroughly because they were too busy trying to seat us early! I recommend this place for the bar, and the bar only! The cocktail waitresses are sweethearts- so be sure you get a seat as opposed to sitting at the bar- because the bartender has an attitude problem. Do not waste your money on dinner here when the city of Philadelphia has so many wonderful restaurants with fantastic service- such as Barclay Prime (or anywhere else for that matter).
(2)
Emily D.
I don't claim to be a fancy-pants. but think i can now that i've gone to XIX. so, please, when you address me from now on, call me Fancy-Pants. i'll explain... i went to XIX for happy hour one evening with two of my favorite girls. i got some herby cocktail at half price. it was DELICIOUS. and most importantly, it was served with care......and maybe even in a golden goblet...i can't remember. you know, i didn't look rich, YET i was treated as if i was by the host and the waiter. maybe i'm easily charmed by well-paid-service that i mistake for chivalry.....actually, i probably am. but thank you for indulging me and making me feel rich for one happy, glorious hour. a round of 4 stars...on Fancy Pants!
(4)
Katy D.
No way will I ever come back here. The service was unacceptable. (The food actually was decent, so my apologies to the chef for this bad review). The tables were also terribly awkward. The whole proportion of seat to table was completely off. I felt like I was at home eating on the couch with a coffee table. First, I hate it when servers say "I'll be your server tonight." Duh. It's obvious. This particular server then looked like an idiot because he disappeared for the rest of our evening and someone else ended up serving us. We waited 10 minutes to even get menus, 10 minutes for water, 15 minutes or more for drinks, which came AFTER our appetizers. With each course, we were missing necessary silverware - spoons, forks. I had my main course in front of me for a couple minutes before someone checked on us to see if we needed something. Yes! A fork! Like 2 minutes ago I needed a fork! We had to "claim" our plates since the servers/runners obviously had trouble remembering what each person order, which I find inappropriate in a supposedly "fine dining" establishment. Last, the waiter apologized for the many waits we had throughout the evening right as he handed us the bill. Classy. It was one of those times I wish I was not a nice person and would tip less than 20%. But I always tip 20%. I will not be coming back to Nineteen.
(1)
Abby I.
Gorgeous gorgeous restaurant. The point of this restaurant is the great view right (and food)? My friend and I got seated at a table with absolutely no view of the city. How unfortunate. On top of that, the seats are placed very close together so that the couples next to us were listening in to our conversation. I also didn't understand why the hostess seated other people around us when there were clearly other vacant tables inside of the restaurant. Lychee mandarin martini was good. I had the Hudson Valley Foie Gras...is there a such thing as over doing foie gras? If there is XIX made it happen. Did not like this at all. Le Bec Fin still wins for best foie gras. My friend ordered the roasted baby beets salad and that was DELICIOUS. Nantucket Bay Scallops were a clear winner along with the Braised Rabbit Bolognese. Dessert was the best. Chocolate Pecan Pie (very rich in taste) and the Toffee Banana Waffle (just perfect). Probably wouldn't go back again just because I was annoyed of the terrible seating decisions. (And also the elevator to get to the restaurant is a bit...dated. You'll see.)
(3)
Liz N.
One of the best places to take someone special. Food was as expected. The ambiance is really what you're there for.
(4)
Kaitlin L.
I just got back from a lunch here and I sadly have to say, I was pretty underwhelmed. The decor is nice but a little stuffy, and the seating format was a bit odd. I spent my entire lunch staring at the host and hostess, kind of uncomfortable. It is a pre-fixe menu, so you get an assortment of salads and such, an entree, and an assortment of desserts for $20. I liked the idea of a buffet style setting for apps and desserts but for the most part, nothing was something to write home about. The exception would be a white chocolate parfait I had which was quite good. I ordered a portabella mushroom panini with pesto and broccolini. It ended up having very little mushroom at all, the bread was a bit burnt, and it wasn't seasoned well, if at all. Sad. I could get a much better panini, salad, and coffee from Naked Chocolate for $7. This place really wasn't worth it. Also, service was surprisingly terrible. After finishing our meal, we waited 20+ minutes for her to come by and then yet another 10 minutes for her to come back with our cards. Needless to say, you won't be finding me at XIX any time soon.
(2)
itasha c.
Okay so I am a fan.. so coming again. This place is beautiful something to definitely go out on a date to.. Or just grab a cocktail and mingle.
(5)
Elaine L.
My husband and I were celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary with our children and decided to go to XIX and it was wonderful. It was a warm July evening and they had the windows open to let in the fresh air which was wonderful. Our server Max was great. Very helpful and funny. The food and drinks were great. I would recommend it for any occasion.
(5)
N P.
XIX is like meeting a Brad Pitt look-alike only to discover what a douchebag he is and wanting to get away ASAP! XIX is all about the aesthetics and nothing else to offer in terms of good food. The waiter recommended a dish that was basically breaded chicken breast with no seasoning served with fries and ranch dipping sauce. Of all the things on the menu he picked this bland and mushy dish. Maybe he does not like to eat in general. The $10 onion soup was very salty. The pasta dish also too salty and was like chewing on shoestrings and the seafood was overcooked. The food does not match up with the price or atmosphere. Why are they serving Denny's style food in such a nice setting?? Not all the great ambiance in the world would bring me back to this place.
(1)
Ken C.
Excellent happy hour at the bar. The dining is in a beautiful room and the food is excellent. The wait staff can suggest some great entrees. Had dinner there three times over the past two years and each time was a memorable event. The only thing that I would change is that when you come off the elevator you sort of wonder where to go. Even when you into the restaurant the has not been someone there to greet us the last two times. Once they see you though and know that you are there for dinner the invite you right in. Have dinner here and enjoy the evening. Come to the bar during the week for happy hour.
(5)
Jenn W.
Went there Sat night, wasn't able to get into homegrown Yelp party, but was probably full.So my 2 friend's have ventured there before.We set out, Parking alone was Hell!! Weather was nice, so everyone & their grandmother was out.Finally after 20-25 min found spot, still had to wait for others find parking. We all went in, nice , for cocktail's & maybe snacks. Not for dinner or anything crazy, it is at the Bellvue on Broad. What do you expect, high crust, but nicer more laid back lounge , to sit * chat, not to crazy like the other bar scenes. But nice change to just go out.Not one to keep going, little on pricier side, got Blueberry gimlet, nice but most drinks start at $12.00
(3)
Tina N.
This place is gorgeous with an amazing view. I asked if we could sit outside for dinner and although the dining outdoor area was full, they accommodated us and arranged for us to sit in the outdoor cafe area. I'm not sure if the dining area would have been nicer but it wasn't too shabby where we were. The food was nicely presented and well done. I order the Alaskan Halibut and my friend had the Club Steak. Both dishes were good but it's still Fish and Steak. Their menu isn't very vast or impressive but I think like Water Works, they're selling the experience, not just the food. All in all though, the bill came out to only about $90 for the two of us, and that included 2 glass of wine, 2 glasses of IPA, a shared appetizer and two entrees. I still think their was a mistake on the bill but I didn't question it at the time. Good date place to go if you want to impress, but for food....there's a 5 Guys Burger down the street.
(3)
Kelly G.
Went here again recently for the same lunch special - this time we sat outside for the whole meal. Some of the desserts werent as great as others, but most hit the spot. Also the service was a little less "on". Then I got a double espresso & found on the bill it was $6.50. Eeks that seemed high. All in all, though, I will be back. You really cant beat the ambiance & food for the $.
(4)
Erin A.
I really dug it. My husband I went during restaurant week and they did an excellent job with the options. It was less expensive cuts but larger portions than some resto week menus. The atmosphere is awesome! Such a cool old building and neat renovation. The raw bar is cool. We have been there for cocktails a few times too and the bar is very cool. They have carafes of house wine which is a great inexpensive option for a few people. Last time we went they were no longer listed but still had them when we asked.
(4)
Kit-N-Debbie W.
After cocktails in XIX lounge area with majestic views and comfortable fireplace, we found it a "Must" to come back for dinner. We had our Christmas dinner last night and can only describe it as a great experience. The room, a dome shape, with pearls hanging down, felt like we were ready for New Years Eve. Even though busy, our server George gave us outstanding service. The dinner, for the city, reasonably priced, large selection of wine by the glass. Highly recommend the cheese plate, a large selection as well. Entrees, delicious. A nice surprise that they were available in small plates or a larger share size. What a wonderful experience. Can't wait to go back.
(5)
Mr S.
We came here for a nightcap after an amazing show at the Kimmel Center. Let me quell the concerns about the tables and seating. if you are coming here for a meal then eat in the restaurant. It sounds like the bad reviews are for the lounge. The lounge, like most lounges are not setup to accommodate a meal. Small/low tables, small seats. That being said, we had the cheese platter which was wonderful, the Bolivia chocolate something-something (chocolate-y goodness) and the cheesecake(no joke) in a mason jar with huckleberries and Philadelphia cream cheese that had the consistency of whipped cream(sweet). My old-fashion was off a bit and the bartender comped another one. Also had Glenlivet 21 which tasted more like 18, but I didn't watch him pour it. Lastly, the seating layout by the windows isn't the best. The seating is set facing the window similar to a bar but it is for two or more people. This means, if you want to look out the window your back is to the "scene" and no people watching, which I hate. They should give everything on the window wall a half turn so your profile faces the window. Anyway, we sat in the gentlemen chairs along the entrance wall. which have higher tables and give s a good view of the room and to a lesser extent the windows. Lastly, the full spectrum of ages were represented there. So there were jeans present. Jeans and sneakers, Jeans with shows and blazer, jeans cocktail, jeans gumbo, baseball hats a la why? Then the trophy wife with "how the hell did he get her, oh the money" husband, as well as the aging trophy wife christened "blowup-wife" because of all the plastic surgery. Then there's me Mr. love-it-all, hate-it-all, and know-it-all. Final thoughts? Eh. It's ok.
(3)
M P.
The other reviews mostly cover it, but I wanted to add some advice. The best times to come to XIX are: 1) restaurant week (mid-January), 2) center city sips (summer) or 3) when the weather is beautiful and you can get there early enough to get a spot on the balcony. The atmosphere is always fun, but even more so during special events like Sips or restaurant week. The views from the balcony are amazing, though you don't see them most of the year when the weather is bad and the windows are closed.
(4)
Vinh T.
great for lunch :D only $20 bucks include: entree, salads and dessert buffet + drink of choice (pepsi or iced tea). great view + great ambiance pls reserve for a table lunch (11:30 to 2:00 from mon to fri)
(4)
Thuy F.
went here for restaurant week w my boyfriend. i got the crab cake, steak, and toffee pudding. my bf had the same thing except for appetizers he chose the tomato heirloom salad. the appetizers and desserts were delicious!! the steak was just ok.... not something i would come back for. becuz of the way the room was, during my 2 hr dinner i heard the whole conversation from a man across the room, can u say annoying? for drinks i wanted the lychee kiss, but later was informed they ran out of lychee and i had to get something else. i turned to rubytini hoping it'll wow me... BLAHHHH, disgusting. a waste of $12
(3)
Gina H.
It is a beautiful restaurant, no one in our party of 6 disagreed on that point, but we all felt it was overpriced for the portions served. The food was good, just not spectacular like the ambiance of the restaurant. Though there were moments of genius like the pickled peppers that accompanied the Skate. The braised short ribs were good, but the two men at the table who ordered them felt that they could easily eat a double portion, and one even felt is was like an appetizer plate. And it was clear that mushroom risotto appetizer was more filling than the short ribs. As with the food, the service was good -- just not spectacular. Our server was polite but not highly knowledgeable about the menu and just kept telling us "everything is good." We are experienced diners and prefer suggestions from the staff on what is truly good vs. what is just fine. Obviously the food in this place was going to be "good" but we really wanted to find out what was exceptional, and like the service, nothing really was. Don't let me steer you away, all in all it was a lovely dinner, the staff was perfectly respectable, just wished it had a little more sparkle. I will definitely go back because the setting is incredible and I can't wait for the weather to get warmer so I can visit the outside balcony, I just will focus on the drinks -- especially the pomegranate basil margarita, very delicious -- and the appetizers.
(3)
Mike N.
I was looking for a somewhat swanky place for a drink or two before closing time and a friend suggested XIX. It was exactly what we were looking for. Seems like a great place for a pre or post dinner drink.
(4)
E. J.
Come here if you want to dine with a view of Philadelphia. This is THE place. I also hear that lunch and happy hour are good, but I went during Restaurant Week and the meal itself was ok, not outstanding. Our waiter was not particularly gregarious -- seemed distracted the entire evening especially since I had to request for more water on more than one occasion. 1st: raw oysters on the half shell 2nd: porkchop 3rd: pineapple prepared three different ways. Again, Id return, but only for the view.
(3)
Heather R.
I made my reservations through OpenTable well over a month ago. I stated it was a birthday and would like a window table due to the special occasion. Upon arrival they seated us at the banquet on the right side of the restaurant. This is a perfectly acceptable seat, but not what I had requested. I am a reasonable person, and realize that requests cannot always be fulfilled. However, the restaurant was at around 40-60% full at all times. When I was seated there was at least two window tables empty that I could see. When a restaurant bill can come between $200-300 for two people, I expect a phone call from the reservation/host staff ahead of time explaining that my request has been noted but cannot be fulfilled for that evening. Instead I get to walk in on my birthday, to be seated at a table I do not want.......with no apology or explanation from the hostess. My dining partner spoke up as she seated us, and the hostess said she was sorry there were no tables available. I would have loved to hear "Let me see what I can do." or something a little more proactive to make me happy, even if in the end after she tried there was nothing she could do. I watched the other two tables that were empty. About 40 minutes after being there I watched a hostess walk into the room with a couple, and visually scan the restaurant then slowly walk them to the two seater I had my eye on., That does not give me the impression these people had specifically requested that table. There is no way of me knowing that obviously. But it would definitely leave one with that impression. She walked into the room acting like she was in the process of deciding where to put them. Thank goodness for our server. We had Jesse and he was extremely professional and took care of us. He was very attentive and acted like he cared we were there. I appreciated that since it isn't always the feeling you get when you go out nowadays. I thought all the food was great. I found the pricing to be fair. We had eaten here when it was Founders around 5 years ago. The room is still gorgeous and the new remodel does the architecture justice. We had some issues leaving the building. The sky bridge that connects the hotel to the parking garage has a door that sticks. Like, REALLY sticks. We were trying to leave and it felt like the door was locked. We had to call the hotel from our cell phone and they said they would have security come up. No one showed, I went down to the desk near the elevators and was completely ignored by a woman writing on a clipboard for probably 3-5 minutes straight. My friend came down and signaled to me that the door was now open. No one from security had shown up, and this woman never acknowledged I was there. Very odd. We went back up to the door to find another couple (Ironically, the couple who had gotten the table I wanted). They were struggling with the door and thought they were locked in as well. My friend showed them what someone else who had just been through showed her, that you basically have to body slam the door to get it to open. From the car I had called the hotel to explain that we were kind of locked in, and ignored. I got a dismissive "The hotel does not own the parking garage and" blah blah blah. He didn't really care. Perhaps if the security staff is not paid by the hotel, the hotel should ensure that they treat any hotel or restaurant guests well. Perhaps they should also make sure that doors inside the hotel that lead to the garage are in working order. I was completely irritated last night over this. I am not going to hold it against XIX as I did last night even though as a guest I wish they would be more helpful regardless of who owns what. In conclusion, dinner was great. Our server saved the evening for me. I am not sure I would go back. I may, but it is not high on the priority list given some of the issues I described above. There are so many great places in Philly to try and I am having a hard time with the hostess not caring about my special request on my birthday.
(4)
Sahara M.
The Cafe part of XIX has an awesome prix fix lunch deal. For $20 you get three courses... there is a buffet with salads, cured meats and cheeses, an entree that is served to you, and another buffet with several amazing desserts. All of this in a spectacular setting makes for a very special afternoon that won't break the bank.
(5)
Ray D.
This place has some sentimental value to me but aside from that it doesn't really matter to me if I go back or not. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed my food and time there, but I didn't leave wondering when I'd be back. The dining room is beautiful, the menu is solid, but the whole feel associated with eating in a hotel is a turn-off. Also, the crowd was a weird mix. There were the 70 yoa former Bookbinder's customers, the hotel guests wearing cargo shorts and flip flops, people in suits, and everyone else. Keep in mind that the dining room and overall ambiance are pretty fancy here. I think happy hour is probably a different story. It was winding down when I got there and the bar looked pretty happening. I think a few drinks at the bar and maybe some selections from the raw bar might have been more enjoyable than dinner.
(3)
Ben H.
Awesome venue with a great view if it's nice enough to sit outside. Inside there is a great area with a fireplace and bar, and the main dining area is laid out. This is a nice spot to take a date that you're looking to impress. The food is really good and surprisingly reasonable in terms of price. Recommend the calamari, which is fried in the lightest, tastiest batter I've had. The service was also really good.
(4)
C K.
Excellent food for a reasonable price. I had the lobster club, which was delicious. The dining environment is spectacular. For such a classy/fancy looking place, it is quite cheap compared to other restaurants. The service was excellent.
(5)
Viet N.
Great service and ambiance. Desserts were definitely lacking. Food was okay but nothing that stood out. Great scenery, very romantic if y'all taking a significant other out.
(4)
Nicole R.
Located on the 19th Floor of the Hyatt Hotel, Nineteen is an upscale hotel bar and restaurant. You wouldn't know it from the service though. I went to Nineteen with a few people to grab a cocktail. While the Chopin on the rocks I ordered may have been the largest ever, it took us forever to get the attention of the "bartenders." I use the two-finger quote things because I don't believe these ladies had ever tended bar before. The music was obnoxious dancey house music but I know there are people who like that sort of thing. Plusses: Spiffy wine collection display, great view, large alcohol portions (at least if you manage to get a bartender who doesn't know what she's pouring). Minuses: Crap service and music. I can't make any comment on the food since we only went for the drink.
(2)
Stephanie B.
This is my first review on Yelp and sadly I have to give what used to be one of my very favorite happy hour spots one star. I have been coming to XIX for happy hour for years and I have always loved it. It has a relaxed vibe, its beautiful, and has great bar food. I went today to celebrate a friends birthday with a few drinks before venturing out into the city's nightlife and was greeted by a mouse in the lounge area! Totally unacceptable for a place of its caliber and reputation. Get an exterminator please!!!
(1)
Naomi B.
I made a reservation on Saturday (11/01/2014) and my experience was awful and to be quite honest, disappointing for this kind of establishment. I've experienced better service at a food truck. I was celebrating a special night, only to have it ruined by the lack of service. We were seated by smiling hostess (hence why I'm giving this two stars, rather than one) but when we were given menus, it took 20 minutes for our DRINKS to be brought to us. 20 MINUTES for drinks? Are you kidding me? I've worked in the service industry, for a shiraz and a dogfish beer, it shouldn't of taken that long. My friend and I were being patient, only to be ignored and not even checked up on by our server. He went to every other table around us, even next to us -- but god forbid checking up on us. We were a party of two, how hard could that be? It was a forty five minute wait all together for two dishes. Being the generous person I am, rather than not tipping; I still did. The night was ruined and left a foul taste in my mouth, so thank you so much XIX.
yeah it was classy. the server was very good and the food was pricy but delish. i would def. go back, but like others said im more into the dive bar scene. i couldnt help but fantasize about my wedding in this place. it was so beautiful inside. and great views. and it smelled really good.
(4)
Lauren H.
So went back for cocktails in front of the fire. It turns out to be a gas fireplace. It, along with the douchbags at the bar, managed to suck all the air out of the room. Now we know and we don't need to go back.
(2)
Justin B.
XIX is the epitome of culinary perfection. The ambience that fills the 19th floor is breathtaking. From the large chandeliers to the terrific views of the city, greatness is what you'll find at XIX. This would be a perfect spot to bring that special someone whether it's a 1st date or an Anniversary. The last time I dined I had the Filet which I asked to be prepared medium. It was cooked perfectly and was like a buttery velvety piece of deliciousness. If velvety is a word... which I believe it is :) The portions were just right and the drinks were also tasty. I'd recommend this place to anyone who likes fine dining.
(5)
Chigger L.
Love this place. The Chef nails it every single time we're there! The Venison and the Braised short rib.....whaaaaaaat????
(5)
jay l.
Surprisingly ghetto. The server "Floyd" seemed bored and detached. Not sure about the cocktail pyrotechnics cuz 5 minutes later it still smells like sulfur. Oh and btw if I'm paying $10 for a beer I wanna freaking glass. It really is hard to find good help these days.
(2)
Monica Q.
The food is okay at best. Service was good and ambiance was nice but not worth the price of the check. Maybe my expectations were high but I was fairly unimpressed with the food. If you care more about the looks of the place, this is a great place to impress, but if you're a foodie, skip this place. The incredible view of the city is blocked by curtains and decor. If you're lucky enough to sit next to the window, you'll catch a glimpse. Otherwise- you might only see it on the way to your table, like I did. It was pretty though...
(2)
Crystal C.
Not impressed! Entree options were limited due to it being Restaurant Week. The service was okay, no complaints or kudos. I will go back during Brunch to see the Philadelphia skyline and give them a second chance to wow me.
(3)
Brittany E.
Went here in the summer for an anniversary dinner. Parking was slightly hard to find, but once we got up to the 19th floor the staff was great, polite and attentive. Food was delicious and the view was amazing. They were so accomodating to our requests, took pictures for us, and even gave us complimentary champagne to celebrate. Overall very pleased with our experience here and sure to go back!
(5)
Sammiyah Sunflower T.
We came out for restaurant week and enjoyed everything... great for date night or ladies night out..... cocktails for happy hour 6 dollars.... get the lychee kiss. It comes with the lychee in it delicious. Had the watermelon gazpacho soup with a touch of jalapeno just the right spice. The grilled salmon with crab meat and potatoes and asparagus whatever sauce it was amazing. The desert trio more than delicious. Great outdoor seating you can see the whole city. Come around sunset and it's truly a romantic experience. The staff what can I say they were perfect always attending to our needs so friendly and open and helpful. Our waiter even suggested for us to take a picture on the balcony so beautiful.
(5)
Rebecca O.
Worst thanksgiving dinner ever. Abysmal. I'm so embarrassed to have brought guests here, I don't know if I'll ever recover. Juvenile, unsophisticated waitstaff, complete inability to manage flow of traffic or even simple reservations. Food was awful - dry turkey, no mashed potatoes, no sweet potatoes, soggy Brussel sprouts. I'm so furious.
(1)
Steve W.
Went to XIX for drinks and a quick bite. You can reach XIX via the shops at Bellevue or the Hyatt. You've probably guessed, its located on the 19th floor. Once off the elevator it seems you've gotten off on an abandoned floor. Wonder around a bit and you'll eventually find the restaurant, the bar is just a little farther in. The bar has tall ceilings, paintings on the wall, seats by a window or the fireplace, very nice ambiance. The food at the bar is pretty good. Had the flatbread, which was very good and the oysters which were fresh. Great selection of speciality drinks available and decent wines by the glass. The prices are a little on the high side but worth it for the quality.
(4)
Shirlana D.
I always enjoy going here for lunch. Upon entrance the host or hostess always greets me with a smile & a warm welcome. The variety of food provided at the salad bar is delectable. The pasta salad and couscous salad is divine. The lunch meat & cheese tray is always tasty. The desserts are heavenly. There is always hot bread served to your table with warm butter. The laid back environment is refreshing. Whether it is restaurant week or lunch with friends, you are provided sufficient time to dine. Staff has never rushed me out, even if we are meandering a little longer than normal. This place is a must try, if it's not on your list already, please add it to your rotation. Trust me, your pallet will appreciate it.
(4)
Laura G.
I came in for my birthday on Tuesday. Upon arrival they actually put another party in our seats but luckily there was another table available next to the balcony. Unfortunately they weren't opening the balcony because it was too hot. There were probably only 5-6 other parties in the restaurant. The dining room is honestly exquisite which you can probably see in many photos. I started with the lychee kiss and we also ordered a bottle of wine. Our waiter came by to fill our glasses when they would start to reach the low end. We started with the lobster risotto and the meat & cheese tasting. The lobster risotto was well worth the price. There were large pieces of lobster throughout as well as the full claw served on top. It was very moist with all of the flavors complimenting each other. This was also plenty for the two of us. The meat & cheese plate was delicious as well. Next I ordered the diver scallops. This dish is definitely on the less filling end, so I suggest getting an appetizer, although the scallops are fairly large. The pomelo grapefruit really made this so wonderful. It tasted so fresh, both savory and sweet. I'm also a sucker for chimichurri which made this an easy pick. He ordered the ribeye which was also great. The carrots that came with it were to die for. Lastly was dessert. At this point they opened the balcony so we switched tables and ordered some more wine. I had some sort of banana chocolate truffle cake. If you're a chocolate fan, definitely go for this one. I was nervous based on the mix of reviews but I couldn't have enjoyed my experience anymore. This is a great restaurant to visit for any type of celebration.
(5)
Sari A.
Classic and charming ambiance- floor to ceiling windows for a city breathtaking view . The bar lounges are romantic at night if you want to impress ;) upscale weekend brunch. Dinner is great and the portions are perfect. Four Yelps!
(4)
Matt C.
XIX is kind of weird. There are rooms off to the side that are full of super fancy crystals and others with mad old people and bowls of ice and then a dark, little cave section with a bar, then a super bright dining room with chandeliers and champagne flutes. It gives the whole place an, "Eyes Wide Shut," party vibe. We just went for a friends birthday and wound up just sitting and sipping scotch in the dark middle section. Nothing earth shattering, but XIX at least LOOKS very nice. I can't speak on the food or service, as we didn't eat anything and ran to the bar to get our drinks. I might be back to give the cuisine a go, at which point I'll update accordingly.
(3)
Kat S.
[CENTER CITY RESTAURANT WEEK] Some friends of mine came here for dinner last week. I made a reservation for 8pm, as our one friend gets off work late. When we arrived we asked for a table on the balcony, but all were full. This wasn't a problem, as we sat at the bar and grabbed some delicious cocktails while we waited (about 20 mins). All of us loved the drinks we ordered and the bartender was extremely friendly. We were seated on the North Balcony, by that time the sun was setting and we had an absolutely amazing view. It took a little bit for a server to come over to us and when he did, it took even longer for him to come back to take our order. By the time we ordered our food, they had already sold out of the Pot Belly and Mussels appetizer and they were not offering any substitutions. That was a major disappointment. I got the Heirloom Tomato Salad and my friends got the Watermelon Gazpacho. My salad was OK, nothing to rave about. The gazpacho was delicious and I was jealous I did not choose that. For our entrees, I got the pasta dish with mushrooms and black garlic while my friends got the duck and steak dishes. All our dishes were good, again, nothing extraordinary. At one point my friend did order another drink and it took about 10 minutes for it to arrive. The dessert was very small and basically bite size samples of their main dishes. On a side note, halfway during our meal my friend told me not to look down and I did... to find a gigantic cockroach on the wall next to my seat. It was crawling around the window pane next to our table. We told our server and he came to try and swat it away, unsuccessfully. I get it, we're in the city and there are cockroaches around (even if you don't see them), this was just a bit of a turn-off. Overall it was an OK experience for me. The service was friendly, albeit a little slow. The cocktails were delicious! The food was ok. But the atmosphere and views were stellar. I would come back for a special event, not necessarily a date night or night out with friends.
(3)
Suji K.
*Restaurant Week 2015* So, the food and service were just good. Nothing mind blowing or particularly memorable (dessert trio was a bit tooo simple..), but nothing to complain about, either. But, honestly, you're not here to have the best thing you ever ate. You're here to feel particularly special. Swanky; maybe romantic, depending on your company. And that's completely acceptable. So grab a drink (Lychee Kiss?) and dine in high class. Literally.
(4)
Joycelin W.
I came with a group of nineteen (totally not planned) for Restaurant Week dinner last week. Overall impression--good food, great service, really beautiful and classy ambience. 3.5 stars! I love mussels (and pretty much any shellfish), so I ordered that to start. The white wine sauce wasn't my favorite and it was pretty bland, but I appreciated the generous portion size! The mussels were also cooked really well. Just wish there was a little more seasoning and flavor. I got the flat iron steak for my main course which was cooked perfectly (I asked for medium rare--it's the only way to go IMO!). This came with grilled carrots (pretty good), potatoes and caramelized onions (very savory and yummy, albeit a little greasy and heavy). The dessert trio consisted of a strawberry pistachio cake, chocolate banana truffle and fruit tart. All three were good but nothing too special. XIX is one of those restaurants that I would return to only for the breathtaking views and atmosphere. You definitely feel special here. The food isn't bad but I don't think I'd be missing out on too much if I never came back again.
(4)
Sneha K.
I went to XIX Nineteen for restaurant week with a couple of friends. It was a great occasion to get dressed up and the food was delicious but the service threw us off. When we were giving the waiter our order, the waiter told me not to order what I was going to order and told me to order something else instead. When I asked for the Paella without the Chorizo (I don't eat pork), he said it would cost me $10 extra. I understand that he was trying to make a joke but it didn't come across too well. I eventually went with the Crab and Spinach Crostini to start with, the Paella for the main course and the Flourless Chocolate Cake for dessert. The food was very high quality. However, the service between each meal was extremely slow and our meal took a total of 2.5 hours! The place wasn't even crowded enough to warrant that kind of slow service. The place is beautiful and the view is stunning.We went outside on the balcony to take pictures which was also really nice.
(3)
Ashley S.
This was one of the best lunches I've ever had! XIX is the perfect place for a special occasion, and I brought my family here after my graduation from graduate school. I had already looked up the menu before I came, so I knew I was going to order the 3-course lunch. At $22, it's pricier than the average lunch, but the quality and amount of food you get with the prix-fixe is amazing. The first course is a selection of salads, meats, and cheeses. I thought that meant you pick from a list of what you would want, but instead, you serve yourself from a whole buffet of charcuterie, cheese, and probably 10 different types of salads. I filled my plate with cheese and a little of each of the salads, and I was so impressed by everything I tried. The cheese was great, and the salads had amazing flavors. My favorite was the asian noodle salad, but the lentil and caesar salads were also very good. I liked everything and was already pretty full after the first course. I chose the salmon as my entree. It was a good-sized portion served with a black bean puree that was delicious. The fish was cooked and seasoned perfectly, and even though I was already pretty full, I ate every last bite because it was so good. And then came dessert. It was also buffet-style, and although I was already very full, I had to try a few of the desserts. They had delicious and perfectly-ripe mixed berries -- raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and I think gooseberries (it was the first time I had them). There were also mini key lime pies, fresh-baked cookies, chocolate mousse bars, cannolis, and the list goes on. My favorites were the oh-so-good berries, key lime pie, and chocolate mousse bars. The cannolis were a miss. They were flavored with cinnamon (which I don't like) and otherwise were pretty bland, but all of the other desserts were delicious. My family members also ordered off the prix-fixe menu, and they were equally impressed with their meals. They ordered the steak, pasta, and fish dishes, and they all felt the same way about how amazing their lunches were. The ambiance adds to the excellence of this restaurant. The dining room has an upscale feel to it. There is a pearl chandelier hanging from the ceiling, and all of the other decorations are very chic. It's the kind of place I would recommend dressing up for. And again, I cannot recommend this place enough for celebrating a special occasion!
(5)
Sonia S.
Afternoon tea review -- I came here for a bridal shower (the same one Aria S. was at!). It is such a unique and swanky place for any special occasion! The staff wasn't very welcoming, which was disappointing since we were there for such a special event but regardless, everyone had a great time. I tried the mad hatter's tea. I've tried many fruit teas, and this was one of the best! All of the pastries and finger foods were delicious! More than the food though, the atmosphere and experience made it worthwhile. Everything from the circular layout and elaborate ceiling, to being seated at the long table with big fancy chairs, to getting your own teapot, to the bite-sized sandwiches was so inexplicably cute. At around $30/person, I can't say that I'll be back again for afternoon tea but I would love to come back for happy hour after they open the balcony and take in the skyline view with a drink in my hand!
(4)
Danan R.
Fantastic Sunday brunch with a buffet and entree, along with dessert. We came to celebrate a friend's birthday, and our server brought her a small cupcake and chocolate-covered strawberry plate, as well. The ambiance is beautiful and it's a great location for a date or a catch-up brunch with friends. Some highlights from the $35 brunch: 1. Crabcake benedict: Fantastic crabcake with plenty of lump crabmeat and perfectly cooked poached eggs. Definitely my favorite entree on the menu. 2. Barramundi with couscous: Decent but not as amazing as the crabcake. 3. Salad Bar: a. Shrimp cocktail: Huge and perfectly seasoned shrimp. Definitely recommend. b.Charcuterie and cheese boards: Great serrano ham and brie. c. Mussels in garlic white wine sauce: Tender but tiny although the broth was very flavorful d. Smoked salmon: Tender and flavorful. Pair it with the cream cheese. 7. Dessert table: Try the bread pudding, chocolate chip cookie cake, tiramisu cup, fruit tart, and mini banana nut muffins A tip: save room for dessert! A great brunch option in Center City, for sure. If you only want the salad and dessert buffets, it is $25.
(4)
Rahul B.
We were here last Sunday to celebrate our daughter's birthday. Firstly, the setting was absolutely amazing. Food & service were first class. Our server Dominic was truly fantastic, going out of his way to take group picture at the balcony. Definitely recommend this restaurant.
(5)
Dan B.
Great place for happy hours. Dinners are expensive since you're paying more for the view and presentation. Good raw bar as well. If you're looking to impress new friends this is the place to do it.
(4)
Christian L.
I only went in for a drink with a friend and granted it cost about 35 dollars for two drinks and a tip I felt it was a fun experience. As you exit the elevators you enter a hallway that's empty and quite leaving you questioning if your in the right place. Then eventually you find your way to the bar/lounge. Its very small and has quite a bit of people in it and it doesn't feel crowded but it still feels private at th same time.
(4)
Von M.
It is so easy to be distracted by the great first floor amenities of the Bellevue (including The Palm) that one might overlook the treasures on the upper floors. One such treasure is XIX, located unsurprisingly on the 19th floor. XIX consists of a couple of different spaces: a modernist bar area and a grand domed dining room. The bar area is inviting and comfortable. It, however, is starkly minimalist by comparison to the dining room. The dining area is lavishly adorned with beautiful plaster relief, has Palladian windows on steroids (some of the most beautiful windows in and views of the City) and has heavy, elegant draperies. In the evening, the wall color and the fabulous lighting make everyone glow, as if bathed candlelight. It is one of the most romantic spaces around (an expected bonus for a grand room). As other Yelpers have noted, the rotunda effect of the dome is to transmit sounds from across the room. If that effect would annoy you, then ask the Maitre d for a table where you are less likely to be subject to it. We have visited XIX a few times for pre-dinner drinks and for post-dinner coffee and dessert. BTW, It is a great place to hang out while awaiting your table at The Palm. Our most recent visit, however, was for a birthday lunch. We took advantage of the prix fixe lunch that was part buffet and part table service. The buffet included several delicious salads (the Caesar was a standout), roasted veggies, a cheese tray, a tray of charcuterie and beautiful breads. All of the attendees intoned in unison "yum" as they took first bites from their entrees. This was a discerning bunch and they had collectively ordered all of the entree options offered that day. The poisson du jour was beautifully presented and tasty piece of salmon. The entree portions were not huge, but they were perfectly adequate given the buffet's offerings. The buffet also had some lovely dessert options, including cookies, small pastries and mousse. The prix fixe lunch at $22/person is one of the best deals in the city for an excellent meal in an amazing space.
(4)
Carl C.
I really wanted to give this place 3.5 but I will give this place the benefit of the doubt. The food is not all that spectacular but something about tha waspy atmosphere does it for me sometimes. High ceilings, chandeliers, the lounge area, the gimlets I had. Service was a 4, food was a 3.5 ambience 5, price was 4 ps..good romantic place to go
(4)
Justin C.
We stayed at the Bellevue for 4 nights and ate at nineteen twice. The first time we had the "fancy" dinner, consisting of steak, grilled chicken breast, salmon, and amazing appetizers. The second night we had the normal dinner, and both times it was fantastic. I would definitely go back. It is pretty expensive, but it was a great meal.
(5)
Barney B.
very cool place for a pre-dinner drink - the enormous windows and high ceilings just make it feel so elegant. awkward place to go for a pr-dinner drink if the rest of the place is empty, because then you just look like a stuffy alcoholic and I am not stuffy
(4)
Patrick C.
We went to celebrate a birthday at XIX tonight and had a wonderful experience from start to finish. We were seated by one of the large pocket doors that go out on to the balcony overlooking the city and I had a glass of Riesling while the birthday boy tried the Orange Blossom, one of the signature cocktails made with Blue Coat gin, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, Paychaud's bitters and ginger ale. It was deemed delicious. An ample basket of warm bread, multigrain and white, with a large disk of soft, creamy butter was brought to our table with the drinks. For starters we ordered the raw littleneck clams, the grilled octopus salad and the artisan meat and cheese tasting platter. All of it was delicious. The grilled octopus was warm, buttery and tender over fingerling potatoes, veggie sweet peppers, baby arugula and dressed lightly with a sherry vinaigrette. The "18 month" parma ham, finocchiona, chicken garlic sausage, and assorted cheeses and jams were all very good and the littleneck clams ver very fresh, served on ice with two mignonettes. For my main dish, I had the Deconstructed Berkshire Pork Osso Buco which were braised until tender and falling apart and it was served with a halved marrow bone full of custardy, unctuous, umami-laden marrow and caramelized apples, braised collard greens and dusted with a touch of smoked sea salt. My dining partner had the Braised Veal Shoulder which was served on soft, cheesy polenta with braised collard greens and it was highlighted by a very fresh, citrusy gremolata (which interestingly, is usually served with traditional veal osso buco). Great coffee and a trio of fresh-made, creamy sorbets in strawberry-lime, tropical fruit and peach finished out a great meal and a great evening. Kudos to our great server Wilmer who let us step out 'après-dîner' on the balcony to take in the amazing views. Great service, great ambiance, great food and very reasonable too - one of Philadelphia's hidden gems for sure and I will be back to try both the brunch and afternoon tea very soon!!
(4)
Aria S.
Didn't realize that I'd be back so soon! This time I went for happy hour and this has got to be the classiest bar in Philly. All mahogany wood. Fireplace. Dim lighting. Men drinking scotch neat at the bar. Waitresses dressed in all black with pantyhose. You get the idea right? No need to dress to impress but I wouldn't wear ratty clothes. The cocktail menu is amazing and they're only $6 during happy hour! $12 regular meh but $6 happy hour hollaaa. Also got the tomato flat bread pizza for $11 regular price. It was sooo good. Multiple types of cheese (ricotta and mozz I think) and fresh rosemary (great addition). I was staving, so def gobbled up the whole thing myself hehe. But otherwise nice to share with two people.
(5)
Cheryl C.
Great service! The crab cake and XIX salad combo was delicious and just the right portion. Loved the blueberry cobbler. Lovely dining room and views of the city! Nice wine cellar.
(4)
Sam S.
Great place, great views, great atmosphere, but beware, the bar doesn't actually open til 2:00p. Yelp says 11:30a but that's lunch only. Right then left then right off the elevator.
(4)
Matt D.
It's a beautiful space with lots of beautiful people, but when it comes down to it, this is a hotel restaurant. The food, while perfectly good, is nothing to get excited about. We had the steak frites and octopus. Both were fine, but they were simple, well-seasoned, straight forward dishes. The service was a bit choppy, but friendly and it's certainly a lively crowd (particularly in the bar room). The room itself does not need a makeover, but instead, it just needs painted and cleaned. The seats and carpet are well-worn, and I can't understand why anyone would hang massive, dirty curtains to block half the view. The windows are the focal point of the whole room, why hide them???
(3)
Brienna O.
My absolute favorite restaurant in Philly...and I've been to tons of them. Sort of a sport of mine. Also, arguably the most romantic spot in the city. It's simply gorgeous, when you go, make sure you look around every corner and step out on to one of the many balconies...breathtaking. I have been here so many times, and every single time the food is on point and the service is exceptional. I truly feel like an honored guest every time we are here, and isn't that what we are paying for after all? These guys are amazing. Great for a celebratory dinner, late night drinks, happy hour, even breakfast brunch and afternoon tea! Favorites: Rubytini, Melon ball, truffle fries (best i've EVER had), steak frites, moules frites, the list goes on. Thank you, XIX, for being amazing. Keep up the great work.
(5)
Doina N.
I've been multiple times at XIX. Each and on the visits has been different. The ambiance and decor is really on point even though one of the rooms looks to have little oldish/dirtish seats. The view from the restaurant or bar is really nice. Service overall it's really nice as well. They try to accommodate their clients with any ways they can. Dinner menu is good but not one of the best. Out of the many times I've been here, do not recall any dish in particular to have gotten stuck on my mind. It's just typical American food but with a fancy twist. It's good for a date though and their cocktails are really great. Recommend the lychee one.
(3)
Matt C.
I can only comment on the bar...never dined here. This place is great in the winter. Get there early to get a seat by the fire place. This is a terrific spot for dates...very romantic. The happy hour is decent. Prices are steep here (its in a hotel after all)...but they do pour a jumbo bourbon/whiskey/scotch on the rocks, big enough to make my knees wooble. Perfect. I like the ambiance, but the interior design is a wierd mix of pictures of old white dudes with modern accents. I could also do without the late 90's bmw commerical style techno music.
(3)
Bryanne R.
Loved it. This is how restaurant week is supposed to feel. Like you're really dining there and paying the big bucks. Went here with 8 friends for a birthday lunch. Great food (loved the steak). GREAT view. Great wine and champagne. Even a 3 candled cupcake serenade! Definitely want to go back for dinner. View at night must be awesome.
Very beautiful and delicious place for lunch, I will start off that this review is a tad bit bias because I got engaged here, but the food was very good! The mango ginger ice tea they make is very reframing. I wasn't a huge fan of their very regular bread rolls that were dusted with tons of flour. I got crab cakes which were just amazing! They had this tomato jam with it that was exquisite! Lots of lump crab meat. I also got a beet salad which was very good. The lobster sandwich was delicious and came with the most perfect shoestring fries. (And I love shoestring fries!) The decor here is very fancy, though you can dress casual (a nice casual). Service was friendly and attentive. We got complimentary glasses d champagne and a lil dessert because we got engaged here which I thought was very thoughtful and nice!
(4)
Nicole W.
Mice!!!!! Just left happy hour and saw a mouse running around the bar. Definitely not returning!!!
(1)
Kristy Y.
XIX is a beautiful restaurant. The interior is classy and romantic and there's a lot of space to walk around and check out the restaurant. The restrooms are on a different floor which is a bit weird but I guess it's cool because you get to see more of the building itself. The middle bar area has a woodsy/manly feel to it. The restaurant also opens up the outer deck area when the weather is warm so you can enjoy a nice glass of wine while looking at the views from the 19th floor. However, I am not a huge fan of the food but drinks here are really good. This place is definitely a spot you want to check out to have a drink with your friends or a date. Also side note- the servers here are great. I had my birthday dinner here with about 15 people and our servers were very pleasant and accommodating.
(3)
Robert P.
As Yogi Berra one said " nobody goes here anymore but I can never get in" mostly tourist staying at the hotel but the food and service are outstanding. It also has amazing views and the most romantic bar in the city. It's a great night out. Philadelphians should discover this gem.
(5)
Christen J.
My husband and I came here to celebrate our anniversary. I can honestly say what was lacking from the food was well made up for in service (shout out to Wilbur!) We got a great sunset view on the balcony and we're given two glasses of champagne to commemorate the occasion. Our crab cake was divine. The lobster risotto was creamy but the claw meat wasn't too fresh. Hubs ordered the trout and promptly devoured. I ordered my salmon medium but it was quite well done and a little heavy handed with the salt. Our the pear car cocktail was delicious and refreshing on the warm evening. The dessert was phenomenal! The blueberry cobbler had rosemary infused berries, a perfect biscuit and a small scoop of ice cream. The chocolate banana truffle had a lot going on. The devil's food cake and pineapple were yummy. The truffle and the peanut butter mousse were good. But altogether there were a lot of components happening. Overall a truly memorable evening.
(4)
Karol S.
Sometimes you just need the perfect setting to feel like a million bucks...and XIX is a setting conducive to that. It is not your every day, it's your once-in-a-while. But provides sufficient attention, comfort, and privacy to make the experience intimate. Intimate enough that you know you will return to it. mussels, onion soup, and mushroom risotto made my appetite dance. the filet mignon kept the energy going. and the final dance was the goat cheese ice cream and blueberry cobbler. oh.so .good Impeccable service. It was an effortless experience of joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment.
(5)
Yasmin E.
Wonderful for Brunch! I can't speak of other venues that go down at this somewhat lavish crib, hehe, but all in all a surprisingly sophisticated /"fancy shmancy" way of spending only $20 on Sunday brunch! While there wasn't too much of a selection on the menu, their open buffet of assorted cheeses, meats, pasta, desserts & more made up for it! All I'm sayin is, come hungry! Bon apetite!
(4)
Marianna L.
Yawn. Unfortunately, XIX did not wow me like I thought it would. Perhaps my expectations were set too high? Too high like the view that I was promised? R2L's view is much grander, and I would imagine the service and ambience to be as well. My girlfriends and I went during restaurant week, which could have been part of the reason for XIX's faults, but the place wasn't even busy. All that aside, and onto the food, I wasn't impressed. For starters I had the beef carpaccio on a rocket salad with shaved pecorino romano and peppers. I felt it needed a bit of something else, perhaps some cracked black pepper, so simple. The carpaccio was good though, and I enjoyed the lemony flavored peppers. For my main, I had the pork tenderloin, which was cooked to perfection, on top of a butternut squash ravioli and bed of sauteed spinach. The spinach was eh, and the ravioli did not taste fresh. I was expecting more of a butternut flavor, and less lumpy ricotta cheese. Dessert was just fine.. A gritty cheesecake with carmelized peanuts on top. See, nothing special! One redeeming quality about the slow-ish service was that when my friend found a BUG in her wine, they gave her another glass on the house. That was kind of them.
(3)
Jennifer W.
My best friend and I come here often for drinks at the bar during happy hour. We are so happy that they don't participate in Sips any longer. It's a nice respite from all the crazy cheap drinks around the city on a Wednesday. Last Friday my friend was sworn in as a US Citizen and on such a beautiful Friday we thought it would be great to grab a glass of champagne on balcony. Well on the 19th floor it was a little too breezy to leave the doors open for the other guests so we figured we'd just grab a drink at the bar. Unfortunately the bar doesn't open till 2:00 on Fridays. The dining room was a little more formal than we were looking for so we instead were told we could sit anywhere we wanted at the bar and ordered two glasses of champagne and had a little celebration. To top off the already wonderful hospitality the manager comped our champagne as a congratulations to my friend becoming a citizen. We already loved it here but I'm sure when we are stuck to think of a place to go this will be the first place to pop into our minds!
(5)
Rebecca L.
We stopped here to get a drink while waiting for a bus tour. The view was absolutely incredible and the place had a very classy feel to it. We sat at the bar right as the bartender walked away. Three servers walked by the bar and none asked if we had been helped or even acknowledged us. We finally asked somebody if the bar was open and they said yea sorry the bartender just stepped out for a break and will be right back. We waited for about 15 minutes before he got back. He was very friendly and gave us really good pours so it made up for the lack of service in the beginning.
(3)
Peiyu L.
I went to XIX for the $35 brunch buffet and was not blow away. Sure you are in one of the highest restaurants, but no offense the view isn't great since there aren't any magnificent buildings to look at. Its just simply not picturesque. The decor was classic european, but the furniture was a bit run down and shabby. My friend has the bloody mary, which had too much celery. The breakfast buffet consisted of mussels, random finger foods, salad, and shrimp cocktail. The mussels were luke warm and some of the finger foods like the dumpling pot stickers were not too appetizing. The lettuce in the caesar salad was soggy. The only thing worth stocking up on was the shrimp cocktail. Next came the brunch entree. I had the fish of the day and my friend has the crab cake eggs Benedict. Both were pretty good. We finished off with dessert. The only thing I liked were the berries, which were really fresh and the madeleine cookies. This brunch lacks complementary coffee and tea! Overall for a restaurant that is seemingly suppose to be of high caliber, XIX does not live up to its standards. I was disappointed.
(2)
Mike S.
Go here for breakfast. The breakfast buffet is awesome....all the smoked salmon you want!
(4)
Ana Lú Düren T.
Worst service I had even seen. Takes forever to get your order. First and last time I step here.
(1)
Dasha D.
Boyfriend and I were celebrating and so he surprised me by taking me here-- had no idea where we were going. The restaurant inside is beautiful and sitting outside on a gorgeous night was even more beautiful. The view and the experience was awesome. The waitress was very sweet! And the food was also very good, I had steak which I'm very picky about as I will not eat it if it's chewy and very meaty-tasty and it was delicious!!! I was surprised to see it only has 3.5 stars on here...
(5)
Krista P.
This is a GREAT happy hour spot - all the cocktails are half off, and there are some beer and wine specials as well but I'm not as familiar with them. It's a hotel bar, so of course it's expensive and the half price drinks is a big win. The view is nice, and the crowd is usually dressed to impress. Get here early if you want a seat though - this bar is not very big.
(4)
Delvia W.
My first time here Sunday April 27, 2014 for Brunch. My group had a private room and the ambiance was lovely. The food was good. I am use to buffet style brunch so I would have loved to sample more items. The pot stickers were delightful, as well as the desserts. The service was good. I would like for the server to announce last call for the food that is put out. I definitely will go back.
(4)
Beth R.
Did you know that XIX does weddings? I've had the pleasure of dinner as well as celebrating my recent wedding here. First as a restaurant, it's an elegant dinner with amazing views from the 19th floor terraces and through giant floor to ceiling windows. Dinner is American fare, I had a lobster and mushroom bisque to start followed by the lamb entree. Also enjoyed the salad with duck. Everything is very good, served with the kind of presentation that says this is a "nice" restaurant. Dessert was a rich chocolate cake which was also lovely. In nice weather you can sit in the terrace, which is gorgeous. On a totally different note, they occasionally host weddings in the space. I knew when we set foot inside and saw the amazing moldings and pearl chandelier plus the views of the twinkling city at night that this was where we wanted our wedding reception. It can fit 80-ish guests with a small dance floor area. The menu for weddings includes a lot of what's on the normal XiX dinner menu, which is awesome. No bland mass produced chicken entrees here. And the the beautiful room and balcony space made for gorgeous backdrops to our wedding photos.
(4)
Jessica S.
Yet another place that seems to get by on their location and beautiful views alone. I was pretty disappointed by the whole experience. The service was slow, the portions for the main courses were tiny, and drinks came either not as ordered or poorly made. And of course, everything is ridiculously expensive. I am not one to complain about spending a lot for a nice night at out a great restaurant, but you have to be a great restaurant first! Things that were good: the food tasted great, but like I said I wish there was more of it. The view is outstanding and if you can get a set near a window I can see how it can be quite romantic. However, I don't think I'd come back, unless someone else REALLY wanted to try it out.
(2)
Vicki S.
My husband and I went here for dinner last night during restaurant week. The service was great and the food was pretty good. The ambiance was the highlight, however. The view and main dining room was very pretty.
(4)
Nicole P.
Pretty and can be done in an affordable way! The wait staff isn't pretentious, and it feels more "private" than most similar places. I have only been here for drinks before dinner, so I can't comment on quality of menu, but great drinks. This was a good find and one of my favorite spots in the city.
I brought my five-year-old daughter here for Sunday brunch because her sister was away with a friend at the Lititz Chocolate Festival. Bunch at XIX was a perfect consolation prize, and Ms. 5 felt she got the best end of the deal. Brunch is three courses: buffet-style salads and small plates, a main dish, and a buffet-style dessert. The food was excellent; Ms. 5 had grilled salmon and sampled many of the salads and cheeses. And of course many of the desserts, which were sumptuous and spectacular. I particularly remember several kinds of cookies, and chocolate pot-au-crème. The restaurant is spectacular, with a high ceiling, huge, windows, and chandeliers. Ms. 5 loved it. After brunch we wandered around the upper floors of the hotel admiring everything. Cost was incredibly inexpensive: $22 for me, and Ms. 5 ate free. This brunch might have been the bargain of the year. We both hope to return soon. Addendum 2013-09-08: Ms. 5 and I returned today. The prices have gone up, and although they are still reasonable they are no longer the shocking bargain they were: Brunch was $35 for me, and $17.50 for her. I got a steak, which was unfortunately underdone. Ms. 5 got eggs ("any style", and the waiter did not bat an eye lash when Ms. 5 asked for hard-boiled) with potatoes and chicken-feta sausage. The buffet was excellent, included several cold salads, cheese, cold cuts, smoked salmon, bagels, croissants and sticky buns, cold prawns, squid salad (excellent) and seven or eight desserts. The service and atmosphere were flawless.
(4)
Sasser M.
After eating here several times over a period of days, I can most assuredly tell you that this place is horribly over-priced for the quality of the food. Sadly even the staff working in other parts of the hotel readily agreed with me. There are some very bright spots in the staff working here, most of them work breakfast and lunch. I'm often puzzled by what other people consider good food. After eating around the country in places like Vegas, Dallas and New Orleans... I'd skip this place and find something more economical that tasted a lot better.
(2)
Steph S.
Was surprised by my boyfriend and friends to cocktail hour and dinner in this fabulous place for my birthday! Kaz was our awesome server! He did a great job of making some genuine recommendations and even invited us to have dessert and drinks on the balcony overlooking the city! We all had cocktails and beers to start in the gorgeous bar along with some delicious mussels as a starter. I ordered the five spiced short rib with baby bok Choy, oyster sauce and sweet potato shavings for garnish. It was the perfect combo! Everyone of my friends claimed they had "the best dish from the menu", so you know the menu was amazing! I was able to taste the osso buco that other reviewers mentioned and it was just as tender and succulent as my dish. I will definitely coming again to try the unlimited salad bar during lunch!
(5)
Colleen M.
This place is just gorgeous. I was blown away by the ambiance, the decor, the view, the drinks, the food. XIX has the whole package. My pomegranate basil martini was to die for. There were lovely little seating areas where us "happy hour-ers" could cozy up with our drinks and settle in for some good conversation. The mushroom risotto was a bit al dente for some of the folks I was with... but it was just right for me. The fried asparagus spears and the calamari were de-lish. I would definitely return here, especially if I were out to impress someone.
(4)
Melissa G.
Beautiful view of the city, delicious food. What more can you ask for? This place was amazing. My husband and I went here for our first anniversary. TIP: We made reservations for 6pm on a Saturday night and there was only a few people there so we were able to sit outside. You definitely want to sit outside if it's a nice night. They view of the city skyline was beautiful! As for the food we would definitely give it an A +. For starters we shared the grilled spanish octopus and crab cocktail. The Octopus was to die for! My husband had the aspen ridge natural black angus prime boneless ribeye and practically licked his plate clean. I had the grilled skuna bay salmon which was cooked to perfection. The service was amazing, they even brought us champagne and a desert on the house since it was our anniversary. We would highly recommend this place.
(4)
Sean D.
No complaints overall, but what you're paying for is the fact that it's on the nineteeth floor. Context: I went for Christmas dinner with four friends. Enjoyed the menu selection and the ambiance. Paid $45 prix fixe: starter, entree, and desert. Starter: The crab cake was very fresh and light, and the xix salad was a good balance of greens with other veg and bacon. Enjoyed this more than the entree and dessert. Entree: Flat iron steak was cooked to order, though not a great piece of meat to start with. Desserts: Cookie cake was eh, though the ice cream was very good. Toffee Sticky Pudding was better than pretty good. Here's the kicker - the bottle of Pascual Toso Malbec we paid $50 for sells for $8.99 in wine stores! This is what I mean when I say you are paying for the nineteenth floor. This is not a bad time. If you don't go out that often and want to drop some money on a nice experience, this could do the trick. But if you go out often and are (relatively) picky, come here expecting middle of the road. All that said, happy hour on the balcony is worth a repeat visit. Decent drinks, great views.
(3)
Vichet O.
Was there any doubt that I would like this place? I went here with a friend last Friday for a late night snack, and drinks. We entered the Bellevue, in which I hadn't set foot since senior prom, and took the elevator up to the 19th floor. From there, we rounded a couple corners, and found ourselves alone in a forest, being badgered by a satyr about the witch. Just kidding. XIX is pretty damn cool, though. This place has got to be within the top 5 on my atmosphere list. From the bossa and latin jazz playing lightly in the background, to the view of the city, to the majestic look of the restaurant and the swankiness of the lounge, this place has got it all together. I think I saw Bruce Wayne in there. Or at least I imagined him to be there. We were seated immediately, because at 10:30 on a Friday night, this place isn't jam-packed. Others might see this as a downside, but those people aren't me. So whatever, whatever. The waiter came to our table and offered drinks. At his suggestion, I got a gin and ginger-iced tea. It was tasty, but next time I think I'll experiment by having them add a splash of soda. My friend asked for a suggestion from me, and because she was wearing a pretty dress, I obliged (ha!). We decided on a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. It turned out they only had about 3/4ths of a pour left and were out of that particular vintage, so they brought it out, and along with it another glass of a nicer wine on the house. Well done, XIX - how did you know we like free things? For snacks, we got the flatbread pizza and mushroom risotto. Both were tasty, and pricey but not ridiculous. If you wanna get dressed up to have a nice drink and a few snacks, XIX is your spot. And, if you want to do this all the time, your name is Vichet. Pro-tip: Parking can be maddening around CC late at night, but most garages nearby have flat rates after 10 (something like 10 bucks til 3am or whatever). Look into it!
(4)
John D.
Incredible restaurant and an absolute must visit. The ambiance of the main dining room is breathtaking... So much so that I proposed to my wife here two years ago. She was in awe of the entire restaurant and building from the moment we entered. The beauty of the XIX is equally matched by the amazing service and food. Chuck has been our server on both of our visits and makes the dining experience even better, going above and beyond. The short rib and sea scallops are both melt in your mouth delicious! By far our favorite fancy date night spot!
(5)
Mach S.
Expensive..and not as good as it should be, by the way they present themselves. The Amish chicken and parma ham was not that bad though.
(2)
Sarah L.
I have never eaten here nor will I ever dine here. Let me tell you why... How is XIX going to call me at 7 PM the Sunday before Valentines Day stating that they are having a pre fixed menu for $65 PP??? Valentines Day is the hardest day of the year to make dinner reservations and they call a few days before with a pre fixed menu!! First of all, I couldn't even understand what was on the menu because the woman on the other end was too busy mumbling. I had high hopes of using XIX for my brunch after my wedding but this incident left a very sour taste in my mouth. Thanks fior
(1)
Kimmie O.
Made reservation for 5:45 on a Thursday during Restaurant week. It's my 21st birthday and I wanted to come here to experience this fancy restaurant. The restaurant seems to have several hostesses because there were 3 different girls 1 guy working in front of the house. It was confusing to decide who to talk to for what. They took our coats and everything was good. We did request window seat, and we were seated by the window. However, even though people raved about the view of city you get to see.. Well, I don't think it was that good for that. The building is not tall compare to other buildings in center city nowadays, so I looked out but mostly I see are tall apartments (not very interesting). Oh and the restroom is on a floor below(18th)... Finally Food! Mushroom salad - meh Shrimp tempura - good, but nothing interesting Lamb / sweet potato - delicious! Choco tart - you love it if you a big choco fan, too sweet to finish tho (did come with a candle since it's my bday) Pineapple shortcake - loved it, coconut flakes are amazing here Lychee kiss - got it for free bc it's my bday, but wouldn't order again. Overall, had a great night here without breaking the bank!
(4)
Monday Y.
Great View. Great food. Good Selection. Love it!!
(4)
Heather C.
My friend and I came here for lunch during restaurant week. We got a beautiful seat with a great view of the city. Everything was absolutely amazing! The buffet style for the first course had different cheeses, meats, and salad... all of which were complimenting. The steak was flawless; I was amazing that for restaurant week prices they were able to put that in there. Dessert was also buffet style so you could try a variety of cakes and chocolate goodies. The atmosphere was refreshingly pleasant (I was nervous a young girl as myself would feel out of place in a higher scale restaurant but I did not). The wait staff was great and had let us know they offer a lunch special very similar to restaurant weeks menu, so I will be returning :)
(5)
Bastien V.
Personally, one of my favorite spots in the Philadelphia area. The restaurant itself is breathtaking. Located on the top floor of the gorgeous Bellvue hotel, XIX offers beautiful panoramic views of the city that will leave you mesmerized. I've been on a few dates here, had a birthday dinner here, and I, as a Center City concierge, usually refer all my guests here. The food here is excellent, the service impeccable. When dining, I usually order the steak frites. It is always cooked just to my liking, and the fries are the best I've ever had. They have an excellent wine selection and the staff is very accommodating. STORY TIME: I did have one bad experience I'll share it with you, but keep in mind I've had so many wonderful experiences here, this was obviously a fluke and everyone is entitled to them. I went for lunch on a Sunday a week or so ago. We sat on the balcony, as requested. We MAY have picked the wrong balcony, as it was very hot and unbearably bright. I cannot fault the restaurant for that, though. Our server came, did not introduce himself, and took our order. He brought our drinks and a glass of water for each of us. That's the last we saw of him - a food runner brought our meals. We wanted another round of drinks and needed more water. We were in the sun, and it was very hot, and we had NO water. We finished our meals without, waited for another 15 or so minutes for the server that never came. We decided to go to the bar for one round of drinks, and then pay our check there. As we were walking in, our server ran to us, asking if we enjoyed our meals and such. I politely said that we needed more water during the meal, but that we were headed to the bar. I declined his offer to bring us water at the bar, as we could get a glass from the bartender. The bartender wasn't very friendly, so we resigned to just pay the check and leave.
(5)
L S.
I've been here a few times, once for dinner, once for Sunday brunch and another time just hanging out at the bar. I've enjoyed myself everytime! I've gotten the steak both times (dinner and brunch)...D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S. I also ate several slices of cheescake at brunch until I was completely stuffed. The service is alway great...I love this place.
(4)
Rita M.
One of Philadelphia's more scenic and sophisticated bars. The view from the lounge at XIX alone makes the trip worth it. The 19th floor is very elegant albeit a little stuffy. Somewhat dated furniture and large framed paintings. When I visited, my SO and I were startled by a raucous wedding reception until we were directed to the main bar by a staff member. Our hostess was quick with a bowl of wasabi peas and brought our drinks promptly as well. I enjoyed the rubytini and its accompanying grapefruit slice, but I liked the spiced apple much more. It manages to be the perfect autumn cocktail without tasting like a liquefied Yankee Candle. I had some bites of calamari served with a nice pimiento mix. The turtle cheesecake was tasty also. Cocktails were about $12 so I'd rather come here for happy hour. Very attractive venue.
(4)
Susan P.
XIX is quite possibly the most beautiful restaurant that I've ever been to. The decor is elegant --- the enormous pearls that drip from the ceiling in the main dining area are lovely! It's good for groups but it's absolutely perfect for a romantic dinner for two. This is also a great place to enjoy beautiful views of the city! Both the hostess and waiter were friendly and attentive. Overall, we had a great time and I highly recommend it to everyone. APPETIZERS/ENTREES Crispy calamari - It was good but extremely salty. The dipping sauce helped cut the saltiness. Crab cake - It was just ok Coffee crusted ribeye steak - Delicious! This was served with a side of a sweet potato puree, which was out of this world! My mouth is watering just thinking about those sweet potatoes! Grilled salmon topped with crab - Delicious! I substituted the fingerling potatoes with a potato puree, which was light and creamy. Five spiced short rib - Good DESSERTS My only gripe about XIX were the desserts. Whipped philadelphia cheesecake - It was a deconstructed cheesecake --- the presentation was nice but unfortunately, that's the only nice thing I can say about it. I wasn't too fond of the flavor. Cookie cake - It was ok
(5)
Kristin W.
The website proclaims XIX is "Philadelphia's 'highest' restaurant", which is odd because 1) it is not the highest (e.g., R2L is on the 37th floor) and 2) the website acknowledges it is being disingenuous by the usage of quotations marks. But website aside, the setting is undeniably elegant on the 19th (and top) floor of the Bellevue with a domed ceiling and sweeping architecture. The food was good, but not amazing - I would return for swanky drinks.
(3)
Shivon R.
Came here with a few friends for a girls night. Really nice/elegant decor, perfect for when you want to dress up and feel fabulous. The drinks were delicious, but I was a little underwhelmed by my lobster dish. However, I did try a bit of my friends short rib dish and that was very tasty. Our waiters were very helpful and attentive, and even let us stay and chat way after the dining room had closed (which we hadn't realized, whoops!). Also, for some reason our Open Table reservation had said we were celebrating a birthday (was not) and we received a complimentary dessert. Even after explaining there was no birthday celebration going on we still got the dessert so that awesome. I hear the happy hour here is pretty good so I will definitely be returning.
(4)
Victoria Y.
$35 brunch menu and affordable drinks not that the service was bad but they lack professional training and decor was a little outdated otherwise entrees were pretty good (crab cake benedict and fish of the day) but chefs/dessert table just had mediocre options I would suggest simply going for one of the best views of philly
(3)
Mackenzie C.
Love taking friends here for $6 happy hour cocktails! The ambiance is great and the drinks are usually pretty stiff. You can sit outside and have a great view of the city! The truffle fries are a delicious cheap appetizer to munch on .
(5)
Michael M.
Hmmm - so I've recently been back here a few times over the last month. The bar experiences were great, with Dan and Steve serving up some delicious drinks with style. The happy hour menu rocks, with expanded cheese and charcuterie options that are rival any place in the city, let alone a Hotel bar. It gets busy, the cocktail staff forgets things, but it's still a great place to be. But the dining menu is a mess. It's essentially the bar menu with six or seven tired options (fillet, chicken breast, salmon, mashed prunes) and surprised the heck out of my DOFL guests. We ended up ordering from the appetizers and cheese/meat plate options. They've also cut back on the raw bar, with now only a single oyster option versus the six they used to have. The sommelier is gone too. So Hyatt needs to make up it's mind what they want to do with this place. Either convert the central islands all over to bars and amp up your finger food menu, doing away with the dining room altogether, or give us some decent 'meals' back. Nothing says death's door for a place more than a tired fillet, chicken livermore, and 'pasta'. Zzzzzz.
(4)
Kait D.
Honestly, I would go back for the white bean and tomato soup alone. Seriously. So good. I was so sad when it was gone. It was light and flavorful and just amazing! The calamari was awesome, too! And I don't even eat calamari. I only tried it because my boyfriend ordered it. So glad he did. It had a nice and light crunch, the breading was actually seasoned, and it wasn't greasy like most other frozen-then-deep-fried calamari. This is a restaurant that I would recommend because you can tell there is an attention to quality. Yes, its pricey... but it is good! Plain and simple.
(5)
Dean Z.
My significant other and I came for dinner, late spring, after 9 PM. Not too busy. What a special setting, very stately decor. Of course, you're at the top of building so that brings into its own. The staff was attentive, helping each other out, as any good restaurant staff should be. We ordered oysters, a lump crab cake salad, and a spanish octopus salad for starters. For entrees, the Salmon and Braised Pork. The Salmon was perfectly cooked, just a touch of red in the middle (medium rare) as it was sushi-grade. The pork melted in my mouth, a sweetness when combined with the roasted apples, to then be balanced by the salted collard greens lying beneath. Still thinking about it a couple of days later. Prices for entrees were in the mid $20's and we both felt the portions were good. We LOVE to eat (like most people), and we hate being "strung-on" with not-quite-enough-of-a-good-thing- XIX delivered the goods! We passed by the lounge and I hope sometime soon we can hang with a few friends there- a relaxed, elegant, atmosphere. Oh, and you don't need to be in formal wear. You are welcome in jeans.
(5)
Brad P.
This is where James Bond would meet up with a lovely lady to get a drink(and later be trapped because she is working for the villain anyways). It has a great view and great ambiance at a price you'd expect. It isn't ideal for Sips or happy hour events because it gets too packed. It is a solid choice for late night after the large crowds have moved on. On the action-movie-parallel-satisfaction-scale, this place is Casino Royale(the Daniel Craig one)
(4)
Kristina C.
Sooooo here is a breakdown on the night..... Location: I have to admit, it is a great location with amazing views, there is outdoor seating (which we didn't get) and the inside decor is pretty swanky. Service: The service was really amazing, we were always attended and everyone was really friendly. The staff had answers to all of our questions...very knowledgeable, but the food coming out was really slooooooooow. Food: So here is where it gets weird...we got the mussels for an app, and they were so amazing that I got them again for my meal (and you get so many, literally amazing dish, probably the best I have had in years). My husband got the burger and he said it was horrible, he would have had a Ruby Tuesday burger, so he was disappointed to say the least. Drinks: The specialty drinks are...well how do I say this...amazing! They are original and all just taste great! The standard drinks are also really great and had a good pour on them. I think all and all, that the food is so/so and what you are really paying for is the location and the hope that you can get an outdoor seat.
(3)
Nicky H.
So I was invited to XIX by a friend for New Years Eve. The ambiance was great. Fireplace, dim lighting, decor etc. Service and appetizers are a different story. The waitress was scatterbrained. Didn't check on us. I literally had to hunt her down for my check. It wasn't even that busy while I was there. There were just a few couples. Also, I ordered the Lobster Risotto with NO mushrooms because I'm allergic. Risotto comes out with mushrooms. I sent it back. Lobster Risotto came out a second time. It was undercooked and tasteless. My friend ordered the pizza, YUK. I've had frozen pizza from Whole Foods that tasted better. The drinks were decent though. All in all, this place is a bad gift. The wrapping is beautiful, but when you actually open the gift, you're disappointed.
(2)
Alyssa M.
If it were a couple years ago....XIX would have gotten a solid 4 stars from me....but it's not quite the same anymore. I've only been for happy hour and my first time was fantastic--so you know I was hyping it up to my girlfriends. The ambiance is still very elegant, classy, and sophisticated. However the drinks were just okay. I also think they should have some discounted bar snacks because paying around $17 for an appetizer at happy hour is a little hard to swallow. Good thing I stuffed my face at Qdoba beforehand--score!! Definitely come to XIX to soak up some sophistication and get a nice view of the city, but you've been warned that you could probably make a better cocktail at home. I will say those complimentary wasabi peas are a nice touch-and highly addictive!
(3)
John H.
The ambience is gorgeous. The bar scene is very hip and the dining area is very elegant. Service was very good. The grilled octopus appetizer was amazing except in the middle of it, one of the bites I took was so salty it made my eyes tear up! The same thing happened with the Seabass. It's like someone pour a ton of salt in just one spot. (I hope I don't get cankles tonight!). Anyways it is a great place for a special occasion.
(4)
N. K.
Came here for restaurant week and had dinner off the more limited restaurant week menu. Ambiance 5/5. Beautiful upscale setting with great views. Upholstered comfy chairs and intimate tables. Wine- got a white wine bottle "special" - $35 (down from $70) Warm wild mushroom salad- 5/5 Light, wonderful green sauce had a kick, and who doesn't love goat cheese? Butternut squash ravioli- 4/5. This dish was a bit rich/heavy because of the heaviness of the ravioli+butter sauce+toffee pecans but the flavors were very good. Philadelphia cheesecake- 5/5. delicious mound of cheesecake with a drizzle of pumpkin sauce. The crushed cookies/pecans on the side added a nice crunch to the dessert.
(4)
Lauren B.
I have been coming to this place for years...including when they did the All You Can Drink wine tastings on Wednesday nights (they changed sommeliers and that ended that weekly event). Anyway, this place is great. I've had the crab cakes and they were amazing. No filler at all, just enough binder to hold all the jumbo lump together. Their cocktails are very good, and best enjoyed on one of the many balconies. If they're not open, then just ask the manager to open the doors and set up a table...at $12 a drink (that's the cheapest drink there) they can at least give you one of the best sunset views in the city.
(5)
Zack L.
Very disappointing. We were trying it as a potential venue for a wedding reception. We were seated at 11:30 but our order was taken at 11:48. That was surprising. As well, the jam's on our table had already been used by previous customers. Is it normal for a server to divide her attention & her order among multiple tables? It didn't feel right & we felt as though we could not ask questions or get full attention from the staff. The breakfast was mediocre but plentiful. The Lump Crab Benedict showed up as ham. It was getting to the point that other tables were laughing at our service. Its too bad. The merit of the day was that grapefruit juice was included. So, it has that. And a nice window.
(2)
Marissa C.
Lunch here is an amazing deal in the city. Not only did we manage to get a private dining room for our staff luncheon (someone in my office must know someone at XIX) the food was reasonable and delicious. Every day, I repeat EVERY DAY they offer a $20 lunch menu which includes beverage (soda or iced tea), appetizers from the communal buffet, an entree, and as many desserts as you can stuff in your stomach from the communal buffet. I started with the iced tea of the day which was peach or mango, or some other fruit infused tea. They provide simple syrup and mint on the side to spice it up as you wish (nice touch). For apps, I took a walk up to the communal table where there are a variety of salads (fresh green, pasta, tabbouleh, etc.), meats, and cheeses. All in all I thought it was a good selection to start off. For my lunch entree I chose the fish of the day, the portion size was good, the plating refined, and the flavors delicious. Back up to the communal buffet for dessert - there are a variety of cookies, pastries, tarts, mousse, etc. Nothing sticks out in my mind as amazing but they were all good. I have two minor complaints about XIX and they are minor. 1. The round room, while it is beautiful and unique, has really weird acoustics. For some reason it sounds like your hearing a million conversations at one time (think Bruce Almighty hearing the world's prayers). Very odd. 2. The bathrooms are one floor down and you must take an elevator. Not a big deal but I was wearing rather uncomfortable shoes that day so it seemed like a bit of a hall just to use the washroom. I imagine that XIX would be really nice and romantic for dinner and I'm sure has a great view of the city. I'll definitely be back for more "work" lunches.
(4)
Cherie C.
The blackberry caipirinha remains (though it is misspelled on the new menu), but the rest of the signature cocktails have changed since my visit a few years ago. The delicious bloodless mary is gone. They replaced the complimentary fancy mixed nuts with wasabi peas and pretzel nuggets (not a bad way to save some money, I suppose). Despite the current classic cocktail revolution, they seem to have focused on popular flavors. We liked our drinks, but they didn't seem as interesting as the ones they used to have. The spirits menu is just okay, and the wines by the glass are okay too. When we arrived, I noticed some staff fussing over the sleek-looking CD player. When they were finished fussing, we were treated to the sounds of what I believe was a Miley Cyrus holiday album. Weird. But the room is cozy and the service is good. It's a nice place to meet friends if you want to relax and talk over drinks.
(3)
Lilli C.
This review is for the bar only. I came Friday night and got to sit outside on the deck, and the bar wasn't too crowded. I ordered a Peartini and my friend ordered Hendricks on the rocks. My peartini was SOOO strong and barely tasted like pear. My friend's drink was not Hendrick's on the rocks...he determined this after tasting it. The waitress then realized that it was someone else's drambuie which she gave to him even though we had already taken sips out of it. I told the waitress this and she sort of just shrugged her shoulders. The Hendricks that my friend did end up getting was watered down.
(2)
S L.
I had a great time with my friend at the restaurant! They had a great decor and very fine hospitality! LOVE LOVE LOVE this place!
(4)
K. A.
Hey Nineteen! Do you remember Aretha Franklin? Whenever I get off the elevator to XIX I can't help but remember when this place was The Founder's Room, and I have so many ghosts in my mind of that venerable Old Philadelphia hangout, that it is always a little bittersweet. When I was a kid, I always thought it would be the perfect spot for some secret villain's lair up in the sky, above Gotham City- or, ahem...Philadelphia. I have to say I am not disappointed by it's new incarnation, and it has managed to come up-to-date without losing what made it special. I like the feel of the place. Dining in an aerie above the gray urban landscape. The setting is really the draw for me. It feels distinctly "Philadelphia," being part of the elegant and refined grande dame of Philadelphia hotels- the Bellevue (formerly Bellevue-Stratford) and I get to experience all the architectural splendor of the hotel's inner sanctum on the way up. But now it's casual, still elegant, and a little bit like being in a nice hotel lobby, impeccably tasteful in decor, with big windows around (more social than "intimate."). The prix fixe lunch special is great, with sumptuous spread of food, all prepared in a "nouveau traditional" way, and well worth the $22 price tag. You get to indulge in various ancillary items, along the lines of appetizers and deserts that you might not order separately, and they are all good. While everything was very good and competently prepared, there was nothing that I would say was so memorable that I would think about it after leaving the restaurant, or tell a friend about. That would be the reason I did not give it more than 3 stars. I do not find myself pining to head back there. But I will return, mostly as a place to bring out-of-town guests to show them something " New Philadelphia" (where something old and traditional has been transformed into something new), or a place to go for a friendly lunch with a couple of friends. As for "ambiance," and service, I would give it 4 stars. I forgot to mention that the hostess and server were both friendly and competent.
(3)
Stephanie D.
We had our wedding reception here. It was an absolutely stunning venue, visually, and our coordinator Jamie Simcoe was amazing. She was there the entire time, making sure things were running smoothly and keeping the night flowing with the DJ/MC, food, apps, etc. She would check in with us periodically and managed to diffuse a situation involving our tall and extremely heavy floral centerpieces. One of them fell on someone's head so she rushed around with another staff member, found some pretty boxes to elevate them and then changed out the tall glass vases for the centerpieces placed on the boxes instead. I don't even think anyone noticed! XIX has been one of our favorite restaurants, if not our most favorite, for a few years and their food is consistently on point, perfectly prepared, and presented beautifully. Other great things about this place: the lunch buffet, the brunch menu and buffet, the bar. We recommend this place highly!
(5)
Tobin P.
The atmosphere of the place is awesome. The dining room is in the round, with splended ceiling-hung ball orniments that feel other-worldly. The food on the other hand is just "meh". We had the halibut, which wasn't fresh enough for my taste (I'm from Cali and am choosy about my fish). The pureed yams it came with were barely warm, but the greens were good. The red snapper, which, while it tasted fresher, was done in too heavy-handed of a preparation...too much going on with the flavors- too salty, etc. Felt like we got hit over the head. C'mon Chef! Let the food speak for itself! Zagat gave it a 23, but I think that's overly generous. I'd give it a 19. Also, the wait staff's attire seemed out of place. They were in these weird suits that smacked of corporate hotel flair and should've been burned when the 90's ended. Oh well.
(2)
Diane V.
I have been to XIX quite a few times for birthday dinners as well as girls night out and I have not been disappointed yet. The decor here is fresh and chic while still making you feel cozy and comfortable from the second you step out of the elevator. There are two dining areas, one being a bit more intimate and romantic than the other, but both give you a great city view. The staff here is warm, knowledgeable and attentive. If you have a special request , they do their very best to make it happen and if you are unhappy with something, they will happily do what it takes to change that. I like to arrive early to have a cocktail and sit in the bar area, which at times is a true hot spot. Lighting is dim and seating is pretty ample. The bartenders are great and they offer many unique cocktail's, my favorite being the Basil Pomegranate Margarita. There is a wonderful selection of appetizers and a killer raw bar. For dinner I usually start with oysters on the half and they are always amazingly fresh and flavorful , no complaints there. My next favorite appetizer is the lobster risotto and it packs a ton of flavor and they do not skimp on the lobster or portion size. The entree menu does change for the season and hits a high mark all the time. I have had duck, short rib, chicken,seafood and pasta as entrees and they have all been wonderful with amazing sauces and sides. Again, portions are always ample, which is good because whoever you are with will probably want to have a taste of your plate and vice versa. I am usually stuffed by dessert time, but I will always indulge and there is something on the dessert menu for everyones sweet or not so sweet tooth. Some of the pricing can be on the high side, but well worth it for a special occasion. If you want to get a feel of the place while not breaking the bank, I suggest going for happy hour. The happy hour menu is awesome and very very reasonably priced. If happy hour isn't enough for you, check Nineteen out during Center City Restaurant Week. The restaurant week menu is pretty much identical to what you can get on a "normal day" without the price tag, but be sure to make a reservation as soon as you can. I hear they have a fantastic brunch and I will be trying that out when the weather gets warmer so I can sit out on the terrace. Cant wait to go back!
(4)
Sara G.
I think I've found the happiest happy hour of them all! The bar area is gorgeous and never too crowded. The crowd is very mixed too. I've bought my boyfriend, mom, and best male friend here on separate occasions and it was a great spot for us each time. Anyway, $6 cocktails from 5-7 on weekdays and it's a true bang for your buck. Prepare to be super buzzed after about 2 drinks. And this is coming from someone with the tolerance of a horse. I have tried every cocktail on their summer happy hour menu -- drinking problem much? -- and my favorites are the Pear Car (vodka-based) and Summer Ball (tequila-based). They do a great job with the drinks, but the only one I don't like is the Basil Pomegranate Margarita. It is way too sweet in my opinion.
(4)
Kelly C.
this is definitely one of the places i keep coming back to because it gots the "it" factor so what is the "it" factor? this place is absolutely beautiful. as soon as you reach the top floor, it's like an escape to classy paradise in the heart of philadelphia. the food was alrite, not gonna lie it's overpriced but for the occasion? i wouldn't mind once in a while--- i definitely think that its b/c the ambiance is top-notch. it surely affected on how the food tasted for me. i just can't give a bad review for this place despite what other people say if you're expecting for food that will wowz you, this is not the place, but if you're looking to live in a dream for an hr or two, THIS is the spot.
(4)
Chau L.
Once upon a time, there was a solo luncher who happened upon the Cafe Lunch at XIX.... Sometimes, I feel a wee bit awkward when I'm out lunching by myself, but I didn't feel the least bit out of place at XIX. The staff was nice and attentive. I got sat at a nice table near the window. I went with the Cafe Lunch, which was a buffet of salads and various meats and cheeses and desserts AND an entree of your choice from the kitchen PLUS coffee and tea. I helped myself to a carrot and chickpea slaw, some apple, walnut, and blue cheese salad, and a touch of cheese (brie, gouda, and bleu). For the main course, I ordered the grilled corvino served in middle eastern-type spices. The corvino had the texture and flavor of swordfish, which can be quite firm and even tough, if overcooked. I thought the fish was ok. Then I helped myself to a tasting of every item on the dessert bar.....was this necessary??? of course!! The fresh berries alone were worth 3 trips to the bar. :P Overall, I enjoyed the service and atmosphere the most. Lunch was relaxing, and my waitress Danielle was pleasant. The sourdough roll that was brought to me was really, really good - nice and soft on the inside and light and crusty on the outside...plus they served it with room temperature butter, which I am always amazed to still find places that serve me cold butter at the table... I also enjoyed the teas: the ginger peach iced tea and the Vanilla Oblong hot tea. The food wasn't astronomically good, but it wasn't bad either. I will definitely be back. Next time, I'll bring friends to share this place with. But on a side note, if you're not completely comfortable eating by yourself, this is one of the best places to do it.
(4)
Lauren M.
I wanted to love it here. Really, I did. I know it may be my mistep for going for my first time on Restaurant Week but but I left a little annoyed and definitely underwhelmed. Not only was it RW but it was also my friends 30th birthday. As she just finished grad school and is job searching, a RW menu is perfect. Two of us have a long history working in the industry and enjoy to dine when we go out. SERVICE: First, it took quite a few minutes for the server to come over at all and was incredibly informal - I wasn't really aware of who he was at first! When he opened our bottle of champagne, he let it spill out all over without an apology or explanation. Not that we ordered the most expensive bottle on the menu but I would prefer I drink it instead of the rug. When time time came to take our order, instead of letting us do our thing or asking if we had questions, he proceeded to rank-order the apps, entrees, and desserts and flat out told us the raviolis were not made in house. I hope he doesn't do that during a regular night because people love their pumpkin raviolis in a brown butter/sage. Once my champagne flute was empty, it took me 3 attempts to get another glass of wine. He came to our table two times without asking or attempting to upsell another bottle or just 1 drink with dinner. Odd. Then he disappeared for awhile and came back (seemingly tipsy) and said the staff was all in the "rose garden" cheersing to a successful Restaurant Week. Okay...interesting. To top it off, I asked to put the champagne on my card and split the rest of the bill evenly - it took him approximately 15 minutes to do this. I have seen every POS system from something that looks like a green IBM screen to Aloha to actual P.O.S. and that's just insanity. Even if you have to do the math yourself it shouldn't take that long. Wow. Granted he was pretty funny and definitely knows his food - but table service may not be his forte. FOOD: Now, the flavors were great. We tried just about everything on the RW menu. Apps were solid (server convinced me away from my watermelon two-ways to the asparagus...which was boring) but the proteins were over cooked for dinner. Salmon and scallops were definitely that of my kitchen (and I am no restaurant chef) so that was a little bit of a let down but the shortribs and corn and smoked bacon from the scallops were delish. DESSERT: It was all good. Dropped off at our places and not explained (i.e. tiramisu looked like moose and we were all kind of staring at it "is that the tiramisu?"). We did not get offered coffee, espresso, or an after dinner cocktail which was a let down because I love me espresso martinis. All in all, I won't go back again simply because there are so many other restaurants in the city to try and I'm definitely left wanting more. Maybe the reputation was too much to live up to or a late reservation on Restaurant Week is a bad idea for XIX but....sigh. Also, I totally wore jeans because its 2013. Jeans and appropriate tops/footwear is beyond fine for XIX....or any upscale restaurant in 2013.
(2)
Caitlin M.
Went for brunch for a reunion with some friends. The menu on the website is not the menu we received. We were given a fixed price menu, $35 for a continental style breakfast and dessert buffet and a full entree. Mimosas were $2! I had the crab cake benedict which was delicious. My friends ordered the sea bass. There was a mistake with their order and they were given something else, so the waitress comped us a round of mimosas, fixed the order, and gave us a 25% discount on the whole bill. I would definitely go back for another brunch, but I would save it for another special occasion because of the price.
(5)
Bret C.
The opulent setting is nearly as good as it gets,especially if you are seated at a window overlooking the City.We were warmly greeted by a smiling hostess who showed us to our seats.Steve, our server,was friendly yet professional thoroughout our stay.His colleagues,who brought the courses were pleasant and efficient,knowing who got what plate without asking.The Maryland oysters couldn't be better,though there were a couple miniscule one's in the mix.The mussels were flavorful and well prepared.The pork Osso Bucco was excellent.It was moist and exceedingly tender and tasty,accompanied by freshly sauteed kale.The chicken and the scallop choices were equally as good.All five of us commented about how much we enjoyed our experience
(4)
Yiwen S.
this is a review purely for center city sips. the bar area is efficiently set up on wednesdays so that there's a table to order any of the food specials from, and another minibar to order the drink specials from. you pay upfront, so you don't have to worry about asking for the check later and dealing with slow service. you can order multiple drinks/food at a time, or you can choose to get back in line everytime you want more of either. if you're paying by credit, you can keep a tab open at the minibar. normally when i close out a tab, i tip out of habit and this was no different. but i realized as an afterthought that everyone who paid for their drinks upfront in cash didn't tip at all. hmm, does this mean i unknowingly just threw away money? drink specials- i don't care for beer or red wine, so can't comment. didn't enjoy the house white wine, too bitter for my tastes. the mixed drinks were just ok- the pomegranate margarita was too sweet and not nearly strong enough. and the sweet tea vodka tasted exactly like watered down sweet tea. in order to achieve some sort of buzz, i had to mix all my alcohol types on an empty stomach. too much effort in my opinion. food specials- i think $3 is kind of much for a single shrimp cocktail or oyster on the half shell, but the bbq pork sliders were fabulous. if i weren't trying to get a buzz, i would've gladly eaten three of those. it is damn hard to find seating during cc sips, but if you just loiter around in the bar area long enough, a loveseat or table should open up. while you're standing around, take in the gorgeous views from either of two balconies. xix is located on the 19th floor of the bellevue, and you get great views of cc and the delaware river+jersey on a clear day. you've heard all about the amazing architecture of this place by now, so no need to dwell on the interior decoration. one note on whoever engineered the layout of this place. it's kinda ridiculous to take one elevator up from the lobby straight to the 19th floor, and to have to take another set of elevators once in the restaurant to go down to the 18th floor to use the restrooms (or to get to floors 13-18 for that matter).
(3)
Peter S.
Love the bar area! If your going for dinner, make sure you wait to sit outside its breath taking
(4)
John L.
Simple... you're coming here to pay a little/lot too much and enjoy the beautiful views and old world style/decor. That's it. Great service, uncomfortable chairs, solid brunch, beautiful view.
(3)
Karen F.
OK, here's my long awaited review of Nineteen (I'm not gonna call it XIX, just 19 is fine for me.). Even though my "special" birthday was almost a whole month ago, a very kind & generous girlfriend gifted me dinner at 19 tonight. Chuck, our server was fabulous - I want to make that clear- as I am about to say some critical things about the service. Here's how things shook down... I arrived for our 6 PM reservation early - at about 5:45. Since it was a lovely evening, I decided to have a drink on the terrace, and selected a table out in the open air. I put down my water bottle and asked the (very pregnant) hostess where the ladies room is. She explained that I needed to go down 1 flight on the elevator. Great. Fine. When I get back there is some guy sitting at "my" table and my water bottle is gone. So I move to another outdoor table - and the host (not the hostess) brings me a bottle of water (huge 27 oz. bottle of fancy-schmancy water from Norway - which - by the way - was damned tasty water.) to replace it. I order a virgin Mexican Mojito - which was perfect, by the by, - a refreshing libation of club soda, fresh lime juice and basil-infused (you really could smell it) simple syrup. Limeaid with a twist. FAB-U! So I drink my mocktail and quite happily sit and chill until way, way past 6 PM. At 6:15 or so I call my g.f. - guess what??? She's seated in the dining room and has been there for half an hour. Nobody came to get me. Nobody told her I was there. No nothin'. So I ask to move to the table, and we chat and order. Decor: 5 stars. The dining room with it's pussy willow & pearl theme and MARVELOUS rotunda is so breathtaking. Service: 2 (Chuck gets a 4 or 5 - he was great), everyone else was snotty and/or pre-occupied). VERY SNOTTY. Food - varies - 3-4 - here's why: We started with salads. I splurged and ordered the lump crabmeat salad which was truly delicious and lightly dressed in an orange-champagne vinaigrette. The tomatoes were red, ripe and actually tasted like tomatoes. The small chunks of avocado were smooth and buttery. The bibb lettuce was right on! For $15 bucks (whoa-momma!( that was my kinda salad. For $15 bucks you could put a little more crab - though I must say the crab that was there was sweet and PURE lumbo lump meat. Nary a shell! We both had the(only vegetarian) tagliatelle entree. The pasta was hand-crimped, and light and luscious. It was bathed in a lemony (very sharp, but I got used to it) buttery sauce and LOADED with various hoity-toity mushrooms including morels, hen-of-the-woods, oyster and others. If you don't like shrooms - do NOT order this. Quite frankly I was mushroomed-out by the end of it and left (no joke!) over 1/2 cup of these precious morsels - I ate all the morels - plate side). I also chased down all of the succulent beans (small fava - large lima - something else??) and fresh sp[ring peas. Oh - and there were ramps and FIDDLEHEADS. A nice spring dish. High-end veg for sure. But quite alot of mushrooms. For dessert had a kickin' strong cup of Illy cappucino. Good - but somehow not as good as the cap at Davio's. A bit bitter. Wesplit ahome-made waffle with nutella & berry compote. The waffle itself was great. I would have preferred less "glop" on top of it,but my friend preferred the sauces to the waffle. She digs nutella. Oh - and they put a little green candle in the scoop of (homemade??) vanilla ice cream on top of the waffle. Thankfully nobody sang! Since someone else paid, It was a 4 star time, but honestly? Forthe money there are much. much better places to eat - and drink - not only in Philly - but in Philly high-end hotels. That said - the private dining room is nice- and I would definitely do a business lunch or dinner here. But for my own life? I doubt if I'd run back here.
(4)
Yo J.
Very mediocre food presentation is very poor flavors not so spectacular as people claim it to be. We ordered the short ribs and the boneless rib eye both were very dry and not cooked the way we imagined it . They looked like burnt pieces of meat on a plate I'm so disappointed. We had the fried calamari, lobster bisque and the England pea soup as a starter ! Terrible idea they all tasted very cheap.!!! And i think they could have made it better. The calamari was so ordinary and the lobster bisque was poorly made the flavors weren't in harmony and the lobster was gummy. I didn't like the England pea soup either it's too overwhelming. Our Friend had the steak and it looks like it was just slopped on there with a bunch of fries!!! I give 2 stars for the venison that was the only thing I didn't mind on the menu that was cooked deliciously but other than that I was overall disappointed.Honestly we are paying for that much to not see a plate looking like everything was just thrown in there and the service was slow and we rsvp for 5 what were they thinking putting together two tiny round tables! The 5th person couldn't barely eat properly because we didn't have the appropriate space. Never coming back here again.
(2)
Diana L.
I went here for Restaurant week. The inside was gorgeous. My date and I were seated right next to a large balcony window looking out towards the Liberty One building. It was night time so looking out into the city lights was beautiful and romantic. The staff was friendly, attentive. The food was so delicious. I was a little disappointed by the portion sizes, but since it was restaurant week, after the 3 courses we were both full. It's definitely a place to go to spend a special evening. I've been to the lounge as well on a date in the past. The lounge is very cozy, comfortable. The cocktails were nice, again either sitting by the fireplace or in a booth looking out over the city. I would say it's one of those places you should visit if you have the chance.
(5)
Ritu K.
Ughh- skip it for Center City Sips. Sure the restaurant is beautiful with an intricately molded ceiling and swanky seats. Sure there's a fantastic balcony and a lovely view of the city, but the drink specials were meh.. Yuengling and wine (don't get me wrong I love both but I could get a yuengling for that price anywhere), as well as two girly concotions that had me jumping up to get a yuengling.. Additionally, there's no table service so you're left to stand in a long line to order your beverages. At 5pm no problem- by 6pm forget about it... and the bbq pork and bbq chicken sliders nothing to write home about and the oysters were decidingly fishy.. Probably a fantastic place outside of summer sips but would certainly skip the summer sips scene here...
(3)
Stephanie P.
#191 No. No, thank you. This place isn't worth it. It's on the 19th floor (duh), so the view is of the dirty, grimey roofs of several buildings nearby. A plus - I can see my building from the balcony. Aside from that, the crowd is your typical I-have-money-(somewhat)-and-I-like-to-swag-during-Âhappy-hour. Definitely not my cup of tea. Though, I will say, the cocktails are tasty - in the sense that they're sweet and yummy. Unfortunately for them, I prefer them stiff and strong. ;) The complimentary wasabi peas and pretzel bites were a good touch though, saving it from a single star rating.
(2)
Candy K.
I hosted a 30th birthday dinner for my fiance on saturday in the private dining room.....and it was amazing. The staff was attentive, and totally on point. I forgot the name of the gentleman that was the head of those taking care of us, but he was awesome. He gave me the wonderful suggestion of ending the evening off with a champagne toast!!! Boy did my guest love that!! Ok now to the food, it was absolutely amazing!!! I had the seared striped bass with crawfish ragout and rainbow swiss chard, some people had the ribeye and others head seared scallops. I'm actually dreaming about the food...yikes! As a hostess, you know that the food is spectacular when a room goes silent because everyone is passionately devouring their meal lol, and thats exactly what happened! Everything tasted perfect, and my guests raved about the food (and some of them are a tough to please)!!!!! My guests loved the Lychee kiss cocktail, I actually lost track everything they drank but all the drinks were really strong which was great because the price is not cheap. I love the fact that they offered us an extra entree choice, besides the three that I had selected for my guests. (They get bonus points for that) They also had a sound system that allows you to play music off your iPod, a cd or radio...(bonus points for that too!) The private dining room itself is beautiful, classy, chic, and not stuffy at all! If you ever want to throw a dinner party for your friends with great food, wonderful cocktails, champagne and wine...this is the place for you!
(5)
Janice T.
BEAUTIFUL inside... but food was nothing special in my opinion.
(3)
Bomin K.
for bruch, five stars
(4)
Jill C.
Today was my third visit to Nineteen (XIX). The first two times were for Center City sips - drinks were great and service was prompt but reviewing a restaurant during Sips is just plain unfair. However, my sister and I had a spectacular lunch here today. We had the prix fix lunch, which began with a fantastic assortment of salads and cheese. The second course was perfectly portioned and beautifully presented, not to mention a spectacular blend of flavors. The meal finished with a dessert bar - they were tiny enough that you don't feel too guilty eating more than one, plus they had fresh berries. As is expected the atmosphere is beautiful without being stuffy. I can imagine it is romantic at night, with the sun setting over the city and the skyline at night. Our server was efficient and pleasant. Not super spectacular in the sense that he didn't spend any extra time at the table to exchange friendly conversation, but that's ok by me. Going to drop hints with the hubby to go here for dinner - consider it dropped if you read this dear.
(4)
jackie p.
Wow. The main dinning room with the over sized pearl chandelier was beutiful. Food was crazy good. Next time I go I will order 2 appetizers. I came here for valentines day and the choice was perfect. I felt romanced by the experiance.
(5)
Shannon L.
3.5* I went for the 22 dollar cafe lunch. This was my first time at Nineteen. I've heard about the great view and ambiance (which is what I mostly went for :P), but personally found that just okay. We got a seat right by the window (requested on a previous reservation I canceled, but they remembered!) although it was all buildings. May have been nicer at night. I think the view from Lacroix is better since I like the greenery, but I think it's a personal preference. However, I did think it was great value, and I will definitely go back. Service was slightly impersonal (I guess since you are paying just $22), but still great! You get -a drink (they offered lemonade or peach tea), -selection of meats, cheese, salad (center table) -an entree (I had the fish of the day - it was good - fresh and not too salty), -desert display (center table desert spread with an assortment of food). The food was okay and it was a very comfortable meal. Also: changed reservation from 2 to 3 people. They just added another chair to a 2 person table :S However, I did only call them about an hour before to change the reservation. Still, was a bit surprised.
(4)
nina f.
Amazing Brunch & Staff! I would definitely recommend XIX. The food was great and the staff very helpful and on cue!
(5)
Pamela K.
Enjoyed a lovely lunch here with a girlfriend recently. You can't beat the $22 lunch special with apps, entree and desserts! sitting high above our fair city in an elegant room made for a fabulous afternoon.
(5)
Aaliyah P.
This was stop # one on our Swanked out Hotel Bar crawl. I loved being able to take the elevator up to the 19th Floor it made me feel very special. The dining room didn't really have a lot of diners but since we were in the building to booze i wasn't really concerned about the emptiness. The lounge area is a great size and has small tables and large tables to come with a group no matter what the size. We found our way to a huge lounge seats and settled in. The drink list seemed ok and a few cocktail options appealed to me but i decided to still with the BUBBLY ! Split my second bottle of Marquis De la Tour with Krista P (we have a slight bubbly drinking problem) Others had various drinks which they seemed to enjoy. Our cocktail waitress was awesome no one was ever without a drink in hand and she was very sweet. Since we had eaten prior to coming i wasn't interested in nibbles but there seemed to be options for everyone snack wise. My only beef is the prices since we are in this side of broad things got a little pricey (i.e. the 5.00 increase on that bottle of Marquis) I would come back for sure , and maybe dinner is in order very soon.
(4)
Jevon Y.
The ambience of the place was fantastic and the service was great. The lunch special was extremely value for money and I'll definitely be back again!
(4)
Tracy K.
I have had dinner here twice with my husband and it is a beautiful restaurant. To be honest my favorite part of the restaurant is the small bar area. The bar menu has some very tasty treats and I really like the laid back lounge feel.
(3)
Lan G.
It's a perfect place to get a couple of drink over sunset! I love the view they have and plus they have happy hour from 5-7pm Monday through Friday. $6 cocktails is definitely a good deal for a center city location like this. We got there around 6pm and found empty seats by the window. I love the interior and wall decors. I ordered a couple of their special cocktail. I would write out the name of it, but I honesty don't recall except the fact that it's dangerously delicious. The server was very attentive and gives a nice generous pour when you get a glass of wine. We didn't get to try any food, but I would definitely recommend this place for anyone who is looking to a romantic time after a workday to rewind.
(4)
Jessica S.
This is one of my favorite happy hour spots! What a fabulous spot to enjoy $6 specialty drinks & complimentary wasabi peanuts from 5-7. If you want a window seat, I recommend showing up before 6. I've frequented this place on several occasions and received stellar service each time. I love their mixed drinks - they're always satisfying, flavorful and don't skimp on the booze. My favorite is the tart and powerful grapefruit martini. Another tasty concoction is the mango mojito made with fresh juice (not flavored syrup) and tons of fresh mint.
(5)
Zoe P.
Life can get crazy and hectic, so its nice when you can slow things down a bit - like with a ladies' Sunday brunch. I joined my bf's mom, sister and grandmother for what was technically a very belated birthday celebration for his grandmother, so the choice of XIX as the venue was definitely appropriate. I mean, the interior speaks for itself - its just freaking gorgeous. Maybe its because I'm dating her son, but his mom (who is an interior designer, so she gets into discussing design) showed us around and kept talking about how fantastic this would be to host an event at - like a wedding reception. Not awkward whatsoever. The main dining room is truly spectacular, with these white balls hung from the very high ceiling like pearl strands, and the view is incredible! However we ate in the cafe, a more subdued but very lovely area, and ordered from the a la carte menu. His sister and I both had the crab salad (entree size - its huge! I ate half and had enough for lunch the next day), while his mom and grandmother both had the eggs benedict. The food was great, very fresh (esp. the crab - HUGE lumps generously scattered) and portions were enough to please man or woman. Perhaps a bit pricey (I don't recall the last time I saw a salad priced at $20), but considering the quality and amount not very unreasonable at all. XIX is definitely a place for nice occasions, but its even good for the every once in a while splurge on food - which as we know is the best kind!
(4)
Danielle M.
The food was ok here, but mostly what we went for is to see the dining area and the fantastic view! It was like stepping into the past, with such grand structure and high ceilings. Despite this, it seemed perfectly intimate for my date and I! The scalop dish I ordered was a little strange, as they chose to put a raisin sauce over it. We thoughoughly enjoyed ourselves though!
(4)
YelpHatesMe Y.
This is a bar review only. 3 and a1/2 stars. Went there for a few drinks on Saturday night. Has sort of a speakeasy fancy feel to it. Views were pretty good as one would expect. Seemed to be an eclectic crowd there. Few guys in suits, few losers - sorry, hipsters and some housewives of whatever county. Seemed like a pretty nice place place to relax though. Lighting was low and they had some nice chairs to sit in. It would be a nice place to "hide" if you wanted to get off the main strip for a bit. I didn't really like that I had to go down a floor to use the bathroom though. Bottom line; Very nice bar but doesn't seem "practical" to really go there more than once or twice a year. Nice bar to impress a first date.
(3)
Vinny P.
I actually came here for dinner but I had to walk through ongoing Sips. It looked like a friggin madhouse in there. It was way packed and very hot. Then we got out of that area into the dining room. Wow! Huge difference. Very elegant. Huge high ornate ceiling with a very large chandelier that looked like strings of a giant pearl necklace. The seats were covered in this old french fabric and damn were they comfortable. We sat right by the window and had an awesome view of philly. I couldn't really ask for a better birthday dinner. Food was very tasty and surprisingly affordable. Our appetizers were the ceviche (which had amazing presentation) and a selection of two meats and a cheese. While the meats and cheese were awesome (one was mole style with ancho chiles and chocolate bits) the really incredible part was the amount you got for the price. The board came with a mound of the meats and a very large wedge of the cheese. It was almost too much for us to eat and still be able to eat dinner. For dinner we had the steak frites and the sea bass. Both were prepared nearly perfectly and were just as tasty. The sea bass had a fava bean puree with lime zest and it was surrounded by a red wine reduction. It was definitely one of the nicest presentations I had seen in quite a while. My steak was simply a very nicely cooked piece of hanger steak on a plate with herbed butter and really tasty fries. I asked for medium rare and I got it, on the rarer side which is just how I like it. The steak cut like butter and tasted like heaven. Very worth the price. Drinks were good too albeit the service was a tad slow (which I didn't mind last night) I had their concoction with bourbon, blood orange bitter and elderflower liquor and wow, I could have had 6 more of them. It's definitely swank but they know how to take care of you. The view is spectacular the food is very memorable. The place oozes with class and their service is very friendly. I'll go back just for drinks and the meats and cheeses.
(4)
Thao N.
The decor and view from this restaurant is absolutely gorgeous... A definite hot spot for a romantic dinner. Food was cooked to perfection, service was exceptional - very courteous and prompt. I'll definitely be coming back!
(5)
sherry h.
Had my US wedding reception here...and listen to me dammit: If you're looking to have an event in Philly that you & your guests will never forget, XIX is your place. Trust me on this one. This place is ridiculously amazing in every way. My reception was perfect and I couldn't have been happier w/ the way it turned out. Here's why: + CATERING MANAGER: Should you decide to have your event at XIX, Lindsey K. is your girl. Let's just put it this way. Lindsey is my new BFF. Not only did she go above-and-beyond for every stinkin' detail of my event, she is the sweetest, most personable, and hilarious person you will ever meet. She has this way of making you feel like you are her one and only client - when she is actually juggling a million of you. + DECOR: There are only two words to describe the look of this place. Classy & Elegant. The furniture, the color palette, the gorgeous patios, the raw bar in the center of the circular shaped room, etc. All sheer perfection. + SERVICE: The service is stellar. My guests all commented on the fact that the servers were so attentive and that not a moment went by where their wine glasses weren't topped off (which explains their drunken stupor later on that evening & the debauchery that followed it, but that's another story). + FOOD: Delish. From the hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour to the salad, appetizer, entree, and wedding cake during the reception...my guests would not stop talking about the food and all of it's deliciousness. Chef, ya kinda know what you're doing back there! Thank you, XIX & staff, for making my wedding night so memorable and beautiful. Sniffle.
(5)
Catherine L.
This is a review for the bar only. If you're feeling fancy, want a change of scenery and a nice view - come during their happy hour (5 - 7pm) for half priced cocktails ($6 - the Lychee martini is delicioso) and secure yourself a spot at the bar or in one of the three half moon booths by the windows. At sunset, it's lovely. The space is swanky-cozy, with high ceilings and dark paneling. (during the winter they have the fireplace going in full swing, it's a nice touch!) Waitstaff service tends to be spotty when they are busy - (I dig their elegant uniforms) If you're lucky they might serve you complimentary wasabi peanuts - otherwise for eats, the bar food menu isn't impressive. Skip the cheese and cured meats (blah) and have a go at their sliders (though expensive at $5 for each!) 3-stars are for the reasons I go: cocktails, happy hour specials and an elegant space with a view.
(3)
Asli K.
Nineteen is like an oasis in the city. It is the epitome of elegance. I had the chance of both dining and having brunch there, and both experiences were amazing.
(4)
Joanna H.
I would go for the atmosphere more than for the food- not that the food was bad. The sashimi appetizer was delicate and flavorful, but i know I can def find better places with better food in a romantic setting. I would say the quality of the food is memorable(never had such chicken that soft!) than the taste of it. There are 2 sections in the restaurant that you can be seated. The one closer to the bar seemed more romantic than the other side.
(3)
A K.
My aunts, mother and I were at XIX on Sunday (02/19/2012) for Afternoon Tea. After searching around the parking bridge area for an elevator, we finally found one on the next floor down. Once we arrived on the 19th floor, we were seated promptly. The host and hostess were very friendly and I immediately felt comfortable. Our waitress was the best of all. She was pleasant and helpful - answering all of our inquiries about the different teas. She even gave us some extra scones and desserts from a cancellation earlier in the day. When the bill came, she hadn't even charged us for the extras. We weren't rushed out and relaxed there for quite some time after we ate. I was always a huge fan of the Ritz Carlton Afternoon Tea but I don't think they do it anymore since the remodel. This is a fabulous replacement! Also, sunday brunch was just ending when we got there - it looked phenomenal!
(4)
Maria G.
great view, if you can snag a seat by the window. Drinks a bit pricey and I wish there were more appetizers to choose from.
(3)
K. B.
We went here for brunch this past weekend for a family event. First, the parking situation is actually not that horrible for center city. There is a garage right next door and the waitress can validate you ticket and it only costs $7 for 3 hours. The restaurant itself is very 'Grand' with its domed ceilings, views from the 19th floor of and equally grand hotel. Servers were very nice and eager to help (including putting up with my families less than funny jokes). There is a small buffet to begin the meal, with salads, cheeses, meats, lox/bagels. The entree options were diverse enough that everyone found something suitable. Finally, there was a desert bar with cakes/pastries, etc. The food was good, I mean its brunch, you can only do so much with it. The price was probably where it should have been ($35/person), that being said, a lot of it was probably for the location/ambiance, not the food. Certainly a nice place, but not a regular weekend brunch location that most of us could afford on a routine basis. Overall not too many complaints, it was a nice time. Note: one quirky thing about this place... the accoustics are just right in some locations that you can hear people talking from across the room as if they were next to you. Good/bad/indifferent, it was kind of entertaining.
(4)
M R.
Amazing Amazing Amazing!!! Food is as good as the decor! the staff is wonderful the chef is impeccable, food portions are generous. i cant say enough good things about it! Highly recommend.
(5)
Amanda G.
I just got back from Restaurant Week at XIX, and I have to tell you, this place makes me feel guilty for giving out 5 stars to other joints. My meal tonight was one of the best I've ever had, and I would give it much more than 5 stars. My husband and I made a 7:00 reservation. We got there about 10 minutes early, were greeted, and sat right away. The atmosphere of this place just screams class, and the views are great. The lighting is perfect, and the spacing between tables is just right. You don't feel too cramped, but you don't feel like you're sitting out in the open either. For my appetizer I got the crab cake, while my husband got the corn soup. The crab cake was out of this world. It was stuffed with crab, there were no fillers, and it had a very sweet (but not TOO sweet) tomato relish on the top, with a sauce for dipping on the plate. It was perfectly balanced and completely delicious. My husband's soup was amazing. It came in a long, shallow bowl, with corn, scallops, and a pesto sauce on the bottom. The waiter then poured the corn soup over everything, and when all the flavors come together it was mouthwatering. For my main course I got the striped bass with potatoes, artichokes, and cauliflower in a butter/truffle oil sauce. The fish was cooked perfectly, and the skin on it was super crunchy. The artichokes were so good, and the butter/truffle oil sauce was to. die. for. I wanted to lick the plate when I was done. My husband ordered the steak, and he asked for it medium/rare. It definitely came out that way, too. I normally don't like my meat still moving, so I didn't eat any of his, but from what he tells me it was awesome. DESSERT. The reason I chose to come here for Restaurant Week, essentially...was more than I hoped it'd be. I got the cheesecake, which came in a mason jar. There was a LOT of cheesecake. It came with a few raspberries on the side, so when I got the perfect combination of cheesecake and crust out of the jar I'd put a berry on top and it made for some perfect bites. It also came with cookies with raspberry in the center. Trust me, you didn't need the cookies. There was so much cheesecake. But I ate it all because it was so good. My husband got the toffee pudding with white chocolate ice cream - and I had a few bites of that, too. The toffee pudding was really good and very moist. I'm not a white chocolate kind of girl, but if you are, the ice cream won't let you down. Random notes: -- I ordered a hot tea with my meal and it came out in a clear glass pot with loose leaves being steeped in a little container attached to the lid. As an avid tea drinker, I found this not only super cute, but a really unique way for a restaurant to serve tea. They also brought out a pewter plate with sugars and a jar of cream on it. Sometimes when you order tea, they don't automatically bring cream. So I was delighted to see that. -- The ONLY thing that "disappointed" me about this meal was the bread. It was a little bit crunchy/tough/hard to chew. But it still tasted good. -- The service staff was AMAZING. Super attentive, super nice. It didn't feel like Restaurant Week at all. They were very busy, but I didn't once feel "neglected." -- You have to go down the elevator one floor to get to the bathroom. I don't feel any kind of way about that, but I thought it was worth mentioning. Overall, this place was a huge bang for my Restaurant Week buck. Don't miss out!!
(5)
Thomas K.
Had a great breakfast with great service. It was a great way to get the day started, for sure. We noshed upon: A toasted multigrain bagel with smoked salmon, tomato, cream cheese, and capers. Always a treat, especially when the lox was melt in your mouth...like this was. Jumbo lump crab cake which was very nice, loaded with chunky crab meat with notes of Old Bay seasoning without being overpowering. A vegan pressed wrap with black beans, vegetables, and tomato...kind of like a thick vegetable chili and chunks of creamy avocado rolled inside a soft flour tortilla, then toasted on a panini press. Hearty and heart-healthy. Coffee and tea were topped off by our server, who was a gem. It's pricey, yes...ours was included with our stay, so we were able to try a bunch of things without worrying about the bill adding up. There was also a hot and cold breakfast buffet available which featured the standard breakfast fare, which was refreshed once during our 45 minute stay. A beautiful venue, good food, good service. It's all good!
(4)
Regina F.
"One word to describe me: spectacular, YES!" If lounges could talk, XIX would probably have taken that gem of a phrase straight from Julez Santana's mouth. You take the elevator to the 19th floor. Wood paneling and mirrors envelop you. There is no ding. The doors open. Chandelier. Hallways. Passageways. The dining area is nearly empty. It's almost midnight after all. But the bar is bustling with the most enticing Bond crowd you've yet seen. The attendees at this evening soiree buzz about their business. Some stand at the bar. Other sit at low tables leaning toward each other to either perpetuate the vibe or see one another over the dimly lit candle. Couples canoodle in the corner booths where the view of Philadelphia is absolutely astounding. If you're feeling daring, step out onto the deck where you can not only see the skyline, but feel the breath of Philadelphia enclose you in her embrace. Drinks are ordered quickly and delivered promptly in spite of the bustle. The Merlot was fruity; the Jack and Coke expertly blended (there is something to be said for perfect proportions of alcohol and soda); the Long Island Iced Tea zesty and zingy.
(5)
Bill B.
This place provided outstanding atmosphere and service. Top notch. The food was very good as well but a bit on the small side. Overall great experience and I plan on going back.
(4)
Mary S.
I've come here for happy hour, late night drinks and brunch--since that's about all I can afford here lol. The view is amazing and I def recommend sitting on the balcony for a late-night cocktail. The brunch is also good. The shrimp Caesar salad is delicious--the perfect amount of dressing and very filling. The crab cakes here are also equally amazing. Odd fact--When you sit in the center circle there is an echo and you can hear people's convos from across the room too.
(4)
Jessica B.
I would love to actually be able to review the food and drinks here, but sadly I can't even do that, because I was essentially turned away at the door. A few weeks ago, this nifty discount website I belong to (RueLaLa) had a special for XIX: $25 for $50 worth of food. Sweet! My boyfriend and I were super excited about the chance to go, so we saved the voucher for a night when we had some time free, and meandered over there. When we walked in, the restaurant was essentially empty, except for a few staff standing around and watching "The Bachelor" (classy). The host took us to our table (after informing us we couldn't sit at the famous bar because it was closed for renovations). When we arrived at the table, I whipped out my printed-out voucher and told the host we were planning to use the voucher for a few drinks and a couple of appetizers. He said, "oh... you can't use that for drinks and appetizers. You can only use that for a meal." I was rather shocked, but I looked at the voucher again and NOWHERE did it say that I could only use it for an actual meal. Not in the general description, not in the fine print -- nowhere. When I confronted him about this, he said, "Oh... you can tell from the hours they put on the voucher." To which I replied, "what... you mean all the hours for the restaurant?" What I'd wish I'd said was, "If you didn't want to honor this voucher, you shouldn't have signed up for it." Since we basically felt like second-hand citizens, we left. Needless to say, I'm going to get my money back, and I'm never going back there, EVER.
(1)
Lena M.
I took my mom on Sat for early Mother's Day dinner. Our waiter was exceptional so sorry I forget his name but he had the right amount of tease with professionalism he recommended superb choices & gave us comp Champage took our pix for us. I had the braised ribs so tender & favorable my mom had the salmon app were calamari & crab cake perfect mom day dinner
(5)
Stephen C.
I've been here a few times, once for a wedding and another time just to hit up the bar. The wedding was a while ago but I definitely remember spending more time trying to get appetizers than trying to get drinks during the reception prior to sitting down for dinner, so that says something. On my most recent visit, I went with a group of friends to get a couple drinks at the bar. While the drinks are a bit expensive and the beer list isn't great, the view and atmosphere of the bar area makes it all worth it. If you are looking for a relaxed place to grab a drink or two and you want to try something different then you should check it out and maybe you will decide to stay for dinner.
(4)
Kaitlin M.
Only reason I am giving this place two stars is because it is gorgeous: the interior and the view. Also, because the bar was packed and it looked like a lot of fun. The bar is also ways from the dining room and you are out of view so you can be as rowdy as you want =P. BTW you also have to take an elevator to the restrooms. I went with about 10 people for a birthday which I do not recommend because this is more for a quiet couple's dinner. Maybe they were annoyed by our large party because it took over an hour and a half to get three appetizers. We waited really long for each drink too. I also ordered salmon and got red snapper. The reason I 100% know I didn't order this is because I didn't even know red snapper was an edible fish (oops). I didn't send it back because I didn't want to wait and we had plans to meet friends at another spot later. It was actually pretty good though. Nonetheless, that has never happened to me before and I certainly wouldn't expect it from a swank place like this. Mistakes happen I guess, but I wouldn't go back to eat even though I tried something new and got a free drink out of the mix-up!
(2)
Bang T.
As you're going up to the 19th floor (Hence the name XIX) the elevator that takes you up is has an old yet classy look to it. when the doors open you're greeted with a dim ambiance and large windows which over look Philadelphia. We decided to reserve windows seats which was an excellent choice. it provided a beautiful view of philadelphia which made our night much more romantic. We weren't to sure what to order so our waitress which was very nice and had excellent suggestions. We started with a bottle of pinot noir: 59 dollars For appetizers we had: one dozen of their oysters (2 diffrent kinds half dozen each): 18/36 dollars (*****Absolutely delicious*****) Flat Bread Pizza: 11 Dollars XIX Salad: 11 Dollars (Fresh But to much dressing) Entrees: Tuna Mahi Mahi w/ Tomato Pepper & Lemon Relish $40 Diver Scallops w/ Tomato Pepper & Lemon Relish $40 Both of these entrees were served for perfection, the way they were prepared and the presentation were magnificent. the tuna mahi mahi was soft and melted in my mouth as with the scallops. the sides complimented the dish completely. Total Price: 197 + 20%tip = 236.40 Overall experience: Ambiance - Excellent (romantic) Service - Excellent Food quality - Excellent Food Preperation - Excellent Overall this place is excellent if you can dish out the money and if you like classy places. great for a romantic night on the town since its downtown. Sidenote: I suggest Valet parking, the garage is cramped and overpacked. and overcharges. valet parking is sometimes cheaper or only 5 dollars more. so why not spend 5 dollars more when you're about to spend 175+ on a dinner for 2.
(5)
ana m.
Rude! We arrived at 2 PM, hoping to be seated for lunch. They said it was an hour's wait, though there were many tables open, and I didn't see anyone in the waiting lounge. I guess we weren't fancy enough for them!
(1)
Thayvie S.
I love this place. The good is good. I enjoy eating the appetizers a lot. The ambience is what makes this place amazing. It's one of my favorite places. You won't be disappointed. It's dim, relaxing, and extremely comfortable both the dining area and bar area.
(4)
Lauren C.
The boyfriend and I stopped by XIX for drinks last night after seeing a fantastic show (more on that in another review). We had been for drinks once before, so this review is based on those two trips to the bar. XIX is (appropriately) on the 19th floor, so you'll need to take the elevator. Depending on which one you take it can be a little hard to find the bar, but if you wander the floor long enough (around a few corners and through the room with the swanky/modern/a little weird lounge/restaurant), you'll find the bar. The atmostphere is decidedly sophisticated, upscale, and romantic. The lighting is dim (so dim I had trouble reading the menu, and my eyesight is solid), the room has high ceilings, and the (famous) view is beautiful. We were able to snag a table near the windows, which was great. Attire was similarly upscale - I was wearing a little black dress and didn't feel overdressed at all. I would've felt awkward in jeans and a t-shirt. The service was middling (we had two waiters and still ended up needing to flag one down on a couple occasions), but the drinks ($12 for each of their signature cocktails) were delicious. I had the Sorrento Lemon and the boyfriend had the Kentucky Straight Orange. They were tasty and pretty potent (not watered-down or lacking flavor like some others have experienced) and we ordered the same again on the second round. A little before midnight we felt hungry and ordered some snacks ($15 for a selection of three cheeses and/or meats, $20 for a selection of 5). The cheese was pretty good, but it didn't hold up compared to Tria or Biba - the portions were a little small and there were no descriptions to help you decide. If you're looking for a place to splurge on cocktails and get your fancy on, this is the place to go.
(4)
Kelly P.
so i made it my business to get here for RW2011. conclusion: beautiful atmosphere (saw the sun setting through the large windows), delicious food, but pushed out the door. was that because of RW? or is it normally like that? i wouldnt know, i cannot fathom spending upwards of $70 for a meal here on a regular basis, so i may never know..
(4)
Katherine A.
I've ended up here twice within the last week with friends, and I have to say I'd forgotten how much I love it. For some reason I never remember to go to XIX - maybe because it's on the 19th floor of a hotel, or because it's in the middle of Broad St., but regardless I have resolved to start going there more often. The ambiance is spectacular - one of the most physically beautiful bar spaces in Philly I'd say, with that old hotel bar glamour that is harder and harder to find these days. High ceilings and windows, low light, a fireplace in the winter (which is reason to go there in and of itself) and gorgeous balcony seating in the summer...if you need a romantic and lavish date spot, this is your place. There is a fairly good selection of wines, although they're categorized in a slightly odd way (e.g. full bodied, medium bodies, etc.), that are not exorbitantly priced for a hotel bar. The calamari is also wonderful, although the cheese plate is a bit sparse for the price tag. It's also not too overcrowded or loud on Fri and Sat nights, which is a welcome respite from the midtown/Sansom St. craziness.
(4)
Christopher J.
I once had a conversation with a friend that went along the lines of the following: Me: Wow that woman over there is stunningly beautiful, Friend: Yes she is, but know this, somewhere in the world, someone is absolutely sick of her B.S. This conversation basically sums up my feelings and experiences of this restaurant. I actually went to great lengths to complain to the management about how bad of an experience my party had at this place. I was sent a nice gift certificate for the entire cost of the meal etc. Here's the kicker...I still haven't used it. What does that tell you? Enjoy the view, enjoy a drink which is hard to screw up,...other than that don't bother.
(1)
Zanna H.
Holy disappointment Batman! Do you like condescension and unprofessional behavior from hosts? Do you like awkward tables? Do you like having a group of 3 split between two small tables? Do you like serving yourself? Do you like being rushed? Do you like being ignored by waitstaff? Do you like under seasoned food? Do you like over cooked dry fish? Do you like staff taking chairs from your table mid meal without asking to accommodate another table? Do you like a waitress waiting like a vulture for the check? If you answered yes to any or all the questions above XIX is the place for you. To start off the host who greeted & sat us asked us if we wanted bottled water, sparkling water, or "Philly's best..." Now this I would let slide if I were in a more casual place but I'm sorry that is obnoxious. But was only the beginning of the unprofessional behavior. So we are sat a two small tables in the corner that are oblong and so our party of three felt disconnected and basically eliminated conversation for one person, and we could not get any of the famed view of the city from there. The first course was an assortment of salads, cheeses, etc that we had to get from the center of the room ourselves. Fine, but at least toss the damn salads before putting them out. All the dressing and croutons and such were left hidden under the bare greens. So on to the second course. The only thing the kitchen had to cook and the waitstaff has to serve. Well the hosts brought out our entrees. Cleared my places and the places of the person across from me but neglected to clear the placed of our 3 party member exiled to the secondary table. She was left surrounded by dirty plates and had her entree given to her before she was done with her salad. I got he lamb & pasta dish. This consisted on about a teaspoon of ground unseasoned lamb, bland pasta, and a "sauce" that was more like broth that proceeded to splatter whenever I attempted to eat a noodle. There was also a sprinkling of some cheese like product that the menu claimed was ricotta. I have had better pasta made by 12 yr olds. The other two diners in my party ordered the fish of the day which was striped bass. It came out and instantly it was obvious that it was overcooked and dried out. I don't eat fish and I could tell that from across the table. The beans it was resting on were only half cooked and disgusting. Now keep in mind this is the only course that the kitchen had to prepare. The salad assortments and the dessert offerings were pre-made and out on the buffet in the middle of the room. How do you mess this up? You have one thing to do, you best do it well! To add to this we had just begun the desserts, after waiting for the waitress who was doing nothing more than refilling drinks to wander by and clear plates, and she slapped the check down already. Then one of the other staff comes and steals a chair from the second table. Now it wasn't be used and we were on the final leg of the meal but seriously ASK IF IT IS OK TO TAKE JUST DON'T FERRET IT AWAY! Not like you are disregarding our existence or anything. Then our waitress came back to stand behind the person across from me like a vulture waiting for the credit card to run the check. We felt extremely rushed and poorly treated, and from the looks on the faces of the other diners we were not the only ones. Perhaps I need the point of Restaurant Week reexplained to me. My understanding was that it was a way for restaurants to draw by offering a cheap set menu to get in new clientele because their bottom lines are hurting. With that said I understand that for the cheaper price tag you are going to get cheaper items but shouldn't those items still be prepared well since you are trying to entice repeat customers. Meaning that you want them to considering coming back and ordering off your regular menu? As of right now I see no reason to ever go back to XIX.
(1)
Eisha C.
Okay so I am a fan.. so coming again. This place is beautiful something to definitely go out on a date to.. Or just grab a cocktail and mingle.
(4)
Becky S.
This place was gorgeous. The pearls from the ceiling - so pretty. And what a great view. Now to the food - it was great! We had an array of apps. The raw bar shrimp cocktail was so good. I highly recommend this. The mushroom empanada was also great. I didn't love the crab cake though which is usually one of my favorites. The tuna tar tar was amazing - the acid leaks on the chip though and it becomes soggy so eat it quickly. I had a a salad to start. The mandarin oranges and nuts were so fresh. Then I had a snapper over delicious sides. I can't recall what they were now, just how great they tasted together in my mouth. Lastly, I had their famous cheesecake for dessert. The candle holder style was elegant and so good! I didn't care for the cream. the fruit though and sugar cookie along side it was good as well. Generally, I find this to be out of my price range but it was quite a memorable experience that I would highly recommend to anyone who can attend. Dress is formal (heels/dress pants/skirt. No ties or jacket needed)
(4)
Lynette S.
Swanky enough looking room (think Titanic) yes, and obstructed views in one of the rooms, bar seemed nice,... warm dining room on an already hot day? Very weird smell too. Carpet was dirty all around the room...Oy so far, right??? We stayed anyway to see this experience through. Restrooms were one floor down on the 18th floor. Street parking for 5$. Food was excellent though. Step outside for the real view and photo opps.
(2)
Jane M.
I'd have to say this restaurant is schizophrenic. The decor is just absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful, oozing in history and breathtaking views. Friendly bar. Conversely, it's a bistro menu- just doesn't fit the surroundings. It could be an elegant, romantic restaurant but instead- ribeye, flat iron steaks etc. I wish I had a Vetri menu in the space. 4 stars for the surroundings, but I can't see returning. Food just wasn't that memorable.
(4)
Stephanie H.
Swank central! This bar on the top of the Bellevue Hotel is a great spot. Friends and I had drinks and snacks here before attending Swan Lake. There were more tuxedos than jeans in this establishment. The lighting is dim and there is a small bar as well as tables for you to sit at. There are huge windows showing a gorgeous view of Philadelphia on one side of the bar. We were lucky enough to catch the sunset that particular evening and it was spectacular. They have a nice wine selection and have both bottle and glass options. There were also some great snack options that are different then the actual dining room. We had a goat cheese and rosemary flatbread. This was excellent. The goat cheese wasn't too overpowering but provided lots of flavor. There were also shoestring fries, cheese plates, calamari and a lot of other yummy treats. The bartenders were also a joy. They loved chatting about our evening event, wine, great places to eat in Philly and also gave great service. For a special occasion, this is a nice place to enjoy a drink.
(4)
Hilary W.
I have been coming to XIX for so long the bartender Steven will give me a hard time about any gaps of time greater than a few weeks. I sometimes crave the wasabi pea and pretzel combo they freshly scoop for you as a bar snack. I taunt my height fearing boyfriend by luring him on to the balconies with the promise (and truth) of some fantastic Philadelphia views. XIX to me is more reputable as a bar than a restaurant despite my having dined here several times. I may do a separate update on the food with a different star rating but let's talk lounge. The lounge is everything you've dreamed a swanky hotel bar could be. Located on the top floor of the Bellevue on Broad street the bar hosts a wonderful view of Philadelphia situated in a cozy and intimate space. There are several booths, overstuffed chairs, and a fireplace that is often glowing. You don't come here for a fancy cocktail menu, you come here to drink from the impressive bourbon and scotch selection. Bar snacks tend to change fairly often and are reasonably priced considering the venue. The table service can be a bit slow and isn't nearly as friendly as the bar staff. To be fair I find this true with a lot of places. Take a date you enjoy snuggling with and settle in for a romantic evening. If you are looking for a more low key and private night do avoid XIX on the weekends as weddings will often clear out and stick around into the wee hours. If you're looking to do some post wedding crashing get dressed up and you'll have a blast!
(4)
Meghan C.
I guess you can just read Zanna H.'s review and it will sum up my experience. I work so close to here so we always do client/business lunches here, and it's just so weird up there. People flock around the center table and breath all over the food then stuff their faces with 24 different desserts. The view is lovely, but that's pretty much it.
(2)
Mike B.
Review is for the bar only... A gorgeous, wood-paneled bar mixed with a cozy fireplace lounge amidst 5-star skyline views give XIX great potential, but the quality of cocktails unfortunately could not match the rest of the experience. The drinks were overpriced and underwhelming. Some were too watered down and certain key ingredients could not be tasted. Come here for the atmosphere, not to drink and you'll leave happy.
(3)
Tim H.
XIX gets 4 stars almost entirely for the venue. I had been here once before and paid $54 for a $9 bottle of wine. I know, silly. I didn't know it was a $9 bottle of wine until I went and sought it a couple of weeks later. Anyway, my fiance and I went a couple of weeks ago during restaurant week and got a great deal. Ultimately, we paid $35 for 3 courses, and really, that's probably what the meal was worth, but the atmosphere and view are probably worth a little more. I don't recall the apps well, but the entrees and deserts were okay. I had a cumin rubbed steak, med rare. I wouldn't recommend that. It was a little tough, and I couldn't taste the steak at all. My fiance had fish, but I forget if it was bass or trout. Either way, it was fine, not incredible. I had a cheesecake in a jar. It was a clever presentation, but it was just average cheesecake. The cocktail was excellent though. It was bourbon based with some kind of orange and flower liquor. I'm a craft beer guy and can't even pretend to appreciate bourbon by itself, so this was a nice drink for me. Staff was friendly and attentive. No complaints there. I think the value of this place is it's drinks and view. The raw bar looks extensive, but I haven't gotten into that. I imagine this would make for a great happy hour, but I can't really vouch for the food.
(4)
Megan C.
It was Memorial Day weekend.... the city was quiet and we were on the hunt for a rooftop bar with martinis that pack a punch. Hence, XIX. It was a stellar choice. Good thing to note, however, that this rooftop is pretty much the hottest place on Earth. We braved it because of our need for sun that day, but overall when it is hot you should probably find cooler outdoor quarters. The martinis (pear and some pineapple concoction) were delicious and perfectly refreshing. I heard they used to have the most amazing chocolate chip cookies as a parting gift, but those are no longer.... :(
(3)
Natalee M.
The only two words you need to know here... Lychee Kiss. This is hands down one of the best mixed drinks I've had in a while. The perfect martini! Very pricey but worth every penny. I only had a few drinks here but it was a great experience. A very nice bar. Most people were dressed up but my group was pretty casual, which didn't seem to be a problem at all.
(4)
Simon I.
Great selection of oysters! Very good service by the oyster expert. We also had the lobster risotto with safran and truffle oil, which I unfortunately can not recommend as much as the oysters.
(3)
Jen L.
I stay at the Hyatt all week, every week b/c I am a fancy-pants traveling consultant (not) and because I'm Diamond-Priority-Super-Star status with Hyatt, I get free breakfast at XIX. I like the ham/egg/cheese panini sandwich with dijon mustard. I like the french toast with bacon. I like the gruyere/onion/zucchini frittata (without the onion and zucchini LOL). The servers know me by name, they know I like cappuccino, not coffee, and they can tell by the look on my face in the morning if I'm going to sit and eat or if I need a to-go box for my croissant and bacon. Four stars.
(4)
Andrew D.
Stopped in for after dinner drinks on a Saturday night. The hostess asked to wait for a table that was about to get up and leave. No problem at all...until another group of patrons who were seated at the bar raced over to the seats that she was preparing for us. Instead of explaining to them that those seats were reserved we had to go back to waiting. We waited another 5 minutes and ended up with much better seats anyway (window view) so no hard feelings there. The table confusion must have extended to the wait staff because after we were seated it took 15 minutes to have the table cleared of the dirty glasses, crumpled napkins and plates. After that another 10 minutes before a waitress came over to take our order. 15 more minutes to get said drink order. Drinks were OK, nothing to write home about. 20 minutes after the first (and, needless to say only, round) to get a check. That's an hour for one round of drinks, but who's counting... The good: Amazing views, very nice decor. The bad: Excruciatingly slow service. For all the wait and all the $$$ the drinks were nothing setting the world on fire. The only thing keeping this from a one-star experience is the panoramic city view. If it's weren't for the location I can't imagine this place would still have the doors open. I'd MAYBE go back but be prepared to walk out and head downstairs to the Palm.
(2)
Michelle C.
First of all, I LOVE the bar. It's so swanky and there is always at least one bartender who is super attractive. I don't know about you but that equals points in my book. The cocktails are good, and the happy hour specials are the jam, but the drinks aren't always consistent. Take last night. My first blueberry gimlet had lots of blueberries and was a bit on the syrupy side. My second was only slightly blueberry tasting but the vodka taste was way offensive. I suspect a brand switch came into play because that concoction could have cleaned an engine from '76. But, it was Center City Sips night, so I get that they were crazier than usual and that's why. The food is consistent and very high-quality every single time. Sometimes the service can be a tad slow, and that includes times when there are only four or so tables taken in the entire restaurant. I also feel that the dinner menu could be slightly less hoity-toity, for those people who don't want to branch out to frog legs and bison. I don't need a roast chicken, but a bigger selection of seafood or even a pasta dish would be nice. Those things aside, dining here really does make me pretty happy because the ambiance is so nice, the service (while sometimes slow) is generally excellent and the food is very good. Having brunch here with my mom last year is probably one of my favorite Philly memories to date, and that's pretty cool.
(4)
Gretchen S.
The only reason this place gets 4 stars instead of 5 is because it's CRAZY expensive. But, as far as food, wine, ambiance and VIEW... love it! I had grilled shrimp in garlic butter sauce, started off with crabcake and mushroom risotto...and every bite was delicious. We sat outside on their small balcony and overlooked the skyscrapers in downtown Philly. Beautiful :) We enjoyed 2 bottles of white wine (which is not influencing my review) and the waiter was very friendly and attentive. The vibe is very hoity toity, definitely a classy spot for a date night
(4)
Masha G.
Nice place, good service. Hoping to make it there for lunch some day. The place is very impressive.
(4)
Liz B.
I wish there were "half stars," so I could give it 3.5. The short version: delightful decor, good drinks, slow service, appetizers which far outshined the entrees. Last night I had the opportunity to use yet another online deal for XIX, Nineteen, atop the Hyatt Bellevue. I went with two good friends, and we got dolled up for a great night. It should be noted that I have been to XIX twice before, but only to their bar area. This was my first true dining experience. Upon entering the restaurant, we were greeted by a friendly hostess who asked if we had reservations, which I did (made via Yelp/Open Table). We asked for terrace seating outside, but we were informed that it was already "committed". Boo, hiss. So we wanted to see if the bar area was more "hopping." The high tops were filled, but only a few people were at the bar, so we opted for the dining room. The dining room is really quite lovely, and unusual. Its high domed ceiling has a center of stained glass, and then there are large "pearls" strung from the ceiling, as if the restaurant itself were wearing a pearl necklace. Pearls, neutrals, and pussy willows were the theme in the room. Our party, having a collective dirty mind, were highly aware that we sat below a pearl necklace, between clusters of pussy willow. The decor was more than enough to keep us talking and content for the first 10 minutes, which was when the first server arrived to asked what type of water we would like. Another server followed about 10 minutes later to take our drink order. They were out of Lager, so our friend changed his drink to a rum drink. Me and my girlfriend both got gin and tonics, and I have to say, they were delicious. The tonic-to-gin ratio was dead on. Which is probably why I ended up having two. ; ) The maître d' circled the restaurant several times while we were there, checking on his flock. The service was attentive and friendly, but again, was slow; not sure if this is a result of the kitchen and bar being slow. We ordered Moules Frites (Prince Edward Island Mussels) and Mushroom Risotto ($13) for appetizers. Both were excellent. The sauce for the Mussels, made from white wine, garlic, shallots, fennel, and parsley , was bread-dipping good (and we did). The Mussels were so delightful, in fact, that one friend ordered them again as her meal! I don't even LIKE mussels, and I thought they were good. So that's really saying something. The server said the fresh fennel was their secret. My friend's husband ordered the Angus Cheeseburger, mostly because he was curious to try an $18 burger. Afterwards, he said he would have rather had a burger from Ruby Tuesday or Red Robin (ouch!!). And I quote: "Flavorless meat and a stale bun." I got the seared ahi tuna steak ($32). It was cooked perfectly, and came with two sauces to try, both were very good. A tuna steak is hard to mess up, but I enjoyed it. I would be curious to try their filet mignon, but not for $44. Final thoughts: for the prices, the food should be WOW! It wasn't quite "wow" but it was still good. A great place to come for appz and drinks, and very nice for a date night, but not somewhere I would try again for dinner. If money were no object, I would love to have a birthday/engagement or other party in the venue. It was beautiful.
(3)
Erin F.
Excellent happy hour! Beautiful lounge and bar area. Great martinis. What an excellent deal!! It does get crowded so getting a seat is sometimes tough. We have been there for dinner and it has been really good as well. Definitely good for a special occasion although it isn't that expensive considering how beautiful and upscale the restaurant is. We went for restaurant week one year and thought that they gave you good options and good sized portions.
(4)
Trang N.
I must say that although the restaurant space is absolutely beautiful, and the view is spectacular- the food was very disappointing for the price! The waiter seemed very pretentious at first especially when we told him we would like regular water over bottled. However, he warmed up a bit, after he found out that our group would not be intimidated by this posh attitude of his or that we knew a little something about food. (Apparently, that guy didn't know I yelped *gasp*)That aside, he was very knowledge about the menu and the food preparations. We started off with the domestic cheese and Parma Ham trays, although he did not hear my order for the meat tray he quickly retrieved one for us after I asked whether the meat was coming. I had to ask what the assortment of cheeses were, as the food runner dropped the platter on the table and dashed off. Sadly, they were the best things our palettes tasted all night! I ordered the filet mignon- rare, for being the most expensive entree on the menu, the presentation and seasoning did not meet my expectations, the colorless side of corn and spinach concoction was undercooked and really unpalpable. Our one friend, also ordered the filet- medium and it came out extra WELL, it was appalling that A) restaurant of this caliber could destroy such a precious cut of meat and B) it left the kitchen in the first place!! When he sent it back, the waiter compted his meal. All in all, from the salmon, steak frites and chicken frites, the consensus was that the food was overly salty, bland and unimaginative. The ambience of the dining room and bar area is definitely 5 stars, unfortunately the food and service would rank somewhere in a 2. For the amount that the bill came out to be, we really expected more. I really wanted to LOVE you XIX, however after two 'meh' dinners here, shame on me for coming back a third time. Look for me in the window seat at the bar! You can not possibly be so stuck up with such horrible food!
(3)
Michelle N.
Great space and nice happy hour spot. Dinner was ok, and I say ok because my company paid for it so I am comfortable saying ok. If I had wasted my own 100 dollars for a bland tuna ahi tuna steak with some weird cheddar mashed potatos and limp boring asparagus, I would say it sucked. But they get an ok because it was free. I could easily see taking clients here on an expensed dinner, but when they money is coming out of your own pocket, you are better off going somewhere that knows how to make tastier food. Service was awesome. Our waiter was probably the most attentive and professional waiter I have ever encountered.
(3)
Megan K.
it is very pretty.too fancy for me. i love the bar and would hang out there anytime. went on a date there for dinner. i just felt like i had to be on my best behavior. the service was great, food great. i was just uncomfortable because i felt out of place.not that i havent been to my share of fancy. it's just i would rather a less formal environment. but it was gorgeous.
(4)
Charlie K.
Was really excited to finally go here for dinner and was slightly disappointed. The atmosphere is wonderful. Absolutely. The service was excellent, we were one of two tables-so that was expected. The food...eh...not so wonderful. The appetizers were delicious, but the entrees not so much. I got the Thai fish pot, which was lacking in quantity, and my partner got the Steak, which was full of gristle. At 37 bucks, you do expect better quality. While it was all OK, we won't run back here.
(3)
Fulgencio M.
Usually at 11 AM I'm in the middle of my REM cycle, but when in Philadelphia and awake for brunch, I dine at XIX. This prix fixe lunch is all you could ask for, and features a fabulous buffet of "things" for people who eat. Since I don't, I just like to stare at the food and imagine what it would taste like in my mouth. The first time I saw the sign for XIX outside the Bellevue on Walnut and South, I thought it was a help group for cross-eyed drunks with huge noses. And since I was looking for a Jewish husband, the first word out of my mouth was "oh my God!" When I got up to the 19th floor, sat down at a random table, and started to pour out my life story of drugs, booze, and my celebrity boxing tragedy against Judge Judy, I'd caused a whole table of 90-year old socialites to go into cardiac arrest. And that is how I became the single-most mass murderer in American history. My fave thing about XIX is that not only is the name in Roman, but the food is also Roman. How do I know it's Roman? Because one time in Milan I had a really bad trip, and found myself surrounded by towel-wearing men, manchego cheese, and cold cuts that looked surprisingly like the ones in the XIX buffet. Or maybe that was just my last trip to the bath house. I forget. I can't keep track of my sex life any more than I can keep track of my social security number. Hence why I'm always making up a new one every time AmEx cancels one of my cards. If you're scared of heights, XIX is enclosed by walls and windows, and has the most fabulous views of the downtown. The architects basically designed the view so you can't see any poor people, which is perfect for me. Poor people make me lose my appetite. I have a whole slideshow of street bums that I'll look at to control weight gain. hEllO, it's like the new thing in dieting. Competition for the brunch/lunch scene is fierce on Walnut Street, and if anyone knows anything about the word fiErcE, it's me. XIX is high-end, sexy, and aside from being a wonderful lunch spot it's also a cute place for drinks and date nights. Also, if your date is going less-than-perfect (i.e. he suggests you "split the bill"), you should know that there are no bathrooms on the same floor as XIX, which means you need to take the elevator; hint hint, hitting that Lobby button is far too easy after "excusing yourself" to the ladies room. For a trendy lunch spot and some delish Roman food, try XIX. And ladies/gay men: don't forget about the elevator. This restaurant is totally designed for bailing on a bad date. If I were you, I'd schedule a bad date just to experience the architectural bail-out masterpiece. Speaking of which, I'm on EHarmony right now... This has been a Review by Fulgencio
(4)
Sharlenne S.
This is a review for the bar only. I went for happy hour with some friends and liked it a lot. The bar area is not big, but it's beautifully decorated and makes you feel expensive and fancy. We were lucky enough to get a table by the window (one of 6 little tables that sits about 4... we were 5, but that did not matter much). We ordered cocktails at the bar (regular price is $12, but during happy hr they are $6). I had a Lychee Kiss that tasted like heaven, and a Rubytini that was a little too strong for me, but good as well. My friends also had an Appletini (way too strong), Blueberry Gimlet (really yum), and some Irish Coffee drink that they loved. Really, the Lychee Kiss was the star of the night! We also ordered fries with special spicy mustard and devoured them. The crowd was a little bit older than us (in their 30 probably) but we had a great, great time.
(4)
Gary R.
How far they have fallen!! It has been about a year since our last amazing brunch at Nineteen. It was always rather expensive, but worth it for that special occasion...but not anymore. It was immediately evident how small the brunch had gotten. What had been a great buffet and stations around the whole beautiful floor, was now a much smaller presentation in the one room. The service was awful. Coffee cups were only refilled upon request, and every order of eggs for the 5 of us was wrong. About an hour and 15 minutes after we first walked in, the remade omelets were brought out, and still 3 of the 5 were wrong. At $35, this brunch is still expensive, but no longer is the experience worth it. We were very disappointed and doubt that we would return.
(1)
Lala N.
The waiters were nice. Super helpful. The food was good but not mind blowing like I thought it would be. I had the halibut and that was tasty but my date had the steak and it was tiny and the rest of the plate was covered in ok fries. I enjoyed the decor a lot. The huge chandelier and the jazz music were nice. You have to take the elevator down a floor to use the restroom though. Ugh.
(3)
Marcia C.
Good drinks, good vibe, nice view. Been there a bunch of times -- yeah, I'm a fan. Great place for a romantic dinner or simply to start the night with friends. I can't really rate the food 'cause I haven't had an official meal there yet (only small bites), but the service and the drinks are good -- some days better than others, but still acceptable. I like to sit on the balcony when it's warm out. It's a fun experience. Definitely a fan of their restroom, too. It is clean and elegant, I like that! :) Going there with a large crowd can be a pain though because the sitting is so...awkward. That's what I don't like about XIX. That, and that usually the people who go there are such snubs. Yikes. But overall, it is a good place.
(4)
Josie D.
Great restaurant. Good food, attentive staff and a fantastic view from the balcony. We went here for my birthday and was surprised to find the restaurant completely empty on a sunday night. We had the entire balcony to ourselves and greatly enjoyed the food and the whole experience.
(4)
Yolanda Y.
Yes, the service really IS painfully slow, but who cares? Just look out the windows and enjoy the incredible view. I never expected to be so impressed by how beautiful the city could be up there at night. We came here on a Monday night so it was a small bar food menu. Everyone was friendly even when we were down in the lobby trying to find the elevators. Unfortunately the bartender doesn't know how to make classic drinks which is a big let down when they only know how to make the special cocktails on the menu. We got the flatbread pizza with goat cheese and it was pretty good. If this were some place on ground level, I'd probably leave only three stars, but the atmosphere was just perfect, I absolutely loved being there! I cannot wait to return.
(4)
Matt B.
OVERALL - Expensive but worth while for a special occasion FOOD (4.5 stars) - I love food, so this deserves the most weight in grading a restaurant. We thoroughly enjoyed a cheese plate as well as the grilled octopus special. Nicely prepared. My wife ordered the scallops entree, which was phenomenal. My rabbit ragu bolognese was nice but not mind blowing. SERVICE (4 stars) - Pleasant without being pretentious. Knowledgeable and willing to give an honest recommendation. ATMOSPHERE (5 stars) - Very romantic with incredible views of the city skyline at night. High ceilings and decor are tastefully done. PRICE/VALUE (4 stars) - This isn't a cheap date but, overall, I got what I paid for. Probably a once-a-year visit.
(4)
Christopher R.
I came here for my holiday office party today and I enjoyed my experience but I'm in no rush to come back. I did indeed enjoy my meal (spiced onion soup, lobster club sandwich & and an Old Fashioned or several) and the decor (rich old European dude's living room-esque with beautiful views) but for some reason, I can't work up the enthusiasm for this place that I feel I should. The soup portion of the spiced onion soup had me pleasantly surprised but there was too much cheese and by the time I was nearing the end, it had concealed and taken on an unpleasant rubbery texture; I thought overloading onion soup with cheese was endemic to poor quality Jersey diners but apparently I am wrong. I also missed the opportunity to contemplate the lobster meat because whatever appeal it may have had was overwhelmed by mayonnaise and the saltiness of the bacon. The shoestring fries were merely passable. The less said about the cocktail the better. Service was a bit slow, too. Perhaps XIX should try and perfect the art of bringing all the entrees out at the same time. They should also try to keep pace on drink orders; our party had empty glasses after the first round for a good 15-20 minutes before we were able to order a second, and even then, we needed to flag our server down to accomplish that. XIX will impress you if you are prepared to be impressed. If you're expecting a complete dining experience, I would explore other options first.
(3)
C K.
When I pay for a nice restaurant or want to go somewhere before a classy event, I don't want children and families eating next to me in jean shorts and t-shirts when I'm dressed to the 9's. The server I had was horrible, but the one next to us was so good, he more than made up for it. Unfortunately, my boyfriend got good poisoning but I did get to eat most of my food before we had to leave... and I would say it was nothing impressive at all. With that said, it was extremely overpriced for the quality and the atmosphere... which is really a shame because the decor is pretty cool and the view is amazing... but the lack of dress code and children keep it from being romantic in the least bit.
(2)
jim h.
Worst restaurant I've been to in a while. Couldn't read menu due to impossible lighting and absolutely no help from help staff. Steak was fried in butter -- bleh. Service was terrible -- wait staff ignored our party of 4 most of night so they could genuflect to those on outside patio. Their level of concern was reflected in their presentation of menus to us -- upside down. Also the service was continually slow. Obviously an eatery in decline (if it were ever up). I will never return. Supposedly, this place is upscale. If so , so is BK.
(1)
I am Nicole r.
One of my favorite places in Philly to have a dinner party is 19. To start the decor here is fabulous. The history of the building itself is very colorful and stories it hold is enormous. The food is perfect always if you love seafood they have all kinds of oysters from far out places ex, japan etc,I am not a big fan of oysters, but they were great. the main dinner area is reminiscent of tavern on the green in NYC,night or day. They have several balconies which just recently opened up this spring for dinning the views are great to really appreciate city living.They have a seafood plate for two ,excellent presentation & taste great and romantic starter. Other winners in my book are the salmon clay pot with rice spiced with an Indian flare,calamari,lobster sandwich , the salads are great try any of them you wont be disappointed . they have 2 private dinning rooms. The wine room ,where you are surrounded by all the bottles of choice wines and they have an enclosed glass door room to seat 10-12 comfortably great for anniversaries parties etc. i love the wine room the most as you can seat up to 8 and have a blast . My favorite wine is the Banfi Rosa Regal ,sparkling red dessert wine. I can drink that all night and have done so there on to many a nights, they have and excellent Australian malbec and a great African red.
(4)
Ryan C.
5 Stars - you're here for THE VIEW PEOPLE. It's amazing in the daytime although since it is cold the outdoor patio is no longer an option. It's like sitting inside a capital building with windows facing the north and west of the city. This is made to impress a date and business client alike. Not exactly easy to find since you have to get to the side entrance of the Park Hyatt and then take the elevators to the 19th floor (no signs anywhere pointing where to go). That also adds to the feel.
(5)
Tony R.
I think for XIX you are paying mostly for the atmosphere. It seems like everything on the menu was a few dollars more then a lot of the other popular restaurants in the city however the holiday dinner menu was exceptional. I would also definitely recommend not to dress too casual. I was fortunate enough to have read other yelp reviews which informed me of the appropriate attire beforehand. I would certainly say this isn't going to be a place I go to frequently but I enjoy trying many different restaurants and this was certainly a good one.
(4)
Cristin L.
Although I've never eaten at XIX, I have enjoyed their happy hour special. Half price martini's and a cozy seat by the fire is a winter time must.
(3)
Matt H.
This will be a harsh review - I just spent $115/ person for the fix price dinner on new years eve 2009. Atmosphere and service was amazing and excellent. Food was just plain bad. We ordered scallops as a course and they were literally the size of tiny marbles, smoothered in bbq sauce and bacon which completely overpowered the seafood. The lobster was way over cooked and drenched in some kind of sauce you would expect to find over pasta at chucky cheese. Since it was a fixed price meal, there is no doubt in my mind they had this crap sitting in a chaffing dish to plate up for some unexcpecting victim.
(2)
Andrew W.
not worth the price tag.
(2)
Elana G.
A stunning dining room setting with great service and view. It's more formal/fine dining so would be a great place for an anniversary, birthday, proposal etc. We had the Saturday lunch special which included buffet style appetizers and desserts with an al a carte entree all for under $25. All of the food was great and an overall positive experience. The only problem is the restroom is one floor down and the lifts are shockingly slow but Otherwise a fantastic spot.
(4)
Nicole L.
Can't really review the food bc we only ever go here for a late night cocktail when we visit Philly. I like that it's such a beautiful space and has several 'intimate' nooks for sipping and chatting. I'm always jealous that we can never get a window seat, but discovered this last visit that they aren't as quiet so I'll stick with the other seating. The drinks are great (I had the lychee something or other). It was very well balanced for such a sweet drink.
(4)
Brett J.
Took a date here and was extremely disappoint with the entire experience. Room looks very nice at first but certain areas are in much need of cleaning and or paint. First round of food we ordered was cheese and meat board. This was the only item that I was no disappointed in. Very nice spread with multiple cheeses and meats. From this point everything went completely downhill. From the moment we ordered our entrees, it took about an hour and 45 min until we received the entrees or saw our waitress again. I ordered the ravioli which was cold and consisted of about 3 raviolis, and my date ordered the steak frites. Her dish looked like they threw it together at the last second, steak was average at best. Service was horrible. When I was finally able to get the check I couldn't even get someone to take it from me when I was ready to pay! Avoid this place at all costs. Extremely over priced, terrible service.
(2)
Aileen C.
Service was phenomenal ! Food was good, love the sauce on top of the crab cake. Veal shoulder was tender and dessert trio was good. Definitely returning back. Only drawback was that It was a bit chilly
(5)
Evan T.
Beautiful interior with a great bar. The food was good but not quite worth the price. Brunch is a better value than dinner.
(3)
Tina F.
WOW! WOW! WOW! It is just GORGEOUS in there! so far it has been one of the best restaurant I have been to. The decor was just very beautiful and elegant. I could picture a wedding venue there. There's a bar in the middle, we were sat in the back, where there was a pearl which looked like a necklage that hung from the ceiling. The view was just amazing!! the vibe was incredible!! We went for restaurant week and had the prefix course. The food was great !! Overall it is a great ambience and very romantic type of restaurant. Too bad I didn't go with my boyfriend, or it would have been a 5 star
(4)
Melissa P.
GO FOR LUNCH. $22 gets you unlimited salad bar, which by itself is amazing- cheeses, meats, several types of delicious salads, unlimited dessert-fruit, cakes, cookies, everything. AND an entree. We packed up half our entrees! Same great view, same good service, great deal.
(4)
Mike Z.
Came here for valentines day and arrived late after ten o'clock because of snow. Their kitchen was supposed to close by 10pm. They accommodated us and told us not to worry and take our time. I really appreciated this great service. The ambiance here is just spectacular. The main dining room is beautiful and the bar area is really chill with a fire place. Now on to the most important part.... We ordered a seafood sampler.. It was not impressive. The presentation wasnt that great and the amount of food wasnt that much. They gave us 6 oysters which were ok, 2 jumbo shrimp, some crab cocktail and little neck clams. Everything was just ok. For entree i ordered pasta with lobster which was wasnt bad but not great and my gf had the monkfish which was dry and bland. This place is amazing for happy hour and drinks but my valentines day dinner was not that impressive. For $300, there are def better options and better food.
(3)
Courtney F.
Took my mom for brunch on her birthday this past Sunday and loved it. Food was delicious and service was even better. I had the crabcake and potatoes and thought that everything was well proportioned and cooked perfectly. I did have to take a star away for parking because the price was a little crazy -- $35 and $30 with restaurant validation. It was highway robbery for Center City. Other than that though, great place.
(4)
Robby N.
Slop. Probably the worst meal I have ever had in Philadelphia . This place should be closed down immediately and completely re-thought. I don't know where to begin. Raw bar just OK. Any food that deserved any thought or any recipe, total garbage. Unless you are trapped in this hotel, you have no reason to eat here whatsoever. For dessert we ordered a red velvet cake. What came to the table was a pile of broken cake crumbs. Garbage. Hire a proper chef .
(1)
Jenny K.
I came here for restaurant week and I had a pleasant time. The interior of this place is very romantic and intimate but the food quality was okay. I don't know if it's just like that on restaurant week because it was quite busy but I wasn't too impressed .Dessert was wonderful. I would like to come back here on a night that's not restaurant week to give it a permanent review
(3)
l s.
Firstly it is a historic room but the view being gorgeous is highly exaggerated as it basically overlooks other apartment buildings and also for some tables with a more open view, there are curtains in the way, only 3 tables (for 2) have an open view, additionally there are tables "so to speak" in front of the window but basically at the edge of the restaurant at the entrance and/or in front of the elevators. We had to wait at least 15 min to be seated despite a reservation. The food is average, nothing special but again the architecture of the room is historical and may be worth to go there for some people...........
(2)
Valentina L.
This place deserve more stars. I went there for lunch, from the service to the food , everything made me wanna go back again. The waitress is super nice and sweet, I can just tell she tried her best to make every diner comfortable. I had three courses. The first course is open choice, so I picked salad and cheese, the cheese goes perfect with the meat, and the second course is steak, not the best I've tried but still amazingly delicious and juicy. Lastly the deserts are super ! I gotta tried different littles pieces, loved everyone of them! Definitely highly recommend! The dinning area is fabulously decorated ! Loved my experience here !
(4)
Chuck R.
We had lunch here yesterday. The place was not crowded but the service was incredibly slow. We get better service from our local pizza shop. We had 2 courses and it took nearly two hours. My wife had the fish of the day which she liked. I had the lobster club that tasted like it made by a caterer, not a fine dining establishment. To top this the waitress added 20% to our credit card (I checked online) even though I only put 10% due to the poor service.
(2)
Christopher C.
There are two things that stood out for me here, the fireplace and the old fashions. This was a nice secret spot that we got a tip about and at the time pretty much the only ones there.
(4)
Ray L.
This review is for Thanksgiving only: For Thanksgiving a couple of years ago, my wife and I were stuck in the city due to unfortunate circumstances. Usually we would be at family's for dinner but this year that was not an option. A couple of weeks before the holiday I started looking around for a good place to have dinner because if we weren't going to be home we might as well have amazing food. Most of the places in Philly that I saw were 3 or 4 course dinners, which is great but not what I was looking for. To get the real Thanksgiving feel I wanted a buffet. Somewhere you can pick and choose what you want, not have a plated entree. I happened upon XIX and decided on it very quickly. The description for their Thanksgiving meal included oysters, a weak point for me. So when the day arrived, we got dressed up and headed over. The location is very nice, right in the middle of Center City and on the top of a nice hotel (the 19th floor to be exact, hence the name). We were seated promptly and had our drink orders taken. The wine selection is very nice and what you would expect of a place of this caliber. After chatting for a second we headed over to the food. The food itself was in a room adjacent to the seating area in what can only be described as a ballroom of food. There was everything you could ever think you would want for Thanksgiving starting with appetizers: raw oysters, bread, smoked mussels, shrimp, soup, cheese, charcuterie, etc.. And the raw seafood was of good quality, not what I expected for an all you can eat selection. I was impressed. Then was the most amazing part: all of the meats. Usually at Thanksgiving you are relegated to turkey. If you don't like turkey, too bad. But here there was everything: turkey, pork roast, leg of lamb, prime rib, fish. There were several different carving stations and each of them had their own sauces and sides. It was amazing. Now, most people love Thanksgiving for the sides (generally because the meat is mediocre at best) and XIX did not disappoint here either. There was a great selection of classic sides each of them done very well. Dessert was in another separate room and there were several tables set up for it. There was 5 or so kinds of pie, some puddings and some other random offerings like cobbler. It was all fantastic but it was hard to have enough room because you wanted to try everything but you had just eaten more than you should and there was so much to choose from. After dinner, we had a glass of wine out on the balcony that over looked the city. It was a great day considering the circumstances and the food will be the measure by which I judge all other Thanksgiving food.
(5)
Ling C.
Went here on my birthday and definitely would have wanted to go somewhere else. Although the staff is amazing, the people it attracts are very ghetto people for dinner time. Not only that but the place really could've benefited itself by NOT being in that rusty hotel! You have to walk so far around the floor to go to the bathroom which does NOT match the restaurant. Food was bleh. And very expensive. Wine was delicious. The main dining room area is huge. But again, they could do so much better as an independent restaurant separated from that hotel! The floors are uneven and the walls are very old looking. It doesn't fit what they're going for.
(2)
Esther S.
Beautiful setting and the service was very nice when I came. You could tell that they put a priority on how you felt when you came by. Although it was late when we came and they still allowed us to sit and order food. We had the whole room pretty much to ourselves. and a made for special evening. The atmosphere within the restaurant is quite beautiful and the view outside is One of Philadelphia's finest. The main course that I got was the steak. The steak was good but nothing really special. It was cooked to my exact request and was cooked well. The flavors of the steak did not disappoint. The desert was the highlight for me. The chocolate cake that I had with this meal was delicious. Although I can invent that I do have a sweet tooth. So others may believe this cake to be too sweet. Overall I will bring people to this restaurant mostly for the environment that it provides. The food and the drinks are not the best but reasonable for what you pay.
(4)
Joanna L.
As a fellow yelper once said, XIX is quite shwanky. The ambiance is classy and the decor is beautiful. I came here for a holiday lunch with my team and we chose the $22 featured lunch menu. For the featured menu, you are given three courses. The first course is an assortment of meats, cheeses and salads, elegantly displayed in the middle of the room on a round table. The second course is your choice from a list of entrees which include a pasta option, sandwich, fish, steak, etc... The final course is dessert and like the appetizers on the same round table in the center of the room, you will find a selection of desserts from cheesecakes, cookies and mousse to berries with fresh whipped cream. So many options! I guarantee you'll leave XIX feeling full of deliciousness.
(3)
Clare D.
A dark, chic lounge for bringing your gentlemanly suitors who are will to spend a little extra for nice ambience, a nice view, and extra privacy. Very cool.
(5)
Jennie V.
We have been here at least 5 times over the past few years, and each time gets slightly worse. Overall, it is a gorgeous place where you can go for a nice dinner and dress up for a night out. However, the food seemed to be an oversight on our recent visit. Caesar salad was 100% using the whitest parts of the Romaine (I'm not even sure I believe it was Romaine, tasted a lot like iceberg to me), and the dressing was bland. I never knew you could mess up a Caesar salad. When I ordered the salmon, I was glad the waiter told me it was cooked medium-rare because I don't like it that rare, and I asked for medium to medium well. However when it came, it was medium rare, if that. I didn't make a big deal because I typically would enjoy salmon anyway, but after a few bites, my taste buds were shot from all the salt on the fish. It was WAY over seasoned. It was getting late so I just ate what I could to avoid more waiting, but I really was disappointed. You just expect more considering how much you're paying. The weekend before I got Caesar salad and salmon at Devon Seafood and enjoyed it MUCH more, and it cost less. Pistachio dessert was excellent though! As for the service, we've had better there. Our waiter was terse and not friendly in any way. I'm hoping this was just a bad night because we really did love going to Nineteen, but we will be giving it some time before we return (IF we return). So sad, I hope this place can get it together!
(2)
Greg L.
I'm actually surprised that the rating here isn't a bit higher. My wife and I went here for dinner after seeing Elf and we had a very nice time here. We had early reservations on a Sat evening so the place wasn't very busy, but by the time we left, it was beginning to fill up. In my reservation, I asked for a table by the window, which we got, but unfortunately my side was covered by drapery, but at least my wife got to look out. The overall ambience in here is very elegant! It's name comes from the fact that it sits up on the 19th floor of the Park Hyatt. Our waitress took very good care of us and even chatted with us for a bit when she realized by wife was from the South, as was she. Her recommendations were spot on. My wife started with the calamari, which was lightly fried and came with a sweet and sour sauce with some peppers on the side. I went with the XIX salad with a crab cake on the side. Both were excellent appetizers along with the complimentary bread basket. The cranberry bread was my favorite and they give you butter topped with sea salt to spread on the bread. For our entrees, I went with the steak frites while my wife had the scallops. Both were very good, but my wife liked my meal better, especially the truffle fries! For dessert, we had the cookie cake and the tiramisu. The tiramisu is not your typical tiramisu and while it wasn't bad, I wouldn't order it again. The cookie cake was delicious though. Would definitely come back here again, but would probably do so when out for a special evening rather than just a dinner after the show.
(4)
Rubio R.
This Bar& Restaurant is located on the rooftop of the Hyatt Bellvue right in the heart of the city.The restaurant and bar are separated so if you just want to go eat you can definitely do that.(Of course,we went straight to the bar.)When we walked in there was a really nice display set up in the middle of the room with tons of delicious desserts so of course we had to ask if we could have some.The bartender told us that they were left over from the Thanksgiving dinner buffet so that gave us the green light to go stuff our faces. I got a little taste of everything & everything was delicious,I can only imagine what the Thanksgiving dinner tasted like.I ate some Apple pie, mini Pecan pie, mini Strawberry Cheesecake, Nutella Creme Brulee & some kind of Chocolate Mousse tart.My absolute favorite was the Nutella Creme Brulee.Meanwhile, we ordered some Philly Cheesesteak Wontons & a Chicken Sausage Flatbread while we stuffed our faces with dessert first.When our food got there we devoured it too & even ordered another Chicken Flatbread because it was so good.Its one of the best flatbreads I've ever had ! In fact,I would even put it in the -" One of the best pizzas I've ever had Categories."The Philly Cheesesteak Wontons were also really good it sounded like a cool concept so we figured we would give them a try...no regrets here.The bar was cool & had a good view from what we could see out the window but it is a "rooftop bar" & they had the outside closed bc it was too cold so we couldn't actually go outside to enjoy the "rooftop bar" which was the whole reason we wanted to come check out this bar.I guess no one will be enjoying the nice view all winter.
(4)
David G.
It's called XIX because it's located on the 19th floor of the Hyatt at the Bellevue. It could just as easily be called XXX, because you *will* get laid if you bring a date here. Everything about XIX just oozes swankiness and sex appeal. The soaring dome, huge windows, and gorgeous city views are all built to impress. I was introduced to XIX when I met a friend here for a weekday brunch. After scoping out the impressively large buffet in the center of the room, we decided to keep things simple by ordering from the a la carte menu. I had the caramelized onion and mushroom omelet, while my guest had the eggs benedict. Both came with a side of crispy breakfast potatoes. My omelet also came with cranberry toast and silky-smooth butter. Everything was fresh and tasty, but also simple and traditional. Both the omelet and eggs benedict could've benefited from more than a few dashes of hot sauce. Service was fast and friendly, tinged with a formal and old-school vibe. My advice is to go to XIX for the ambiance, and not to challenge your palette with bold flavors. That'll guarantee you a good time (and almost certainly earn you some action between the sheets).
(4)
Alex P.
This review is drinks only! We went here after dinner for some drinks on my birthday and boy oh boy were we thrilled! The atmosphere is so chic yet laid back. Loved the fireplace. As soon as I saw fresh berries behind the bar, I knew it was going to be amazing. We tried a few different cocktails that I can't remember the names of...they were that good! Service is fabulous and I can't wait to come back for a meal!
(5)
Anna Y.
You come here for the decor don't expect anything else. Decor 5/5 Food 3/5 Service 1.5 / 5 I have to admit , the decor is elegant and classy. It's great for a date night or any celebration. I have only come here for dinner , i called for a reservation and asked if I could be seated by the window , this was for a celebration normally I wouldn't make the request. So i came here on the day and ask the host if i could be seated by the window, he said no. Then a waiter lead us to our table , it was seated by the window. (Wtf?) Food - it's really just so so, ordered some appetizer I forgot. i ordered chicken and lamb chop for entree. The chicken was tender but lack of flavor, the lamb chop was pretty good but definitely not comparable to other restaurants. Service - our waitress seemed annoyed to take our order, she had a frown on her face. Seriously ? No one really checks up on you , although one of the guy there was nice. WHEN YOU DONT HAVE GOOD FOOD TO OFFER AT LEAST HAVE GOOD SERVICE.
(2)
Andrew M.
New Years Eve Dinner Reservations @ 7:45pm. Enjoyed a wonderful fixed price menu ($95/each). Food was as good as is it gets and is well worth the price. Atmosphere is incredible and wait staff on point. Purchased a gift card for the restaurant in the hotel lobby prior to heading out to give to family friends. Highly recommended!
(5)
Shannon C.
XIX is absolutely stunning. Everything about it was romantic and beautiful. The high, antique-bowl ceiling and the sprawling views of the city are worth the visit. I am tempted to make excuses to go back all the time. I made reservations on Open Table through Yelp for my boyfriend's birthday dinner, per the recommendation of fellow Yelpers. Two glasses of champagne were promptly delivered to our table as I asked for on OpenTable to help celebrate my man's birthday. The view on the 19th floor is stunning with the Liberties looking on as you enjoy the evening. We ordered a calamari appetizer, which came with sweet and sour sauce and marinated peppers, which was amazing. It was crunchy, not too chewy and the sides to pair it with was amazing. I ordered the scallops with jalepeno polenta and whipped carrots. The only part of the meal I did not like were the whipped carrots. They were reminiscent of baby food. By reminiscent, I mean exactly like baby food. Everything else was fantastic. The scallops were seared and had a little crunch with a mango chutney. It was a delicious meal. I also ordered a glass of the Pinot Gris, which was flavorful and light, a perfect pair with the light and flavorful entree. My boyfriend ordered the steak frites, which was such a simple, but delicious meal. After stealing a few bites, I wish I had ordered it as well. The steak was tender, creamy and garlicky and the fries were crunchy and savory. After we finished and talked about how full we were, XIX delivered a complimentary chocolate cake with a chocolate chip cookie bottom and white chocolate ice cream on top. Decadent and delicious. Our waiter allowed us to see rest of the restaurant, as we were seated in the cafe section. The next room is the bar and finally, my favorite, the banquet room features a towering and stunning pearl chandelier. It's like I died and went to 1920s opulent heaven. My first thoughts that went through my mind were: I need to find a reason to have a party here and we'll be back ASAP. The whole evening was wonderful and the wait staff was so accommodating and helpful. I had an amazing time. I can't wait to return.
(5)
Dan M.
This was my first time here! And I was truly blown away!!! First off my waiter Wilmer was great!!! Breathe taking view!!! I got the Lake Trout... Wasn't all that to be honest, potatoes very dry not much flavor, the trout was in a sour sauce but wasn't very tasty! But I will try again but get a different meal!
(4)
Lydia B.
Had a quick lunch In the bar. The service was perfect, but the burger stole the show! Best I have had in ages. The shoe string fries were also perfect. I highly recommend this spot for a drink and delicious "bar food". It's a cozy getaway from the bustling Philadelphia city... When I stay at the Bellevue my first stop will be back to this bar for lunch!
(5)
Mishi C.
Amazing service - our waiter was actually the sweetest and most attentive waiter I have ever had. It was my boyfriend's and my anniversary and the waiter made this night even more special. He even gave us a photoshoot after dinner all around the restaurant. ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS ATMOSPHERE. Just look at those pearls dangling! Not many places in Philly can compare. Food: delicious! We got the scallops, asparagus and cheese appetizer, and cheesecake. PS the brunch there is fabulous! You get to walk around all the high domed rooms to each different station. Plus, that humongous dessert bar ;)
(5)
Kimberly Y.
I've always wanted to try XIX, but was a little put off from the 3.5 star Yelp rating. I finally came here for restaurant week, and I'm glad I tried it since the location/atmosphere and food were worth it. Obviously I wanted to come for the view, but that also means that it takes a little more to get to the restaurant. Luckily, I saw a sign for XIX on the outside of the Hyatt, even as I was walking from the other direction. I stepped in and took the first elevator I saw in the lobby since I didn't realize XIX had an elevator that went straight into the restaurant. The rest of the 19th floor is extremely barren, and I nearly walked into the kitchen via a long hall and a conference room. I wish there was better signage (besides the men's bathroom--oh, and the women's bathroom is on the 18th floor!) for the restaurant for those of us who accidentally come through the wrong elevator. We could see 1 and 2 Liberty Place from our table, but some of the other tables had views of apartment buildings and such. Unfortunately, the railing of the balcony obstructs the view a bit, but I imagine the view is much nicer in the summer when the doors are wide open and the balcony is available. The inside is magnificent though, from the comfortable seating to the decorated dome ceiling to the concentric layout of the restaurant. The January 2014 restaurant week lunch menu had about four entrees for us to choose from with a buffet-style salad and dessert bar--I originally thought this was inappropriate for the classiness of the restaurant, but I ended up really enjoying the choices! I'm not really a salad person, but I absolutely loved the roasted veggies, as well as the caesar salad--make sure to get a lot of croutons! Some of the best I've ever had! The grilled flat iron steak was actually cooked to the right temperature. The outside was slightly blacker than I expected (even for my boyfriend's medium), but the steak was quite delicious! There was quite a selection of desserts, ranging from parfaits and madeleines to cupcakes and your classic chocolate chip cookie. Overall, I was a fan of the food, though I didn't really like the iced tea even after adding syrup and sugar. The service was all right. No one greeted me, and so I was a little confused as how I was to be seated. My waiter seemed to be taking care of a lot of people, so I'll cut him a little slack. He was definitely competent enough, but I wish he were a little nicer or happier to be there.
(4)
Lea T.
Sophisticated and elegant restaurant in the Bellevue. Beautiful decor inside the restaurant and bar. Beautiful lighting during the day for brunch and very romantic for dinner. Portions are on the smaller side but every bite is perfection. Staff is also trained very well. Check this place out if you are looking for an alternative to the Ritz or Amuse.
(4)
Anne K.
This is only a review of their afternoon tea service. It's a gorgeous venue - but for such a nice restaurant, they need to pay more attention to the basics. Our table was missing silverware, sugar, and my saucer had tea stains from a previous diner. All of the tea is loose leaf and each person gets their very own teapot. Their selections include black tea, oolong tea, green tea and herbal tea. The best part about afternoon tea isn't the tea though - it's all of the yummy tea sandwiches and pastries you get on the side! The scones here are PERFECT - buttery and dense, served with lemon curd and Devonshire cream. So, so delicious. I could eat them all day.
(3)
Amanda M.
For my third and final stop this round of restaurant week, I booked a table for 2 at XIX. I'd been there once before and had a delicious meal, but was with a group in a private party, so I wanted to check out the romantic main dining room. We had a 6:45 reservation, but my boyfriend and I met early at the bar. As others have mentioned, their happy hour is killer. Fancy room, fancy drinks, fancy people - what's not to love?! For $6 each compared to the usual $12, happy hour here is a steal - especially because they don't skimp on the alcohol. We were super hungry so we ordered the truffle fries - the truffle flavoring wasn't very strong, but they were super thin and crispy, served with a mustard dipping sauce. We were seated at a window, which was perfect - the view is really pretty cool. The waiter was friendly and helpful without being obtrusive. Overall, great service. The food, on the other hand, was just a bit disappointing. Perhaps it was my recent perfectly amazing meal at Barbuzzo, or perhaps it was the restaurant week rush, but I wasn't impressed. We both had the shrimp tempura, which was pretty good, followed by the lobster mac and cheese, with was way too heavy - I couldn't even distinguish the pasta from the lobster. Our deserts, mini chocolate pies with hazelnut ice cream, was good but not amazing. This is a great place if you want a sophisticated atmosphere for celebrating a special occasion. Not sure I'd pick this spot again for dinner, but I'll definitely be going back for happy hour!
Nineteen has hands down the best lunch deal in town. The restaurant itself is gorgeous and it has a great view of the city. The lunch prefixe for under $20 is in my opinion the best in the city in its category.
Go here for the view and a cocktail if u can get a table outside on the balcony. The pear car was very tasty! Dont waste your time ordering an old fashion they have no idea how to make it. We tried to refuse it and the waiter just walked away. Our main problem was the service. The server had a very pretentious attitude and even got in an argument with another server at our table when he thought the food was being placed in front of the wrong person. He was wrong but wouldn't listen to any of us. Eventually he just stopped coming to our table and we had to go ask for a manager to help us finish our orders. When we asked if it would be possible to help us split up the checks his was response was " i hope u dont have anywhere to go because its going to take me a while." There is a reason this beautiful restaurant was empty on a Friday night. Get a drink enjoy the view but eat somewhere else.
(2)
Kate F.
This review is for one brunch experience only. I ordered an egg white omelet, which came with roasted potatoes. I also got access to a delicious buffet filled with sweet breads, cakes, parfaits, and fruit. The decor is absolutely beautiful. Diners even have the opportunity to walk out onto a balcony, which has a perfect view of the city.
(4)
Aliyia P.
Well, I had heard that happy hour here was a must. I'll say that it was good to experience it. We got there at 6 on 12/31 we were able to find seats and after about 10 mins a waitress approached us. The drinks for happy hour are mostly sweet drinks, something I don't really care for but I found a good drink not overly sweet once you ask for the simple syrup to be scaled back. It was a pear drink tasty and easy going down. The bf was unhappy with his first drink which was tequila and melon liquor ( I tried to warn him). We ordered the seafood platter for 2, it was good and well presented. The waitress was attentive until we were done took about 15-20 mins to get our check. All in all the service in the beginning was great, I had better happy hour drinks. Don't see this as a place for a return visit for me.
(2)
Unnati P.
I came here for Restaurant Week and was thoroughly disappointed. The courses were tiny in size. I'm not going to say I left hungry but I did go to a bar later that night and those $5 fries hit the spot better than my $45 meal here (after tip and taxes). The first course, a fruit salad, was a quarter of a peach. The main course consisted of five pieces of ravioli with a little cheese sauce drizzled on top. Additionally, it was far too salty for my taste. The dessert was too sweet, and even though this portion was appropriately sized it wasn't flavored well so I ate half and left the rest. The one thing it does have going for it is the view and the ambiance. It's beautiful inside, and I appreciated the opportunity to get dressed up. But the food was meh, and I came to eat.
(2)
Brooke R.
My husband and I came here for our 1 year wedding anniversary. We booked our reservation 2 months in advance. When my husband called to confirm.... Yes my husband called because we did receive a confirmation call... They did not have our reservation for 11/19, some one had put it in for 11/9. We then waited for 1 hour for our table and greeted with a waiter from afar saying "hello tap water?" Oma return to the table.. "you know what you want?" The service got more horrible as the night went on. And the very small menu had very poor selection and taste. WITH NO CHEF SPECIALS!??!! We ended up with the waiter explaining the cheesecake as "your typical" cheesecake. Horrible food and service. Gets 2 stars for ambiance and that's it! Don't waste your $$$$!
(2)
Cara B.
Went to XIX for restaurant week tonight. Had reservations at 5:45 and due to the time we had the opportunity to sit outside on the balcony and take in the amazing view! Not to mention the weather was perfect. To start I had Crab and Spinach Crostini (Jumbo Lump Crab, Spinach, Roasted Red Pepper, Gruyere Cheese) Absolutely amazing, I did not want it to end. I'd eat it every day if that was possible. For my main course I had Paella (Littleneck Clams, PEI Mussels, Red Grouper, Florida Sun Shrimp, Chicken, Chorizo and Saffron) which was amazing as well, tasted as good as the paella I had in Barcelona. And finally I had the Salted Caramel Vanilla (which was vanilla mousse cake with caramel sauce) for dessert, it was alright. Our waitress was perfect. She refilled our water glasses the second they went semi low, she gave us a large amount of time to decide what we wanted (it took forever, couldnt stop talking, typical) And she let us enjoy our food for a while as well. Overall the experience was Great, I'll definitely be going back, Trying it out on restaurant week was a success! I'd love to go back fro afternoon tea!
(4)
Nancy P.
This review is for the afternoon tea set only. I haven't tried the food yet, but so far I loved the finger sandwiches and pastries we had for the afternoon tea set. The madhatters tea was delicious also, it had a fruity quality to it. My favorite was the scone with the lemon curd and butter! The rest of the desserts: cupcakes, madeline, etc were mediocre. The view was okay, the architecture and patio are what seems to make it great. Would love to go back for the outside seatings.
(4)
Tony M.
Great drinks and views. I can't really review the food, but this is definitely a good place for drinks. The furniture at the bar is old and the place is in need if renovations.
(3)
A E.
Honestly...meh... Not to say that anything was bad, per se. Perhaps this was influenced by it being restaurant week, but what was available for tasting was, all aboard, not fantastic. I had the salad and mushroom ravioli. Both were pretty solid, but somewhat small portions. My girlfriend had the black pepper bisque, which really was just overwhelming in pepper. Her salmon was perfectly cooked (I do have to give props for that) but had kind a weird pairing with chickpeas and their seasoning. Overall...decent. The ambiance is gorgeous, with some absolutely beautiful molding. But man, I think they ride on how beautiful the place is rather than having innovative or delicious cuisine.
(3)
Ron H.
Great ambiance. Modern music goes inbetween chill club music and upbeat classical? Hard to describe but what you'd expect to hear as a really good movie soundtrack. The fireplace is the seat to have in the winter. Drinks are well made, staff is friendly and there's always a seat. The little window alcoves and easy chairs by the fireplace are intimate and private, while the bench across the length of the bar is just a tad too close to the table next to you, but comfortable if you're not looking for a romantic drink with the one you're with. I've been here at lunch hours and closed the place down, never have i been disappointed. So why not a 5 star rating? Well, i really like hanging out here but there just isn't enough food options for snacking and extending the night. The flat bread pizza is ok, not something I'd ever go in there to order, the calamari is average, cheese plate is great, and the burger was above average...there are a few oyster/shellfish options on the raw menu, but that's not really the food I'm craving at 11pm while I'm drinking. All in all a solid bar to meet-up and grab a few drinks. There's a restaurant just past the bar which has great food if you're in the mood to sit down to a fancy dinner, but really the beauty of XIX is the fireplace bar.
(4)
Larry F.
As my 6th restaurant week restaurant in two weeks, I was getting a bit tired and wallet a bit empty! In the end, I don't regret coming here, but it'll probably take some convincing for me to come back. FOOD: 3/5 Good but not memorable. It has a good combination of seafood and non-seafood, so it worked out between my girlfriend (who absolutely abhors seafood) and I (a seafood lover). As such, I had to indulge in seafood because I don't get these opportunities often, and so I did. The sashimi was too salty and seasoning not well balanced considering I could still sense a fishy smell. The scallops were good, but a bit undercooked and again, too salty! If that's the best dish the restaurant could prepare during restaurant week (according to the waiter), then I'm disappointed. Dessert, again, not good enough to be memorable. The reason why this restaurant still got four stars from my perspective is that I had bits and pieces of girlfriend's food, and they were scrumptious! So ditch the seafood, try to mushroom and meat! AMBIANCE: 4/5 This is the reason why we came here. It's nice, elegant, fairly fancy, and quiet. TRY THIS: if you sit under the dome, you could hear other people's conversations several tables away. It's because the dome is structured uniquely that it works out perfectly! It was creepy at first (thought I was going crazy), but interesting after a while. I felt like a spy :3. Aside from this, the whole place is pretty nice. Loved the decor (be careful not walking into the statue while trying to get the attention of the receptionist). SERVICE: 4/5 Not disappointing. Food came at a good pace, we got our pictures taken at the end of the night. They checked up on us every so often. OVERALL: Come during summer! That's when you'll have access to the balcony because the weather is nice enough. I was a bit disappointed that the view was hidden. Aside from this, good experience, food was okay, and I will probably only come back if the balcony is set to open, and only for lunch because it was just a bit too dark for dinner.
(3)
John A P.
We had reservations but decided to go to the bar for a seat by the fireplace...fabulous, love the spot, very nice bar/lounge with a solid menu...great place to "fall back" to on a date night -or to "jump-off" from...
(5)
Erin B.
I've visited XIX on several different occasions - Happy Hours, Dinners, A Wedding, and most recently, I've gotten in on the lunch action! I've never had a bad experience or a bad meal at XIX. Recently, I've been super impressed with the lunch, especially the fixed menu. I went about a month ago w/ a good girlfriend (who also happens to be pregnant) ... we had so much fun digging into the salads, pastas and cheese plates for our first course. Our meals were also very tasty as I had the pasta and she had the steak. I returned just yesterday to have lunch w/ a few law school colleagues and again had a great experience - I again had the pasta, although it was slightly different this time around and my friends had a fish (similar to a Branzino) that they both enjoyed. The dessert bar is always a pleasure - yesterday is was decked with assortments including creme brulee, miniature pumpkin pie tarts, madelines, white chocolate & raspberry truffles and seasonal berries. All of this for approximately $22, while you get to take in the beauty and grandeur of XIX. Looking forward to my next trip back.
(4)
A D.
Greatly nice place. Food and atmosphere were high quality. They even read my note that we wanted a window seat and worked hard to accommodate us. Beautiful view of the city. Decor was very nice and elegant
(5)
Brian T.
Price - $$$ (Pricy) Taste - Fair Good: Tiramisu Dessert We came to XIX for restaurant week. The service remain the same as regular time. But the price definitely worth it. For a $35 dinner set, we got hamachi sashimi as appetizer, scallop as entry and Tiramisu as dessert. It's an enough set for girl, but less enough for guy. Their breads are well made, so have many as you want. We also order another set with entree of pork. That one had a little more portion, but still not enough for a man. Therefore, portion wise the meals are fair. For the food quality, I would say fair too. Scallop is conventional quality, pork is ok, the sauce taste professional and the sides are just near enough. I would say, paying $35 to visit this high end restaurant is worthy for dates or friend reunion, but for food taster, there are others places to try in Philadelphia.
(4)
Kate G.
Atmosphere was very impressive! Food was good, but not a stand out. A must return because of the atmosphere. Restaurant week was a great way to be introduced. Had wine pairings for different courses that were made exclusively for Hyatt.
(4)
Gabby M.
Such a fancy place! Definitely must dress up. The food was good and they give you some nice bread. However, the desserts were the best part of the meal! I will go back but mostly so I can eat some of the wonderful desserts!
(5)
Edward W.
Intro: Beautiful main dining room. Brightly lit and a wonderful view on a clear day. The experience is in the environment and less on the food. The basics: 1. Went for restaurant week during lunch. It was a three course lunch with first and dessert being buffet styled. The appetizers consisted of salads, charcuterie, cheese, and roasted vegetables. I was pretty satisfied with the selection. They were flavorful and paired well with other items. Though the salads were beginning to wilt a bit. 2. The bass I had was decent, not great. It was a bit over cooked and the skin was not crisp but rather a bit stale. My friend's filet was way overcooked for medium temp. 3. Deserts, also buffet, was a hit or miss. Again a large selection, but some of the cakes were desiccated and tasted mass-produced, a la grocery store. Probably the best thing was the berries and cream. But again, that's not that hard to get wrong. Conclusion: Probably need to go back for full service. Restaurant week was definitely sub-par. There was definitely a large gap between the food and the expectations formed once you walk in. Waiting for better weather, a little birdy told me they might open up their balconies again.
(3)
Holly V.
Came here for Sunday brunch and was disappointed. This place has all the potential to be a 5 star which makes this review so hard to write! This location offers great views of the city, beautiful decor and ambiance. However, the service was horrible and my food was cold and late. It took about 30/40 minutes to get a omelet and it was cold. The server wasn't all that nice which made it harder to enjoy. Maybe management needs to change because this place can rock under great guidance. I ate here 4 years ago and things were much better.
(2)
Cristina P.
I went during restaurant week and did not regret the choice. To start off with the atmosphere and the place in general is very elegant. It is a great date place, in fact my boyfriend and I had our first date there and I think the sophisticated decor, crisp white tables and dim lighting suited our purpose. The waiter was very amicable and ready to clarify anything on the menu as well as make suggestions as to what to order. To begin, I started off with the warm, wild mushroom salad. The mushrooms were flavorful and intelligently paired with a rich pesto, the smooth yet impactful taste of goat cheese, the robustness of the aged balsamic and the nice crunch from the sourdough crouton. For the second course, I had braised rib atop of gnocchi. The braised rib was tender and juicy and smothered in a rich either balsamic or port wine reduction sauce that was...no joke....to die for. I had to practically stop myself from licking the plate. For dessert I had a chocolate cake that was decadent and rich in flavor. The perfect ending to a perfect meal. Overall it was a very memorable date and not just because of my loving boyfriend but also the fabulous food. I highly recommend dining at XiX; however, I can only speak to these three dishes. My boyfriend had a not so satisfying experience with the seafood dishes. I believe he order sashimi as an appetizer and scallops for his entree, both of which he claimed were to salty and the latter undercooked. So seafood lovers beware, and go for the meat. You can never go wrong.
(5)
Carly K.
My absolute favorite thing about this restaurant is the location! At the top of the Hyatt, it offers spectacular views of the city. If you go at the night, the view is absolutely magical. The cocktails are delicious. I ordered a cosmo with grey goose l'orange at the bar, and it was delicious per usual, and the bartender did not skimp on the vodka. Once seated, I perused the wine list. I was in the mood for white, and others at my table were not, so I chose the Ferrari Carrano fume blanc by the glass. This fume blanc is one of my favorite whites, so I was a happy camper. I started with the XIX salad. The brioche croutons were divine, absolutely divine. I ordered the steak frites as my entree, not really knowing what to expect, but it was delicious as well. My hanger steak was cooked to a perfect medium, and the fries were perfectly hot and crispy. I was too full to order dessert, but I did try a bite of my friend's chocolate cake. It was really fantastic, and I would definitely order it next time (as long as I haven't stuffed myself like I did this time). I would highly recommend XIX for restaurant week, or for a special date night, or for a special occasion. The food is definitely worth the price tag.
(5)
Joe Y.
XIX is really all about the ambiance. They have these chandeliers and classy seating options, and the restaurant is at the top of the Bellevue. The food on the other hand was not that great. I had the Pork Osso Buco with Caramelized Apples and Bone Marrow. The bone marrow really had no flavor. The pork was a bit on the dry side and had little flavor. I was disappointed that such a nice restaurant had such boring food.
(2)
Eva H.
Hold your horses. XIX makes a good and reasonably priced (!!!) brunch. And they serve it 7 days a week! Soaked in some great views, sat in a lovely seat, enjoyed my totally awesome dining companion, and drank some (okay, it wasn't that good) coffee. Seriously, that's worth the price of admission, or at least what I expected would be a mediocre hotel breakfast but was actually quite good. My benedict was around $11. It was perfect. The poached eggs were divine (no runny egg whites!), the hollandaisse lemony and divine, the muffin perfectly toasted, and the Canadian bacon was well seared. I will say that the breakfast potatoes weren't my thing--undercooked, too garlicky (which is saying something), and just kind of mediocre. But service was good, the atmosphere was fantastic, and I was expecting price gouging and instead got filled up on the cheap.
(4)
David W.
I am only reviewing the bar as I did not eat a meal here. The bar has a great view of the city and the sunset. Along with fantastic cocktails to enjoy it. It is a bit pricey, but the cocktails are extremely well made and quite unique. We enjoyed our sunset cocktails so much we came back after dinner for more and some dessert. Great place to go to have an drink and enjoy a sunset or just to overlook the city.
(5)
Sonia L.
It's always a treat to come to this beautiful restaurant for the wonderful lunch buffet. I was taken here for my birthday as it's the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.
(5)
Jordan P.
High in the sky, in the middle of Center City, there exists an oasis of fanciness that I've been yearning to visit for months now. However, as a grad student, visits to such an establishment are a rare treat. Cue the dream of the funemployed: lunchtime luxe. A weekday visit, at that. My buddy and I rose in our elevator past the peons on the lower floors, excited to treat ourselves. He'd been before, and suggested we try the XIX Cafe Lunch to try many bites and flavors at once. A sucker for variety, I agreed and we ordered steak and the fish of the day. Before we grabbed our salads, I used the bathroom, which required an elevator trip down one floor to XVIII, seemingly a floor only for bathrooms. Well, seems a little silly, but they were nice enough bathrooms so I didn't ask questions. I emerged from my second elevator trip of the day and headed straight for the charcuterie. Assorted meats and cheeses are my jam, and these did not disappoint. Add in some tiny pickles, and I was a happy camper. We also noshed one a few of the salads, including Caesar, a Caprese-type salad, and a blue cheese/pear/spinach something or other. Every bite was delicious, and our table was right by the window (as are most, since there are all sorts of windows in the rotunda). We ordered some bubbly because, when you get steak and fish for lunch, why not? The steak, ordered rare, was a true rare, which was just a joy. The bread served to the table was warm, the butter spreadable, and our server, Luba (I'm unsure of the spelling), was like this delightful breath of air every time she stopped to check in on us. I thought we were stuffed from lunch until I saw the dessert spread. They were almost out of a whipped cream and berry dish, but I enjoyed the cannoli and the mini cheesecakes. Luba also opened the doors to the STUNNING terrace where we basked in the sun and post-meal bliss, sipping the end of our champagne. And, heads buzzing from height and champagne, we returned to the real world. I'm already planning my next trip. Maybe cocktails this time...
(5)
Karina M.
Went for restaurant week. Appetizer: I ordered steak ceviche- barely had any flavor at all; super bland. For entree i ordered grouper- way over cooked and barely spiced; rubbery & bland. Dessert was ok.
(2)
Melissa V.
The food, service, decor are all spot on! Recommend the shrimp cocktail and the cheesecake for sure!
(5)
Lauren S.
OK guys listen up- do you like happy hour? Do you like to leave happy hour with an extreme buzz? Then, you need to come to XIX. Maybe you think I am crazy, Lauren, you're crazy, XIX is so high class, I can't go there for happy hour in my flannel and vans! Yes!!! Yes you can!! And I promise you, you will keep going back. During the most anticipated hours of the day (5-7) XIX does $6 fall on your face, chocked-full-of alcohol spirits. You can show up in anything and you won't be looked at funny. The lounge itself is dark, woody and inviting, and during the winter they have the fire going. OH yeah- sit by the windows if you can. The views are spectacular. Last Monday, we caught the tail-end of happy hour, and the tail-end of the sunset. Magical. Why not 5 stars? Because when it is not happy hour, the prices are ridiculous and the food is not that memorable. If you don't like throwing money away, just come for the drinks like we talked about. Good talk.
(4)
Michelle P.
I've been to XIX several times in the past- once for brunch and the rest for happy hour. Last night my husband and I were in the neighborhood so happy hour was calling our name. I've actually never been to XIX without large crowds- my past happy hours were either for group events or Sips. With no event drawing crowds, it was rather pleasant. We were able to walk right up to the bar and order drinks. We took our drinks to a small table with two formal looking arm chairs. There was a large group in the center of the room that seemed to be there for a business function and would get loud at times. Otherwise the volume in the room was fair and my husband and I were able to converse with each other without screaming. Our first round of drinks was the Best of Philly special. I was under the impression that it was going to be a martini however it ended up being a bourbon drink mixed with some fruity juices/flavors and served in a mason jar. Although I can't remember quite what was it it- it was strong and enjoyable. For our second round of drinks we switched to beer- one Dogfishhead 60 Minute IPA and one Flying Fish Farmhouse summer ale both on draft. You can never go wrong with either and $4 was a rather fair price. The table had waitress service so we didn't need to go up to the bar for this round. XIX was definitely a classy spot for happy hour and I'm glad I got to enjoy it when the rooms weren't packed full to the brim.
(4)
Nicole S.
Would be 5 stars except for the comment made by the hostess, Iris when my family and I were being seated along with another group. The comment was about the price per person. She said "just so you are aware, the cost per person is $35." Only my family was told this and we all were surprised at the rather snooty remark and slightly offended. I rather readers to draw their own conclusion so I'll just leave it there. Moving on .... Our server, Monique made up for the ill taste that was felt when we arrived. She was very helpful and pleasant. The main course options were limited and the portions were very small but everyone enjoyed their food. The snack bar and seafood bar didn't have much but was good. There were shrimp and raw oysters in the seafood bar and an assortment of various desserts and pastries in the other sections. Overall a swanky atmosphere and not much offered for the price but enjoyed ourselves nonetheless. Will I come back again? Probably not.
(4)
Matt A.
Had dinner here last night. The view and decor were great, nice bar area to wait for all of our party to arrive. Food was pretty bad in general, bland flavors and sauces, but worst was the ribeye. My wife ordered well done and my brother medium, they got them mixed up. The cuts of meat were pretty sorry, looked more like cheap flank skirt than a high priced ribeye, very disappointed. The waiter and manager did take them off our bill, which was nice of them, but definitely not coming back again.
(2)
Annie S.
What a lovely bar! I recommend after dinner drinks here on a date or a special anniversary dinner. Savvy Bartenders always make the experience better! Next time I am in Philly I will be back! Desserts are nice and petite and also delicious.
(4)
Joe C.
The service from the hostess and the bus staff was fantastic - and that was the highlight. I went with my girlfriend for my birthday, the restaurant was not even half full. We were seated immediately and on-time, but it took our waiter maybe ten minutes to even introduce himself. We started with the crab cocktail - it was probably the highlight of the meal. I asked the waiter for his opinion on the salmon. His response? "It's fish." I waited and stared at him, and he just repeated himself. So I asked, is it farm raised, can you tell me more about the dish, etc., then he finally managed to spit out a few words. Anyways, I decided to go with the cod and my girlfriend had the trout - mine was overcooked and the broth fused all the tastes together (not in a good way); hers was very small and not well seasoned. The waiter did not come by even once for at least half an hour, despite the emptiness of the restaurant, although he had no problem waiting hand and foot on the table two down from us (the woman there looked like a Kardashian and dressed like one, too). When he finally came over and saw my finished plate, he said "Oh you must have liked it" - no apology for not coming over, and not only did he not ask if I wanted another drink, he took off before I could even ask for it. All this on my birthday. At this point, I didn't even want a dessert so I said no, but he said if you don't get one I'll bring one anyways, so I picked one out. To his credit, he put it on the house - however, he made mention of that fact at least three times. We got it buddy, you're a f*cking saint. So, punchline is, mediocre food and less-than-mediocre service. The drinks are good and the view is spectacular, but those merits can't overcome the flaws. Spend your money better elsewhere.
(2)
Sara L.
A few more visits to XIX warrant an update, if not quite an upgrade, to my review. I have fit in a few more nice dinners and more than a few trips to happy hour at XIX since I wrote my initial review. I have found it to be consistently excellent, but consistently imperfect. Happy hour is always a great way to feel a little bit fancy at the end of your work day. It can get extremely crowded in the bar, so I try to time visits to take advantage of nice weather on the patio. Since the patio is awesome it can also be pretty crowded, but it's a worthwhile trade-off for the view. Cocktails are excellent, and they usually have decent wines featured for happy hour. Dinners have been positive as well, but with a few minor annoyances. The food has universally been good - what arrives on the plate is always a well-executed version of what the menu says. As such, I will only go into detail on the annoyances. It's the holidays, and I'm in the Festivus spirit. On one occasion, XIX had "extended" restaurant week for a week or two beyond the dates (with no warning on their website or when making reservations), resulting in a VERY limited menu for the night. I have routinely been led to small tables in the well-trafficked center of the room when larger window-side tables are available; fortunately, I'm not shy about self-advocating. Be aware that many of the desserts are artfully deconstructed; so, while my recent cheesecake was yummy, it arrived in three geographically distant blobs with crust crumbled over the plate. The wine list remains adequate, but uninspired for an otherwise high-caliber dining experience. All that being said, XIX holds strong at four stars and remain in my regular rotation of nice places to take visitors for a nice dinner.
(4)
Rizwan A.
This place is all about ambiance, vibe, swank, mood, service, pazazz etc, and they're nailing it. It's not everyday you walk into a restaurant atop a hotel rooftop that can easily show you the entire city from its balconies and large windows. The waiters will most likely be dressed better than you in their formal suits, bow ties and coat tails so it's good to at least dress up a little bit. The bar and lounge are all style too, you could be sitting there in shorts and a t-shirt and you'd still look like a boss. And sadly, that exactly what some people do. The unfortunate thing about this otherwise well thought-out and brilliantly executed dinner/lounge/bar experience, is that the clientele doesn't match the character of the place at all. In other words, you get flashy greased up gangsters and their 2 dollar trick cronies hanging out in here rather than some well dressed people looking to ooh and aah over the whole scene as the creator most likely intended. I could be totally wrong about that, but unless 50 Cent owns this place, then I'd say I'm at least half right. The dinner menu and restaurant service also send a totally different signal-- that at least some sort of class is needed. Apart from the clear mockery the customers have made of this place, the service, food, atmosphere and experience are top notch. I had a few different things off the menu, including the risotto, scallops and sea bass, all were somewhat small for the price (especially the bass) but it's fine dining so what can you expect. It does make the whole affair a bit neater, and everything was seasoned well, cooked to perfection. I didn't see any clear areas on my fish. One of my friend's scallops were brought out cold and so they quickly brought out a fresh order and also took the item off the bill, which was a friendly touch. Nothing was exceptionally flavorful or worth bragging about, but overall, the food is good, they have a pretty solid bar, great service, chefs and staff that definitely know what they're doing. I would be eager to come back despite the lounge scene going on here. Fortunately for them dinner is a whole different story!
(4)
Armando Z.
Oh hell yes!! Dwayne and Tanya were cooking tonight and boy did they bring it!! I am a spoiled Bay Area diner, and have learned to have an eye for something wonderful. Sometimes I am wrong . The cuisine here is innovative and gutsy, the flavors challenge you. Wonderful service. Please don't go so I can always get a table !!
(5)
Laura Jill S.
I've been here once. With my brother & SIL & other friends with much more money than I have. WAY too posh & expensive for me, definitely not my scene. I'm a dive-bar loving hippie. The wine list was great, though...I was just happy that someone else was treating.
(3)
Valerie F.
Went here for my birthday dinner date and loved the view, atmosphere and the food. We had calamari as an appetizer and it was one of the best I've ever had, I also loved the rubytini I had 2 of them during dinner! Would recommend for a very nice occasion or celebration but was too fancy and expensive for an average dinner or even a drink or 2.
(5)
Shereen C.
Gorgeous. Beautiful. Cocktails are okay, but hey, You're here for the view.
(4)
Sally V.
Lovely staff. Great atmosphere. It was a rainy day, so they closed off the balcony. Which was ashame. But as the rain stopped, our waiter let my gf and i go out to take a beautiful photo of the skyline. Awesome view. Very accompdating. Will come back again. I had a filet fish with some veggie and capers. Delicious!
(5)
Dave B.
I enjoy coming here with friends and lots of them. They are very accommodating and the staff is always wonderful. This restaurant is so elegant and spacious, located on the 19th floor of the historic Bellavue. The cocktails are always exquisite and I have never had a bad experience.
(4)
Sonia P.
Only went there for lunch, but it is my favorite place to go with friends, family or for work. Price range is very reasonable and the service wonderful. Fish of the day is never a bad choice. I rate 4 stars only because it s usually cold (especially in the summer). Bring a cardigan!
(4)
George M.
We had Sunday Brunch at Nineteen XIX. The place was great. The atmosphere was was wonderful, it reminded of us at places we had eaten at in Europe. They play chill style music giving the place a upbeat feel not stuffy at all. The service was a bit slow due to the place being busy without being out of control. They really went out of their way to makes us feel both welcomed and comfortable. The dress is nice casual yet we saw hotel guests who were in work out clothes. The brunch is set up with a raw bar to start with shrimp and oysters and other assorted fresh salads and lox and bagels. Then you order off the menu. We had the Crab cake Benedict which was really good. I have had this before at other places and yet this was one of the best Crab cake Benedict I have had. Desert was also done similar to the raw bar you go and help yourself to all you want. The table is set up with different types of deserts everything from chocolate croissants to cookies and tarts of different styles. Over all we really liked Nineteen XIX and would return. It was a great change of pace from what brunch has turned into these days of loud talking and people taking selfies, wait staff feeling that they are doing you a favor by serving you food at a too close to the next selfi taking table. You won't find this at Nineteen XIX . Take a chance and go.
(4)
Alexandra D.
Best dirty martini and octopus salad in town!
(5)
Liz P.
XIX is simply irresistible. :) I've been here many times for dinner, happy hour and brunch. All great experiences with scrumptious food, amazing service and spectacular views! I love the beet salad, burgers, the lychee martini...and pretty much everything at brunch. Definitely one of the best restaurants in Philadelphia, without a doubt.
(5)
Hope C.
We had a complimentary meal at this restaurant while staying at the Bellevue, so this definitely colors my review. I mean, everything is great when it's free - isn't it? The ambiance makes the restaurant. I can't remember a meal in recent memory that was so relaxed, beautiful, unrushed, and fancy without being stuffy. In many high-end restaurants you're often either squashed in next to other diners (this is what "cozy" typically translates to) or immersed in the busy hustle of a popular place. Not here. Spacious and quiet without sacrificing service or style. The food was also commendable. Oysters to start (ok, I'm not an oyster connoisseur...I don't understand all the adjectives people use to describe them. They're usually soft, slimy, cold and, if they're going into my mouth, doused in horseradish and Tabasco or chili which obliterates any nuances to the taste anyways!), which were great. Sea bass and steak as entrees - no complaints. Nothing that evoked a "wow" moment, but definitely very good. I did enjoy my mason jar cheesecake at the end of the meal. It was creative and a small portion, which was perfect considering I was stuffed. This is a great restaurant to celebrate a special occasion or impress a first date. I imagine it would be ideal for a nice business lunch or dinner as well. The ambiance speaks for itself - and Philly is an impressive, though not imposing, backdrop for an elegant meal.
(4)
Clifford Q.
Once again our experience was met with great satisfaction. There was not a single part of the evening that was does not stand out as spectacular. From the first moment we were greeted by the hostess and yes once again I forget her name - all know is, it begins with an A - She remembered us from previous visits and also that we got Seth and I had our weeding here in the main dining room. All the wait staff remembered us and came over to welcome us back - It is a pleasure to see the same faces over the years - This tells me it is a great establishment to work for and the employees are treated well. Rashied who we know from another hotel / restaurant I am happy to say is still working here and now in the main dining room. How lucky is XIX. Chuck and Chaz as well and our waiter Max - What great men - Everyone went out of their way to make our visit special to celebrate Seth's birthday. We asked for the terrace to be open since it was 65 in December at 10pm and they allowed us to go outside for a few minutes in between courses. LOL - I do not have to tell you that everyone else wanted to then go out - OOOPS Now for the food - Yummy Oysters and shrimp cocktail as always - Our entrees were Pan Seared Wild Striped Bass and The Grilled Venison - Both new additions to the menu and out of this world. XIX has gotten it's share of not so good reviews for the food over the years but we have always loved going back for the experience. This visit showed us that the overall experience is what counts. - food was great - staff was great and the experience was absolutely wonderful. Give it a try !
(5)
Amina W.
XIX is one of those uber fanc places I only dared dreaming about eating at due to my current student slash poor status... But that all chanced on Tuesday when my fellow broke girl class mates and I ventured out in the rain for lunch after a brutal few weeks... we had heard about XIXs awesome lunch option and decided to check it out For $22, you get a first course buffet of various salads, delicious cheese options (Brie, Munster and another mystery delicious bite) and some other goodies that probably gobbled down too fast. Then you get a choice of entree including a steak, pasta, fish, burger, panini (maybe something else?). Lastly there's a dessert buffet with assorted delicious treats. The service was great, and the foods as cooked to perfection. I'd definitely recommend this of you're looking for a shmancy lunch option.
(5)
Rita C.
I came here on a Saturday night to have a few drinks with my friend and kill some time before meeting up with our group of friends in Center City. It was a little confusing maneuvering around the hotel to get into XIX (there was a wedding going on and we were redirected a bunch of times), but we finally made it in there. I have to agree with a lot of other reviews that this bar/restaurant area is lovely and has some beautiful views of the city. For drinks, my friend had (several) kettle one martinis (with some fancy pants lingo that I'll never understand "straight up with a twist and jump up and down while holding an umbrella"...or something like that ) while I decided try the lychee kiss (aka lots of flavored liquors and some cranberry juice). The drinks were balanced and well-made; I didn't feel that the $12 price tag per drink was outrageous. I'd definitely come back here for happy hour in the future. I'd like to check out the brunch and Afternoon tea menus. An odd note: There were A LOT of bros here the night that I went. For an upscale place, I was surprised that the bros were allowed in wearing Phillies jerseys and jeans/shorts. Let's just say, I witnessed a lot of Miller Lite and Heineken being ordered...it definitely made me a little sad.
(3)
Jennifer L.
We went for Sunday brunch for the first time. At first they tried to tell us that our reservation was for 1030 and wouldn't be able to participate in the brunch. However, after informing them it was one of their own who made the reservation on the phone a reservation miraculously opened. They treated us to a free cocktail and were super attentive throughout the meal. The brunch was amazing! The food was full of variety and plentiful! The waitress and other staff was nice and welcoming. The environment was elegant and peaceful. Because it was a get together we were there for 4 hrs sitting and talking and they were friendly without pressuring us to leave. I will definitely make a reservation for brunch in the future!
(5)
Michael C.
Went for Restaurant Week. Overall, it was amazing. Great view, friendly staff. The restaurant is split with a bar separating the two areas. Really beautiful decor and relaxing atmosphere. In terms of dress, I'd advise to wear business casual. People were wearing jeans. Come on y'all. I know it's Restaurant Week but that doesn't allow you to look sloppy in a place like XIX. Food was amazing, but expect smaller portions. Quality, not quantity here. Had the asparagus wrapped in bacon, the short rib and gnocchi, and the cranberry orange cobbler. The short rib was surprisingly larger in comparison to the scallops, which every one else at my table got. The cobbler wasn't what I expected because it was lacking into terms of the crust/crumbly part that I love. Also, it was really tart. Wouldn't recommend that.
(4)
Deena S.
Everything is absolutely beautiful. But I'll have to agree with others, the service is kind of wack. No particular situation happened, but I feel it doesn't fit their sophisticated image.
(4)
Kendall B.
This place earns five stars because it is a fantastic VALUE for the ambiance, the views, and the quality of the food. The only thing that was lacking was the service (I swear out waiter was promoting other restaurants, as he encouraged us to get dessert elsewhere.....very bizarre). Gentleman, this is where you take a girl that you want to impress without breaking the bank. To start I had the Kentucky Straight Bourbon Cocktail, which was a bit too sweet for my liking, considering that I am normally a Makers' on the rocks kind of gal. If you are just starting to enjoy bourbon, it would be a great cocktail for you since it is mixed with orange bitters and elderflower liquor. The MUSSELS IN WHITE WINE, GARLIC, & FENNEL are stupid good, and at $12 an order, who can pass up that appetizer!? It is served with grilled sour dough bread, and the sauce is so good you will spoon it into your mouth once the dipping bread is gone. The GRILLED SPANISH OCTOPUS was almost as good as Mario Batali's. It was tender and the acid in the vinaigrette was perfectly balanced. The PAN SEARED DIVER SCALLOPS were the BEST i have ever tasted. They were served with a sweet carrot puree and mango ginger chutney. They were delicious. I want to comeback for happy hour on evening because the only expensive thing on the check really was the cocktails, which are half price between 5-7. Hopefully, we will also have a different waiter next time.
(5)
Matt L.
Made reservations and took my girlfriend here for dinner. It was a little difficult finding the restaurant within the hotel but we eventually got there. There was really no one to greet us at the door, we kind of stood around for a minute trying to figure out who the hostess was. Eventually I had to grab a waitress and ask to be seated. Not a very welcoming entrance. After we were seated it was nice though. The waiter was polite and on point with his service. The food was good, albeit over priced, and the atmosphere was great. I probably won't go again but it's a definite "one-time experience" kind of place.
(3)
Harumi U.
Fantastic food, really knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a great location with a view. Only if the price isn't what it is. (it was really a toss up between 5 and 4 stars) I was seated immediately by the window and was attended right away too. I had several dishes that I couldn't decide and the waiter (Wilma or Wilmar) really went over every one of them in detail to help me. In the end, I really was very happy I made the decisions based on his opinions and recommendations. Sadly you can only eat so many dishes in one sitting - this means I have to go back to try a couple of additional dishes. Octopus salad. We all know that ingredients like octopus or scallops are very difficult to serve well. A little undercooked, it is raw. (If you are meant to eat certain things raw, then that's one thing but if you cook to serve something then you have to properly cook it) A little overcooked, it becomes rubbery. Octopus was cooked to perfection. And it was served with potatoes, arugula, grilled pepper and pleasantly sour dressing. So many amazing mini explosions in your mouth! Sea bass. Served over wild rice and presented with coconut milk (which is spiced with curry spice) based jus. Bass is cooked just right so you can eat skin too and the natural sweetness of coconut milk mixed with just enough curry spice (It is not too strong so you don't feel like eating an Indian dish) adds it a great flavor. Sadly I was so full at this point that I did not have any room left for dessert...
(4)
Jess D.
I really do love the ambiance at Nineteen. It makes me feel all tingly and sophisticated and it's not stuffy or filled with loud obnoxious rich people. Don't get me wrong, this place is classy and pricey but it's a nice treat and an excellent alternative to the usual happy hour spots. I've never been here for dinner but I imagine the service and food are decent. The specials during happy hour are OK... $6 for specialty cocktails but no food specials :-( Check it out if you're feeling like going somewhere nice after work.
(4)
Nikki R.
I went here last night (Monday) with a couple of friends. We were told in advance that the main dining room would not be open. That did not seem to matter, as we were still able to get a spot to the windows to watch the sunset while we ate. We opted for a meat and cheese plate, which was delicious! They accommodated us when we requested a substitute and explained the options to us. Two of us got the Steak Frittes, which was delicious and prepared just as we had requested. And it came with the most delicious shoestring fries! Another friend got the chicken and seemed to enjoy it. For dessert, we split the cookie cake (ahhhhmazing) and the pineapple upside down cake (very yummy). The service was great and our waitress was very sweet, taking a nice picture of us afterwards. This would be a great place for either dinner, or just to grab a quiet drink and take in a a beautiful view.
(4)
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Address :200 S Broad St,19th Fl
Philadelphia, PA, 19102
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Garage Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Average Music : Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : Yes Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Katina H.
We splurged and ordered lots of appetizers instead of main courses, so we could try a bunch of different dishes without a lot of commitment. The meat and cheese tray was decent, but not $28 worth. The crab cocktail was killer - highly recommended. The shrimp cocktail, good, but overpriced. The xix salad with crab cake? Skip it. Calamari? Rubbery. Caesar salad? Good, but overpriced. The bill was close to $150 for two adults and a child, which is ok. We had great seats though, by one of the double doors to one balcony - the weather was perfect and the decor was a tad outdated but still swanky. Our waiter was really self-confident which a lot of people like, but I'm not one of them. I prefer my waitstaff to be attentive, respectful, and more about US and less about them. Or how awesome they are. Or what kinds of things they like. A little pet peeve. Our son dropped his fork on the floor in front of our waiter. He walked away. My son picked up the fork and said 5 second rule: mommy overruled and instead called the waiter back over and asked for a clean fork. It came almost begrudgingly. Little doth he know that the little one plays piano when he hits The Prime Rib in Baltimore, popping escargot like skittles. He is just as worthy of a clean fork as the next customer. Our son is quiet, mannerly, respectful, and does not make demands like a little Napoleon. Get the damned fork. It's a mixed bag. If I went back, it would be for the same table, but a different waiter and I would know what to steer away from in terms of menu.
(3)Anupma S.
Checked out XIX again this past weekend and had a much different experience than the first time I went. Two wedding parties were having after parties it seemed at the lounge/bar area and the place was fulll. Everyone was dressed up (I'd hope so since they were wedding peeps!) so we felt a little out of place but I really wanted to show my friends the view! Aside from the "we don't belong here" feeling, I was able to show my friends the XIX experience! The interior is just amazing and it feels like you aren't even in Philly. The bar has your standard drinks, the average beer is somewhat marked up but cocktails are around $10 and are strongggg. Bartenders are very pleasant! Music was nondescript but had a good vibe! Crowd was fancy of course, but you won't find wedding parties there every night. Can't wait to come again.
(5)Tina K.
I went to XIX for Restaurant Week and felt that the dining experience was not worth even the RW price tag. For three courses, we stayed there for over two hours because service was super slow. We only started to order desserts one and a half hours after we were seated, which is unacceptable. I've been to other restaurants that are busier and yet only take one hour from the time I'm seated to the time I walk out the door. For the foods, I ordered a sashimi, seared scallops, and a dessert (I don't remember which one) that were all not remarkable in any way. While I can see how the ambiance can be romantic, there seems to be an architectural phenomenon where you can hear what people sitting across the room are talking about. It was pretty uncomfortable because my group felt like we couldn't talk freely. Bottom line, I would not go to XIX again.
(2)Matthew R.
I have wanted to try this restaurant for quite some time, and decided to bring my date to nice meal. Regardless that the layout was slightly confusing and hard to find the host/hostess, the decore was absolutely beautiful and the views were stunning. My date and I decided to split the artisian meat & cheese tasting. Sadly, the only thing memorable about this dish was the waitor telling us that he has had so many complaints about the one cheese since it was added to the menu (approximately a month ago). For the main course, I ordered the steak frites and my date ordered the paella. After waiting for quite some time, the waitor asked if we were ready for our entrees. When my steak was delivered by a food runner, it was cooked a little more than I had requested, but decided not to nit-pick. However, approximately ten minutes later, the waitor had returned to the table asking where my date's food was? The paella was never actualy made, and my date and I ended up splitting the overcooked steak. I was hoping to have fallen in love with this restaurant based on previous reviews. Sadly, I would much rather revisit other establishments than return to this. After reviewing my bank account, I realized that the amount charged to my card was not the amount I authorized. Due to the poor service provided, only receiving one entree (when two were ordered), and my steak being over cooked, I left a tip that was slightly over ten percent (10%). Interestingly enough, this was disregarded and a twenty percent (20%) tip was added to the already overpriced bill. I called the restaurant the following Friday and left a voice message for the general manager (Adam, if I recall the name on the message correctly). I examined the situation and have yet to be contacted.
(1)Nathan F.
This review is for the bar, only. I've yet to actually dine at XIX, however many a happy hour have been spent viewing the city from its lofty perch over Center City. This is far and away one of my favorite places to spend the hours between 5:00 and 7:00 PM on summer, spring and fall afternoons. When the weather warms, the balconies are open so that you may enjoy one of the finest views of the city to be had. When it's not so nice, they may close them off, but the view of a sunset from the bar area in the fall and winter is a sight to behold. As has been said before, and will be said again, this is one of the most nicely appointed dining rooms in the city, if not the best. Its soaring ceilings are draped with pearls, featuring grand classical architecture with modernist furnishings. The drinks during happy hour are quite reasonable, especially considering the setting and location (hotel in the Rittenhouse area). My favorite, a Kentucky Straight Orange, is quite tasty and well mixed. They have a nice selection of light bar fare. Their cheese and charcuterie plates are generally worth sharing with friends to have a snack while imbibing their various drink specials. If you want to impress your date with a nice before-dinner drink, bringing in friends from out of town, or just want to enjoy a sunset in a relaxing environment after a day of work, XIX is a great place to be. The only thing that keeps it from getting 5 stars is the fact that, after happy hour, it is quite expensive for drinks, and I'm not entirely sure it's worth it, and the bartenders have a tendency to be a bit, well, inattentive. I would like to give this 4.5, but I don't want to round up, as 5 stars is only for that which is truly unique to the area and explosively good everywhere. Do not take the 4 stars to mean that there is any serious problem with XIX, because there isn't. Come to think of it, I think that's where I'll be around 5:00...
(4)Tough Crowd T.
The smell overwhelms you -- practically overtakes you -- as you step off the elevator. It lingers for a while; disappearing eventually. But do not go to the restroom (located one floor below, strangely), or risk experiencing the same smell all over again. I have no idea what it is. My friend suggested it was manure. Pretty close, I'd say. I had been to XIX once before, for drinks right after they opened. I remember the rooms being lovely, but also remember this smell. We had buffet lunch ($20, a good deal), made lovely only by the company. The food was underwhelming, to say the least. Every salad in the buffet (4-5) was apparently dressed with the same garlic-heavy concoction, which really had no place anywhere but on the Caesar. I come from a long line of garlic lovers -- my father has been known to eat it raw -- but this was heavy handed. Garlic on the endive/pecan/cranberry salad? Why, prey tell? The sturgeon with fingerling potatoes and orange cauliflower I ordered as my entree (a special) suffered from being overcooked (the fish) and undercooked (the cauliflower). The sauce on the fish -- which, by the way, was wild caught and that's not a good choice for sturgeon these days -- was pure butter. Okay, but not particularly inventive. Desserts were fine, but their pastry chef should consider using half the amount of sugar. Needless to say, I will not be going back.
(2)Ed D.
We went here for drinks and appys on a Sat night. We were able to find seating with ease and really enjoyed the drinks and the cheese plate that we had there. Service is good, the ambience is awesome and the prices are not that expensive considering its a rooftop inside the hyatt. Its on the nineteenth floor and the view of philadelphia is splendid! We couldnt sit in the outdoor balconies due to a private event but its a nice place to check out for pre-drinks.
(4)Ryan P.
I am writing this review on the happy hour only. I had a full dinner about 2 years ago and it was fine. I keep coming back here for the happy hour instead. The happy hour is 50% off or something like it. The Lychee Kiss Martinis are outstanding-and ONLY $6. They have sliders for $5 and the service is great. Realistically, I can't see myself making a night of it. It's really fancy-over the top fancy with the ceilings, views, and caviar samplers. You can chill there from 5-7, but it may get a bit stuffy shortly after.
(4)pracheta t.
beautiful beautiful place. so classy and the view of Philly from here is breath taking! I was here for my birthday, it was a Wednesday night, and we ran into Mayor Nutter =] fancy fancy fancy. I've never ate there, but I've had many a drink there. It is pricey and I always feel under dressed. Also, just a but of trivia, Legionnaires' disease started in the Bellvue (where XIX is) in 1976. But no worries, no more bacteria in the air that'll cause a respiratory disease.
(4)Bonnie C.
I hear the bar is a great place to hang out. This review is not a reflection of that. This review is for the food and my dining experience. The establishment is absolutely stunning. I don't know what else to say about this place except "wow". Beautiful, lovely and gorgeous. We had reservations in the Wine Room and it was exactly that. A room with walls made of wine bottles resting on racks sandwiched between sliding glass doors. The food I tasted was delicious. Their lamb is probably the best I've ever had. The "gamey" taste wasn't there and the sauce didn't overpower the flavor of the meat. I had the foie gras appetizer special with pickled strawberries (you can pickle strawberries??!!!) and that was sooooo good. Their jumbo lump crab salad wasn't anything special. I'd pass on this. I've never tried Lemon Olive Oil cake before but now I can say I have. It wasn't bad (I couldn't really taste the olive oil which is good....I guess...) but I'm not going to wake up in the middle of the night craving it. Their peanut butter and chocolate beignet was divine. It was like eating a battered and fried Reese's Peanut Butter cup! There were three dipping sauces (chocolate, caramel and....some other one I didn't try). The idea of a Nutella waffle made me drool in anticipation (sexy, I know) but in the end, it wasn't as good as I had thought it would be. The waffle looked like they had added Nutella to the batter but sadly, it didn't send me to Nutella Carb nirvana. So sad. I had to send my first cocktail back. It was their Ginger Gin Tea. It tasted like cough syrup. Yuck. The second cocktail was a winner. Blackberry Caipirinha. It's so good, I'm going to try and make it at home. So the reason why I only gave 3 stars instead of the 4 I would've given. Our waiter was terrible. I don't know if the quality of service goes down once the obligatory large party gratuity of 20% is automatically added to our bill but that's what I'm thinking. Our waiter was condescending, sleazy and I felt like he was some kind of slimy eel because he would wink at me every time I ordered something or asked him something. Not cute. Next time, I'm gonna just sit at the bar and nibble on food there.
(3)Ryan E.
I'd imagine this would be a pretty cool place in its hay day of 1994, when cosmos and Sex and the City was the symbol of elitism. But taste have changed and so should this place. The arched windows, high ceilings, and overall architecture are pretty cool, but the food and drinks are really nothing special for what you pay. (Disclaimer: I'm not one of those people that gripes about anything over $6 as overpriced. Believe me, I'll pay for good food.) The best part about XIX is the view of Walnut and Broad Street where you can look at all the other restaurants you should have gone to. **As a side note, the last time I was here it wreaked of kitty litter. I really don't know what the awful smell was but it was horrid. The only thing I could think of was that maybe they had their carpets shampooed?
(2)Wei T.
Wonderful lunch spread! They have an a la carte menu or you can choose the buffet option - there's an appetizer/dessert buffet and you choose your entree from a selection 5-7 items. Such a good deal. Ambiance is elegant and sexy. If I didn't work in the 'burbs, this would definitely be my frequent lunch spot.
(4)Andrew Z.
This review is for the bar and lounge only, as we went late one saturday night for only a drink. We went on a freezing and wet December night after dinner in the city. My friend recommended going to Nineteen after frequenting the happy hour. I was very impressed with the mojito I order. It was probably one of the stronger mojitos I have ever had, and certainly one of the more tasty ones. I am lucky I took the R5 back, because granted I'm a lightweight, that mojito hit me hard lol. The bar menu had some interested selections on there, but we were way stuffed. I am definitely going to take some friends to Nineteen either for happy hour before dinner or for another late night drink.
(5)Le L.
Came here for brunch. The dessert was my favorite part! Lots to choose from. Greedy me almost took one of each. I love their croissant! It's so rich and buttery! They also had a small selection of asian dimsum style food, which was ok, nothing special. The oysters, shrimp cocktails and salad was good though. I might consider coming here for dinner. We'll see.
(4)Jessica M.
XIX has everything - delicious food and drinks, beautiful atmosphere and a breathtaking view. I have been here for breakfast and lunch in the cafe as well as dinner in the main restaurant and have never been disappointed. XIX offers a lovely $19.00 Cafe Lunch which offers a buffet for your first course (think salads, cheese, meats), an entree and then another trip back to the buffet table for scrumptious desserts. Lunch items to try: Crab Salad with Champagne dressing and the baked farmers omelet. Happy Hour at the bar is not to be missed either - 1/2 price specialty cocktails, draft beer and $6.00 house wine. The bar menu is perfect and the complementary wasabi peas and pretzels give you the little crunch you need to accompany your Rubitini or Kentucky Straight Orange. Great place for a special dinner, or take your family for brunch....either way, you will enjoy your visit to XIX.
(5)Jane V.
So wow did I feel slightly under-dressed when we arrived at the top of the Bellevue...great décor, delicious food, and very hospitable wait staff. Atmosphere: (A) Sometimes I'm in the mood for a fancy dining experience, and XIX provided just that. Felt like I was dining in a modern yet traditional ballroom with these large dangling pearls hanging from the high dome ceilings. Next time, I'm aiming for a balcony seat ;) Food: (A) I ended up getting yellow tail sashimi for an appetizer - wow that stuff just melt in my mouth, flat iron steak for the main entrée - I admit, it looked small when they first brought it out, but it was plenty food, and this apple cake a la mode-ish type dessert - yummy! As with most fancy restaurants, the presentation was nice and the food was really quite good. Service: (A) Wow, I actually have no complaints about the service for once! Hostesses, waitress from the bar, and the two gentlemen that waited our table were all very friendly, upbeat, and did their job the best way imaginable. There's something about waiters (and bartenders as well) when they show personality and get into mini-conversations that are non-intrusive and provide just the perfect amount of interaction with a customer, it really impacts my overall feeling towards a restaurant... well assuming the food is decent as well ;) Overall: (A) I'll definitely be back... for a balcony seat... with nicer clothes. Hah.
(5)Melvin J.
Had a 5:30 reservation on a Saturday night for dinner before the orchestra. I walked in and the dining area and its view were breathtaking. We were escorted to our seats and our server took our drink order. From the reviews I read here, a lot of people come just for the bar. I came with high expectations for the bartender and was disappointed. My Blue Coat Martini (up with olives) was sub-par tasting with chunks of ice floating in it. My wife wasn't impressed with her fruity cocktail either. The menu didn't have anything special on it and the food was fine. Fine as in it met minimum expectations, despite the distinctly higher-than-minimum price. I had the NY strip steak and my wife had fish and chips. I had a 'meh' blueberry cobbler and my wife had an okay chocolate something and that was it. I will say that the service was better than I'd read from reviews here on Yelp. A manager was circulating to see how things were and I told him that I'd left my orchestra tickets at home. He gave me access to a business center to quickly print out the tickets and we made it to the show on time. We were looking for something special, but this wasn't the place. Both Vetri and Bibou had a 3-week wait for reservations when I planned this spur-of -the-moment outing. I'll plan ahead next time and avoid XIX's cookie-cutter menu dressed up with hype.
(2)Philly P.
Have had a better meal in Philadelphia. The restaurant is gorgeous and is my absolute favorite for Center City Sips. The drinks are very good here, better than the food. The bar food here such as the sliders are better than a more "gourmet" choice" I do have to say that this place had the BEST Mother's Day Brunch I have ever been to. Good raw bar!
(3)Judy T.
Heard about their fabulous lunch deal, and finally went a few weeks ago for a friend's birthday. Totally worth it and special enough for celebrations. XIX has a $19 cafe lunch, which includes a choice of entree and their buffet spread of cheese, salads, meats, and a large spread of desserts. The dining room was beautiful with nice views, the service was great, and the food was delicious. Made sure to save room for dessert, and I had a whole plate full to try. A few disappointed but for the most part I was a happy camper with my spread. Park in the Bellevue garage located right next to the Hyatt, and XIX will validate your parking ($6.50 for 3 hours).
(4)Joe B.
I went here for my cousin's graduation dinner last night and it hit the spot. We had our own room for fifteen people and the service was very good. I had the ribeye with yukon gold potatoes and broccolini. The ribeye was cooked perfectly to medium and the red wine reduction sauce that accompanied it made the steak even better. The potatoes and broccolini were good, but it would help if I had a bit more since the steak dwarfed the amount of sides that came with it. I tried a bit of the lobster risotto as well and it was very creamy and delicious. Everyone loved their food and had nothing but good things to say about it. All in all, we had a good night and enjoyed dining here.
(4)Laura S.
XIX was dangerously close to a one-star review, but I have to acknowledge the fact that it is a really, really pretty restaurant. The view is spectacular - and you can be seated on the balcony and have a great view of the city. The view inside is also great - super-high ceilings, beautiful architecture. The tables are spacious and comfortable. Ambiance is the best thing XIX has going for it. Unfortunately, that was the only thing XIX had going for them. The hostess seemed distracted when we arrived - she greeted us, but then turned her back to us to tap on the touch-screen seating chart while speaking to someone on the phone. It was an awkward set-up - it probably wouldn't have been weird if like a traditional hostess stand the screen did not face the entrance, but it seems like any way you come into the restaurant you're going to be walking up behind the hostess. Our server asked if we were ready to order about 3 minutes after we sat down, but after that disappeared for unconscionable amounts of time. I was considering timing how long my water glass stood empty. Food was a disappointment. The bread was good, but was brought out 30 seconds before the first course arrived at the table. My dish, a risotto served in a cast-iron dish, was passed to me over the head of one of my dining companions. I was dumbfounded - I expect this somewhere like Friendly's, but anywhere I'm paying more than $10 for my dinner my waiter can come put my plate in front of me rather than awkwardly reaching over the table with a hot, heavy dish. The risotto was OK and had a nice amount of lobster, but wasn't particularly memorable. The crab cake and corn soup were some of the highlights of the meal. For my second course I ordered the steak. It was blah - it was cooked fine, but had no seasoning and the quinoa it was served with also had no flavor. There was a vegetable with it, it might have been a carrot. I couldn't tell you what my dining companions ate, nobody liked their food enough to suggest that the others have a taste. Desserts were almost great - I loved the flavor of the sticky toffee pudding, but wish the cake had been a little more moist. The vanilla cream it was served with was phenomenal. The ice cream that came with it was delicious, but one of my friends ordered the same dessert and got nothing but melted ice cream with hers. Sad. Two of my dining companions ordered the pound cake and were very happy with it, but it only arrived after quite a lot of confusion - one had ordered cheesecake, which we were later informed they did not have. She ordered another dessert, but was brought a different one - in fact, most people at the table started off with a dessert other than the one they ordered. Eventually we sorted it out, and I will say our waiter handled the problem very quickly and efficiently. (This was *not* the same waiter who pounced on us for our orders just after we sat down then abandoned us for most of our evening.) By midway through the meal I was regretting the decision to waste one of my Restaurant Week excursions on this place. I think it would be a lovely place to come for drinks, but absolutely will not be back for the food. The icing on top of the cakewreck that was our dinner was when the emergency alarm - complete with strobe lights and a calm voice telling us not to enter the fire stairwells or elevators - went off for around 15 minutes at the end of our meal. After a few minutes our waiter stopped by to tell us that everything was probably fine, but we were never told whether there was an actual emergency or what we should do. Eventually the sirens just stopped, and after a long wait for the elevators to be put back into service we finally got to leave. At that point I could recognize the humor in the situation, and saw it as the perfect end to a very imperfect meal.
(2)Adie R.
I once told someone that if had to describe heaven on earth, it would exist at during lunchtime in the rotunda of XIX. The well lit, manicured setting can make any guest feel like they're out for a luncheon with kings. It's the perfect escape from a busy work day, and I always take advantage of the lunch buffet special: spread of meats, cheeses, and salads to start. Then you order your entree of choice, and you complete the meal with another buffet of desserts. Be forewarned, you should definitely attend on an empty stomach and get ready for a food coma if you overindulge. However for $22 (price recently increased from $20), I'd say this is a discounted rate for high class entertainment. XIX is where I will go for birthday celebrations and to charm out-of-town guests.
(5)Christine W.
This is one of our go-to spots for cocktails. The stylish interior, customer service, and stunning views never disappoint. Best part- a visit to the restrooms on the floor below is like a walk through the Shining. You might see the twins.
(4)Jesse B.
Pricey for what you actually get... Great view of the city and a really fun bar. Great place to take a date.
(3)Alexa R.
I was here with two girlfriends for dinner Saturday night and we were so excited. We did not get seated in the glamorous pearl chandelier room, but instead in the front room. It was still beautiful and we sat at a four top near a window. I have to say, the service was pretty bad. Two of the three of us started with the tomato white bean soup, which was cold. And not supposed to be. My skate wing was very mealy and I actually ended up spitting part of it out into my napkin. For dessert, I had the tasting of three gelatos/sorbets. The server sets it in front of me and says, "In the middle, you have mango sorbet." My friend asks, "Well, what are the other two?" He replies: "Hmm. What do you have there?" I love my dining companions, so I did not mind the slow service. I could see, however, how others would be really irritated. Also, XIX is not cheap, so the service should certainly be up to snuff!
(2)sako R.
Went for a late dinner on Friday night. What started out as a potential disaster turned into a surprisingly great night. It was restaurant week so we expected it to be crowded, but long story short, after a very long wait, our entrees were brought out before our appetizer... At the point when it becomes apparent that the ball got dropped somewhere, is when the great restaurants can turn it all around, while the rest of the pack falls apart. XIX definitely put themselves in the former category. The manager came to speak with us, the waiter followed up several times, and once the appetizer came, the rest of the service was flawless... and the food was, indeed, delicious. We had the sashimi and the gnocchi, the chicken and the short ribs, and the cheesecake and chocolate. My sushi/sashimi preference is strictly old school, but this fish was fresh and combined nicely with its toppings - it was closer to a carpaccio, not quite as thin; delicious. The short rib was fantastic, but its combo with the sides - cauliflower risotto and crispy brussels sprouts leaves - was a winner. Would definitely go back for a non RW menu. The dining room is beautiful, definitely a place to go for a special dinner that requires the ambiance.
(4)Clay G.
I don't know where the reviewers below were eating, it wasn't at the XIX where I dined last evening. I have dined at more than a dozen of Philadelphia magazine's top 100 restaurants, and this is near the top. First, the room, with its soaring domed ceilings, and large windows looking out over the city , is one of the best restaurant settings in the city. Next, the Octopus appetizer I ordered was perhaps the best octopus that I have been served, and my venison entree was equally fabulous. My wife could not stop raving about her Monkfish entree. The service was friendly and not over attentive, and when the entrees were a bit slow to arrive, our server topped up our wine glasses for free. Finally, the prices were very reasonable for the high quality of food and service. This is a definite favorite.
(5)Glenn J.
I was staying at the Hyatt downstairs so I figured a trip to the bar was in order. You can't beat the view. It's a nice upscale bar but again the view of downtown Philly is awesome. Unfortunately, we could't go on the patio but that didn't hurt their score at all. Nate was serving drinks and made some outstanding original cocktails. We were lucky since he made some of the concoctions that day to use up some of the specialty gin. Not only were the drinks tasty but if you need to find a great restaurant, Nate knows the lay of the land. Good drinks, excellent service. Highly recommend stopping by. If I had to find a gripe, I'd say the drinks were a little on the pricey side but that makes sense given the location and view.
(5)Rachel U.
My boss took us up here for celebratory cocktails the other day, and I felt very posh to say the least. We sat out on the terrace, which has this very old-money feel to it; I suddenly had the urge to have a tiny dog on my lap =P They have great happy hour deals: $6 cocktails, half price glasses of wine and beer, and they give you a bowl of wasabi peas to snack on. And they are not messin around with their cocktails. She had the Pineapple Mint Julip, and I had the Peach Martini, both delicious, and made for quit a buzzed walk home. I noticed they have a prix fixe deal on every 3rd Thursday, $55 for 3 courses w/ wine pairing. Looked promising and I'll def have to come back to try their food.
(4)PP F.
Sat outside on the balcony with a beautiful view of Philadelphia for a late dinner. Got the flat bread pizza as a starter. Enjoyed the sweet tomato sauce and was glad the goat cheese was not overpowering. Decided on the diver scallops for my entree. I forgot the name of the name of the sauce I chose, but it was buttery with a hint of wine. Definitely pleased with my choice. An ideal place for a dinner date or a late night drink.
(4)Timothy D.
Menu has changed. No specials. Feels like a hotel catering menu. Still a beautiful place. But the food is suffering.
(2)Anjali M.
What a wonderful place to come for lunch! And the express menu is an absolute steal; I had a food coma to prove this! Nineteen has a beautiful atmosphere and rightfully so atop the Bellevue with a view of the city skyline. Every place to sit is comfortable and clean and ambiance is sophisticated. For the express lunch, you are tempted by a buffet display of appetizers, a set entrée, another display of delicious desserts, and choice of soda or iced tea as well. I ordered the grilled marinated pork as my entrée with gnocchi and then proceeded to the display. There was a cheesy Caesar salad, pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, another salad of greens with feta cheese and Portobello, some cheeses to sample, and curried shrimp. I was also introduced to that delicious little delight of a kumquat. All delicious. The pork was soft and delicious and definitely filled me up by that point. But how could I resist all those desserts? Delectable cheesecake bites, strawberry shortcake, fruit tarts, and cookies! I would only complain that there is a little bit too much cream on some of these desserts, but otherwise, great! At first I thought it was annoying to take the elevator just to go to the bathrooms below just one floor, thinking the elevator would take a long time to come, but they are fast. So don't you worry. Some mishaps: the hostess who greeted us was not very friendly at all. Granted, some of us may not have been dressed to dine here, but mind you, lady, we will be back at some point paying good money to keep you from being unemployed. Everyone else was very friendly. For $19, an absolutely, hands down, solid deal!
(5)Nate C.
3 words: pretention, pretension, pretenshun! Talk about uncomfortable. I'm a normal, friendly guy who expects a little class and respect from at least the staff when I'm on a date... that did not happen. After waiting 10 minutes for service I flagged down a server who was ignoring me and politely asked for a beer for me and a cosmo for my date. The drinks came promptly, but she took plenty of time before she asked if I wanted a second round (my glass was empty for a while). I found the other patrons and the wait staff to be disgustingly phony. This one experience was enough for me to never want to set foot in this "i'm too good to look at you, (and so much hotter because I spent $500 on my shoes)" place again.
(1)Luis G.
One of the best cheese plates in the city! It's worth going there just for the cheese plate. Five cheeses served with a variety of jellies and chutneys, my mouth is watering just thinking about it. It's also a good place to go have some drinks during happy hour and have a great view of the city from above.
(4)Caroline H.
I had never been here before and I was absolutely amazed at the space when we walked in. So very stylish and open...I love it! My girlfriends and I stayed in the lounge area by the bar for drinks the whole time. The bartenders were very attentive even though it was super crowded and I never had to wait more then a minute or two to be waited on. We were there during Sips so there were discount drinks available which I took advantage of since its very expensive normally. Sangria was pretty decent...not the best but good for $4! I would love to go back here to eat at some point, as the food looked very delish.
(4)Robert D.
Fine dining without draining your bank account - that is the XIX experience. What was once Founders at the Bellevue Stratford Hotel - which was the place where red velvet curtains and stuffy chairs went to die - XIX has been transformed into a clean, soothing dining room overlooking the Avenue of the Arts from its 19th floor location within the Park Hyatt Philadelphia at the Bellevue. Now, dining in the main room can still be quite expensive - but I've an offer that will make it well worth the trip to the 19th floor! BTW - to get to XIX, enter the main lobby of the Bellevue and walk past the main bank of elevators - to the left of the security desk and you'll find two elevators to your left. These place you within XIX when they open onto the 19th floor. Once you get the lay of the land, then you can just take the main bank of elevators to the 19th floor and navigate yourself to XIX. When you first enter XIX from the elevator, you are in a grand rotunda; complete with comfortable seating as well as a quaint outdoor balcony that offers a wonderful view of the city, south. This is the XIX Cafe. Then, to the right of this rotunda you'll find a hall that connects you to the OTHER rotunda, which is their main dining room. However, within the hallway is one of the best hideaway bars in the city; complete with leather chairs and a fireplace during the winter season! A great night-cap location after a night of theatre. The XIX Cafe is where you can partake in the Cafe Dinner menu - for $30 per person you get access to what I think is the 2nd best salad bar in the city (the first being Fogo de Chao). The salad bar offers a mix of greens, vegetables and several pasta dishes - along with meats and cheeses and fresh breads. You also get to select one of five entrees from the menu; including a daily fish dish, a wonderful flatbread pizza and a mouthwatering steak entree. Once you're finished your entree, you head to their dessert table - all that is needed is a chair so you never have to leave! From fresh-baked brownies, to parfaits to mini-cheesecakes - you will easily channel your favorite child character from Willie Wonka as you dive into the dessert displays. Just be grateful you don't have to walk down 19 flights of stairs afterwards! **I originally submitted this review to phillygrub.ning.com in spring 2008**
(4)Emilia M.
4.5 stars I went with my friend after receiving a $100 gift certificate to the restaurant. We decided to go on a Tuesday night, which was an interesting choice. On one hand it was nice and quiet and we had our choice of table, on the other hand it was EMPTY. No big deal though, because we sat outside on the balcony and the view was so incredible! My only regret is that I wasn't on a hot date (no offense Rachel!). Some heaters outside would also have made the balcony more enjoyable. The food was incredible. We both had salads, and my crab salad alone would have made enough for a dinner! The wine was paired very well, and the rolls were better than at most places. For dinner I had the fish stew which was very flavor-able and had a generous portion of lobster in it, which I definitely approved of! I hesitate from giving this place 5 stars because a) I wasn't digging the empty ambiance, and b) our waiter, while nice, was awkward and raggedy looking. His coat was all frayed etc. For the amount they charge for a dinner, you think they could get their waiter a coat! I'll be back! I definitely want to check out their happy hour, as all of the other reviewers have said such great things about it!
(5)Evelyn K.
Located on the 19th Floor of the Park Hyatt Bellevue Hotel. (Yes, it is part of the hotel but, like most hotel restaurants, it is open to the public.) Enter from Broad Street or the adjacent parking garage. Take the elevator from the lobby. You would never guess that this breathtaking place hides inside the building, and perched above the city on the 19th floor! Nineteen (XIX) is a gem in this city - we need more places like this in Philadelphia! One of my favorite places to get dessert. Yummy! Gorgeous decor and ambiance make this a rare find in Philadelphia. Super high ceilings - my fave! Great views of the city. Cozy yet modern / chic / upscale place to share cocktails with a date or a small group of friends. Great place to bring a date after dinner for cocktails / dessert.
(4)Joe W.
The $20 lunch deal here is awesome. I find the combination buffet and served entree to be great for business lunches and picky friends. The salads and cheeses and imported meats buffet has something for everyone and is kept fresh right up to closing. For main course, I've had the pizza, the steak, the fish, the pasta - each is perfect portion and freshly prepared. I'm addicted to that never ending ginger peach iced tea. The sugar syrup on the side is nice touch, though I don't use it. I used to sneak a couple cookies back for my office staff. Then the waitress saw it and offered me and a carry bag. Smart move - now everyone in my office knows about XIX. I haven't needed reservations yet but if they keep up this great deal, you may. Finally, check out the salt and pepper containers - so cool. I've got to get them.
(4)Patricia K.
The food was delicious. The atmosphere was quiet and beautiful. The service was phenomenal. Rasheed was our waiter and he did a fabulous job. We would highly reccomend this restaurant!
(5)brad C.
This is a review for the 2 hours I spent here for CC Sips. The Sips menu was alright on paper, with two types of Sangria, house wine, beer, and apps. First off, the place was packed to the brim for Sips. No place to sit, but we found a nice place to chill out on the balcony. I had the Sangria and wine. The red sangria was a travesty, and I'm sad that I spent 4 bucks on it. The white sangria was pretty tasty, so remember that if you go. We didn't get a chance to try the apps because of the crowd, but they looked good (sliders, calamari, etc) Brad's rating (out of 5): Drinks: 3 Price: 5 Decor: 4 (beautiful space, even nicer at night for dinner) Service: 4 Wild card: We got the last drinks at 7pm and about 1 dozen people in line behind us were cut off. Gotta love little victories
(4)Chan K.
Classy. But pricey. I'm more of a dive bar with PBR person. But I still had a great time for happy hour. Bartender was nice and made strong drinks. Not a big beer selection but the beer was great. Great view of the city. I would go back. I didn't like the out-of-towner business folks, but you can't fault the bar for that. It is in the Hyatt. Wasabi peanuts were addictive.
(4)Kristopher B.
Went here during a philadelphia restaurant week. The whole look and feel of the place is very nice. The architecture has a very grandiose ballroom appeal. In the center of the main dining room is the raw bar. The ambiance of the place is enough to go alone. The food was very well done. I liked their menu selections. This was a restaurant week special, so their menu was greatly reduced. The service was very good. They were very accommodating to our tastes. If I have the chance to go again I'll try to sit in one of the corner tables. It is said that if you sit in one of these tables you will be able to hear the conversation at the table on the other side of the room due to the way the buildings architecture is designed. They also have a cozy bar area too, but no bathroom. When I asked to point me in the direction of the restroom on the way out. The host referred me to the bathroom on the floor below. They have a private elevator within the restaurant to take you there. There are many hallways and elevators in the building to make for quite the romantic moment with a special someone. 4 stars goes to XIX
(4)Carrie E.
I've been thinking about my top dining experiences for 2008 and, after dining at XIX for dinner recently, I'm adding it to my list. We were seated in the far dining room (not the one when you first come off the elevator; although it is nice, go for the other one if you have the chance). The decor is gorgeous, there's a raw bar in the center of the room and the nighttime views are magnificent. I'm still swooning over my meal of crabcake, grilled octopus (prepare to be amazed) and duck. The bartender very kindly obliged my request for a nonalcoholic cocktail and served up a delicious virgin raspberry mojito that blew me away. And the service: ce magnifique! It was attentive without being pushy and Wilmer, one of our waitstaff, will have you cracking up throughout your dinner. I loved this - since XIX is such an upscale restaurant, it took a little of the edge off and made for a really enjoyable evening. One of my favorite parts of the night was a dessert sampling and probably the best pot of tea I've ever had in my life. The Bellevue has its own blend of tea (Bellevue Blend) that consists of different flowers. It's pink, fragrant and delicate. Much like me :) While it's obviously not a place to dine at on an everyday basis, this is one of my go-to restaurants for a fancypants experience. So if you're looking to impress someone, have a night to remember, seal the deal or all of the above, I highly suggest you make a reservation at XIX!
(5)C A.
beautiful venue in terms of architecture and the interior. wonderful date place for dinner. cute place for tea and lite fare with the ladies. the food was delicious but the prices were high. definitely the type of place to dress fancy and eat properly. My seafood dish was a bit too salty but still good. I went for a late lunch on a weekday and only 1 other table was being served. The service was pretty slow but it didn't appear that there were many staff on duty, which made sense since there weren't many customers. I am curious about what it's like for happy hour or just cocktails.
(3)Erik R.
Certain things in life aren't about the price. It does cost to have the finer things, yes. But, the experience itself is what lasts much longer than the receipt, tab, or bill. Restaurant XIX is such a place. It has an Old City authenticity that must be whetted on your palette. You want ambiance? You want 1st Class service and attention to detail? Restaurant XIX has it in aplomb. So much of an experience is also about the clientele or the company you keep. It can make the memory outstanding, like a Lunar eclipse. Restaurant XIX is fine dining at its best. Conveniently located on the 19th floor of the famed Bellevue Hotel downtown. It's the perfect hide-away for the elite. My parents and I went for restaurant week. This is a gorgeous restaurant. The dim lighting just flows up through the walls and into the ceiling. The architecture is a mix of Neo-Classicism and a bit of French Modernism. There are 4 separate areas for dining, drinking, Wine tasting, and conferencing. In the main dining hall, the rotunda and French doors look out onto the the city that is Philadelphia. The hustle and bustle of the days slip away as the luminescence rises to a warming glow. In theater beyond the 8ft chandeliers and the hanging replicas of giant Pearls is the Oyster bar. You are surrounded by silk and exquisitely upholstered furniture. These are time pieces from an era gone by. Lovely etched Pussy Willow glass adorns a semi-circular dining couch. It stands as a barrier to the kitchen and host stands. The doors themselves are delicately adorned with the same Pussy Willow curtain motif [look closely]. The whirl of the Winter wind is just a summer breeze when submerged in the panache of Restaurant XIX. The actual bar area for me was the penultimate experience. Rich in Walnut wood, housing perfectly detailed shades with coordinated trimmings. Everything about this place is an experience in interior decorating. The lightning just sunk into the room. The floors are also hard wood to meet with the very fine lounge chairs approval. There is a full bar and wine closet available. The paintings are a mix of modern abstraction and classical Renaissance. It creates the perfect symmetry from what was and what is... And what is Restaurant XIX??? It is A LA MODEEEE!
(5)BC L.
Generally, great ambience and good food. Avoid for Valentine's day, it was overpriced and we left hungry.
(3)Brian M.
Granted - it was during restaurant week... but I was left with a "meh" about XIX. Atmosphere was beautiful. Service was great. But the food seemed to be a bit overpowering. The squash soup wasn't just spicy - it was SPICY. The chicken wasn't just salty - it was SALTY. The flavors just didn't blend. Happy hour here has always been worthwhile (excellent wine list) - so I'll probably try again... but as it is I'm leaving the restaurant at three stars. If I go back I think I'll go with seafood fare - I'll bet the wet bar is good. I hear this may need to be added to my brunch list as well.
(3)Lauren Q.
XIX is like the shiny thing that you dangle in front of a baby to enable you to do other things like change her or stop her from crying. The atmosphere and views are so breathtaking that you don't mind that the food is not really that great, certainly not worth the price. My date, a staunch foodie, was really unimpressed... downright mad actually. I was doe-eyed, just staring at the architectural accents and biding my time before escaping to one of their balconies overlooking the city. Yes restaurant week is a GREAT time to go to this place, but get there early because the main dining room gets filled quickly. I have never had lunch there before, but I would imagine that is also a phenomenal way to experience XIX. Their bar seems nice enough, very masculine w/ dark wood and leather seating... it kind of makes you feel like you should be holding a cigar in one hand and a double malt scotch in the other, talking about your much-younger mistress or the state of your off-shore accounts (none of which I have).
(3)Parisa S.
Decent food (the dessert was the best part), but HORRIBLE, TACKY service. Absolutely classless. Not only was my party of 5 forced to wait 30 minutes to be seated for our reservation, but the host/management wasn't the least bit apologetic. Once finally seated, service at the table was unprofessional and practically nonexistant. Our waiter looked about 19, his suit was clearly 3 sizes too big for him, and he described the monkfish as "poor man's lobster". This kid should definitely never go into sales. Other signs of terrible service: my iced tea was never refilled - not a single time!, we waited literally 30 minutes to place our order and another 30 minutes for our 1st course to arrive, the waiter forgot about our coffee order, the list goes on... The kicker, though, was after all this horrible service, the waiter tries to claim that b/c our reservation was for 6 and we only had 5 people, they were going to charge us for the 6th person. HONESTLY?! And to bring it up while we're eating our appetizers? Totally tacky. And if you think the waitstaff is terrible, wait until you see the managers. The Park Hyatt should be embarrassed that a place like this occupies space in their hotel.
(1)Kathryn M.
Restaurant Week favorite. Center City Sips favorite. Definitely worthwhile, just be prepared for the looming bill. Make sure to try the raw bar!
(5)Dredge K.
Happy Hour (5-7) drinks are half price, that means my two drinks with tax/tip cost me only $17.50-you decide if this is a good deal. Went with three others, one commented on "how blond" the room was. If I was just out of college, working downtown, and looking for booty, this would be the place to be!
(3)Caitlin C.
They have $20 appetizers, but the food and atmosphere are well worth it. The view from this circular restaurant is incredible, and in the center of the main dining room, under the hanging pearls, is a circular raw bar that will amaze. I once got the pork chop here and was disappointed (tasteless and dry), so be careful when ordering. I'd opt for a pasta (like the Roasted Squash Ravioli with parsley pesto, pine nuts and Gruyere; $20). This is a high-class establishment with modern additions and lots of old money dine here.
(4)Kevin C.
I came here on a Saturday night quite a while ago, so long ago in fact that the entrée that I had ordered is no longer listed. Naturally, the place was packed on a Saturday night, so my party of five waited quite a while before we were seated in the main dining room, which was quite a stunning room with a grand and majestic feel to it. Upon being seated, we were told that because it was so late, we could go up to the buffet table and help ourselves to the buffet of assorted cold salads, cheeses, and cold meats. This was a nice gesture, and I gladly chowed down on a wide variety of salads, cured meats, and cheeses. My entrée of Bison Tenderloin was delicious, albeit tiny in portion size. The meat was cooked perfectly and was really tender. Finally, for dessert, we were also permitted to help ourselves to as many pastries and sweets as we pleased. By the end of the meal, I was quite full. While I thought that the food quality ranged from good to very good, the service was spot on, and I really appreciated the fact that they let us take food from the buffet spread. I haven't been back there, but I wouldn't mind making a return trip to XIX sometime in the future.
(4)Donna L.
As good as it gets!! (for restaurant week, that is) For $35 a person, for 3 person. We got: Butternut Squash Soup (so sweet, so delicious) Tempura Frog Legs (best frog legs I've had) Beet Salad (my friend said its good but I was never a beet kind of person) Roasted Quail (decent portion and taste) Monkfish (so so so good! I gobbled it all down without offering to share. It was THAT good) Perogies (pretty good, however, still perogies) Strawberry Shortcake (my friends loved this and devoured it completely) Lychee-Huckleberry Parfait (it's okay) Overall, the service and food were great for the price we paid. However, if it were full price, it would be a completely different story. Come for the view : the city looks amazing at sunset from the 19th floor.
(5)David S.
Great 3 course lunch. Everything from the wait staff to the expresso was wonderful. If you haven't had lunch here, it is a must.
(5)Marie S.
I love it! Great food with a creative menu and nice bar food. The appetizers are a bit pricey (not so for dinner) but it has a fabulous happy hour with $6 cocktails. It makes for a lovely evening if you can get there early and start with happy hour and end with dinner in one of the main dining rooms. It's in a beautiful location, the Bellview. Built in 1914, it's the oldest hotel in Philadelphia, and the architectural elements add to the atmosphere's elegance. Love the Mushroom Risotto made with local mushrooms and asparagus. The Steak and Shoe String Fries were great. And we loved the presentation (and taste) of their cheesecake.
(4)Bruce E.
Wear a suit, order scotch. Be awesome.
(3)David S.
Good food, terrible service. Went for special occasion dinner, service ruined the special occasion, didn't stay for dessert, coffee. Server, management appeared oblivious. In city with many excellent dining options, XIX-Nineteen has been crossed off our list.
(1)Greg G.
I hate to give a bad review for the place I proposed to my wife a few years ago but things have gone downhill for XIX. Two and a half years ago I proposed on the balcony of this restaurant and remember everything from her saying yes to the decor to the dinner was excellent. The decor is the same but things have changed. Atmosphere: First and foremost this restaurant is beautiful. Besides the incredible views from the 19th floor every detail is perfect. If reviews were based on looks alone, this would be 5 stars. Unfortunately they are not. Food: The last time I was here in Nov the menu was completely different. Last night I found out that since then they have a new chef and completely new menu. The menu is like a restaurant totally unsure of which direction to take. Fish and Chips next to Cioppino with a Raw Bar, a Steak, Poultry and Fish menu, and a cheeseburger. Anyway the 6 of us order. A ceasar salad that looked like it was from TGI Fridays (no anchovies on top or in the dressing?), mussels that were very tasty, jumbo shrimp that were excellent, overpriced parma ham, and a gazpacho (also ok). For dinner 3 of us had the cioppino over bucatini. The seafood on top was very good. Very fresh. The sauce was some kind of white wine and butter sauce. To call this Cioppino is a total mistake. Cioppino is a tomato based sauce. This was so laden with butter I could not eat much of the pasta because I fear what my stomach would have felt like later. The other diners had the Red Snapper (meh), the NY Strip (pretty good, but for the same price other steak houses are much better), and ahi tuna (best thing of the evening). Overall the food was ok but not worth the price. Service: Terrible! They took drink orders and got almost every persons drink mixed up (pouring martinis for the wrong guest and then trying to move it across the table without spilling), and the only drink that took no effort, the wine, was served 5 minutes after everyone else. Waiter was all over the place not know answers to questions. Dinners were served timely, however desert took so long that at one point I asked another guest if they were out finding a goat to make the goat cheese ice cream (surprisingly good). Lastly, they added a 20% gratuity because we were a party of 6. Is that why the service was terrible? Because they already knew they would get a tip? Regardless, what happened to the days of an 18% grat and I could decide if I wanted to up it to 20% or more Overall, unless something significantly changes, I can't go back again. There are too many much better options in this city.
(2)Barry G.
I have been several times...last night, however, was awful! I had to get the attention of the busser to get a refill and the check. The female server was unprofessional and unappealing. I will not spend another dollar there.
(2)Kelly S.
3.5 stars for the food 2 for the view 6 for the service The food was good but not as amazing for such a pricey restaurant. However, XIX sure makes a banging butternut squash soup. My friend claimed that the monkfish was amazing. The tenderloin I had was soft but had a slightly burnt skin. Dessert was quite good though. The chocolate cake was super thick and espresso-y tasting. The lemon lycee parfait was funny at first but after the first couple of bites - delicious. The view wasn't spectacular but that may have been because of where we were sitting. The service earns this place its four stars. The waiters and waitresses were quite attentive and extremely pleasant!
(4)Elizabeth B.
This is a very classy place and I felt a little classy showing my face in here. It's true. I came during the 5-7p happy hour, lured by the half price cocktails. The cocktails are delish, that's for sure. Worth the price, even at half price? Um... maybe. They do have some surprising concoctions. We ordered our drinks at the bar and then snagged a table (it is very crowded at happy hour). The bartender informed us that the tables are waitress service only ... however, in the 1.5 hours we were there, I saw neither hide nor hair of any waitress. Alas, the last diners' leftover dishes remained on the table for the duration which was unpleasant to say the least. Would I come back? Probably, because it's a very nice setting with a nice view (I am a sucker for a view) and unusual cocktails. I wouldn't expect to have poor service every time ... I am giving 19 the benefit of the doubt.
(3)Rebecca C.
This review is ONLY for the $20 Prix Fixe Cafe Lunch. I have only had a couple of drinks at XIX and never eaten dinner here. I have been XIX for lunch twice since I discovered the Prix Fixe Cafe Lunch option on their website. I had been there for drinks before, so I knew that it was quite a handsome place, and I'm glad I gave it a try. The atmosphere here is classy and peaceful-- I feel like I'm waiting for Betty Draper to walk by at any moment! My mom and sister were very impressed when we went out for a birthday lunch in the spring, so I returned with a couple of friends from out of town last week with the same outcome. Though I think that it would be hard not to enjoy lunch at a place like XIX simply because it is so beautiful, I'm sure it's possible. However, they set the bar as high for food-- even lunch-- as for decor. For the first course, in addition to fresh, hot rolls on each table, several delicious (and some non-traditional) cold pasta, salad, vegetable, cheese and cold meat options are beautifully laid out on half of a huge, round table in the center of the dining room. Honestly, I would be happy enough if that was ALL there was to lunch here! The second course options my party chose most recently were the steak, mahi-mahi, and pasta with chicken. The steak was cooked a little more than medium, but was still great, as were both of the other dishes-- flavorful yet simple; large enough to share, but small enough to save room for the third course. A panini and pizza were also offered as second-course options. For the third course, the other half of the cafe table is laid out with a mini-dessert spread that rivals most wedding receptions I've attended. Mini blackberry pies, rich chocolate mousse, and fresh berries with homemade whipped cream and ladyfingers are just a couple of my personal favorites from this course, and are a perfect ending to a fabulous meal. This is now my number one go-to place when I want to impress a guest with a wonderful lunch. And at only $20? My vote for best leisurely lunch spot in the city.
(5)Anna Marie C.
i have yet to eat here, but i do have to say that this is one of my favorite spots for center city sips. why, you ask? it's shwanky. for reals. the bar is beautiful, there's an outdoor area, and you get to look over philadelphia. the specials rock. the $1 sliders are to die for. be careful to not eat too many. and people are, for the most part, pretty. and it's not so crowded that you won't get served. et voila!
(5)Jill T.
Wow, was I too quick to review originally. My husband and I decided we would return to XIX for dinner, after having a great experience in their bar earlier in the summer. We made a reservation for 8:30 and arrived early to have a cocktail before dinner. The bartender was less than friendly, but was efficient and had our cocktails ready very quickly- Raspberry Pepper cocktail is still stellar, but the rest of our experience was not. We were a 1/2 hour early for our reservation, and we were happy to wait at the bar, but they insisted on seating us early. Not a problem. we have a seat and 5 minutes go by, 10 minutes, then 20 minutes and not a single person had been over to greet us. While in the bar we did notice that there was a wedding going on, but the dining room was not that crowded. We're looking around- there is waitstaff everywhere, but no one to wait on us. My husband finally got a hold of someone (a hostess) who took our drink order, then was MIA for 15 more minutes. Then we got a hold of another person- a manager - who got us some water and retrieved our drinks. The hostess returned again about 10 minutes later to take our order. So 40/45 minutes into our dining experience we still do not have an actual server. Color me crazy, but 40 minutes in shouldn't we have had a server? Our food came out relatively quickly after placing the order, but with that being said- my husband's "Medium" steak was about as rare as it could possibly get. No one came by to check to see if we were OK, so he ate the edges that were cooked and left the center. 20 minutes after we had finished eating was the first time we were able to get someone to check in on us, and it was only to clear our plates. At which point they said "how was everything?" and my husband explained he had ordered a Medium steak and received a steak that bled all over his mashed potatoes instead. (I'm not kidding about that, my husband loves mashed potatoes, but could not eat them because they were covered in bloody steak juice, it was gross) At this point the manager says "Oh, do you want me to make you a new one?" Are you kidding me? No we don't want a new one! Thankfully they did take that off of the bill. I had the shrimp scampi, which was actually pretty good, but the shrimp were over cooked. I also had a really bad taste in my mouth considering the horrible service. I will say that when we did have someone attend to us they were very nice, but at no point in the meal did we ever have an actual server. It was the manager and the hostess tending to us, and not well. Considering it's not really their job to wait tables I can somewhat understand why they weren't very good at it. The fact that between the two of us we were going to be spending well over $100 I expect the service to be top notch. You cannot charge the kind of money they charge for second rate service. I've had better service in Red Robin, where my bill comes to under $20. What are the inflated prices for? Surely not the overall dining experience, and the food was lackluster at best. The best part of the evening were our cocktails, which we couldn't even enjoy thoroughly because they were too busy trying to seat us early! I recommend this place for the bar, and the bar only! The cocktail waitresses are sweethearts- so be sure you get a seat as opposed to sitting at the bar- because the bartender has an attitude problem. Do not waste your money on dinner here when the city of Philadelphia has so many wonderful restaurants with fantastic service- such as Barclay Prime (or anywhere else for that matter).
(2)Emily D.
I don't claim to be a fancy-pants. but think i can now that i've gone to XIX. so, please, when you address me from now on, call me Fancy-Pants. i'll explain... i went to XIX for happy hour one evening with two of my favorite girls. i got some herby cocktail at half price. it was DELICIOUS. and most importantly, it was served with care......and maybe even in a golden goblet...i can't remember. you know, i didn't look rich, YET i was treated as if i was by the host and the waiter. maybe i'm easily charmed by well-paid-service that i mistake for chivalry.....actually, i probably am. but thank you for indulging me and making me feel rich for one happy, glorious hour. a round of 4 stars...on Fancy Pants!
(4)Katy D.
No way will I ever come back here. The service was unacceptable. (The food actually was decent, so my apologies to the chef for this bad review). The tables were also terribly awkward. The whole proportion of seat to table was completely off. I felt like I was at home eating on the couch with a coffee table. First, I hate it when servers say "I'll be your server tonight." Duh. It's obvious. This particular server then looked like an idiot because he disappeared for the rest of our evening and someone else ended up serving us. We waited 10 minutes to even get menus, 10 minutes for water, 15 minutes or more for drinks, which came AFTER our appetizers. With each course, we were missing necessary silverware - spoons, forks. I had my main course in front of me for a couple minutes before someone checked on us to see if we needed something. Yes! A fork! Like 2 minutes ago I needed a fork! We had to "claim" our plates since the servers/runners obviously had trouble remembering what each person order, which I find inappropriate in a supposedly "fine dining" establishment. Last, the waiter apologized for the many waits we had throughout the evening right as he handed us the bill. Classy. It was one of those times I wish I was not a nice person and would tip less than 20%. But I always tip 20%. I will not be coming back to Nineteen.
(1)Abby I.
Gorgeous gorgeous restaurant. The point of this restaurant is the great view right (and food)? My friend and I got seated at a table with absolutely no view of the city. How unfortunate. On top of that, the seats are placed very close together so that the couples next to us were listening in to our conversation. I also didn't understand why the hostess seated other people around us when there were clearly other vacant tables inside of the restaurant. Lychee mandarin martini was good. I had the Hudson Valley Foie Gras...is there a such thing as over doing foie gras? If there is XIX made it happen. Did not like this at all. Le Bec Fin still wins for best foie gras. My friend ordered the roasted baby beets salad and that was DELICIOUS. Nantucket Bay Scallops were a clear winner along with the Braised Rabbit Bolognese. Dessert was the best. Chocolate Pecan Pie (very rich in taste) and the Toffee Banana Waffle (just perfect). Probably wouldn't go back again just because I was annoyed of the terrible seating decisions. (And also the elevator to get to the restaurant is a bit...dated. You'll see.)
(3)Liz N.
One of the best places to take someone special. Food was as expected. The ambiance is really what you're there for.
(4)Kaitlin L.
I just got back from a lunch here and I sadly have to say, I was pretty underwhelmed. The decor is nice but a little stuffy, and the seating format was a bit odd. I spent my entire lunch staring at the host and hostess, kind of uncomfortable. It is a pre-fixe menu, so you get an assortment of salads and such, an entree, and an assortment of desserts for $20. I liked the idea of a buffet style setting for apps and desserts but for the most part, nothing was something to write home about. The exception would be a white chocolate parfait I had which was quite good. I ordered a portabella mushroom panini with pesto and broccolini. It ended up having very little mushroom at all, the bread was a bit burnt, and it wasn't seasoned well, if at all. Sad. I could get a much better panini, salad, and coffee from Naked Chocolate for $7. This place really wasn't worth it. Also, service was surprisingly terrible. After finishing our meal, we waited 20+ minutes for her to come by and then yet another 10 minutes for her to come back with our cards. Needless to say, you won't be finding me at XIX any time soon.
(2)itasha c.
Okay so I am a fan.. so coming again. This place is beautiful something to definitely go out on a date to.. Or just grab a cocktail and mingle.
(5)Elaine L.
My husband and I were celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary with our children and decided to go to XIX and it was wonderful. It was a warm July evening and they had the windows open to let in the fresh air which was wonderful. Our server Max was great. Very helpful and funny. The food and drinks were great. I would recommend it for any occasion.
(5)N P.
XIX is like meeting a Brad Pitt look-alike only to discover what a douchebag he is and wanting to get away ASAP! XIX is all about the aesthetics and nothing else to offer in terms of good food. The waiter recommended a dish that was basically breaded chicken breast with no seasoning served with fries and ranch dipping sauce. Of all the things on the menu he picked this bland and mushy dish. Maybe he does not like to eat in general. The $10 onion soup was very salty. The pasta dish also too salty and was like chewing on shoestrings and the seafood was overcooked. The food does not match up with the price or atmosphere. Why are they serving Denny's style food in such a nice setting?? Not all the great ambiance in the world would bring me back to this place.
(1)Ken C.
Excellent happy hour at the bar. The dining is in a beautiful room and the food is excellent. The wait staff can suggest some great entrees. Had dinner there three times over the past two years and each time was a memorable event. The only thing that I would change is that when you come off the elevator you sort of wonder where to go. Even when you into the restaurant the has not been someone there to greet us the last two times. Once they see you though and know that you are there for dinner the invite you right in. Have dinner here and enjoy the evening. Come to the bar during the week for happy hour.
(5)Jenn W.
Went there Sat night, wasn't able to get into homegrown Yelp party, but was probably full.So my 2 friend's have ventured there before.We set out, Parking alone was Hell!! Weather was nice, so everyone & their grandmother was out.Finally after 20-25 min found spot, still had to wait for others find parking. We all went in, nice , for cocktail's & maybe snacks. Not for dinner or anything crazy, it is at the Bellvue on Broad. What do you expect, high crust, but nicer more laid back lounge , to sit * chat, not to crazy like the other bar scenes. But nice change to just go out.Not one to keep going, little on pricier side, got Blueberry gimlet, nice but most drinks start at $12.00
(3)Tina N.
This place is gorgeous with an amazing view. I asked if we could sit outside for dinner and although the dining outdoor area was full, they accommodated us and arranged for us to sit in the outdoor cafe area. I'm not sure if the dining area would have been nicer but it wasn't too shabby where we were. The food was nicely presented and well done. I order the Alaskan Halibut and my friend had the Club Steak. Both dishes were good but it's still Fish and Steak. Their menu isn't very vast or impressive but I think like Water Works, they're selling the experience, not just the food. All in all though, the bill came out to only about $90 for the two of us, and that included 2 glass of wine, 2 glasses of IPA, a shared appetizer and two entrees. I still think their was a mistake on the bill but I didn't question it at the time. Good date place to go if you want to impress, but for food....there's a 5 Guys Burger down the street.
(3)Kelly G.
Went here again recently for the same lunch special - this time we sat outside for the whole meal. Some of the desserts werent as great as others, but most hit the spot. Also the service was a little less "on". Then I got a double espresso & found on the bill it was $6.50. Eeks that seemed high. All in all, though, I will be back. You really cant beat the ambiance & food for the $.
(4)Erin A.
I really dug it. My husband I went during restaurant week and they did an excellent job with the options. It was less expensive cuts but larger portions than some resto week menus. The atmosphere is awesome! Such a cool old building and neat renovation. The raw bar is cool. We have been there for cocktails a few times too and the bar is very cool. They have carafes of house wine which is a great inexpensive option for a few people. Last time we went they were no longer listed but still had them when we asked.
(4)Kit-N-Debbie W.
After cocktails in XIX lounge area with majestic views and comfortable fireplace, we found it a "Must" to come back for dinner. We had our Christmas dinner last night and can only describe it as a great experience. The room, a dome shape, with pearls hanging down, felt like we were ready for New Years Eve. Even though busy, our server George gave us outstanding service. The dinner, for the city, reasonably priced, large selection of wine by the glass. Highly recommend the cheese plate, a large selection as well. Entrees, delicious. A nice surprise that they were available in small plates or a larger share size. What a wonderful experience. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Mr S.
We came here for a nightcap after an amazing show at the Kimmel Center. Let me quell the concerns about the tables and seating. if you are coming here for a meal then eat in the restaurant. It sounds like the bad reviews are for the lounge. The lounge, like most lounges are not setup to accommodate a meal. Small/low tables, small seats. That being said, we had the cheese platter which was wonderful, the Bolivia chocolate something-something (chocolate-y goodness) and the cheesecake(no joke) in a mason jar with huckleberries and Philadelphia cream cheese that had the consistency of whipped cream(sweet). My old-fashion was off a bit and the bartender comped another one. Also had Glenlivet 21 which tasted more like 18, but I didn't watch him pour it. Lastly, the seating layout by the windows isn't the best. The seating is set facing the window similar to a bar but it is for two or more people. This means, if you want to look out the window your back is to the "scene" and no people watching, which I hate. They should give everything on the window wall a half turn so your profile faces the window. Anyway, we sat in the gentlemen chairs along the entrance wall. which have higher tables and give s a good view of the room and to a lesser extent the windows. Lastly, the full spectrum of ages were represented there. So there were jeans present. Jeans and sneakers, Jeans with shows and blazer, jeans cocktail, jeans gumbo, baseball hats a la why? Then the trophy wife with "how the hell did he get her, oh the money" husband, as well as the aging trophy wife christened "blowup-wife" because of all the plastic surgery. Then there's me Mr. love-it-all, hate-it-all, and know-it-all. Final thoughts? Eh. It's ok.
(3)M P.
The other reviews mostly cover it, but I wanted to add some advice. The best times to come to XIX are: 1) restaurant week (mid-January), 2) center city sips (summer) or 3) when the weather is beautiful and you can get there early enough to get a spot on the balcony. The atmosphere is always fun, but even more so during special events like Sips or restaurant week. The views from the balcony are amazing, though you don't see them most of the year when the weather is bad and the windows are closed.
(4)Vinh T.
great for lunch :D only $20 bucks include: entree, salads and dessert buffet + drink of choice (pepsi or iced tea). great view + great ambiance pls reserve for a table lunch (11:30 to 2:00 from mon to fri)
(4)Thuy F.
went here for restaurant week w my boyfriend. i got the crab cake, steak, and toffee pudding. my bf had the same thing except for appetizers he chose the tomato heirloom salad. the appetizers and desserts were delicious!! the steak was just ok.... not something i would come back for. becuz of the way the room was, during my 2 hr dinner i heard the whole conversation from a man across the room, can u say annoying? for drinks i wanted the lychee kiss, but later was informed they ran out of lychee and i had to get something else. i turned to rubytini hoping it'll wow me... BLAHHHH, disgusting. a waste of $12
(3)Gina H.
It is a beautiful restaurant, no one in our party of 6 disagreed on that point, but we all felt it was overpriced for the portions served. The food was good, just not spectacular like the ambiance of the restaurant. Though there were moments of genius like the pickled peppers that accompanied the Skate. The braised short ribs were good, but the two men at the table who ordered them felt that they could easily eat a double portion, and one even felt is was like an appetizer plate. And it was clear that mushroom risotto appetizer was more filling than the short ribs. As with the food, the service was good -- just not spectacular. Our server was polite but not highly knowledgeable about the menu and just kept telling us "everything is good." We are experienced diners and prefer suggestions from the staff on what is truly good vs. what is just fine. Obviously the food in this place was going to be "good" but we really wanted to find out what was exceptional, and like the service, nothing really was. Don't let me steer you away, all in all it was a lovely dinner, the staff was perfectly respectable, just wished it had a little more sparkle. I will definitely go back because the setting is incredible and I can't wait for the weather to get warmer so I can visit the outside balcony, I just will focus on the drinks -- especially the pomegranate basil margarita, very delicious -- and the appetizers.
(3)Mike N.
I was looking for a somewhat swanky place for a drink or two before closing time and a friend suggested XIX. It was exactly what we were looking for. Seems like a great place for a pre or post dinner drink.
(4)E. J.
Come here if you want to dine with a view of Philadelphia. This is THE place. I also hear that lunch and happy hour are good, but I went during Restaurant Week and the meal itself was ok, not outstanding. Our waiter was not particularly gregarious -- seemed distracted the entire evening especially since I had to request for more water on more than one occasion. 1st: raw oysters on the half shell 2nd: porkchop 3rd: pineapple prepared three different ways. Again, Id return, but only for the view.
(3)Heather R.
I made my reservations through OpenTable well over a month ago. I stated it was a birthday and would like a window table due to the special occasion. Upon arrival they seated us at the banquet on the right side of the restaurant. This is a perfectly acceptable seat, but not what I had requested. I am a reasonable person, and realize that requests cannot always be fulfilled. However, the restaurant was at around 40-60% full at all times. When I was seated there was at least two window tables empty that I could see. When a restaurant bill can come between $200-300 for two people, I expect a phone call from the reservation/host staff ahead of time explaining that my request has been noted but cannot be fulfilled for that evening. Instead I get to walk in on my birthday, to be seated at a table I do not want.......with no apology or explanation from the hostess. My dining partner spoke up as she seated us, and the hostess said she was sorry there were no tables available. I would have loved to hear "Let me see what I can do." or something a little more proactive to make me happy, even if in the end after she tried there was nothing she could do. I watched the other two tables that were empty. About 40 minutes after being there I watched a hostess walk into the room with a couple, and visually scan the restaurant then slowly walk them to the two seater I had my eye on., That does not give me the impression these people had specifically requested that table. There is no way of me knowing that obviously. But it would definitely leave one with that impression. She walked into the room acting like she was in the process of deciding where to put them. Thank goodness for our server. We had Jesse and he was extremely professional and took care of us. He was very attentive and acted like he cared we were there. I appreciated that since it isn't always the feeling you get when you go out nowadays. I thought all the food was great. I found the pricing to be fair. We had eaten here when it was Founders around 5 years ago. The room is still gorgeous and the new remodel does the architecture justice. We had some issues leaving the building. The sky bridge that connects the hotel to the parking garage has a door that sticks. Like, REALLY sticks. We were trying to leave and it felt like the door was locked. We had to call the hotel from our cell phone and they said they would have security come up. No one showed, I went down to the desk near the elevators and was completely ignored by a woman writing on a clipboard for probably 3-5 minutes straight. My friend came down and signaled to me that the door was now open. No one from security had shown up, and this woman never acknowledged I was there. Very odd. We went back up to the door to find another couple (Ironically, the couple who had gotten the table I wanted). They were struggling with the door and thought they were locked in as well. My friend showed them what someone else who had just been through showed her, that you basically have to body slam the door to get it to open. From the car I had called the hotel to explain that we were kind of locked in, and ignored. I got a dismissive "The hotel does not own the parking garage and" blah blah blah. He didn't really care. Perhaps if the security staff is not paid by the hotel, the hotel should ensure that they treat any hotel or restaurant guests well. Perhaps they should also make sure that doors inside the hotel that lead to the garage are in working order. I was completely irritated last night over this. I am not going to hold it against XIX as I did last night even though as a guest I wish they would be more helpful regardless of who owns what. In conclusion, dinner was great. Our server saved the evening for me. I am not sure I would go back. I may, but it is not high on the priority list given some of the issues I described above. There are so many great places in Philly to try and I am having a hard time with the hostess not caring about my special request on my birthday.
(4)Sahara M.
The Cafe part of XIX has an awesome prix fix lunch deal. For $20 you get three courses... there is a buffet with salads, cured meats and cheeses, an entree that is served to you, and another buffet with several amazing desserts. All of this in a spectacular setting makes for a very special afternoon that won't break the bank.
(5)Ray D.
This place has some sentimental value to me but aside from that it doesn't really matter to me if I go back or not. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed my food and time there, but I didn't leave wondering when I'd be back. The dining room is beautiful, the menu is solid, but the whole feel associated with eating in a hotel is a turn-off. Also, the crowd was a weird mix. There were the 70 yoa former Bookbinder's customers, the hotel guests wearing cargo shorts and flip flops, people in suits, and everyone else. Keep in mind that the dining room and overall ambiance are pretty fancy here. I think happy hour is probably a different story. It was winding down when I got there and the bar looked pretty happening. I think a few drinks at the bar and maybe some selections from the raw bar might have been more enjoyable than dinner.
(3)Ben H.
Awesome venue with a great view if it's nice enough to sit outside. Inside there is a great area with a fireplace and bar, and the main dining area is laid out. This is a nice spot to take a date that you're looking to impress. The food is really good and surprisingly reasonable in terms of price. Recommend the calamari, which is fried in the lightest, tastiest batter I've had. The service was also really good.
(4)C K.
Excellent food for a reasonable price. I had the lobster club, which was delicious. The dining environment is spectacular. For such a classy/fancy looking place, it is quite cheap compared to other restaurants. The service was excellent.
(5)Viet N.
Great service and ambiance. Desserts were definitely lacking. Food was okay but nothing that stood out. Great scenery, very romantic if y'all taking a significant other out.
(4)Nicole R.
Located on the 19th Floor of the Hyatt Hotel, Nineteen is an upscale hotel bar and restaurant. You wouldn't know it from the service though. I went to Nineteen with a few people to grab a cocktail. While the Chopin on the rocks I ordered may have been the largest ever, it took us forever to get the attention of the "bartenders." I use the two-finger quote things because I don't believe these ladies had ever tended bar before. The music was obnoxious dancey house music but I know there are people who like that sort of thing. Plusses: Spiffy wine collection display, great view, large alcohol portions (at least if you manage to get a bartender who doesn't know what she's pouring). Minuses: Crap service and music. I can't make any comment on the food since we only went for the drink.
(2)Stephanie B.
This is my first review on Yelp and sadly I have to give what used to be one of my very favorite happy hour spots one star. I have been coming to XIX for happy hour for years and I have always loved it. It has a relaxed vibe, its beautiful, and has great bar food. I went today to celebrate a friends birthday with a few drinks before venturing out into the city's nightlife and was greeted by a mouse in the lounge area! Totally unacceptable for a place of its caliber and reputation. Get an exterminator please!!!
(1)Naomi B.
I made a reservation on Saturday (11/01/2014) and my experience was awful and to be quite honest, disappointing for this kind of establishment. I've experienced better service at a food truck. I was celebrating a special night, only to have it ruined by the lack of service. We were seated by smiling hostess (hence why I'm giving this two stars, rather than one) but when we were given menus, it took 20 minutes for our DRINKS to be brought to us. 20 MINUTES for drinks? Are you kidding me? I've worked in the service industry, for a shiraz and a dogfish beer, it shouldn't of taken that long. My friend and I were being patient, only to be ignored and not even checked up on by our server. He went to every other table around us, even next to us -- but god forbid checking up on us. We were a party of two, how hard could that be? It was a forty five minute wait all together for two dishes. Being the generous person I am, rather than not tipping; I still did. The night was ruined and left a foul taste in my mouth, so thank you so much XIX.
(2)Svetlana G.
The 1 star is for service alone. While the venue and the food I would give 5 stars. I have never written a review about any restaurants but I will make an exception with my recent visit to XIX for my fiancé's bday brunch. First, I would like to just point out that the food was delicious and I don't have any complaints about it. Also the restaurant itself is beautiful inside. However, I'm furious and disappointed about the service of our waitress and the hostess. I called 3 times to make sure that we will get a window table and to make make sure that they will bring out some kind of bday dessert which I also asked if I need to pay for and was told its complimentary. I specifically called 15min before arrival to make sure everything will be done. When we arrived the hostess took us to a table not next to the window when there was an open table next to the window, so we asked to sit there. The hostess answered that that's a table for 4 even though it can be separated but I insisted to be sat there so we were. Since the brunch appetizers are buffet style my fiancé went to get some while I looked over the entrees and the drinks to order. He came back and our waitress still didn't come over to introduce herself and ask for drinks. After 15 min she just comes over to pour some coffee and leaves. I later find her and give her an order for our drinks and entrees. She again disappears and we don't see her anymore. The entrees were brought out without taking away the appetizers plates so we just put the empty plates on the table next to us. My fiancé finished his drink our waitress never came up to ask if he wants another one. We slowly get done with entrees and go to get the desert which is also buffet style. When we come back my entree plate still on the table so I move it myself to an empty table next to us. We slowly eat desert and I'm waiting for our waitress to come up with the bday desert and she is nowhere in site. We go to the restroom and I'm trying to take my time hoping that our waitress will see that we are about finished eating desert so she can bring out the bday desert. Unfortunately, when we came back our empty plates were not take away again. So we sat for 15 min more and just flagged down a different waitress to give us our check and I asked for our waitress and if maybe our waitress forgot something. We pay and even though the service was horrific I left 10% tip which I never do the least I have ever left was probably 18%. On the way out we see our waitress bringing out the bday desert so I told her it was too late and we keep on walking. I left very disappointed about the service it's very unfortunate that such a beautiful restaurant with delicious food can not properly make sure the service that's provided by all their staff is on the same level as the restaurant itself. And obviously I am not speaking about all the servers there because other ones we talked to helped us unfortunately the one we got needs to do her job better. I was extremely furious and angry by the experience I received. Some of my girlfriends who have not been to this restaurant asked me to give them feedback after I go and as stated before the restaurant is only good as service they provide.... Needless to say I will not be raving about this restaurant.
(1)Sally f.
yeah it was classy. the server was very good and the food was pricy but delish. i would def. go back, but like others said im more into the dive bar scene. i couldnt help but fantasize about my wedding in this place. it was so beautiful inside. and great views. and it smelled really good.
(4)Lauren H.
So went back for cocktails in front of the fire. It turns out to be a gas fireplace. It, along with the douchbags at the bar, managed to suck all the air out of the room. Now we know and we don't need to go back.
(2)Justin B.
XIX is the epitome of culinary perfection. The ambience that fills the 19th floor is breathtaking. From the large chandeliers to the terrific views of the city, greatness is what you'll find at XIX. This would be a perfect spot to bring that special someone whether it's a 1st date or an Anniversary. The last time I dined I had the Filet which I asked to be prepared medium. It was cooked perfectly and was like a buttery velvety piece of deliciousness. If velvety is a word... which I believe it is :) The portions were just right and the drinks were also tasty. I'd recommend this place to anyone who likes fine dining.
(5)Chigger L.
Love this place. The Chef nails it every single time we're there! The Venison and the Braised short rib.....whaaaaaaat????
(5)jay l.
Surprisingly ghetto. The server "Floyd" seemed bored and detached. Not sure about the cocktail pyrotechnics cuz 5 minutes later it still smells like sulfur. Oh and btw if I'm paying $10 for a beer I wanna freaking glass. It really is hard to find good help these days.
(2)Monica Q.
The food is okay at best. Service was good and ambiance was nice but not worth the price of the check. Maybe my expectations were high but I was fairly unimpressed with the food. If you care more about the looks of the place, this is a great place to impress, but if you're a foodie, skip this place. The incredible view of the city is blocked by curtains and decor. If you're lucky enough to sit next to the window, you'll catch a glimpse. Otherwise- you might only see it on the way to your table, like I did. It was pretty though...
(2)Crystal C.
Not impressed! Entree options were limited due to it being Restaurant Week. The service was okay, no complaints or kudos. I will go back during Brunch to see the Philadelphia skyline and give them a second chance to wow me.
(3)Brittany E.
Went here in the summer for an anniversary dinner. Parking was slightly hard to find, but once we got up to the 19th floor the staff was great, polite and attentive. Food was delicious and the view was amazing. They were so accomodating to our requests, took pictures for us, and even gave us complimentary champagne to celebrate. Overall very pleased with our experience here and sure to go back!
(5)Sammiyah Sunflower T.
We came out for restaurant week and enjoyed everything... great for date night or ladies night out..... cocktails for happy hour 6 dollars.... get the lychee kiss. It comes with the lychee in it delicious. Had the watermelon gazpacho soup with a touch of jalapeno just the right spice. The grilled salmon with crab meat and potatoes and asparagus whatever sauce it was amazing. The desert trio more than delicious. Great outdoor seating you can see the whole city. Come around sunset and it's truly a romantic experience. The staff what can I say they were perfect always attending to our needs so friendly and open and helpful. Our waiter even suggested for us to take a picture on the balcony so beautiful.
(5)Rebecca O.
Worst thanksgiving dinner ever. Abysmal. I'm so embarrassed to have brought guests here, I don't know if I'll ever recover. Juvenile, unsophisticated waitstaff, complete inability to manage flow of traffic or even simple reservations. Food was awful - dry turkey, no mashed potatoes, no sweet potatoes, soggy Brussel sprouts. I'm so furious.
(1)Steve W.
Went to XIX for drinks and a quick bite. You can reach XIX via the shops at Bellevue or the Hyatt. You've probably guessed, its located on the 19th floor. Once off the elevator it seems you've gotten off on an abandoned floor. Wonder around a bit and you'll eventually find the restaurant, the bar is just a little farther in. The bar has tall ceilings, paintings on the wall, seats by a window or the fireplace, very nice ambiance. The food at the bar is pretty good. Had the flatbread, which was very good and the oysters which were fresh. Great selection of speciality drinks available and decent wines by the glass. The prices are a little on the high side but worth it for the quality.
(4)Shirlana D.
I always enjoy going here for lunch. Upon entrance the host or hostess always greets me with a smile & a warm welcome. The variety of food provided at the salad bar is delectable. The pasta salad and couscous salad is divine. The lunch meat & cheese tray is always tasty. The desserts are heavenly. There is always hot bread served to your table with warm butter. The laid back environment is refreshing. Whether it is restaurant week or lunch with friends, you are provided sufficient time to dine. Staff has never rushed me out, even if we are meandering a little longer than normal. This place is a must try, if it's not on your list already, please add it to your rotation. Trust me, your pallet will appreciate it.
(4)Laura G.
I came in for my birthday on Tuesday. Upon arrival they actually put another party in our seats but luckily there was another table available next to the balcony. Unfortunately they weren't opening the balcony because it was too hot. There were probably only 5-6 other parties in the restaurant. The dining room is honestly exquisite which you can probably see in many photos. I started with the lychee kiss and we also ordered a bottle of wine. Our waiter came by to fill our glasses when they would start to reach the low end. We started with the lobster risotto and the meat & cheese tasting. The lobster risotto was well worth the price. There were large pieces of lobster throughout as well as the full claw served on top. It was very moist with all of the flavors complimenting each other. This was also plenty for the two of us. The meat & cheese plate was delicious as well. Next I ordered the diver scallops. This dish is definitely on the less filling end, so I suggest getting an appetizer, although the scallops are fairly large. The pomelo grapefruit really made this so wonderful. It tasted so fresh, both savory and sweet. I'm also a sucker for chimichurri which made this an easy pick. He ordered the ribeye which was also great. The carrots that came with it were to die for. Lastly was dessert. At this point they opened the balcony so we switched tables and ordered some more wine. I had some sort of banana chocolate truffle cake. If you're a chocolate fan, definitely go for this one. I was nervous based on the mix of reviews but I couldn't have enjoyed my experience anymore. This is a great restaurant to visit for any type of celebration.
(5)Sari A.
Classic and charming ambiance- floor to ceiling windows for a city breathtaking view . The bar lounges are romantic at night if you want to impress ;) upscale weekend brunch. Dinner is great and the portions are perfect. Four Yelps!
(4)Matt C.
XIX is kind of weird. There are rooms off to the side that are full of super fancy crystals and others with mad old people and bowls of ice and then a dark, little cave section with a bar, then a super bright dining room with chandeliers and champagne flutes. It gives the whole place an, "Eyes Wide Shut," party vibe. We just went for a friends birthday and wound up just sitting and sipping scotch in the dark middle section. Nothing earth shattering, but XIX at least LOOKS very nice. I can't speak on the food or service, as we didn't eat anything and ran to the bar to get our drinks. I might be back to give the cuisine a go, at which point I'll update accordingly.
(3)Kat S.
[CENTER CITY RESTAURANT WEEK] Some friends of mine came here for dinner last week. I made a reservation for 8pm, as our one friend gets off work late. When we arrived we asked for a table on the balcony, but all were full. This wasn't a problem, as we sat at the bar and grabbed some delicious cocktails while we waited (about 20 mins). All of us loved the drinks we ordered and the bartender was extremely friendly. We were seated on the North Balcony, by that time the sun was setting and we had an absolutely amazing view. It took a little bit for a server to come over to us and when he did, it took even longer for him to come back to take our order. By the time we ordered our food, they had already sold out of the Pot Belly and Mussels appetizer and they were not offering any substitutions. That was a major disappointment. I got the Heirloom Tomato Salad and my friends got the Watermelon Gazpacho. My salad was OK, nothing to rave about. The gazpacho was delicious and I was jealous I did not choose that. For our entrees, I got the pasta dish with mushrooms and black garlic while my friends got the duck and steak dishes. All our dishes were good, again, nothing extraordinary. At one point my friend did order another drink and it took about 10 minutes for it to arrive. The dessert was very small and basically bite size samples of their main dishes. On a side note, halfway during our meal my friend told me not to look down and I did... to find a gigantic cockroach on the wall next to my seat. It was crawling around the window pane next to our table. We told our server and he came to try and swat it away, unsuccessfully. I get it, we're in the city and there are cockroaches around (even if you don't see them), this was just a bit of a turn-off. Overall it was an OK experience for me. The service was friendly, albeit a little slow. The cocktails were delicious! The food was ok. But the atmosphere and views were stellar. I would come back for a special event, not necessarily a date night or night out with friends.
(3)Suji K.
*Restaurant Week 2015* So, the food and service were just good. Nothing mind blowing or particularly memorable (dessert trio was a bit tooo simple..), but nothing to complain about, either. But, honestly, you're not here to have the best thing you ever ate. You're here to feel particularly special. Swanky; maybe romantic, depending on your company. And that's completely acceptable. So grab a drink (Lychee Kiss?) and dine in high class. Literally.
(4)Joycelin W.
I came with a group of nineteen (totally not planned) for Restaurant Week dinner last week. Overall impression--good food, great service, really beautiful and classy ambience. 3.5 stars! I love mussels (and pretty much any shellfish), so I ordered that to start. The white wine sauce wasn't my favorite and it was pretty bland, but I appreciated the generous portion size! The mussels were also cooked really well. Just wish there was a little more seasoning and flavor. I got the flat iron steak for my main course which was cooked perfectly (I asked for medium rare--it's the only way to go IMO!). This came with grilled carrots (pretty good), potatoes and caramelized onions (very savory and yummy, albeit a little greasy and heavy). The dessert trio consisted of a strawberry pistachio cake, chocolate banana truffle and fruit tart. All three were good but nothing too special. XIX is one of those restaurants that I would return to only for the breathtaking views and atmosphere. You definitely feel special here. The food isn't bad but I don't think I'd be missing out on too much if I never came back again.
(4)Sneha K.
I went to XIX Nineteen for restaurant week with a couple of friends. It was a great occasion to get dressed up and the food was delicious but the service threw us off. When we were giving the waiter our order, the waiter told me not to order what I was going to order and told me to order something else instead. When I asked for the Paella without the Chorizo (I don't eat pork), he said it would cost me $10 extra. I understand that he was trying to make a joke but it didn't come across too well. I eventually went with the Crab and Spinach Crostini to start with, the Paella for the main course and the Flourless Chocolate Cake for dessert. The food was very high quality. However, the service between each meal was extremely slow and our meal took a total of 2.5 hours! The place wasn't even crowded enough to warrant that kind of slow service. The place is beautiful and the view is stunning.We went outside on the balcony to take pictures which was also really nice.
(3)Ashley S.
This was one of the best lunches I've ever had! XIX is the perfect place for a special occasion, and I brought my family here after my graduation from graduate school. I had already looked up the menu before I came, so I knew I was going to order the 3-course lunch. At $22, it's pricier than the average lunch, but the quality and amount of food you get with the prix-fixe is amazing. The first course is a selection of salads, meats, and cheeses. I thought that meant you pick from a list of what you would want, but instead, you serve yourself from a whole buffet of charcuterie, cheese, and probably 10 different types of salads. I filled my plate with cheese and a little of each of the salads, and I was so impressed by everything I tried. The cheese was great, and the salads had amazing flavors. My favorite was the asian noodle salad, but the lentil and caesar salads were also very good. I liked everything and was already pretty full after the first course. I chose the salmon as my entree. It was a good-sized portion served with a black bean puree that was delicious. The fish was cooked and seasoned perfectly, and even though I was already pretty full, I ate every last bite because it was so good. And then came dessert. It was also buffet-style, and although I was already very full, I had to try a few of the desserts. They had delicious and perfectly-ripe mixed berries -- raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and I think gooseberries (it was the first time I had them). There were also mini key lime pies, fresh-baked cookies, chocolate mousse bars, cannolis, and the list goes on. My favorites were the oh-so-good berries, key lime pie, and chocolate mousse bars. The cannolis were a miss. They were flavored with cinnamon (which I don't like) and otherwise were pretty bland, but all of the other desserts were delicious. My family members also ordered off the prix-fixe menu, and they were equally impressed with their meals. They ordered the steak, pasta, and fish dishes, and they all felt the same way about how amazing their lunches were. The ambiance adds to the excellence of this restaurant. The dining room has an upscale feel to it. There is a pearl chandelier hanging from the ceiling, and all of the other decorations are very chic. It's the kind of place I would recommend dressing up for. And again, I cannot recommend this place enough for celebrating a special occasion!
(5)Sonia S.
Afternoon tea review -- I came here for a bridal shower (the same one Aria S. was at!). It is such a unique and swanky place for any special occasion! The staff wasn't very welcoming, which was disappointing since we were there for such a special event but regardless, everyone had a great time. I tried the mad hatter's tea. I've tried many fruit teas, and this was one of the best! All of the pastries and finger foods were delicious! More than the food though, the atmosphere and experience made it worthwhile. Everything from the circular layout and elaborate ceiling, to being seated at the long table with big fancy chairs, to getting your own teapot, to the bite-sized sandwiches was so inexplicably cute. At around $30/person, I can't say that I'll be back again for afternoon tea but I would love to come back for happy hour after they open the balcony and take in the skyline view with a drink in my hand!
(4)Danan R.
Fantastic Sunday brunch with a buffet and entree, along with dessert. We came to celebrate a friend's birthday, and our server brought her a small cupcake and chocolate-covered strawberry plate, as well. The ambiance is beautiful and it's a great location for a date or a catch-up brunch with friends. Some highlights from the $35 brunch: 1. Crabcake benedict: Fantastic crabcake with plenty of lump crabmeat and perfectly cooked poached eggs. Definitely my favorite entree on the menu. 2. Barramundi with couscous: Decent but not as amazing as the crabcake. 3. Salad Bar: a. Shrimp cocktail: Huge and perfectly seasoned shrimp. Definitely recommend. b.Charcuterie and cheese boards: Great serrano ham and brie. c. Mussels in garlic white wine sauce: Tender but tiny although the broth was very flavorful d. Smoked salmon: Tender and flavorful. Pair it with the cream cheese. 7. Dessert table: Try the bread pudding, chocolate chip cookie cake, tiramisu cup, fruit tart, and mini banana nut muffins A tip: save room for dessert! A great brunch option in Center City, for sure. If you only want the salad and dessert buffets, it is $25.
(4)Rahul B.
We were here last Sunday to celebrate our daughter's birthday. Firstly, the setting was absolutely amazing. Food & service were first class. Our server Dominic was truly fantastic, going out of his way to take group picture at the balcony. Definitely recommend this restaurant.
(5)Dan B.
Great place for happy hours. Dinners are expensive since you're paying more for the view and presentation. Good raw bar as well. If you're looking to impress new friends this is the place to do it.
(4)Christian L.
I only went in for a drink with a friend and granted it cost about 35 dollars for two drinks and a tip I felt it was a fun experience. As you exit the elevators you enter a hallway that's empty and quite leaving you questioning if your in the right place. Then eventually you find your way to the bar/lounge. Its very small and has quite a bit of people in it and it doesn't feel crowded but it still feels private at th same time.
(4)Von M.
It is so easy to be distracted by the great first floor amenities of the Bellevue (including The Palm) that one might overlook the treasures on the upper floors. One such treasure is XIX, located unsurprisingly on the 19th floor. XIX consists of a couple of different spaces: a modernist bar area and a grand domed dining room. The bar area is inviting and comfortable. It, however, is starkly minimalist by comparison to the dining room. The dining area is lavishly adorned with beautiful plaster relief, has Palladian windows on steroids (some of the most beautiful windows in and views of the City) and has heavy, elegant draperies. In the evening, the wall color and the fabulous lighting make everyone glow, as if bathed candlelight. It is one of the most romantic spaces around (an expected bonus for a grand room). As other Yelpers have noted, the rotunda effect of the dome is to transmit sounds from across the room. If that effect would annoy you, then ask the Maitre d for a table where you are less likely to be subject to it. We have visited XIX a few times for pre-dinner drinks and for post-dinner coffee and dessert. BTW, It is a great place to hang out while awaiting your table at The Palm. Our most recent visit, however, was for a birthday lunch. We took advantage of the prix fixe lunch that was part buffet and part table service. The buffet included several delicious salads (the Caesar was a standout), roasted veggies, a cheese tray, a tray of charcuterie and beautiful breads. All of the attendees intoned in unison "yum" as they took first bites from their entrees. This was a discerning bunch and they had collectively ordered all of the entree options offered that day. The poisson du jour was beautifully presented and tasty piece of salmon. The entree portions were not huge, but they were perfectly adequate given the buffet's offerings. The buffet also had some lovely dessert options, including cookies, small pastries and mousse. The prix fixe lunch at $22/person is one of the best deals in the city for an excellent meal in an amazing space.
(4)Carl C.
I really wanted to give this place 3.5 but I will give this place the benefit of the doubt. The food is not all that spectacular but something about tha waspy atmosphere does it for me sometimes. High ceilings, chandeliers, the lounge area, the gimlets I had. Service was a 4, food was a 3.5 ambience 5, price was 4 ps..good romantic place to go
(4)Justin C.
We stayed at the Bellevue for 4 nights and ate at nineteen twice. The first time we had the "fancy" dinner, consisting of steak, grilled chicken breast, salmon, and amazing appetizers. The second night we had the normal dinner, and both times it was fantastic. I would definitely go back. It is pretty expensive, but it was a great meal.
(5)Barney B.
very cool place for a pre-dinner drink - the enormous windows and high ceilings just make it feel so elegant. awkward place to go for a pr-dinner drink if the rest of the place is empty, because then you just look like a stuffy alcoholic and I am not stuffy
(4)Patrick C.
We went to celebrate a birthday at XIX tonight and had a wonderful experience from start to finish. We were seated by one of the large pocket doors that go out on to the balcony overlooking the city and I had a glass of Riesling while the birthday boy tried the Orange Blossom, one of the signature cocktails made with Blue Coat gin, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, Paychaud's bitters and ginger ale. It was deemed delicious. An ample basket of warm bread, multigrain and white, with a large disk of soft, creamy butter was brought to our table with the drinks. For starters we ordered the raw littleneck clams, the grilled octopus salad and the artisan meat and cheese tasting platter. All of it was delicious. The grilled octopus was warm, buttery and tender over fingerling potatoes, veggie sweet peppers, baby arugula and dressed lightly with a sherry vinaigrette. The "18 month" parma ham, finocchiona, chicken garlic sausage, and assorted cheeses and jams were all very good and the littleneck clams ver very fresh, served on ice with two mignonettes. For my main dish, I had the Deconstructed Berkshire Pork Osso Buco which were braised until tender and falling apart and it was served with a halved marrow bone full of custardy, unctuous, umami-laden marrow and caramelized apples, braised collard greens and dusted with a touch of smoked sea salt. My dining partner had the Braised Veal Shoulder which was served on soft, cheesy polenta with braised collard greens and it was highlighted by a very fresh, citrusy gremolata (which interestingly, is usually served with traditional veal osso buco). Great coffee and a trio of fresh-made, creamy sorbets in strawberry-lime, tropical fruit and peach finished out a great meal and a great evening. Kudos to our great server Wilmer who let us step out 'après-dîner' on the balcony to take in the amazing views. Great service, great ambiance, great food and very reasonable too - one of Philadelphia's hidden gems for sure and I will be back to try both the brunch and afternoon tea very soon!!
(4)Aria S.
Didn't realize that I'd be back so soon! This time I went for happy hour and this has got to be the classiest bar in Philly. All mahogany wood. Fireplace. Dim lighting. Men drinking scotch neat at the bar. Waitresses dressed in all black with pantyhose. You get the idea right? No need to dress to impress but I wouldn't wear ratty clothes. The cocktail menu is amazing and they're only $6 during happy hour! $12 regular meh but $6 happy hour hollaaa. Also got the tomato flat bread pizza for $11 regular price. It was sooo good. Multiple types of cheese (ricotta and mozz I think) and fresh rosemary (great addition). I was staving, so def gobbled up the whole thing myself hehe. But otherwise nice to share with two people.
(5)Cheryl C.
Great service! The crab cake and XIX salad combo was delicious and just the right portion. Loved the blueberry cobbler. Lovely dining room and views of the city! Nice wine cellar.
(4)Sam S.
Great place, great views, great atmosphere, but beware, the bar doesn't actually open til 2:00p. Yelp says 11:30a but that's lunch only. Right then left then right off the elevator.
(4)Matt D.
It's a beautiful space with lots of beautiful people, but when it comes down to it, this is a hotel restaurant. The food, while perfectly good, is nothing to get excited about. We had the steak frites and octopus. Both were fine, but they were simple, well-seasoned, straight forward dishes. The service was a bit choppy, but friendly and it's certainly a lively crowd (particularly in the bar room). The room itself does not need a makeover, but instead, it just needs painted and cleaned. The seats and carpet are well-worn, and I can't understand why anyone would hang massive, dirty curtains to block half the view. The windows are the focal point of the whole room, why hide them???
(3)Brienna O.
My absolute favorite restaurant in Philly...and I've been to tons of them. Sort of a sport of mine. Also, arguably the most romantic spot in the city. It's simply gorgeous, when you go, make sure you look around every corner and step out on to one of the many balconies...breathtaking. I have been here so many times, and every single time the food is on point and the service is exceptional. I truly feel like an honored guest every time we are here, and isn't that what we are paying for after all? These guys are amazing. Great for a celebratory dinner, late night drinks, happy hour, even breakfast brunch and afternoon tea! Favorites: Rubytini, Melon ball, truffle fries (best i've EVER had), steak frites, moules frites, the list goes on. Thank you, XIX, for being amazing. Keep up the great work.
(5)Doina N.
I've been multiple times at XIX. Each and on the visits has been different. The ambiance and decor is really on point even though one of the rooms looks to have little oldish/dirtish seats. The view from the restaurant or bar is really nice. Service overall it's really nice as well. They try to accommodate their clients with any ways they can. Dinner menu is good but not one of the best. Out of the many times I've been here, do not recall any dish in particular to have gotten stuck on my mind. It's just typical American food but with a fancy twist. It's good for a date though and their cocktails are really great. Recommend the lychee one.
(3)Matt C.
I can only comment on the bar...never dined here. This place is great in the winter. Get there early to get a seat by the fire place. This is a terrific spot for dates...very romantic. The happy hour is decent. Prices are steep here (its in a hotel after all)...but they do pour a jumbo bourbon/whiskey/scotch on the rocks, big enough to make my knees wooble. Perfect. I like the ambiance, but the interior design is a wierd mix of pictures of old white dudes with modern accents. I could also do without the late 90's bmw commerical style techno music.
(3)Bryanne R.
Loved it. This is how restaurant week is supposed to feel. Like you're really dining there and paying the big bucks. Went here with 8 friends for a birthday lunch. Great food (loved the steak). GREAT view. Great wine and champagne. Even a 3 candled cupcake serenade! Definitely want to go back for dinner. View at night must be awesome.
(5)Jeremy l.
I'm giving XIX 2.5 stars... My experience was average to say the least for a restaurant that seems to pride itself on being high class. I wasn't reassured after hearing other patrons comment as they left "this service was the worst I've ever experienced." Unfortunately, the service was poor. Our waitress didn't know the menu and couldn't tell us anything about anything without first reviewing the menu herself for the brief description included as if we hadn't already taken that route. My date, being a vegetarian, asked what vegetarian meals were available...her response "a crab salad without the crab" soooo a salad. The waiting staff needs more training. The saving grace (and the only reason this doesn't get 1 star) was what appeared to be a floor manager who seemed to walk the floor checking on everyone. He ended up taking our entrée order because our waitress had dissapeared. I believe she was actually at our table 2-3 times throughout the entire dinner service. It wasn't as if the place was packed at all when we were seated. The larger crowds did not filter in until we were leaving. The kitchen did however get food out at an above average rate and was probably the most consistent aspect of the service. The selections are a bit pricey but the food was really good. I will always give credit where credit is due.... They don't tell you this but there is a 20% gratuity added to your bill AFTER they bring you the check. I had to learn the hard way by looking over my bank statement and comparing that to the bill itself to figure why it had shot up. The balcony is closed for the season so anyone who had hoped to get outside to enjoy the view will have to wait until the weather breaks. The ambiance is a perk that we really enjoyed. The music was a bit outdated but the views, even on a cloudy rainy night, we still beautiful. Overall I don't think I'll be coming back to XIX again. It wasn't the most horrible experience but when you pay the money you do here you don't expect subpar service at any level. This review would probably warrant 3 stars at most places at the very least however I can't justify that high of a rating no matter how fast the food came out or how good the food was. The service killed it for me and apparently I'm not the only one who feels this way....
(2)Juliana K.
Very beautiful and delicious place for lunch, I will start off that this review is a tad bit bias because I got engaged here, but the food was very good! The mango ginger ice tea they make is very reframing. I wasn't a huge fan of their very regular bread rolls that were dusted with tons of flour. I got crab cakes which were just amazing! They had this tomato jam with it that was exquisite! Lots of lump crab meat. I also got a beet salad which was very good. The lobster sandwich was delicious and came with the most perfect shoestring fries. (And I love shoestring fries!) The decor here is very fancy, though you can dress casual (a nice casual). Service was friendly and attentive. We got complimentary glasses d champagne and a lil dessert because we got engaged here which I thought was very thoughtful and nice!
(4)Nicole W.
Mice!!!!! Just left happy hour and saw a mouse running around the bar. Definitely not returning!!!
(1)Kristy Y.
XIX is a beautiful restaurant. The interior is classy and romantic and there's a lot of space to walk around and check out the restaurant. The restrooms are on a different floor which is a bit weird but I guess it's cool because you get to see more of the building itself. The middle bar area has a woodsy/manly feel to it. The restaurant also opens up the outer deck area when the weather is warm so you can enjoy a nice glass of wine while looking at the views from the 19th floor. However, I am not a huge fan of the food but drinks here are really good. This place is definitely a spot you want to check out to have a drink with your friends or a date. Also side note- the servers here are great. I had my birthday dinner here with about 15 people and our servers were very pleasant and accommodating.
(3)Robert P.
As Yogi Berra one said " nobody goes here anymore but I can never get in" mostly tourist staying at the hotel but the food and service are outstanding. It also has amazing views and the most romantic bar in the city. It's a great night out. Philadelphians should discover this gem.
(5)Christen J.
My husband and I came here to celebrate our anniversary. I can honestly say what was lacking from the food was well made up for in service (shout out to Wilbur!) We got a great sunset view on the balcony and we're given two glasses of champagne to commemorate the occasion. Our crab cake was divine. The lobster risotto was creamy but the claw meat wasn't too fresh. Hubs ordered the trout and promptly devoured. I ordered my salmon medium but it was quite well done and a little heavy handed with the salt. Our the pear car cocktail was delicious and refreshing on the warm evening. The dessert was phenomenal! The blueberry cobbler had rosemary infused berries, a perfect biscuit and a small scoop of ice cream. The chocolate banana truffle had a lot going on. The devil's food cake and pineapple were yummy. The truffle and the peanut butter mousse were good. But altogether there were a lot of components happening. Overall a truly memorable evening.
(4)Karol S.
Sometimes you just need the perfect setting to feel like a million bucks...and XIX is a setting conducive to that. It is not your every day, it's your once-in-a-while. But provides sufficient attention, comfort, and privacy to make the experience intimate. Intimate enough that you know you will return to it. mussels, onion soup, and mushroom risotto made my appetite dance. the filet mignon kept the energy going. and the final dance was the goat cheese ice cream and blueberry cobbler. oh.so .good Impeccable service. It was an effortless experience of joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment.
(5)Yasmin E.
Wonderful for Brunch! I can't speak of other venues that go down at this somewhat lavish crib, hehe, but all in all a surprisingly sophisticated /"fancy shmancy" way of spending only $20 on Sunday brunch! While there wasn't too much of a selection on the menu, their open buffet of assorted cheeses, meats, pasta, desserts & more made up for it! All I'm sayin is, come hungry! Bon apetite!
(4)Marianna L.
Yawn. Unfortunately, XIX did not wow me like I thought it would. Perhaps my expectations were set too high? Too high like the view that I was promised? R2L's view is much grander, and I would imagine the service and ambience to be as well. My girlfriends and I went during restaurant week, which could have been part of the reason for XIX's faults, but the place wasn't even busy. All that aside, and onto the food, I wasn't impressed. For starters I had the beef carpaccio on a rocket salad with shaved pecorino romano and peppers. I felt it needed a bit of something else, perhaps some cracked black pepper, so simple. The carpaccio was good though, and I enjoyed the lemony flavored peppers. For my main, I had the pork tenderloin, which was cooked to perfection, on top of a butternut squash ravioli and bed of sauteed spinach. The spinach was eh, and the ravioli did not taste fresh. I was expecting more of a butternut flavor, and less lumpy ricotta cheese. Dessert was just fine.. A gritty cheesecake with carmelized peanuts on top. See, nothing special! One redeeming quality about the slow-ish service was that when my friend found a BUG in her wine, they gave her another glass on the house. That was kind of them.
(3)Jennifer W.
My best friend and I come here often for drinks at the bar during happy hour. We are so happy that they don't participate in Sips any longer. It's a nice respite from all the crazy cheap drinks around the city on a Wednesday. Last Friday my friend was sworn in as a US Citizen and on such a beautiful Friday we thought it would be great to grab a glass of champagne on balcony. Well on the 19th floor it was a little too breezy to leave the doors open for the other guests so we figured we'd just grab a drink at the bar. Unfortunately the bar doesn't open till 2:00 on Fridays. The dining room was a little more formal than we were looking for so we instead were told we could sit anywhere we wanted at the bar and ordered two glasses of champagne and had a little celebration. To top off the already wonderful hospitality the manager comped our champagne as a congratulations to my friend becoming a citizen. We already loved it here but I'm sure when we are stuck to think of a place to go this will be the first place to pop into our minds!
(5)Rebecca L.
We stopped here to get a drink while waiting for a bus tour. The view was absolutely incredible and the place had a very classy feel to it. We sat at the bar right as the bartender walked away. Three servers walked by the bar and none asked if we had been helped or even acknowledged us. We finally asked somebody if the bar was open and they said yea sorry the bartender just stepped out for a break and will be right back. We waited for about 15 minutes before he got back. He was very friendly and gave us really good pours so it made up for the lack of service in the beginning.
(3)Peiyu L.
I went to XIX for the $35 brunch buffet and was not blow away. Sure you are in one of the highest restaurants, but no offense the view isn't great since there aren't any magnificent buildings to look at. Its just simply not picturesque. The decor was classic european, but the furniture was a bit run down and shabby. My friend has the bloody mary, which had too much celery. The breakfast buffet consisted of mussels, random finger foods, salad, and shrimp cocktail. The mussels were luke warm and some of the finger foods like the dumpling pot stickers were not too appetizing. The lettuce in the caesar salad was soggy. The only thing worth stocking up on was the shrimp cocktail. Next came the brunch entree. I had the fish of the day and my friend has the crab cake eggs Benedict. Both were pretty good. We finished off with dessert. The only thing I liked were the berries, which were really fresh and the madeleine cookies. This brunch lacks complementary coffee and tea! Overall for a restaurant that is seemingly suppose to be of high caliber, XIX does not live up to its standards. I was disappointed.
(2)Mike S.
Go here for breakfast. The breakfast buffet is awesome....all the smoked salmon you want!
(4)Ana Lú Düren T.
Worst service I had even seen. Takes forever to get your order. First and last time I step here.
(1)Dasha D.
Boyfriend and I were celebrating and so he surprised me by taking me here-- had no idea where we were going. The restaurant inside is beautiful and sitting outside on a gorgeous night was even more beautiful. The view and the experience was awesome. The waitress was very sweet! And the food was also very good, I had steak which I'm very picky about as I will not eat it if it's chewy and very meaty-tasty and it was delicious!!! I was surprised to see it only has 3.5 stars on here...
(5)Krista P.
This is a GREAT happy hour spot - all the cocktails are half off, and there are some beer and wine specials as well but I'm not as familiar with them. It's a hotel bar, so of course it's expensive and the half price drinks is a big win. The view is nice, and the crowd is usually dressed to impress. Get here early if you want a seat though - this bar is not very big.
(4)Delvia W.
My first time here Sunday April 27, 2014 for Brunch. My group had a private room and the ambiance was lovely. The food was good. I am use to buffet style brunch so I would have loved to sample more items. The pot stickers were delightful, as well as the desserts. The service was good. I would like for the server to announce last call for the food that is put out. I definitely will go back.
(4)Beth R.
Did you know that XIX does weddings? I've had the pleasure of dinner as well as celebrating my recent wedding here. First as a restaurant, it's an elegant dinner with amazing views from the 19th floor terraces and through giant floor to ceiling windows. Dinner is American fare, I had a lobster and mushroom bisque to start followed by the lamb entree. Also enjoyed the salad with duck. Everything is very good, served with the kind of presentation that says this is a "nice" restaurant. Dessert was a rich chocolate cake which was also lovely. In nice weather you can sit in the terrace, which is gorgeous. On a totally different note, they occasionally host weddings in the space. I knew when we set foot inside and saw the amazing moldings and pearl chandelier plus the views of the twinkling city at night that this was where we wanted our wedding reception. It can fit 80-ish guests with a small dance floor area. The menu for weddings includes a lot of what's on the normal XiX dinner menu, which is awesome. No bland mass produced chicken entrees here. And the the beautiful room and balcony space made for gorgeous backdrops to our wedding photos.
(4)Jessica S.
Yet another place that seems to get by on their location and beautiful views alone. I was pretty disappointed by the whole experience. The service was slow, the portions for the main courses were tiny, and drinks came either not as ordered or poorly made. And of course, everything is ridiculously expensive. I am not one to complain about spending a lot for a nice night at out a great restaurant, but you have to be a great restaurant first! Things that were good: the food tasted great, but like I said I wish there was more of it. The view is outstanding and if you can get a set near a window I can see how it can be quite romantic. However, I don't think I'd come back, unless someone else REALLY wanted to try it out.
(2)Vicki S.
My husband and I went here for dinner last night during restaurant week. The service was great and the food was pretty good. The ambiance was the highlight, however. The view and main dining room was very pretty.
(4)Nicole P.
Pretty and can be done in an affordable way! The wait staff isn't pretentious, and it feels more "private" than most similar places. I have only been here for drinks before dinner, so I can't comment on quality of menu, but great drinks. This was a good find and one of my favorite spots in the city.
(4)Laura G.
What a beautiful place with a beautiful view! My husband and I came here for our first anniversary dinner. What a great choice. Our waiter was very helpful with making our selection and also very attentive the entire evening. Portion sizes were small but the food was delicious. It was pricey but definitely worth it. I would give them five stars but I was still hungry after appetizers and my entrée.
(4)Sudo N.
I brought my five-year-old daughter here for Sunday brunch because her sister was away with a friend at the Lititz Chocolate Festival. Bunch at XIX was a perfect consolation prize, and Ms. 5 felt she got the best end of the deal. Brunch is three courses: buffet-style salads and small plates, a main dish, and a buffet-style dessert. The food was excellent; Ms. 5 had grilled salmon and sampled many of the salads and cheeses. And of course many of the desserts, which were sumptuous and spectacular. I particularly remember several kinds of cookies, and chocolate pot-au-crème. The restaurant is spectacular, with a high ceiling, huge, windows, and chandeliers. Ms. 5 loved it. After brunch we wandered around the upper floors of the hotel admiring everything. Cost was incredibly inexpensive: $22 for me, and Ms. 5 ate free. This brunch might have been the bargain of the year. We both hope to return soon. Addendum 2013-09-08: Ms. 5 and I returned today. The prices have gone up, and although they are still reasonable they are no longer the shocking bargain they were: Brunch was $35 for me, and $17.50 for her. I got a steak, which was unfortunately underdone. Ms. 5 got eggs ("any style", and the waiter did not bat an eye lash when Ms. 5 asked for hard-boiled) with potatoes and chicken-feta sausage. The buffet was excellent, included several cold salads, cheese, cold cuts, smoked salmon, bagels, croissants and sticky buns, cold prawns, squid salad (excellent) and seven or eight desserts. The service and atmosphere were flawless.
(4)Sasser M.
After eating here several times over a period of days, I can most assuredly tell you that this place is horribly over-priced for the quality of the food. Sadly even the staff working in other parts of the hotel readily agreed with me. There are some very bright spots in the staff working here, most of them work breakfast and lunch. I'm often puzzled by what other people consider good food. After eating around the country in places like Vegas, Dallas and New Orleans... I'd skip this place and find something more economical that tasted a lot better.
(2)Steph S.
Was surprised by my boyfriend and friends to cocktail hour and dinner in this fabulous place for my birthday! Kaz was our awesome server! He did a great job of making some genuine recommendations and even invited us to have dessert and drinks on the balcony overlooking the city! We all had cocktails and beers to start in the gorgeous bar along with some delicious mussels as a starter. I ordered the five spiced short rib with baby bok Choy, oyster sauce and sweet potato shavings for garnish. It was the perfect combo! Everyone of my friends claimed they had "the best dish from the menu", so you know the menu was amazing! I was able to taste the osso buco that other reviewers mentioned and it was just as tender and succulent as my dish. I will definitely coming again to try the unlimited salad bar during lunch!
(5)Colleen M.
This place is just gorgeous. I was blown away by the ambiance, the decor, the view, the drinks, the food. XIX has the whole package. My pomegranate basil martini was to die for. There were lovely little seating areas where us "happy hour-ers" could cozy up with our drinks and settle in for some good conversation. The mushroom risotto was a bit al dente for some of the folks I was with... but it was just right for me. The fried asparagus spears and the calamari were de-lish. I would definitely return here, especially if I were out to impress someone.
(4)Melissa G.
Beautiful view of the city, delicious food. What more can you ask for? This place was amazing. My husband and I went here for our first anniversary. TIP: We made reservations for 6pm on a Saturday night and there was only a few people there so we were able to sit outside. You definitely want to sit outside if it's a nice night. They view of the city skyline was beautiful! As for the food we would definitely give it an A +. For starters we shared the grilled spanish octopus and crab cocktail. The Octopus was to die for! My husband had the aspen ridge natural black angus prime boneless ribeye and practically licked his plate clean. I had the grilled skuna bay salmon which was cooked to perfection. The service was amazing, they even brought us champagne and a desert on the house since it was our anniversary. We would highly recommend this place.
(4)Sean D.
No complaints overall, but what you're paying for is the fact that it's on the nineteeth floor. Context: I went for Christmas dinner with four friends. Enjoyed the menu selection and the ambiance. Paid $45 prix fixe: starter, entree, and desert. Starter: The crab cake was very fresh and light, and the xix salad was a good balance of greens with other veg and bacon. Enjoyed this more than the entree and dessert. Entree: Flat iron steak was cooked to order, though not a great piece of meat to start with. Desserts: Cookie cake was eh, though the ice cream was very good. Toffee Sticky Pudding was better than pretty good. Here's the kicker - the bottle of Pascual Toso Malbec we paid $50 for sells for $8.99 in wine stores! This is what I mean when I say you are paying for the nineteenth floor. This is not a bad time. If you don't go out that often and want to drop some money on a nice experience, this could do the trick. But if you go out often and are (relatively) picky, come here expecting middle of the road. All that said, happy hour on the balcony is worth a repeat visit. Decent drinks, great views.
(3)Vichet O.
Was there any doubt that I would like this place? I went here with a friend last Friday for a late night snack, and drinks. We entered the Bellevue, in which I hadn't set foot since senior prom, and took the elevator up to the 19th floor. From there, we rounded a couple corners, and found ourselves alone in a forest, being badgered by a satyr about the witch. Just kidding. XIX is pretty damn cool, though. This place has got to be within the top 5 on my atmosphere list. From the bossa and latin jazz playing lightly in the background, to the view of the city, to the majestic look of the restaurant and the swankiness of the lounge, this place has got it all together. I think I saw Bruce Wayne in there. Or at least I imagined him to be there. We were seated immediately, because at 10:30 on a Friday night, this place isn't jam-packed. Others might see this as a downside, but those people aren't me. So whatever, whatever. The waiter came to our table and offered drinks. At his suggestion, I got a gin and ginger-iced tea. It was tasty, but next time I think I'll experiment by having them add a splash of soda. My friend asked for a suggestion from me, and because she was wearing a pretty dress, I obliged (ha!). We decided on a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. It turned out they only had about 3/4ths of a pour left and were out of that particular vintage, so they brought it out, and along with it another glass of a nicer wine on the house. Well done, XIX - how did you know we like free things? For snacks, we got the flatbread pizza and mushroom risotto. Both were tasty, and pricey but not ridiculous. If you wanna get dressed up to have a nice drink and a few snacks, XIX is your spot. And, if you want to do this all the time, your name is Vichet. Pro-tip: Parking can be maddening around CC late at night, but most garages nearby have flat rates after 10 (something like 10 bucks til 3am or whatever). Look into it!
(4)John D.
Incredible restaurant and an absolute must visit. The ambiance of the main dining room is breathtaking... So much so that I proposed to my wife here two years ago. She was in awe of the entire restaurant and building from the moment we entered. The beauty of the XIX is equally matched by the amazing service and food. Chuck has been our server on both of our visits and makes the dining experience even better, going above and beyond. The short rib and sea scallops are both melt in your mouth delicious! By far our favorite fancy date night spot!
(5)Mach S.
Expensive..and not as good as it should be, by the way they present themselves. The Amish chicken and parma ham was not that bad though.
(2)Sarah L.
I have never eaten here nor will I ever dine here. Let me tell you why... How is XIX going to call me at 7 PM the Sunday before Valentines Day stating that they are having a pre fixed menu for $65 PP??? Valentines Day is the hardest day of the year to make dinner reservations and they call a few days before with a pre fixed menu!! First of all, I couldn't even understand what was on the menu because the woman on the other end was too busy mumbling. I had high hopes of using XIX for my brunch after my wedding but this incident left a very sour taste in my mouth. Thanks fior
(1)Kimmie O.
Made reservation for 5:45 on a Thursday during Restaurant week. It's my 21st birthday and I wanted to come here to experience this fancy restaurant. The restaurant seems to have several hostesses because there were 3 different girls 1 guy working in front of the house. It was confusing to decide who to talk to for what. They took our coats and everything was good. We did request window seat, and we were seated by the window. However, even though people raved about the view of city you get to see.. Well, I don't think it was that good for that. The building is not tall compare to other buildings in center city nowadays, so I looked out but mostly I see are tall apartments (not very interesting). Oh and the restroom is on a floor below(18th)... Finally Food! Mushroom salad - meh Shrimp tempura - good, but nothing interesting Lamb / sweet potato - delicious! Choco tart - you love it if you a big choco fan, too sweet to finish tho (did come with a candle since it's my bday) Pineapple shortcake - loved it, coconut flakes are amazing here Lychee kiss - got it for free bc it's my bday, but wouldn't order again. Overall, had a great night here without breaking the bank!
(4)Monday Y.
Great View. Great food. Good Selection. Love it!!
(4)Heather C.
My friend and I came here for lunch during restaurant week. We got a beautiful seat with a great view of the city. Everything was absolutely amazing! The buffet style for the first course had different cheeses, meats, and salad... all of which were complimenting. The steak was flawless; I was amazing that for restaurant week prices they were able to put that in there. Dessert was also buffet style so you could try a variety of cakes and chocolate goodies. The atmosphere was refreshingly pleasant (I was nervous a young girl as myself would feel out of place in a higher scale restaurant but I did not). The wait staff was great and had let us know they offer a lunch special very similar to restaurant weeks menu, so I will be returning :)
(5)Bastien V.
Personally, one of my favorite spots in the Philadelphia area. The restaurant itself is breathtaking. Located on the top floor of the gorgeous Bellvue hotel, XIX offers beautiful panoramic views of the city that will leave you mesmerized. I've been on a few dates here, had a birthday dinner here, and I, as a Center City concierge, usually refer all my guests here. The food here is excellent, the service impeccable. When dining, I usually order the steak frites. It is always cooked just to my liking, and the fries are the best I've ever had. They have an excellent wine selection and the staff is very accommodating. STORY TIME: I did have one bad experience I'll share it with you, but keep in mind I've had so many wonderful experiences here, this was obviously a fluke and everyone is entitled to them. I went for lunch on a Sunday a week or so ago. We sat on the balcony, as requested. We MAY have picked the wrong balcony, as it was very hot and unbearably bright. I cannot fault the restaurant for that, though. Our server came, did not introduce himself, and took our order. He brought our drinks and a glass of water for each of us. That's the last we saw of him - a food runner brought our meals. We wanted another round of drinks and needed more water. We were in the sun, and it was very hot, and we had NO water. We finished our meals without, waited for another 15 or so minutes for the server that never came. We decided to go to the bar for one round of drinks, and then pay our check there. As we were walking in, our server ran to us, asking if we enjoyed our meals and such. I politely said that we needed more water during the meal, but that we were headed to the bar. I declined his offer to bring us water at the bar, as we could get a glass from the bartender. The bartender wasn't very friendly, so we resigned to just pay the check and leave.
(5)L S.
I've been here a few times, once for dinner, once for Sunday brunch and another time just hanging out at the bar. I've enjoyed myself everytime! I've gotten the steak both times (dinner and brunch)...D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S. I also ate several slices of cheescake at brunch until I was completely stuffed. The service is alway great...I love this place.
(4)Rita M.
One of Philadelphia's more scenic and sophisticated bars. The view from the lounge at XIX alone makes the trip worth it. The 19th floor is very elegant albeit a little stuffy. Somewhat dated furniture and large framed paintings. When I visited, my SO and I were startled by a raucous wedding reception until we were directed to the main bar by a staff member. Our hostess was quick with a bowl of wasabi peas and brought our drinks promptly as well. I enjoyed the rubytini and its accompanying grapefruit slice, but I liked the spiced apple much more. It manages to be the perfect autumn cocktail without tasting like a liquefied Yankee Candle. I had some bites of calamari served with a nice pimiento mix. The turtle cheesecake was tasty also. Cocktails were about $12 so I'd rather come here for happy hour. Very attractive venue.
(4)Susan P.
XIX is quite possibly the most beautiful restaurant that I've ever been to. The decor is elegant --- the enormous pearls that drip from the ceiling in the main dining area are lovely! It's good for groups but it's absolutely perfect for a romantic dinner for two. This is also a great place to enjoy beautiful views of the city! Both the hostess and waiter were friendly and attentive. Overall, we had a great time and I highly recommend it to everyone. APPETIZERS/ENTREES Crispy calamari - It was good but extremely salty. The dipping sauce helped cut the saltiness. Crab cake - It was just ok Coffee crusted ribeye steak - Delicious! This was served with a side of a sweet potato puree, which was out of this world! My mouth is watering just thinking about those sweet potatoes! Grilled salmon topped with crab - Delicious! I substituted the fingerling potatoes with a potato puree, which was light and creamy. Five spiced short rib - Good DESSERTS My only gripe about XIX were the desserts. Whipped philadelphia cheesecake - It was a deconstructed cheesecake --- the presentation was nice but unfortunately, that's the only nice thing I can say about it. I wasn't too fond of the flavor. Cookie cake - It was ok
(5)Kristin W.
The website proclaims XIX is "Philadelphia's 'highest' restaurant", which is odd because 1) it is not the highest (e.g., R2L is on the 37th floor) and 2) the website acknowledges it is being disingenuous by the usage of quotations marks. But website aside, the setting is undeniably elegant on the 19th (and top) floor of the Bellevue with a domed ceiling and sweeping architecture. The food was good, but not amazing - I would return for swanky drinks.
(3)Shivon R.
Came here with a few friends for a girls night. Really nice/elegant decor, perfect for when you want to dress up and feel fabulous. The drinks were delicious, but I was a little underwhelmed by my lobster dish. However, I did try a bit of my friends short rib dish and that was very tasty. Our waiters were very helpful and attentive, and even let us stay and chat way after the dining room had closed (which we hadn't realized, whoops!). Also, for some reason our Open Table reservation had said we were celebrating a birthday (was not) and we received a complimentary dessert. Even after explaining there was no birthday celebration going on we still got the dessert so that awesome. I hear the happy hour here is pretty good so I will definitely be returning.
(4)Victoria Y.
$35 brunch menu and affordable drinks not that the service was bad but they lack professional training and decor was a little outdated otherwise entrees were pretty good (crab cake benedict and fish of the day) but chefs/dessert table just had mediocre options I would suggest simply going for one of the best views of philly
(3)Mackenzie C.
Love taking friends here for $6 happy hour cocktails! The ambiance is great and the drinks are usually pretty stiff. You can sit outside and have a great view of the city! The truffle fries are a delicious cheap appetizer to munch on .
(5)Michael M.
Hmmm - so I've recently been back here a few times over the last month. The bar experiences were great, with Dan and Steve serving up some delicious drinks with style. The happy hour menu rocks, with expanded cheese and charcuterie options that are rival any place in the city, let alone a Hotel bar. It gets busy, the cocktail staff forgets things, but it's still a great place to be. But the dining menu is a mess. It's essentially the bar menu with six or seven tired options (fillet, chicken breast, salmon, mashed prunes) and surprised the heck out of my DOFL guests. We ended up ordering from the appetizers and cheese/meat plate options. They've also cut back on the raw bar, with now only a single oyster option versus the six they used to have. The sommelier is gone too. So Hyatt needs to make up it's mind what they want to do with this place. Either convert the central islands all over to bars and amp up your finger food menu, doing away with the dining room altogether, or give us some decent 'meals' back. Nothing says death's door for a place more than a tired fillet, chicken livermore, and 'pasta'. Zzzzzz.
(4)Kait D.
Honestly, I would go back for the white bean and tomato soup alone. Seriously. So good. I was so sad when it was gone. It was light and flavorful and just amazing! The calamari was awesome, too! And I don't even eat calamari. I only tried it because my boyfriend ordered it. So glad he did. It had a nice and light crunch, the breading was actually seasoned, and it wasn't greasy like most other frozen-then-deep-fried calamari. This is a restaurant that I would recommend because you can tell there is an attention to quality. Yes, its pricey... but it is good! Plain and simple.
(5)Dean Z.
My significant other and I came for dinner, late spring, after 9 PM. Not too busy. What a special setting, very stately decor. Of course, you're at the top of building so that brings into its own. The staff was attentive, helping each other out, as any good restaurant staff should be. We ordered oysters, a lump crab cake salad, and a spanish octopus salad for starters. For entrees, the Salmon and Braised Pork. The Salmon was perfectly cooked, just a touch of red in the middle (medium rare) as it was sushi-grade. The pork melted in my mouth, a sweetness when combined with the roasted apples, to then be balanced by the salted collard greens lying beneath. Still thinking about it a couple of days later. Prices for entrees were in the mid $20's and we both felt the portions were good. We LOVE to eat (like most people), and we hate being "strung-on" with not-quite-enough-of-a-good-thing- XIX delivered the goods! We passed by the lounge and I hope sometime soon we can hang with a few friends there- a relaxed, elegant, atmosphere. Oh, and you don't need to be in formal wear. You are welcome in jeans.
(5)Brad P.
This is where James Bond would meet up with a lovely lady to get a drink(and later be trapped because she is working for the villain anyways). It has a great view and great ambiance at a price you'd expect. It isn't ideal for Sips or happy hour events because it gets too packed. It is a solid choice for late night after the large crowds have moved on. On the action-movie-parallel-satisfaction-scale, this place is Casino Royale(the Daniel Craig one)
(4)Kristina C.
Sooooo here is a breakdown on the night..... Location: I have to admit, it is a great location with amazing views, there is outdoor seating (which we didn't get) and the inside decor is pretty swanky. Service: The service was really amazing, we were always attended and everyone was really friendly. The staff had answers to all of our questions...very knowledgeable, but the food coming out was really slooooooooow. Food: So here is where it gets weird...we got the mussels for an app, and they were so amazing that I got them again for my meal (and you get so many, literally amazing dish, probably the best I have had in years). My husband got the burger and he said it was horrible, he would have had a Ruby Tuesday burger, so he was disappointed to say the least. Drinks: The specialty drinks are...well how do I say this...amazing! They are original and all just taste great! The standard drinks are also really great and had a good pour on them. I think all and all, that the food is so/so and what you are really paying for is the location and the hope that you can get an outdoor seat.
(3)Nicky H.
So I was invited to XIX by a friend for New Years Eve. The ambiance was great. Fireplace, dim lighting, decor etc. Service and appetizers are a different story. The waitress was scatterbrained. Didn't check on us. I literally had to hunt her down for my check. It wasn't even that busy while I was there. There were just a few couples. Also, I ordered the Lobster Risotto with NO mushrooms because I'm allergic. Risotto comes out with mushrooms. I sent it back. Lobster Risotto came out a second time. It was undercooked and tasteless. My friend ordered the pizza, YUK. I've had frozen pizza from Whole Foods that tasted better. The drinks were decent though. All in all, this place is a bad gift. The wrapping is beautiful, but when you actually open the gift, you're disappointed.
(2)Alyssa M.
If it were a couple years ago....XIX would have gotten a solid 4 stars from me....but it's not quite the same anymore. I've only been for happy hour and my first time was fantastic--so you know I was hyping it up to my girlfriends. The ambiance is still very elegant, classy, and sophisticated. However the drinks were just okay. I also think they should have some discounted bar snacks because paying around $17 for an appetizer at happy hour is a little hard to swallow. Good thing I stuffed my face at Qdoba beforehand--score!! Definitely come to XIX to soak up some sophistication and get a nice view of the city, but you've been warned that you could probably make a better cocktail at home. I will say those complimentary wasabi peas are a nice touch-and highly addictive!
(3)John H.
The ambience is gorgeous. The bar scene is very hip and the dining area is very elegant. Service was very good. The grilled octopus appetizer was amazing except in the middle of it, one of the bites I took was so salty it made my eyes tear up! The same thing happened with the Seabass. It's like someone pour a ton of salt in just one spot. (I hope I don't get cankles tonight!). Anyways it is a great place for a special occasion.
(4)N. K.
Came here for restaurant week and had dinner off the more limited restaurant week menu. Ambiance 5/5. Beautiful upscale setting with great views. Upholstered comfy chairs and intimate tables. Wine- got a white wine bottle "special" - $35 (down from $70) Warm wild mushroom salad- 5/5 Light, wonderful green sauce had a kick, and who doesn't love goat cheese? Butternut squash ravioli- 4/5. This dish was a bit rich/heavy because of the heaviness of the ravioli+butter sauce+toffee pecans but the flavors were very good. Philadelphia cheesecake- 5/5. delicious mound of cheesecake with a drizzle of pumpkin sauce. The crushed cookies/pecans on the side added a nice crunch to the dessert.
(4)Lauren B.
I have been coming to this place for years...including when they did the All You Can Drink wine tastings on Wednesday nights (they changed sommeliers and that ended that weekly event). Anyway, this place is great. I've had the crab cakes and they were amazing. No filler at all, just enough binder to hold all the jumbo lump together. Their cocktails are very good, and best enjoyed on one of the many balconies. If they're not open, then just ask the manager to open the doors and set up a table...at $12 a drink (that's the cheapest drink there) they can at least give you one of the best sunset views in the city.
(5)Zack L.
Very disappointing. We were trying it as a potential venue for a wedding reception. We were seated at 11:30 but our order was taken at 11:48. That was surprising. As well, the jam's on our table had already been used by previous customers. Is it normal for a server to divide her attention & her order among multiple tables? It didn't feel right & we felt as though we could not ask questions or get full attention from the staff. The breakfast was mediocre but plentiful. The Lump Crab Benedict showed up as ham. It was getting to the point that other tables were laughing at our service. Its too bad. The merit of the day was that grapefruit juice was included. So, it has that. And a nice window.
(2)Marissa C.
Lunch here is an amazing deal in the city. Not only did we manage to get a private dining room for our staff luncheon (someone in my office must know someone at XIX) the food was reasonable and delicious. Every day, I repeat EVERY DAY they offer a $20 lunch menu which includes beverage (soda or iced tea), appetizers from the communal buffet, an entree, and as many desserts as you can stuff in your stomach from the communal buffet. I started with the iced tea of the day which was peach or mango, or some other fruit infused tea. They provide simple syrup and mint on the side to spice it up as you wish (nice touch). For apps, I took a walk up to the communal table where there are a variety of salads (fresh green, pasta, tabbouleh, etc.), meats, and cheeses. All in all I thought it was a good selection to start off. For my lunch entree I chose the fish of the day, the portion size was good, the plating refined, and the flavors delicious. Back up to the communal buffet for dessert - there are a variety of cookies, pastries, tarts, mousse, etc. Nothing sticks out in my mind as amazing but they were all good. I have two minor complaints about XIX and they are minor. 1. The round room, while it is beautiful and unique, has really weird acoustics. For some reason it sounds like your hearing a million conversations at one time (think Bruce Almighty hearing the world's prayers). Very odd. 2. The bathrooms are one floor down and you must take an elevator. Not a big deal but I was wearing rather uncomfortable shoes that day so it seemed like a bit of a hall just to use the washroom. I imagine that XIX would be really nice and romantic for dinner and I'm sure has a great view of the city. I'll definitely be back for more "work" lunches.
(4)Cherie C.
The blackberry caipirinha remains (though it is misspelled on the new menu), but the rest of the signature cocktails have changed since my visit a few years ago. The delicious bloodless mary is gone. They replaced the complimentary fancy mixed nuts with wasabi peas and pretzel nuggets (not a bad way to save some money, I suppose). Despite the current classic cocktail revolution, they seem to have focused on popular flavors. We liked our drinks, but they didn't seem as interesting as the ones they used to have. The spirits menu is just okay, and the wines by the glass are okay too. When we arrived, I noticed some staff fussing over the sleek-looking CD player. When they were finished fussing, we were treated to the sounds of what I believe was a Miley Cyrus holiday album. Weird. But the room is cozy and the service is good. It's a nice place to meet friends if you want to relax and talk over drinks.
(3)Lilli C.
This review is for the bar only. I came Friday night and got to sit outside on the deck, and the bar wasn't too crowded. I ordered a Peartini and my friend ordered Hendricks on the rocks. My peartini was SOOO strong and barely tasted like pear. My friend's drink was not Hendrick's on the rocks...he determined this after tasting it. The waitress then realized that it was someone else's drambuie which she gave to him even though we had already taken sips out of it. I told the waitress this and she sort of just shrugged her shoulders. The Hendricks that my friend did end up getting was watered down.
(2)S L.
I had a great time with my friend at the restaurant! They had a great decor and very fine hospitality! LOVE LOVE LOVE this place!
(4)K. A.
Hey Nineteen! Do you remember Aretha Franklin? Whenever I get off the elevator to XIX I can't help but remember when this place was The Founder's Room, and I have so many ghosts in my mind of that venerable Old Philadelphia hangout, that it is always a little bittersweet. When I was a kid, I always thought it would be the perfect spot for some secret villain's lair up in the sky, above Gotham City- or, ahem...Philadelphia. I have to say I am not disappointed by it's new incarnation, and it has managed to come up-to-date without losing what made it special. I like the feel of the place. Dining in an aerie above the gray urban landscape. The setting is really the draw for me. It feels distinctly "Philadelphia," being part of the elegant and refined grande dame of Philadelphia hotels- the Bellevue (formerly Bellevue-Stratford) and I get to experience all the architectural splendor of the hotel's inner sanctum on the way up. But now it's casual, still elegant, and a little bit like being in a nice hotel lobby, impeccably tasteful in decor, with big windows around (more social than "intimate."). The prix fixe lunch special is great, with sumptuous spread of food, all prepared in a "nouveau traditional" way, and well worth the $22 price tag. You get to indulge in various ancillary items, along the lines of appetizers and deserts that you might not order separately, and they are all good. While everything was very good and competently prepared, there was nothing that I would say was so memorable that I would think about it after leaving the restaurant, or tell a friend about. That would be the reason I did not give it more than 3 stars. I do not find myself pining to head back there. But I will return, mostly as a place to bring out-of-town guests to show them something " New Philadelphia" (where something old and traditional has been transformed into something new), or a place to go for a friendly lunch with a couple of friends. As for "ambiance," and service, I would give it 4 stars. I forgot to mention that the hostess and server were both friendly and competent.
(3)Stephanie D.
We had our wedding reception here. It was an absolutely stunning venue, visually, and our coordinator Jamie Simcoe was amazing. She was there the entire time, making sure things were running smoothly and keeping the night flowing with the DJ/MC, food, apps, etc. She would check in with us periodically and managed to diffuse a situation involving our tall and extremely heavy floral centerpieces. One of them fell on someone's head so she rushed around with another staff member, found some pretty boxes to elevate them and then changed out the tall glass vases for the centerpieces placed on the boxes instead. I don't even think anyone noticed! XIX has been one of our favorite restaurants, if not our most favorite, for a few years and their food is consistently on point, perfectly prepared, and presented beautifully. Other great things about this place: the lunch buffet, the brunch menu and buffet, the bar. We recommend this place highly!
(5)Tobin P.
The atmosphere of the place is awesome. The dining room is in the round, with splended ceiling-hung ball orniments that feel other-worldly. The food on the other hand is just "meh". We had the halibut, which wasn't fresh enough for my taste (I'm from Cali and am choosy about my fish). The pureed yams it came with were barely warm, but the greens were good. The red snapper, which, while it tasted fresher, was done in too heavy-handed of a preparation...too much going on with the flavors- too salty, etc. Felt like we got hit over the head. C'mon Chef! Let the food speak for itself! Zagat gave it a 23, but I think that's overly generous. I'd give it a 19. Also, the wait staff's attire seemed out of place. They were in these weird suits that smacked of corporate hotel flair and should've been burned when the 90's ended. Oh well.
(2)Diane V.
I have been to XIX quite a few times for birthday dinners as well as girls night out and I have not been disappointed yet. The decor here is fresh and chic while still making you feel cozy and comfortable from the second you step out of the elevator. There are two dining areas, one being a bit more intimate and romantic than the other, but both give you a great city view. The staff here is warm, knowledgeable and attentive. If you have a special request , they do their very best to make it happen and if you are unhappy with something, they will happily do what it takes to change that. I like to arrive early to have a cocktail and sit in the bar area, which at times is a true hot spot. Lighting is dim and seating is pretty ample. The bartenders are great and they offer many unique cocktail's, my favorite being the Basil Pomegranate Margarita. There is a wonderful selection of appetizers and a killer raw bar. For dinner I usually start with oysters on the half and they are always amazingly fresh and flavorful , no complaints there. My next favorite appetizer is the lobster risotto and it packs a ton of flavor and they do not skimp on the lobster or portion size. The entree menu does change for the season and hits a high mark all the time. I have had duck, short rib, chicken,seafood and pasta as entrees and they have all been wonderful with amazing sauces and sides. Again, portions are always ample, which is good because whoever you are with will probably want to have a taste of your plate and vice versa. I am usually stuffed by dessert time, but I will always indulge and there is something on the dessert menu for everyones sweet or not so sweet tooth. Some of the pricing can be on the high side, but well worth it for a special occasion. If you want to get a feel of the place while not breaking the bank, I suggest going for happy hour. The happy hour menu is awesome and very very reasonably priced. If happy hour isn't enough for you, check Nineteen out during Center City Restaurant Week. The restaurant week menu is pretty much identical to what you can get on a "normal day" without the price tag, but be sure to make a reservation as soon as you can. I hear they have a fantastic brunch and I will be trying that out when the weather gets warmer so I can sit out on the terrace. Cant wait to go back!
(4)Sara G.
I think I've found the happiest happy hour of them all! The bar area is gorgeous and never too crowded. The crowd is very mixed too. I've bought my boyfriend, mom, and best male friend here on separate occasions and it was a great spot for us each time. Anyway, $6 cocktails from 5-7 on weekdays and it's a true bang for your buck. Prepare to be super buzzed after about 2 drinks. And this is coming from someone with the tolerance of a horse. I have tried every cocktail on their summer happy hour menu -- drinking problem much? -- and my favorites are the Pear Car (vodka-based) and Summer Ball (tequila-based). They do a great job with the drinks, but the only one I don't like is the Basil Pomegranate Margarita. It is way too sweet in my opinion.
(4)Kelly C.
this is definitely one of the places i keep coming back to because it gots the "it" factor so what is the "it" factor? this place is absolutely beautiful. as soon as you reach the top floor, it's like an escape to classy paradise in the heart of philadelphia. the food was alrite, not gonna lie it's overpriced but for the occasion? i wouldn't mind once in a while--- i definitely think that its b/c the ambiance is top-notch. it surely affected on how the food tasted for me. i just can't give a bad review for this place despite what other people say if you're expecting for food that will wowz you, this is not the place, but if you're looking to live in a dream for an hr or two, THIS is the spot.
(4)Chau L.
Once upon a time, there was a solo luncher who happened upon the Cafe Lunch at XIX.... Sometimes, I feel a wee bit awkward when I'm out lunching by myself, but I didn't feel the least bit out of place at XIX. The staff was nice and attentive. I got sat at a nice table near the window. I went with the Cafe Lunch, which was a buffet of salads and various meats and cheeses and desserts AND an entree of your choice from the kitchen PLUS coffee and tea. I helped myself to a carrot and chickpea slaw, some apple, walnut, and blue cheese salad, and a touch of cheese (brie, gouda, and bleu). For the main course, I ordered the grilled corvino served in middle eastern-type spices. The corvino had the texture and flavor of swordfish, which can be quite firm and even tough, if overcooked. I thought the fish was ok. Then I helped myself to a tasting of every item on the dessert bar.....was this necessary??? of course!! The fresh berries alone were worth 3 trips to the bar. :P Overall, I enjoyed the service and atmosphere the most. Lunch was relaxing, and my waitress Danielle was pleasant. The sourdough roll that was brought to me was really, really good - nice and soft on the inside and light and crusty on the outside...plus they served it with room temperature butter, which I am always amazed to still find places that serve me cold butter at the table... I also enjoyed the teas: the ginger peach iced tea and the Vanilla Oblong hot tea. The food wasn't astronomically good, but it wasn't bad either. I will definitely be back. Next time, I'll bring friends to share this place with. But on a side note, if you're not completely comfortable eating by yourself, this is one of the best places to do it.
(4)Lauren M.
I wanted to love it here. Really, I did. I know it may be my mistep for going for my first time on Restaurant Week but but I left a little annoyed and definitely underwhelmed. Not only was it RW but it was also my friends 30th birthday. As she just finished grad school and is job searching, a RW menu is perfect. Two of us have a long history working in the industry and enjoy to dine when we go out. SERVICE: First, it took quite a few minutes for the server to come over at all and was incredibly informal - I wasn't really aware of who he was at first! When he opened our bottle of champagne, he let it spill out all over without an apology or explanation. Not that we ordered the most expensive bottle on the menu but I would prefer I drink it instead of the rug. When time time came to take our order, instead of letting us do our thing or asking if we had questions, he proceeded to rank-order the apps, entrees, and desserts and flat out told us the raviolis were not made in house. I hope he doesn't do that during a regular night because people love their pumpkin raviolis in a brown butter/sage. Once my champagne flute was empty, it took me 3 attempts to get another glass of wine. He came to our table two times without asking or attempting to upsell another bottle or just 1 drink with dinner. Odd. Then he disappeared for awhile and came back (seemingly tipsy) and said the staff was all in the "rose garden" cheersing to a successful Restaurant Week. Okay...interesting. To top it off, I asked to put the champagne on my card and split the rest of the bill evenly - it took him approximately 15 minutes to do this. I have seen every POS system from something that looks like a green IBM screen to Aloha to actual P.O.S. and that's just insanity. Even if you have to do the math yourself it shouldn't take that long. Wow. Granted he was pretty funny and definitely knows his food - but table service may not be his forte. FOOD: Now, the flavors were great. We tried just about everything on the RW menu. Apps were solid (server convinced me away from my watermelon two-ways to the asparagus...which was boring) but the proteins were over cooked for dinner. Salmon and scallops were definitely that of my kitchen (and I am no restaurant chef) so that was a little bit of a let down but the shortribs and corn and smoked bacon from the scallops were delish. DESSERT: It was all good. Dropped off at our places and not explained (i.e. tiramisu looked like moose and we were all kind of staring at it "is that the tiramisu?"). We did not get offered coffee, espresso, or an after dinner cocktail which was a let down because I love me espresso martinis. All in all, I won't go back again simply because there are so many other restaurants in the city to try and I'm definitely left wanting more. Maybe the reputation was too much to live up to or a late reservation on Restaurant Week is a bad idea for XIX but....sigh. Also, I totally wore jeans because its 2013. Jeans and appropriate tops/footwear is beyond fine for XIX....or any upscale restaurant in 2013.
(2)Caitlin M.
Went for brunch for a reunion with some friends. The menu on the website is not the menu we received. We were given a fixed price menu, $35 for a continental style breakfast and dessert buffet and a full entree. Mimosas were $2! I had the crab cake benedict which was delicious. My friends ordered the sea bass. There was a mistake with their order and they were given something else, so the waitress comped us a round of mimosas, fixed the order, and gave us a 25% discount on the whole bill. I would definitely go back for another brunch, but I would save it for another special occasion because of the price.
(5)Bret C.
The opulent setting is nearly as good as it gets,especially if you are seated at a window overlooking the City.We were warmly greeted by a smiling hostess who showed us to our seats.Steve, our server,was friendly yet professional thoroughout our stay.His colleagues,who brought the courses were pleasant and efficient,knowing who got what plate without asking.The Maryland oysters couldn't be better,though there were a couple miniscule one's in the mix.The mussels were flavorful and well prepared.The pork Osso Bucco was excellent.It was moist and exceedingly tender and tasty,accompanied by freshly sauteed kale.The chicken and the scallop choices were equally as good.All five of us commented about how much we enjoyed our experience
(4)Yiwen S.
this is a review purely for center city sips. the bar area is efficiently set up on wednesdays so that there's a table to order any of the food specials from, and another minibar to order the drink specials from. you pay upfront, so you don't have to worry about asking for the check later and dealing with slow service. you can order multiple drinks/food at a time, or you can choose to get back in line everytime you want more of either. if you're paying by credit, you can keep a tab open at the minibar. normally when i close out a tab, i tip out of habit and this was no different. but i realized as an afterthought that everyone who paid for their drinks upfront in cash didn't tip at all. hmm, does this mean i unknowingly just threw away money? drink specials- i don't care for beer or red wine, so can't comment. didn't enjoy the house white wine, too bitter for my tastes. the mixed drinks were just ok- the pomegranate margarita was too sweet and not nearly strong enough. and the sweet tea vodka tasted exactly like watered down sweet tea. in order to achieve some sort of buzz, i had to mix all my alcohol types on an empty stomach. too much effort in my opinion. food specials- i think $3 is kind of much for a single shrimp cocktail or oyster on the half shell, but the bbq pork sliders were fabulous. if i weren't trying to get a buzz, i would've gladly eaten three of those. it is damn hard to find seating during cc sips, but if you just loiter around in the bar area long enough, a loveseat or table should open up. while you're standing around, take in the gorgeous views from either of two balconies. xix is located on the 19th floor of the bellevue, and you get great views of cc and the delaware river+jersey on a clear day. you've heard all about the amazing architecture of this place by now, so no need to dwell on the interior decoration. one note on whoever engineered the layout of this place. it's kinda ridiculous to take one elevator up from the lobby straight to the 19th floor, and to have to take another set of elevators once in the restaurant to go down to the 18th floor to use the restrooms (or to get to floors 13-18 for that matter).
(3)Peter S.
Love the bar area! If your going for dinner, make sure you wait to sit outside its breath taking
(4)John L.
Simple... you're coming here to pay a little/lot too much and enjoy the beautiful views and old world style/decor. That's it. Great service, uncomfortable chairs, solid brunch, beautiful view.
(3)Karen F.
OK, here's my long awaited review of Nineteen (I'm not gonna call it XIX, just 19 is fine for me.). Even though my "special" birthday was almost a whole month ago, a very kind & generous girlfriend gifted me dinner at 19 tonight. Chuck, our server was fabulous - I want to make that clear- as I am about to say some critical things about the service. Here's how things shook down... I arrived for our 6 PM reservation early - at about 5:45. Since it was a lovely evening, I decided to have a drink on the terrace, and selected a table out in the open air. I put down my water bottle and asked the (very pregnant) hostess where the ladies room is. She explained that I needed to go down 1 flight on the elevator. Great. Fine. When I get back there is some guy sitting at "my" table and my water bottle is gone. So I move to another outdoor table - and the host (not the hostess) brings me a bottle of water (huge 27 oz. bottle of fancy-schmancy water from Norway - which - by the way - was damned tasty water.) to replace it. I order a virgin Mexican Mojito - which was perfect, by the by, - a refreshing libation of club soda, fresh lime juice and basil-infused (you really could smell it) simple syrup. Limeaid with a twist. FAB-U! So I drink my mocktail and quite happily sit and chill until way, way past 6 PM. At 6:15 or so I call my g.f. - guess what??? She's seated in the dining room and has been there for half an hour. Nobody came to get me. Nobody told her I was there. No nothin'. So I ask to move to the table, and we chat and order. Decor: 5 stars. The dining room with it's pussy willow & pearl theme and MARVELOUS rotunda is so breathtaking. Service: 2 (Chuck gets a 4 or 5 - he was great), everyone else was snotty and/or pre-occupied). VERY SNOTTY. Food - varies - 3-4 - here's why: We started with salads. I splurged and ordered the lump crabmeat salad which was truly delicious and lightly dressed in an orange-champagne vinaigrette. The tomatoes were red, ripe and actually tasted like tomatoes. The small chunks of avocado were smooth and buttery. The bibb lettuce was right on! For $15 bucks (whoa-momma!( that was my kinda salad. For $15 bucks you could put a little more crab - though I must say the crab that was there was sweet and PURE lumbo lump meat. Nary a shell! We both had the(only vegetarian) tagliatelle entree. The pasta was hand-crimped, and light and luscious. It was bathed in a lemony (very sharp, but I got used to it) buttery sauce and LOADED with various hoity-toity mushrooms including morels, hen-of-the-woods, oyster and others. If you don't like shrooms - do NOT order this. Quite frankly I was mushroomed-out by the end of it and left (no joke!) over 1/2 cup of these precious morsels - I ate all the morels - plate side). I also chased down all of the succulent beans (small fava - large lima - something else??) and fresh sp[ring peas. Oh - and there were ramps and FIDDLEHEADS. A nice spring dish. High-end veg for sure. But quite alot of mushrooms. For dessert had a kickin' strong cup of Illy cappucino. Good - but somehow not as good as the cap at Davio's. A bit bitter. Wesplit ahome-made waffle with nutella & berry compote. The waffle itself was great. I would have preferred less "glop" on top of it,but my friend preferred the sauces to the waffle. She digs nutella. Oh - and they put a little green candle in the scoop of (homemade??) vanilla ice cream on top of the waffle. Thankfully nobody sang! Since someone else paid, It was a 4 star time, but honestly? Forthe money there are much. much better places to eat - and drink - not only in Philly - but in Philly high-end hotels. That said - the private dining room is nice- and I would definitely do a business lunch or dinner here. But for my own life? I doubt if I'd run back here.
(4)Yo J.
Very mediocre food presentation is very poor flavors not so spectacular as people claim it to be. We ordered the short ribs and the boneless rib eye both were very dry and not cooked the way we imagined it . They looked like burnt pieces of meat on a plate I'm so disappointed. We had the fried calamari, lobster bisque and the England pea soup as a starter ! Terrible idea they all tasted very cheap.!!! And i think they could have made it better. The calamari was so ordinary and the lobster bisque was poorly made the flavors weren't in harmony and the lobster was gummy. I didn't like the England pea soup either it's too overwhelming. Our Friend had the steak and it looks like it was just slopped on there with a bunch of fries!!! I give 2 stars for the venison that was the only thing I didn't mind on the menu that was cooked deliciously but other than that I was overall disappointed.Honestly we are paying for that much to not see a plate looking like everything was just thrown in there and the service was slow and we rsvp for 5 what were they thinking putting together two tiny round tables! The 5th person couldn't barely eat properly because we didn't have the appropriate space. Never coming back here again.
(2)Diana L.
I went here for Restaurant week. The inside was gorgeous. My date and I were seated right next to a large balcony window looking out towards the Liberty One building. It was night time so looking out into the city lights was beautiful and romantic. The staff was friendly, attentive. The food was so delicious. I was a little disappointed by the portion sizes, but since it was restaurant week, after the 3 courses we were both full. It's definitely a place to go to spend a special evening. I've been to the lounge as well on a date in the past. The lounge is very cozy, comfortable. The cocktails were nice, again either sitting by the fireplace or in a booth looking out over the city. I would say it's one of those places you should visit if you have the chance.
(5)Ritu K.
Ughh- skip it for Center City Sips. Sure the restaurant is beautiful with an intricately molded ceiling and swanky seats. Sure there's a fantastic balcony and a lovely view of the city, but the drink specials were meh.. Yuengling and wine (don't get me wrong I love both but I could get a yuengling for that price anywhere), as well as two girly concotions that had me jumping up to get a yuengling.. Additionally, there's no table service so you're left to stand in a long line to order your beverages. At 5pm no problem- by 6pm forget about it... and the bbq pork and bbq chicken sliders nothing to write home about and the oysters were decidingly fishy.. Probably a fantastic place outside of summer sips but would certainly skip the summer sips scene here...
(3)Stephanie P.
#191 No. No, thank you. This place isn't worth it. It's on the 19th floor (duh), so the view is of the dirty, grimey roofs of several buildings nearby. A plus - I can see my building from the balcony. Aside from that, the crowd is your typical I-have-money-(somewhat)-and-I-like-to-swag-during-Âhappy-hour. Definitely not my cup of tea. Though, I will say, the cocktails are tasty - in the sense that they're sweet and yummy. Unfortunately for them, I prefer them stiff and strong. ;) The complimentary wasabi peas and pretzel bites were a good touch though, saving it from a single star rating.
(2)Candy K.
I hosted a 30th birthday dinner for my fiance on saturday in the private dining room.....and it was amazing. The staff was attentive, and totally on point. I forgot the name of the gentleman that was the head of those taking care of us, but he was awesome. He gave me the wonderful suggestion of ending the evening off with a champagne toast!!! Boy did my guest love that!! Ok now to the food, it was absolutely amazing!!! I had the seared striped bass with crawfish ragout and rainbow swiss chard, some people had the ribeye and others head seared scallops. I'm actually dreaming about the food...yikes! As a hostess, you know that the food is spectacular when a room goes silent because everyone is passionately devouring their meal lol, and thats exactly what happened! Everything tasted perfect, and my guests raved about the food (and some of them are a tough to please)!!!!! My guests loved the Lychee kiss cocktail, I actually lost track everything they drank but all the drinks were really strong which was great because the price is not cheap. I love the fact that they offered us an extra entree choice, besides the three that I had selected for my guests. (They get bonus points for that) They also had a sound system that allows you to play music off your iPod, a cd or radio...(bonus points for that too!) The private dining room itself is beautiful, classy, chic, and not stuffy at all! If you ever want to throw a dinner party for your friends with great food, wonderful cocktails, champagne and wine...this is the place for you!
(5)Janice T.
BEAUTIFUL inside... but food was nothing special in my opinion.
(3)Bomin K.
for bruch, five stars
(4)Jill C.
Today was my third visit to Nineteen (XIX). The first two times were for Center City sips - drinks were great and service was prompt but reviewing a restaurant during Sips is just plain unfair. However, my sister and I had a spectacular lunch here today. We had the prix fix lunch, which began with a fantastic assortment of salads and cheese. The second course was perfectly portioned and beautifully presented, not to mention a spectacular blend of flavors. The meal finished with a dessert bar - they were tiny enough that you don't feel too guilty eating more than one, plus they had fresh berries. As is expected the atmosphere is beautiful without being stuffy. I can imagine it is romantic at night, with the sun setting over the city and the skyline at night. Our server was efficient and pleasant. Not super spectacular in the sense that he didn't spend any extra time at the table to exchange friendly conversation, but that's ok by me. Going to drop hints with the hubby to go here for dinner - consider it dropped if you read this dear.
(4)jackie p.
Wow. The main dinning room with the over sized pearl chandelier was beutiful. Food was crazy good. Next time I go I will order 2 appetizers. I came here for valentines day and the choice was perfect. I felt romanced by the experiance.
(5)Shannon L.
3.5* I went for the 22 dollar cafe lunch. This was my first time at Nineteen. I've heard about the great view and ambiance (which is what I mostly went for :P), but personally found that just okay. We got a seat right by the window (requested on a previous reservation I canceled, but they remembered!) although it was all buildings. May have been nicer at night. I think the view from Lacroix is better since I like the greenery, but I think it's a personal preference. However, I did think it was great value, and I will definitely go back. Service was slightly impersonal (I guess since you are paying just $22), but still great! You get -a drink (they offered lemonade or peach tea), -selection of meats, cheese, salad (center table) -an entree (I had the fish of the day - it was good - fresh and not too salty), -desert display (center table desert spread with an assortment of food). The food was okay and it was a very comfortable meal. Also: changed reservation from 2 to 3 people. They just added another chair to a 2 person table :S However, I did only call them about an hour before to change the reservation. Still, was a bit surprised.
(4)nina f.
Amazing Brunch & Staff! I would definitely recommend XIX. The food was great and the staff very helpful and on cue!
(5)Pamela K.
Enjoyed a lovely lunch here with a girlfriend recently. You can't beat the $22 lunch special with apps, entree and desserts! sitting high above our fair city in an elegant room made for a fabulous afternoon.
(5)Aaliyah P.
This was stop # one on our Swanked out Hotel Bar crawl. I loved being able to take the elevator up to the 19th Floor it made me feel very special. The dining room didn't really have a lot of diners but since we were in the building to booze i wasn't really concerned about the emptiness. The lounge area is a great size and has small tables and large tables to come with a group no matter what the size. We found our way to a huge lounge seats and settled in. The drink list seemed ok and a few cocktail options appealed to me but i decided to still with the BUBBLY ! Split my second bottle of Marquis De la Tour with Krista P (we have a slight bubbly drinking problem) Others had various drinks which they seemed to enjoy. Our cocktail waitress was awesome no one was ever without a drink in hand and she was very sweet. Since we had eaten prior to coming i wasn't interested in nibbles but there seemed to be options for everyone snack wise. My only beef is the prices since we are in this side of broad things got a little pricey (i.e. the 5.00 increase on that bottle of Marquis) I would come back for sure , and maybe dinner is in order very soon.
(4)Jevon Y.
The ambience of the place was fantastic and the service was great. The lunch special was extremely value for money and I'll definitely be back again!
(4)Tracy K.
I have had dinner here twice with my husband and it is a beautiful restaurant. To be honest my favorite part of the restaurant is the small bar area. The bar menu has some very tasty treats and I really like the laid back lounge feel.
(3)Lan G.
It's a perfect place to get a couple of drink over sunset! I love the view they have and plus they have happy hour from 5-7pm Monday through Friday. $6 cocktails is definitely a good deal for a center city location like this. We got there around 6pm and found empty seats by the window. I love the interior and wall decors. I ordered a couple of their special cocktail. I would write out the name of it, but I honesty don't recall except the fact that it's dangerously delicious. The server was very attentive and gives a nice generous pour when you get a glass of wine. We didn't get to try any food, but I would definitely recommend this place for anyone who is looking to a romantic time after a workday to rewind.
(4)Jessica S.
This is one of my favorite happy hour spots! What a fabulous spot to enjoy $6 specialty drinks & complimentary wasabi peanuts from 5-7. If you want a window seat, I recommend showing up before 6. I've frequented this place on several occasions and received stellar service each time. I love their mixed drinks - they're always satisfying, flavorful and don't skimp on the booze. My favorite is the tart and powerful grapefruit martini. Another tasty concoction is the mango mojito made with fresh juice (not flavored syrup) and tons of fresh mint.
(5)Zoe P.
Life can get crazy and hectic, so its nice when you can slow things down a bit - like with a ladies' Sunday brunch. I joined my bf's mom, sister and grandmother for what was technically a very belated birthday celebration for his grandmother, so the choice of XIX as the venue was definitely appropriate. I mean, the interior speaks for itself - its just freaking gorgeous. Maybe its because I'm dating her son, but his mom (who is an interior designer, so she gets into discussing design) showed us around and kept talking about how fantastic this would be to host an event at - like a wedding reception. Not awkward whatsoever. The main dining room is truly spectacular, with these white balls hung from the very high ceiling like pearl strands, and the view is incredible! However we ate in the cafe, a more subdued but very lovely area, and ordered from the a la carte menu. His sister and I both had the crab salad (entree size - its huge! I ate half and had enough for lunch the next day), while his mom and grandmother both had the eggs benedict. The food was great, very fresh (esp. the crab - HUGE lumps generously scattered) and portions were enough to please man or woman. Perhaps a bit pricey (I don't recall the last time I saw a salad priced at $20), but considering the quality and amount not very unreasonable at all. XIX is definitely a place for nice occasions, but its even good for the every once in a while splurge on food - which as we know is the best kind!
(4)Danielle M.
The food was ok here, but mostly what we went for is to see the dining area and the fantastic view! It was like stepping into the past, with such grand structure and high ceilings. Despite this, it seemed perfectly intimate for my date and I! The scalop dish I ordered was a little strange, as they chose to put a raisin sauce over it. We thoughoughly enjoyed ourselves though!
(4)YelpHatesMe Y.
This is a bar review only. 3 and a1/2 stars. Went there for a few drinks on Saturday night. Has sort of a speakeasy fancy feel to it. Views were pretty good as one would expect. Seemed to be an eclectic crowd there. Few guys in suits, few losers - sorry, hipsters and some housewives of whatever county. Seemed like a pretty nice place place to relax though. Lighting was low and they had some nice chairs to sit in. It would be a nice place to "hide" if you wanted to get off the main strip for a bit. I didn't really like that I had to go down a floor to use the bathroom though. Bottom line; Very nice bar but doesn't seem "practical" to really go there more than once or twice a year. Nice bar to impress a first date.
(3)Vinny P.
I actually came here for dinner but I had to walk through ongoing Sips. It looked like a friggin madhouse in there. It was way packed and very hot. Then we got out of that area into the dining room. Wow! Huge difference. Very elegant. Huge high ornate ceiling with a very large chandelier that looked like strings of a giant pearl necklace. The seats were covered in this old french fabric and damn were they comfortable. We sat right by the window and had an awesome view of philly. I couldn't really ask for a better birthday dinner. Food was very tasty and surprisingly affordable. Our appetizers were the ceviche (which had amazing presentation) and a selection of two meats and a cheese. While the meats and cheese were awesome (one was mole style with ancho chiles and chocolate bits) the really incredible part was the amount you got for the price. The board came with a mound of the meats and a very large wedge of the cheese. It was almost too much for us to eat and still be able to eat dinner. For dinner we had the steak frites and the sea bass. Both were prepared nearly perfectly and were just as tasty. The sea bass had a fava bean puree with lime zest and it was surrounded by a red wine reduction. It was definitely one of the nicest presentations I had seen in quite a while. My steak was simply a very nicely cooked piece of hanger steak on a plate with herbed butter and really tasty fries. I asked for medium rare and I got it, on the rarer side which is just how I like it. The steak cut like butter and tasted like heaven. Very worth the price. Drinks were good too albeit the service was a tad slow (which I didn't mind last night) I had their concoction with bourbon, blood orange bitter and elderflower liquor and wow, I could have had 6 more of them. It's definitely swank but they know how to take care of you. The view is spectacular the food is very memorable. The place oozes with class and their service is very friendly. I'll go back just for drinks and the meats and cheeses.
(4)Thao N.
The decor and view from this restaurant is absolutely gorgeous... A definite hot spot for a romantic dinner. Food was cooked to perfection, service was exceptional - very courteous and prompt. I'll definitely be coming back!
(5)sherry h.
Had my US wedding reception here...and listen to me dammit: If you're looking to have an event in Philly that you & your guests will never forget, XIX is your place. Trust me on this one. This place is ridiculously amazing in every way. My reception was perfect and I couldn't have been happier w/ the way it turned out. Here's why: + CATERING MANAGER: Should you decide to have your event at XIX, Lindsey K. is your girl. Let's just put it this way. Lindsey is my new BFF. Not only did she go above-and-beyond for every stinkin' detail of my event, she is the sweetest, most personable, and hilarious person you will ever meet. She has this way of making you feel like you are her one and only client - when she is actually juggling a million of you. + DECOR: There are only two words to describe the look of this place. Classy & Elegant. The furniture, the color palette, the gorgeous patios, the raw bar in the center of the circular shaped room, etc. All sheer perfection. + SERVICE: The service is stellar. My guests all commented on the fact that the servers were so attentive and that not a moment went by where their wine glasses weren't topped off (which explains their drunken stupor later on that evening & the debauchery that followed it, but that's another story). + FOOD: Delish. From the hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour to the salad, appetizer, entree, and wedding cake during the reception...my guests would not stop talking about the food and all of it's deliciousness. Chef, ya kinda know what you're doing back there! Thank you, XIX & staff, for making my wedding night so memorable and beautiful. Sniffle.
(5)Catherine L.
This is a review for the bar only. If you're feeling fancy, want a change of scenery and a nice view - come during their happy hour (5 - 7pm) for half priced cocktails ($6 - the Lychee martini is delicioso) and secure yourself a spot at the bar or in one of the three half moon booths by the windows. At sunset, it's lovely. The space is swanky-cozy, with high ceilings and dark paneling. (during the winter they have the fireplace going in full swing, it's a nice touch!) Waitstaff service tends to be spotty when they are busy - (I dig their elegant uniforms) If you're lucky they might serve you complimentary wasabi peanuts - otherwise for eats, the bar food menu isn't impressive. Skip the cheese and cured meats (blah) and have a go at their sliders (though expensive at $5 for each!) 3-stars are for the reasons I go: cocktails, happy hour specials and an elegant space with a view.
(3)Asli K.
Nineteen is like an oasis in the city. It is the epitome of elegance. I had the chance of both dining and having brunch there, and both experiences were amazing.
(4)Joanna H.
I would go for the atmosphere more than for the food- not that the food was bad. The sashimi appetizer was delicate and flavorful, but i know I can def find better places with better food in a romantic setting. I would say the quality of the food is memorable(never had such chicken that soft!) than the taste of it. There are 2 sections in the restaurant that you can be seated. The one closer to the bar seemed more romantic than the other side.
(3)A K.
My aunts, mother and I were at XIX on Sunday (02/19/2012) for Afternoon Tea. After searching around the parking bridge area for an elevator, we finally found one on the next floor down. Once we arrived on the 19th floor, we were seated promptly. The host and hostess were very friendly and I immediately felt comfortable. Our waitress was the best of all. She was pleasant and helpful - answering all of our inquiries about the different teas. She even gave us some extra scones and desserts from a cancellation earlier in the day. When the bill came, she hadn't even charged us for the extras. We weren't rushed out and relaxed there for quite some time after we ate. I was always a huge fan of the Ritz Carlton Afternoon Tea but I don't think they do it anymore since the remodel. This is a fabulous replacement! Also, sunday brunch was just ending when we got there - it looked phenomenal!
(4)Maria G.
great view, if you can snag a seat by the window. Drinks a bit pricey and I wish there were more appetizers to choose from.
(3)K. B.
We went here for brunch this past weekend for a family event. First, the parking situation is actually not that horrible for center city. There is a garage right next door and the waitress can validate you ticket and it only costs $7 for 3 hours. The restaurant itself is very 'Grand' with its domed ceilings, views from the 19th floor of and equally grand hotel. Servers were very nice and eager to help (including putting up with my families less than funny jokes). There is a small buffet to begin the meal, with salads, cheeses, meats, lox/bagels. The entree options were diverse enough that everyone found something suitable. Finally, there was a desert bar with cakes/pastries, etc. The food was good, I mean its brunch, you can only do so much with it. The price was probably where it should have been ($35/person), that being said, a lot of it was probably for the location/ambiance, not the food. Certainly a nice place, but not a regular weekend brunch location that most of us could afford on a routine basis. Overall not too many complaints, it was a nice time. Note: one quirky thing about this place... the accoustics are just right in some locations that you can hear people talking from across the room as if they were next to you. Good/bad/indifferent, it was kind of entertaining.
(4)M R.
Amazing Amazing Amazing!!! Food is as good as the decor! the staff is wonderful the chef is impeccable, food portions are generous. i cant say enough good things about it! Highly recommend.
(5)Amanda G.
I just got back from Restaurant Week at XIX, and I have to tell you, this place makes me feel guilty for giving out 5 stars to other joints. My meal tonight was one of the best I've ever had, and I would give it much more than 5 stars. My husband and I made a 7:00 reservation. We got there about 10 minutes early, were greeted, and sat right away. The atmosphere of this place just screams class, and the views are great. The lighting is perfect, and the spacing between tables is just right. You don't feel too cramped, but you don't feel like you're sitting out in the open either. For my appetizer I got the crab cake, while my husband got the corn soup. The crab cake was out of this world. It was stuffed with crab, there were no fillers, and it had a very sweet (but not TOO sweet) tomato relish on the top, with a sauce for dipping on the plate. It was perfectly balanced and completely delicious. My husband's soup was amazing. It came in a long, shallow bowl, with corn, scallops, and a pesto sauce on the bottom. The waiter then poured the corn soup over everything, and when all the flavors come together it was mouthwatering. For my main course I got the striped bass with potatoes, artichokes, and cauliflower in a butter/truffle oil sauce. The fish was cooked perfectly, and the skin on it was super crunchy. The artichokes were so good, and the butter/truffle oil sauce was to. die. for. I wanted to lick the plate when I was done. My husband ordered the steak, and he asked for it medium/rare. It definitely came out that way, too. I normally don't like my meat still moving, so I didn't eat any of his, but from what he tells me it was awesome. DESSERT. The reason I chose to come here for Restaurant Week, essentially...was more than I hoped it'd be. I got the cheesecake, which came in a mason jar. There was a LOT of cheesecake. It came with a few raspberries on the side, so when I got the perfect combination of cheesecake and crust out of the jar I'd put a berry on top and it made for some perfect bites. It also came with cookies with raspberry in the center. Trust me, you didn't need the cookies. There was so much cheesecake. But I ate it all because it was so good. My husband got the toffee pudding with white chocolate ice cream - and I had a few bites of that, too. The toffee pudding was really good and very moist. I'm not a white chocolate kind of girl, but if you are, the ice cream won't let you down. Random notes: -- I ordered a hot tea with my meal and it came out in a clear glass pot with loose leaves being steeped in a little container attached to the lid. As an avid tea drinker, I found this not only super cute, but a really unique way for a restaurant to serve tea. They also brought out a pewter plate with sugars and a jar of cream on it. Sometimes when you order tea, they don't automatically bring cream. So I was delighted to see that. -- The ONLY thing that "disappointed" me about this meal was the bread. It was a little bit crunchy/tough/hard to chew. But it still tasted good. -- The service staff was AMAZING. Super attentive, super nice. It didn't feel like Restaurant Week at all. They were very busy, but I didn't once feel "neglected." -- You have to go down the elevator one floor to get to the bathroom. I don't feel any kind of way about that, but I thought it was worth mentioning. Overall, this place was a huge bang for my Restaurant Week buck. Don't miss out!!
(5)Thomas K.
Had a great breakfast with great service. It was a great way to get the day started, for sure. We noshed upon: A toasted multigrain bagel with smoked salmon, tomato, cream cheese, and capers. Always a treat, especially when the lox was melt in your mouth...like this was. Jumbo lump crab cake which was very nice, loaded with chunky crab meat with notes of Old Bay seasoning without being overpowering. A vegan pressed wrap with black beans, vegetables, and tomato...kind of like a thick vegetable chili and chunks of creamy avocado rolled inside a soft flour tortilla, then toasted on a panini press. Hearty and heart-healthy. Coffee and tea were topped off by our server, who was a gem. It's pricey, yes...ours was included with our stay, so we were able to try a bunch of things without worrying about the bill adding up. There was also a hot and cold breakfast buffet available which featured the standard breakfast fare, which was refreshed once during our 45 minute stay. A beautiful venue, good food, good service. It's all good!
(4)Regina F.
"One word to describe me: spectacular, YES!" If lounges could talk, XIX would probably have taken that gem of a phrase straight from Julez Santana's mouth. You take the elevator to the 19th floor. Wood paneling and mirrors envelop you. There is no ding. The doors open. Chandelier. Hallways. Passageways. The dining area is nearly empty. It's almost midnight after all. But the bar is bustling with the most enticing Bond crowd you've yet seen. The attendees at this evening soiree buzz about their business. Some stand at the bar. Other sit at low tables leaning toward each other to either perpetuate the vibe or see one another over the dimly lit candle. Couples canoodle in the corner booths where the view of Philadelphia is absolutely astounding. If you're feeling daring, step out onto the deck where you can not only see the skyline, but feel the breath of Philadelphia enclose you in her embrace. Drinks are ordered quickly and delivered promptly in spite of the bustle. The Merlot was fruity; the Jack and Coke expertly blended (there is something to be said for perfect proportions of alcohol and soda); the Long Island Iced Tea zesty and zingy.
(5)Bill B.
This place provided outstanding atmosphere and service. Top notch. The food was very good as well but a bit on the small side. Overall great experience and I plan on going back.
(4)Mary S.
I've come here for happy hour, late night drinks and brunch--since that's about all I can afford here lol. The view is amazing and I def recommend sitting on the balcony for a late-night cocktail. The brunch is also good. The shrimp Caesar salad is delicious--the perfect amount of dressing and very filling. The crab cakes here are also equally amazing. Odd fact--When you sit in the center circle there is an echo and you can hear people's convos from across the room too.
(4)Jessica B.
I would love to actually be able to review the food and drinks here, but sadly I can't even do that, because I was essentially turned away at the door. A few weeks ago, this nifty discount website I belong to (RueLaLa) had a special for XIX: $25 for $50 worth of food. Sweet! My boyfriend and I were super excited about the chance to go, so we saved the voucher for a night when we had some time free, and meandered over there. When we walked in, the restaurant was essentially empty, except for a few staff standing around and watching "The Bachelor" (classy). The host took us to our table (after informing us we couldn't sit at the famous bar because it was closed for renovations). When we arrived at the table, I whipped out my printed-out voucher and told the host we were planning to use the voucher for a few drinks and a couple of appetizers. He said, "oh... you can't use that for drinks and appetizers. You can only use that for a meal." I was rather shocked, but I looked at the voucher again and NOWHERE did it say that I could only use it for an actual meal. Not in the general description, not in the fine print -- nowhere. When I confronted him about this, he said, "Oh... you can tell from the hours they put on the voucher." To which I replied, "what... you mean all the hours for the restaurant?" What I'd wish I'd said was, "If you didn't want to honor this voucher, you shouldn't have signed up for it." Since we basically felt like second-hand citizens, we left. Needless to say, I'm going to get my money back, and I'm never going back there, EVER.
(1)Lena M.
I took my mom on Sat for early Mother's Day dinner. Our waiter was exceptional so sorry I forget his name but he had the right amount of tease with professionalism he recommended superb choices & gave us comp Champage took our pix for us. I had the braised ribs so tender & favorable my mom had the salmon app were calamari & crab cake perfect mom day dinner
(5)Stephen C.
I've been here a few times, once for a wedding and another time just to hit up the bar. The wedding was a while ago but I definitely remember spending more time trying to get appetizers than trying to get drinks during the reception prior to sitting down for dinner, so that says something. On my most recent visit, I went with a group of friends to get a couple drinks at the bar. While the drinks are a bit expensive and the beer list isn't great, the view and atmosphere of the bar area makes it all worth it. If you are looking for a relaxed place to grab a drink or two and you want to try something different then you should check it out and maybe you will decide to stay for dinner.
(4)Kaitlin M.
Only reason I am giving this place two stars is because it is gorgeous: the interior and the view. Also, because the bar was packed and it looked like a lot of fun. The bar is also ways from the dining room and you are out of view so you can be as rowdy as you want =P. BTW you also have to take an elevator to the restrooms. I went with about 10 people for a birthday which I do not recommend because this is more for a quiet couple's dinner. Maybe they were annoyed by our large party because it took over an hour and a half to get three appetizers. We waited really long for each drink too. I also ordered salmon and got red snapper. The reason I 100% know I didn't order this is because I didn't even know red snapper was an edible fish (oops). I didn't send it back because I didn't want to wait and we had plans to meet friends at another spot later. It was actually pretty good though. Nonetheless, that has never happened to me before and I certainly wouldn't expect it from a swank place like this. Mistakes happen I guess, but I wouldn't go back to eat even though I tried something new and got a free drink out of the mix-up!
(2)Bang T.
As you're going up to the 19th floor (Hence the name XIX) the elevator that takes you up is has an old yet classy look to it. when the doors open you're greeted with a dim ambiance and large windows which over look Philadelphia. We decided to reserve windows seats which was an excellent choice. it provided a beautiful view of philadelphia which made our night much more romantic. We weren't to sure what to order so our waitress which was very nice and had excellent suggestions. We started with a bottle of pinot noir: 59 dollars For appetizers we had: one dozen of their oysters (2 diffrent kinds half dozen each): 18/36 dollars (*****Absolutely delicious*****) Flat Bread Pizza: 11 Dollars XIX Salad: 11 Dollars (Fresh But to much dressing) Entrees: Tuna Mahi Mahi w/ Tomato Pepper & Lemon Relish $40 Diver Scallops w/ Tomato Pepper & Lemon Relish $40 Both of these entrees were served for perfection, the way they were prepared and the presentation were magnificent. the tuna mahi mahi was soft and melted in my mouth as with the scallops. the sides complimented the dish completely. Total Price: 197 + 20%tip = 236.40 Overall experience: Ambiance - Excellent (romantic) Service - Excellent Food quality - Excellent Food Preperation - Excellent Overall this place is excellent if you can dish out the money and if you like classy places. great for a romantic night on the town since its downtown. Sidenote: I suggest Valet parking, the garage is cramped and overpacked. and overcharges. valet parking is sometimes cheaper or only 5 dollars more. so why not spend 5 dollars more when you're about to spend 175+ on a dinner for 2.
(5)ana m.
Rude! We arrived at 2 PM, hoping to be seated for lunch. They said it was an hour's wait, though there were many tables open, and I didn't see anyone in the waiting lounge. I guess we weren't fancy enough for them!
(1)Thayvie S.
I love this place. The good is good. I enjoy eating the appetizers a lot. The ambience is what makes this place amazing. It's one of my favorite places. You won't be disappointed. It's dim, relaxing, and extremely comfortable both the dining area and bar area.
(4)Lauren C.
The boyfriend and I stopped by XIX for drinks last night after seeing a fantastic show (more on that in another review). We had been for drinks once before, so this review is based on those two trips to the bar. XIX is (appropriately) on the 19th floor, so you'll need to take the elevator. Depending on which one you take it can be a little hard to find the bar, but if you wander the floor long enough (around a few corners and through the room with the swanky/modern/a little weird lounge/restaurant), you'll find the bar. The atmostphere is decidedly sophisticated, upscale, and romantic. The lighting is dim (so dim I had trouble reading the menu, and my eyesight is solid), the room has high ceilings, and the (famous) view is beautiful. We were able to snag a table near the windows, which was great. Attire was similarly upscale - I was wearing a little black dress and didn't feel overdressed at all. I would've felt awkward in jeans and a t-shirt. The service was middling (we had two waiters and still ended up needing to flag one down on a couple occasions), but the drinks ($12 for each of their signature cocktails) were delicious. I had the Sorrento Lemon and the boyfriend had the Kentucky Straight Orange. They were tasty and pretty potent (not watered-down or lacking flavor like some others have experienced) and we ordered the same again on the second round. A little before midnight we felt hungry and ordered some snacks ($15 for a selection of three cheeses and/or meats, $20 for a selection of 5). The cheese was pretty good, but it didn't hold up compared to Tria or Biba - the portions were a little small and there were no descriptions to help you decide. If you're looking for a place to splurge on cocktails and get your fancy on, this is the place to go.
(4)Kelly P.
so i made it my business to get here for RW2011. conclusion: beautiful atmosphere (saw the sun setting through the large windows), delicious food, but pushed out the door. was that because of RW? or is it normally like that? i wouldnt know, i cannot fathom spending upwards of $70 for a meal here on a regular basis, so i may never know..
(4)Katherine A.
I've ended up here twice within the last week with friends, and I have to say I'd forgotten how much I love it. For some reason I never remember to go to XIX - maybe because it's on the 19th floor of a hotel, or because it's in the middle of Broad St., but regardless I have resolved to start going there more often. The ambiance is spectacular - one of the most physically beautiful bar spaces in Philly I'd say, with that old hotel bar glamour that is harder and harder to find these days. High ceilings and windows, low light, a fireplace in the winter (which is reason to go there in and of itself) and gorgeous balcony seating in the summer...if you need a romantic and lavish date spot, this is your place. There is a fairly good selection of wines, although they're categorized in a slightly odd way (e.g. full bodied, medium bodies, etc.), that are not exorbitantly priced for a hotel bar. The calamari is also wonderful, although the cheese plate is a bit sparse for the price tag. It's also not too overcrowded or loud on Fri and Sat nights, which is a welcome respite from the midtown/Sansom St. craziness.
(4)Christopher J.
I once had a conversation with a friend that went along the lines of the following: Me: Wow that woman over there is stunningly beautiful, Friend: Yes she is, but know this, somewhere in the world, someone is absolutely sick of her B.S. This conversation basically sums up my feelings and experiences of this restaurant. I actually went to great lengths to complain to the management about how bad of an experience my party had at this place. I was sent a nice gift certificate for the entire cost of the meal etc. Here's the kicker...I still haven't used it. What does that tell you? Enjoy the view, enjoy a drink which is hard to screw up,...other than that don't bother.
(1)Zanna H.
Holy disappointment Batman! Do you like condescension and unprofessional behavior from hosts? Do you like awkward tables? Do you like having a group of 3 split between two small tables? Do you like serving yourself? Do you like being rushed? Do you like being ignored by waitstaff? Do you like under seasoned food? Do you like over cooked dry fish? Do you like staff taking chairs from your table mid meal without asking to accommodate another table? Do you like a waitress waiting like a vulture for the check? If you answered yes to any or all the questions above XIX is the place for you. To start off the host who greeted & sat us asked us if we wanted bottled water, sparkling water, or "Philly's best..." Now this I would let slide if I were in a more casual place but I'm sorry that is obnoxious. But was only the beginning of the unprofessional behavior. So we are sat a two small tables in the corner that are oblong and so our party of three felt disconnected and basically eliminated conversation for one person, and we could not get any of the famed view of the city from there. The first course was an assortment of salads, cheeses, etc that we had to get from the center of the room ourselves. Fine, but at least toss the damn salads before putting them out. All the dressing and croutons and such were left hidden under the bare greens. So on to the second course. The only thing the kitchen had to cook and the waitstaff has to serve. Well the hosts brought out our entrees. Cleared my places and the places of the person across from me but neglected to clear the placed of our 3 party member exiled to the secondary table. She was left surrounded by dirty plates and had her entree given to her before she was done with her salad. I got he lamb & pasta dish. This consisted on about a teaspoon of ground unseasoned lamb, bland pasta, and a "sauce" that was more like broth that proceeded to splatter whenever I attempted to eat a noodle. There was also a sprinkling of some cheese like product that the menu claimed was ricotta. I have had better pasta made by 12 yr olds. The other two diners in my party ordered the fish of the day which was striped bass. It came out and instantly it was obvious that it was overcooked and dried out. I don't eat fish and I could tell that from across the table. The beans it was resting on were only half cooked and disgusting. Now keep in mind this is the only course that the kitchen had to prepare. The salad assortments and the dessert offerings were pre-made and out on the buffet in the middle of the room. How do you mess this up? You have one thing to do, you best do it well! To add to this we had just begun the desserts, after waiting for the waitress who was doing nothing more than refilling drinks to wander by and clear plates, and she slapped the check down already. Then one of the other staff comes and steals a chair from the second table. Now it wasn't be used and we were on the final leg of the meal but seriously ASK IF IT IS OK TO TAKE JUST DON'T FERRET IT AWAY! Not like you are disregarding our existence or anything. Then our waitress came back to stand behind the person across from me like a vulture waiting for the credit card to run the check. We felt extremely rushed and poorly treated, and from the looks on the faces of the other diners we were not the only ones. Perhaps I need the point of Restaurant Week reexplained to me. My understanding was that it was a way for restaurants to draw by offering a cheap set menu to get in new clientele because their bottom lines are hurting. With that said I understand that for the cheaper price tag you are going to get cheaper items but shouldn't those items still be prepared well since you are trying to entice repeat customers. Meaning that you want them to considering coming back and ordering off your regular menu? As of right now I see no reason to ever go back to XIX.
(1)Eisha C.
Okay so I am a fan.. so coming again. This place is beautiful something to definitely go out on a date to.. Or just grab a cocktail and mingle.
(4)Becky S.
This place was gorgeous. The pearls from the ceiling - so pretty. And what a great view. Now to the food - it was great! We had an array of apps. The raw bar shrimp cocktail was so good. I highly recommend this. The mushroom empanada was also great. I didn't love the crab cake though which is usually one of my favorites. The tuna tar tar was amazing - the acid leaks on the chip though and it becomes soggy so eat it quickly. I had a a salad to start. The mandarin oranges and nuts were so fresh. Then I had a snapper over delicious sides. I can't recall what they were now, just how great they tasted together in my mouth. Lastly, I had their famous cheesecake for dessert. The candle holder style was elegant and so good! I didn't care for the cream. the fruit though and sugar cookie along side it was good as well. Generally, I find this to be out of my price range but it was quite a memorable experience that I would highly recommend to anyone who can attend. Dress is formal (heels/dress pants/skirt. No ties or jacket needed)
(4)Lynette S.
Swanky enough looking room (think Titanic) yes, and obstructed views in one of the rooms, bar seemed nice,... warm dining room on an already hot day? Very weird smell too. Carpet was dirty all around the room...Oy so far, right??? We stayed anyway to see this experience through. Restrooms were one floor down on the 18th floor. Street parking for 5$. Food was excellent though. Step outside for the real view and photo opps.
(2)Jane M.
I'd have to say this restaurant is schizophrenic. The decor is just absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful, oozing in history and breathtaking views. Friendly bar. Conversely, it's a bistro menu- just doesn't fit the surroundings. It could be an elegant, romantic restaurant but instead- ribeye, flat iron steaks etc. I wish I had a Vetri menu in the space. 4 stars for the surroundings, but I can't see returning. Food just wasn't that memorable.
(4)Stephanie H.
Swank central! This bar on the top of the Bellevue Hotel is a great spot. Friends and I had drinks and snacks here before attending Swan Lake. There were more tuxedos than jeans in this establishment. The lighting is dim and there is a small bar as well as tables for you to sit at. There are huge windows showing a gorgeous view of Philadelphia on one side of the bar. We were lucky enough to catch the sunset that particular evening and it was spectacular. They have a nice wine selection and have both bottle and glass options. There were also some great snack options that are different then the actual dining room. We had a goat cheese and rosemary flatbread. This was excellent. The goat cheese wasn't too overpowering but provided lots of flavor. There were also shoestring fries, cheese plates, calamari and a lot of other yummy treats. The bartenders were also a joy. They loved chatting about our evening event, wine, great places to eat in Philly and also gave great service. For a special occasion, this is a nice place to enjoy a drink.
(4)Hilary W.
I have been coming to XIX for so long the bartender Steven will give me a hard time about any gaps of time greater than a few weeks. I sometimes crave the wasabi pea and pretzel combo they freshly scoop for you as a bar snack. I taunt my height fearing boyfriend by luring him on to the balconies with the promise (and truth) of some fantastic Philadelphia views. XIX to me is more reputable as a bar than a restaurant despite my having dined here several times. I may do a separate update on the food with a different star rating but let's talk lounge. The lounge is everything you've dreamed a swanky hotel bar could be. Located on the top floor of the Bellevue on Broad street the bar hosts a wonderful view of Philadelphia situated in a cozy and intimate space. There are several booths, overstuffed chairs, and a fireplace that is often glowing. You don't come here for a fancy cocktail menu, you come here to drink from the impressive bourbon and scotch selection. Bar snacks tend to change fairly often and are reasonably priced considering the venue. The table service can be a bit slow and isn't nearly as friendly as the bar staff. To be fair I find this true with a lot of places. Take a date you enjoy snuggling with and settle in for a romantic evening. If you are looking for a more low key and private night do avoid XIX on the weekends as weddings will often clear out and stick around into the wee hours. If you're looking to do some post wedding crashing get dressed up and you'll have a blast!
(4)Meghan C.
I guess you can just read Zanna H.'s review and it will sum up my experience. I work so close to here so we always do client/business lunches here, and it's just so weird up there. People flock around the center table and breath all over the food then stuff their faces with 24 different desserts. The view is lovely, but that's pretty much it.
(2)Mike B.
Review is for the bar only... A gorgeous, wood-paneled bar mixed with a cozy fireplace lounge amidst 5-star skyline views give XIX great potential, but the quality of cocktails unfortunately could not match the rest of the experience. The drinks were overpriced and underwhelming. Some were too watered down and certain key ingredients could not be tasted. Come here for the atmosphere, not to drink and you'll leave happy.
(3)Tim H.
XIX gets 4 stars almost entirely for the venue. I had been here once before and paid $54 for a $9 bottle of wine. I know, silly. I didn't know it was a $9 bottle of wine until I went and sought it a couple of weeks later. Anyway, my fiance and I went a couple of weeks ago during restaurant week and got a great deal. Ultimately, we paid $35 for 3 courses, and really, that's probably what the meal was worth, but the atmosphere and view are probably worth a little more. I don't recall the apps well, but the entrees and deserts were okay. I had a cumin rubbed steak, med rare. I wouldn't recommend that. It was a little tough, and I couldn't taste the steak at all. My fiance had fish, but I forget if it was bass or trout. Either way, it was fine, not incredible. I had a cheesecake in a jar. It was a clever presentation, but it was just average cheesecake. The cocktail was excellent though. It was bourbon based with some kind of orange and flower liquor. I'm a craft beer guy and can't even pretend to appreciate bourbon by itself, so this was a nice drink for me. Staff was friendly and attentive. No complaints there. I think the value of this place is it's drinks and view. The raw bar looks extensive, but I haven't gotten into that. I imagine this would make for a great happy hour, but I can't really vouch for the food.
(4)Megan C.
It was Memorial Day weekend.... the city was quiet and we were on the hunt for a rooftop bar with martinis that pack a punch. Hence, XIX. It was a stellar choice. Good thing to note, however, that this rooftop is pretty much the hottest place on Earth. We braved it because of our need for sun that day, but overall when it is hot you should probably find cooler outdoor quarters. The martinis (pear and some pineapple concoction) were delicious and perfectly refreshing. I heard they used to have the most amazing chocolate chip cookies as a parting gift, but those are no longer.... :(
(3)Natalee M.
The only two words you need to know here... Lychee Kiss. This is hands down one of the best mixed drinks I've had in a while. The perfect martini! Very pricey but worth every penny. I only had a few drinks here but it was a great experience. A very nice bar. Most people were dressed up but my group was pretty casual, which didn't seem to be a problem at all.
(4)Simon I.
Great selection of oysters! Very good service by the oyster expert. We also had the lobster risotto with safran and truffle oil, which I unfortunately can not recommend as much as the oysters.
(3)Jen L.
I stay at the Hyatt all week, every week b/c I am a fancy-pants traveling consultant (not) and because I'm Diamond-Priority-Super-Star status with Hyatt, I get free breakfast at XIX. I like the ham/egg/cheese panini sandwich with dijon mustard. I like the french toast with bacon. I like the gruyere/onion/zucchini frittata (without the onion and zucchini LOL). The servers know me by name, they know I like cappuccino, not coffee, and they can tell by the look on my face in the morning if I'm going to sit and eat or if I need a to-go box for my croissant and bacon. Four stars.
(4)Andrew D.
Stopped in for after dinner drinks on a Saturday night. The hostess asked to wait for a table that was about to get up and leave. No problem at all...until another group of patrons who were seated at the bar raced over to the seats that she was preparing for us. Instead of explaining to them that those seats were reserved we had to go back to waiting. We waited another 5 minutes and ended up with much better seats anyway (window view) so no hard feelings there. The table confusion must have extended to the wait staff because after we were seated it took 15 minutes to have the table cleared of the dirty glasses, crumpled napkins and plates. After that another 10 minutes before a waitress came over to take our order. 15 more minutes to get said drink order. Drinks were OK, nothing to write home about. 20 minutes after the first (and, needless to say only, round) to get a check. That's an hour for one round of drinks, but who's counting... The good: Amazing views, very nice decor. The bad: Excruciatingly slow service. For all the wait and all the $$$ the drinks were nothing setting the world on fire. The only thing keeping this from a one-star experience is the panoramic city view. If it's weren't for the location I can't imagine this place would still have the doors open. I'd MAYBE go back but be prepared to walk out and head downstairs to the Palm.
(2)Michelle C.
First of all, I LOVE the bar. It's so swanky and there is always at least one bartender who is super attractive. I don't know about you but that equals points in my book. The cocktails are good, and the happy hour specials are the jam, but the drinks aren't always consistent. Take last night. My first blueberry gimlet had lots of blueberries and was a bit on the syrupy side. My second was only slightly blueberry tasting but the vodka taste was way offensive. I suspect a brand switch came into play because that concoction could have cleaned an engine from '76. But, it was Center City Sips night, so I get that they were crazier than usual and that's why. The food is consistent and very high-quality every single time. Sometimes the service can be a tad slow, and that includes times when there are only four or so tables taken in the entire restaurant. I also feel that the dinner menu could be slightly less hoity-toity, for those people who don't want to branch out to frog legs and bison. I don't need a roast chicken, but a bigger selection of seafood or even a pasta dish would be nice. Those things aside, dining here really does make me pretty happy because the ambiance is so nice, the service (while sometimes slow) is generally excellent and the food is very good. Having brunch here with my mom last year is probably one of my favorite Philly memories to date, and that's pretty cool.
(4)Gretchen S.
The only reason this place gets 4 stars instead of 5 is because it's CRAZY expensive. But, as far as food, wine, ambiance and VIEW... love it! I had grilled shrimp in garlic butter sauce, started off with crabcake and mushroom risotto...and every bite was delicious. We sat outside on their small balcony and overlooked the skyscrapers in downtown Philly. Beautiful :) We enjoyed 2 bottles of white wine (which is not influencing my review) and the waiter was very friendly and attentive. The vibe is very hoity toity, definitely a classy spot for a date night
(4)Masha G.
Nice place, good service. Hoping to make it there for lunch some day. The place is very impressive.
(4)Liz B.
I wish there were "half stars," so I could give it 3.5. The short version: delightful decor, good drinks, slow service, appetizers which far outshined the entrees. Last night I had the opportunity to use yet another online deal for XIX, Nineteen, atop the Hyatt Bellevue. I went with two good friends, and we got dolled up for a great night. It should be noted that I have been to XIX twice before, but only to their bar area. This was my first true dining experience. Upon entering the restaurant, we were greeted by a friendly hostess who asked if we had reservations, which I did (made via Yelp/Open Table). We asked for terrace seating outside, but we were informed that it was already "committed". Boo, hiss. So we wanted to see if the bar area was more "hopping." The high tops were filled, but only a few people were at the bar, so we opted for the dining room. The dining room is really quite lovely, and unusual. Its high domed ceiling has a center of stained glass, and then there are large "pearls" strung from the ceiling, as if the restaurant itself were wearing a pearl necklace. Pearls, neutrals, and pussy willows were the theme in the room. Our party, having a collective dirty mind, were highly aware that we sat below a pearl necklace, between clusters of pussy willow. The decor was more than enough to keep us talking and content for the first 10 minutes, which was when the first server arrived to asked what type of water we would like. Another server followed about 10 minutes later to take our drink order. They were out of Lager, so our friend changed his drink to a rum drink. Me and my girlfriend both got gin and tonics, and I have to say, they were delicious. The tonic-to-gin ratio was dead on. Which is probably why I ended up having two. ; ) The maître d' circled the restaurant several times while we were there, checking on his flock. The service was attentive and friendly, but again, was slow; not sure if this is a result of the kitchen and bar being slow. We ordered Moules Frites (Prince Edward Island Mussels) and Mushroom Risotto ($13) for appetizers. Both were excellent. The sauce for the Mussels, made from white wine, garlic, shallots, fennel, and parsley , was bread-dipping good (and we did). The Mussels were so delightful, in fact, that one friend ordered them again as her meal! I don't even LIKE mussels, and I thought they were good. So that's really saying something. The server said the fresh fennel was their secret. My friend's husband ordered the Angus Cheeseburger, mostly because he was curious to try an $18 burger. Afterwards, he said he would have rather had a burger from Ruby Tuesday or Red Robin (ouch!!). And I quote: "Flavorless meat and a stale bun." I got the seared ahi tuna steak ($32). It was cooked perfectly, and came with two sauces to try, both were very good. A tuna steak is hard to mess up, but I enjoyed it. I would be curious to try their filet mignon, but not for $44. Final thoughts: for the prices, the food should be WOW! It wasn't quite "wow" but it was still good. A great place to come for appz and drinks, and very nice for a date night, but not somewhere I would try again for dinner. If money were no object, I would love to have a birthday/engagement or other party in the venue. It was beautiful.
(3)Erin F.
Excellent happy hour! Beautiful lounge and bar area. Great martinis. What an excellent deal!! It does get crowded so getting a seat is sometimes tough. We have been there for dinner and it has been really good as well. Definitely good for a special occasion although it isn't that expensive considering how beautiful and upscale the restaurant is. We went for restaurant week one year and thought that they gave you good options and good sized portions.
(4)Trang N.
I must say that although the restaurant space is absolutely beautiful, and the view is spectacular- the food was very disappointing for the price! The waiter seemed very pretentious at first especially when we told him we would like regular water over bottled. However, he warmed up a bit, after he found out that our group would not be intimidated by this posh attitude of his or that we knew a little something about food. (Apparently, that guy didn't know I yelped *gasp*)That aside, he was very knowledge about the menu and the food preparations. We started off with the domestic cheese and Parma Ham trays, although he did not hear my order for the meat tray he quickly retrieved one for us after I asked whether the meat was coming. I had to ask what the assortment of cheeses were, as the food runner dropped the platter on the table and dashed off. Sadly, they were the best things our palettes tasted all night! I ordered the filet mignon- rare, for being the most expensive entree on the menu, the presentation and seasoning did not meet my expectations, the colorless side of corn and spinach concoction was undercooked and really unpalpable. Our one friend, also ordered the filet- medium and it came out extra WELL, it was appalling that A) restaurant of this caliber could destroy such a precious cut of meat and B) it left the kitchen in the first place!! When he sent it back, the waiter compted his meal. All in all, from the salmon, steak frites and chicken frites, the consensus was that the food was overly salty, bland and unimaginative. The ambience of the dining room and bar area is definitely 5 stars, unfortunately the food and service would rank somewhere in a 2. For the amount that the bill came out to be, we really expected more. I really wanted to LOVE you XIX, however after two 'meh' dinners here, shame on me for coming back a third time. Look for me in the window seat at the bar! You can not possibly be so stuck up with such horrible food!
(3)Michelle N.
Great space and nice happy hour spot. Dinner was ok, and I say ok because my company paid for it so I am comfortable saying ok. If I had wasted my own 100 dollars for a bland tuna ahi tuna steak with some weird cheddar mashed potatos and limp boring asparagus, I would say it sucked. But they get an ok because it was free. I could easily see taking clients here on an expensed dinner, but when they money is coming out of your own pocket, you are better off going somewhere that knows how to make tastier food. Service was awesome. Our waiter was probably the most attentive and professional waiter I have ever encountered.
(3)Megan K.
it is very pretty.too fancy for me. i love the bar and would hang out there anytime. went on a date there for dinner. i just felt like i had to be on my best behavior. the service was great, food great. i was just uncomfortable because i felt out of place.not that i havent been to my share of fancy. it's just i would rather a less formal environment. but it was gorgeous.
(4)Charlie K.
Was really excited to finally go here for dinner and was slightly disappointed. The atmosphere is wonderful. Absolutely. The service was excellent, we were one of two tables-so that was expected. The food...eh...not so wonderful. The appetizers were delicious, but the entrees not so much. I got the Thai fish pot, which was lacking in quantity, and my partner got the Steak, which was full of gristle. At 37 bucks, you do expect better quality. While it was all OK, we won't run back here.
(3)Fulgencio M.
Usually at 11 AM I'm in the middle of my REM cycle, but when in Philadelphia and awake for brunch, I dine at XIX. This prix fixe lunch is all you could ask for, and features a fabulous buffet of "things" for people who eat. Since I don't, I just like to stare at the food and imagine what it would taste like in my mouth. The first time I saw the sign for XIX outside the Bellevue on Walnut and South, I thought it was a help group for cross-eyed drunks with huge noses. And since I was looking for a Jewish husband, the first word out of my mouth was "oh my God!" When I got up to the 19th floor, sat down at a random table, and started to pour out my life story of drugs, booze, and my celebrity boxing tragedy against Judge Judy, I'd caused a whole table of 90-year old socialites to go into cardiac arrest. And that is how I became the single-most mass murderer in American history. My fave thing about XIX is that not only is the name in Roman, but the food is also Roman. How do I know it's Roman? Because one time in Milan I had a really bad trip, and found myself surrounded by towel-wearing men, manchego cheese, and cold cuts that looked surprisingly like the ones in the XIX buffet. Or maybe that was just my last trip to the bath house. I forget. I can't keep track of my sex life any more than I can keep track of my social security number. Hence why I'm always making up a new one every time AmEx cancels one of my cards. If you're scared of heights, XIX is enclosed by walls and windows, and has the most fabulous views of the downtown. The architects basically designed the view so you can't see any poor people, which is perfect for me. Poor people make me lose my appetite. I have a whole slideshow of street bums that I'll look at to control weight gain. hEllO, it's like the new thing in dieting. Competition for the brunch/lunch scene is fierce on Walnut Street, and if anyone knows anything about the word fiErcE, it's me. XIX is high-end, sexy, and aside from being a wonderful lunch spot it's also a cute place for drinks and date nights. Also, if your date is going less-than-perfect (i.e. he suggests you "split the bill"), you should know that there are no bathrooms on the same floor as XIX, which means you need to take the elevator; hint hint, hitting that Lobby button is far too easy after "excusing yourself" to the ladies room. For a trendy lunch spot and some delish Roman food, try XIX. And ladies/gay men: don't forget about the elevator. This restaurant is totally designed for bailing on a bad date. If I were you, I'd schedule a bad date just to experience the architectural bail-out masterpiece. Speaking of which, I'm on EHarmony right now... This has been a Review by Fulgencio
(4)Sharlenne S.
This is a review for the bar only. I went for happy hour with some friends and liked it a lot. The bar area is not big, but it's beautifully decorated and makes you feel expensive and fancy. We were lucky enough to get a table by the window (one of 6 little tables that sits about 4... we were 5, but that did not matter much). We ordered cocktails at the bar (regular price is $12, but during happy hr they are $6). I had a Lychee Kiss that tasted like heaven, and a Rubytini that was a little too strong for me, but good as well. My friends also had an Appletini (way too strong), Blueberry Gimlet (really yum), and some Irish Coffee drink that they loved. Really, the Lychee Kiss was the star of the night! We also ordered fries with special spicy mustard and devoured them. The crowd was a little bit older than us (in their 30 probably) but we had a great, great time.
(4)Gary R.
How far they have fallen!! It has been about a year since our last amazing brunch at Nineteen. It was always rather expensive, but worth it for that special occasion...but not anymore. It was immediately evident how small the brunch had gotten. What had been a great buffet and stations around the whole beautiful floor, was now a much smaller presentation in the one room. The service was awful. Coffee cups were only refilled upon request, and every order of eggs for the 5 of us was wrong. About an hour and 15 minutes after we first walked in, the remade omelets were brought out, and still 3 of the 5 were wrong. At $35, this brunch is still expensive, but no longer is the experience worth it. We were very disappointed and doubt that we would return.
(1)Lala N.
The waiters were nice. Super helpful. The food was good but not mind blowing like I thought it would be. I had the halibut and that was tasty but my date had the steak and it was tiny and the rest of the plate was covered in ok fries. I enjoyed the decor a lot. The huge chandelier and the jazz music were nice. You have to take the elevator down a floor to use the restroom though. Ugh.
(3)Marcia C.
Good drinks, good vibe, nice view. Been there a bunch of times -- yeah, I'm a fan. Great place for a romantic dinner or simply to start the night with friends. I can't really rate the food 'cause I haven't had an official meal there yet (only small bites), but the service and the drinks are good -- some days better than others, but still acceptable. I like to sit on the balcony when it's warm out. It's a fun experience. Definitely a fan of their restroom, too. It is clean and elegant, I like that! :) Going there with a large crowd can be a pain though because the sitting is so...awkward. That's what I don't like about XIX. That, and that usually the people who go there are such snubs. Yikes. But overall, it is a good place.
(4)Josie D.
Great restaurant. Good food, attentive staff and a fantastic view from the balcony. We went here for my birthday and was surprised to find the restaurant completely empty on a sunday night. We had the entire balcony to ourselves and greatly enjoyed the food and the whole experience.
(4)Yolanda Y.
Yes, the service really IS painfully slow, but who cares? Just look out the windows and enjoy the incredible view. I never expected to be so impressed by how beautiful the city could be up there at night. We came here on a Monday night so it was a small bar food menu. Everyone was friendly even when we were down in the lobby trying to find the elevators. Unfortunately the bartender doesn't know how to make classic drinks which is a big let down when they only know how to make the special cocktails on the menu. We got the flatbread pizza with goat cheese and it was pretty good. If this were some place on ground level, I'd probably leave only three stars, but the atmosphere was just perfect, I absolutely loved being there! I cannot wait to return.
(4)Matt B.
OVERALL - Expensive but worth while for a special occasion FOOD (4.5 stars) - I love food, so this deserves the most weight in grading a restaurant. We thoroughly enjoyed a cheese plate as well as the grilled octopus special. Nicely prepared. My wife ordered the scallops entree, which was phenomenal. My rabbit ragu bolognese was nice but not mind blowing. SERVICE (4 stars) - Pleasant without being pretentious. Knowledgeable and willing to give an honest recommendation. ATMOSPHERE (5 stars) - Very romantic with incredible views of the city skyline at night. High ceilings and decor are tastefully done. PRICE/VALUE (4 stars) - This isn't a cheap date but, overall, I got what I paid for. Probably a once-a-year visit.
(4)Christopher R.
I came here for my holiday office party today and I enjoyed my experience but I'm in no rush to come back. I did indeed enjoy my meal (spiced onion soup, lobster club sandwich & and an Old Fashioned or several) and the decor (rich old European dude's living room-esque with beautiful views) but for some reason, I can't work up the enthusiasm for this place that I feel I should. The soup portion of the spiced onion soup had me pleasantly surprised but there was too much cheese and by the time I was nearing the end, it had concealed and taken on an unpleasant rubbery texture; I thought overloading onion soup with cheese was endemic to poor quality Jersey diners but apparently I am wrong. I also missed the opportunity to contemplate the lobster meat because whatever appeal it may have had was overwhelmed by mayonnaise and the saltiness of the bacon. The shoestring fries were merely passable. The less said about the cocktail the better. Service was a bit slow, too. Perhaps XIX should try and perfect the art of bringing all the entrees out at the same time. They should also try to keep pace on drink orders; our party had empty glasses after the first round for a good 15-20 minutes before we were able to order a second, and even then, we needed to flag our server down to accomplish that. XIX will impress you if you are prepared to be impressed. If you're expecting a complete dining experience, I would explore other options first.
(3)C K.
When I pay for a nice restaurant or want to go somewhere before a classy event, I don't want children and families eating next to me in jean shorts and t-shirts when I'm dressed to the 9's. The server I had was horrible, but the one next to us was so good, he more than made up for it. Unfortunately, my boyfriend got good poisoning but I did get to eat most of my food before we had to leave... and I would say it was nothing impressive at all. With that said, it was extremely overpriced for the quality and the atmosphere... which is really a shame because the decor is pretty cool and the view is amazing... but the lack of dress code and children keep it from being romantic in the least bit.
(2)jim h.
Worst restaurant I've been to in a while. Couldn't read menu due to impossible lighting and absolutely no help from help staff. Steak was fried in butter -- bleh. Service was terrible -- wait staff ignored our party of 4 most of night so they could genuflect to those on outside patio. Their level of concern was reflected in their presentation of menus to us -- upside down. Also the service was continually slow. Obviously an eatery in decline (if it were ever up). I will never return. Supposedly, this place is upscale. If so , so is BK.
(1)I am Nicole r.
One of my favorite places in Philly to have a dinner party is 19. To start the decor here is fabulous. The history of the building itself is very colorful and stories it hold is enormous. The food is perfect always if you love seafood they have all kinds of oysters from far out places ex, japan etc,I am not a big fan of oysters, but they were great. the main dinner area is reminiscent of tavern on the green in NYC,night or day. They have several balconies which just recently opened up this spring for dinning the views are great to really appreciate city living.They have a seafood plate for two ,excellent presentation & taste great and romantic starter. Other winners in my book are the salmon clay pot with rice spiced with an Indian flare,calamari,lobster sandwich , the salads are great try any of them you wont be disappointed . they have 2 private dinning rooms. The wine room ,where you are surrounded by all the bottles of choice wines and they have an enclosed glass door room to seat 10-12 comfortably great for anniversaries parties etc. i love the wine room the most as you can seat up to 8 and have a blast . My favorite wine is the Banfi Rosa Regal ,sparkling red dessert wine. I can drink that all night and have done so there on to many a nights, they have and excellent Australian malbec and a great African red.
(4)Ryan C.
5 Stars - you're here for THE VIEW PEOPLE. It's amazing in the daytime although since it is cold the outdoor patio is no longer an option. It's like sitting inside a capital building with windows facing the north and west of the city. This is made to impress a date and business client alike. Not exactly easy to find since you have to get to the side entrance of the Park Hyatt and then take the elevators to the 19th floor (no signs anywhere pointing where to go). That also adds to the feel.
(5)Tony R.
I think for XIX you are paying mostly for the atmosphere. It seems like everything on the menu was a few dollars more then a lot of the other popular restaurants in the city however the holiday dinner menu was exceptional. I would also definitely recommend not to dress too casual. I was fortunate enough to have read other yelp reviews which informed me of the appropriate attire beforehand. I would certainly say this isn't going to be a place I go to frequently but I enjoy trying many different restaurants and this was certainly a good one.
(4)Cristin L.
Although I've never eaten at XIX, I have enjoyed their happy hour special. Half price martini's and a cozy seat by the fire is a winter time must.
(3)Matt H.
This will be a harsh review - I just spent $115/ person for the fix price dinner on new years eve 2009. Atmosphere and service was amazing and excellent. Food was just plain bad. We ordered scallops as a course and they were literally the size of tiny marbles, smoothered in bbq sauce and bacon which completely overpowered the seafood. The lobster was way over cooked and drenched in some kind of sauce you would expect to find over pasta at chucky cheese. Since it was a fixed price meal, there is no doubt in my mind they had this crap sitting in a chaffing dish to plate up for some unexcpecting victim.
(2)Andrew W.
not worth the price tag.
(2)Elana G.
A stunning dining room setting with great service and view. It's more formal/fine dining so would be a great place for an anniversary, birthday, proposal etc. We had the Saturday lunch special which included buffet style appetizers and desserts with an al a carte entree all for under $25. All of the food was great and an overall positive experience. The only problem is the restroom is one floor down and the lifts are shockingly slow but Otherwise a fantastic spot.
(4)Nicole L.
Can't really review the food bc we only ever go here for a late night cocktail when we visit Philly. I like that it's such a beautiful space and has several 'intimate' nooks for sipping and chatting. I'm always jealous that we can never get a window seat, but discovered this last visit that they aren't as quiet so I'll stick with the other seating. The drinks are great (I had the lychee something or other). It was very well balanced for such a sweet drink.
(4)Brett J.
Took a date here and was extremely disappoint with the entire experience. Room looks very nice at first but certain areas are in much need of cleaning and or paint. First round of food we ordered was cheese and meat board. This was the only item that I was no disappointed in. Very nice spread with multiple cheeses and meats. From this point everything went completely downhill. From the moment we ordered our entrees, it took about an hour and 45 min until we received the entrees or saw our waitress again. I ordered the ravioli which was cold and consisted of about 3 raviolis, and my date ordered the steak frites. Her dish looked like they threw it together at the last second, steak was average at best. Service was horrible. When I was finally able to get the check I couldn't even get someone to take it from me when I was ready to pay! Avoid this place at all costs. Extremely over priced, terrible service.
(2)Aileen C.
Service was phenomenal ! Food was good, love the sauce on top of the crab cake. Veal shoulder was tender and dessert trio was good. Definitely returning back. Only drawback was that It was a bit chilly
(5)Evan T.
Beautiful interior with a great bar. The food was good but not quite worth the price. Brunch is a better value than dinner.
(3)Tina F.
WOW! WOW! WOW! It is just GORGEOUS in there! so far it has been one of the best restaurant I have been to. The decor was just very beautiful and elegant. I could picture a wedding venue there. There's a bar in the middle, we were sat in the back, where there was a pearl which looked like a necklage that hung from the ceiling. The view was just amazing!! the vibe was incredible!! We went for restaurant week and had the prefix course. The food was great !! Overall it is a great ambience and very romantic type of restaurant. Too bad I didn't go with my boyfriend, or it would have been a 5 star
(4)Melissa P.
GO FOR LUNCH. $22 gets you unlimited salad bar, which by itself is amazing- cheeses, meats, several types of delicious salads, unlimited dessert-fruit, cakes, cookies, everything. AND an entree. We packed up half our entrees! Same great view, same good service, great deal.
(4)Mike Z.
Came here for valentines day and arrived late after ten o'clock because of snow. Their kitchen was supposed to close by 10pm. They accommodated us and told us not to worry and take our time. I really appreciated this great service. The ambiance here is just spectacular. The main dining room is beautiful and the bar area is really chill with a fire place. Now on to the most important part.... We ordered a seafood sampler.. It was not impressive. The presentation wasnt that great and the amount of food wasnt that much. They gave us 6 oysters which were ok, 2 jumbo shrimp, some crab cocktail and little neck clams. Everything was just ok. For entree i ordered pasta with lobster which was wasnt bad but not great and my gf had the monkfish which was dry and bland. This place is amazing for happy hour and drinks but my valentines day dinner was not that impressive. For $300, there are def better options and better food.
(3)Courtney F.
Took my mom for brunch on her birthday this past Sunday and loved it. Food was delicious and service was even better. I had the crabcake and potatoes and thought that everything was well proportioned and cooked perfectly. I did have to take a star away for parking because the price was a little crazy -- $35 and $30 with restaurant validation. It was highway robbery for Center City. Other than that though, great place.
(4)Robby N.
Slop. Probably the worst meal I have ever had in Philadelphia . This place should be closed down immediately and completely re-thought. I don't know where to begin. Raw bar just OK. Any food that deserved any thought or any recipe, total garbage. Unless you are trapped in this hotel, you have no reason to eat here whatsoever. For dessert we ordered a red velvet cake. What came to the table was a pile of broken cake crumbs. Garbage. Hire a proper chef .
(1)Jenny K.
I came here for restaurant week and I had a pleasant time. The interior of this place is very romantic and intimate but the food quality was okay. I don't know if it's just like that on restaurant week because it was quite busy but I wasn't too impressed .Dessert was wonderful. I would like to come back here on a night that's not restaurant week to give it a permanent review
(3)l s.
Firstly it is a historic room but the view being gorgeous is highly exaggerated as it basically overlooks other apartment buildings and also for some tables with a more open view, there are curtains in the way, only 3 tables (for 2) have an open view, additionally there are tables "so to speak" in front of the window but basically at the edge of the restaurant at the entrance and/or in front of the elevators. We had to wait at least 15 min to be seated despite a reservation. The food is average, nothing special but again the architecture of the room is historical and may be worth to go there for some people...........
(2)Valentina L.
This place deserve more stars. I went there for lunch, from the service to the food , everything made me wanna go back again. The waitress is super nice and sweet, I can just tell she tried her best to make every diner comfortable. I had three courses. The first course is open choice, so I picked salad and cheese, the cheese goes perfect with the meat, and the second course is steak, not the best I've tried but still amazingly delicious and juicy. Lastly the deserts are super ! I gotta tried different littles pieces, loved everyone of them! Definitely highly recommend! The dinning area is fabulously decorated ! Loved my experience here !
(4)Chuck R.
We had lunch here yesterday. The place was not crowded but the service was incredibly slow. We get better service from our local pizza shop. We had 2 courses and it took nearly two hours. My wife had the fish of the day which she liked. I had the lobster club that tasted like it made by a caterer, not a fine dining establishment. To top this the waitress added 20% to our credit card (I checked online) even though I only put 10% due to the poor service.
(2)Christopher C.
There are two things that stood out for me here, the fireplace and the old fashions. This was a nice secret spot that we got a tip about and at the time pretty much the only ones there.
(4)Ray L.
This review is for Thanksgiving only: For Thanksgiving a couple of years ago, my wife and I were stuck in the city due to unfortunate circumstances. Usually we would be at family's for dinner but this year that was not an option. A couple of weeks before the holiday I started looking around for a good place to have dinner because if we weren't going to be home we might as well have amazing food. Most of the places in Philly that I saw were 3 or 4 course dinners, which is great but not what I was looking for. To get the real Thanksgiving feel I wanted a buffet. Somewhere you can pick and choose what you want, not have a plated entree. I happened upon XIX and decided on it very quickly. The description for their Thanksgiving meal included oysters, a weak point for me. So when the day arrived, we got dressed up and headed over. The location is very nice, right in the middle of Center City and on the top of a nice hotel (the 19th floor to be exact, hence the name). We were seated promptly and had our drink orders taken. The wine selection is very nice and what you would expect of a place of this caliber. After chatting for a second we headed over to the food. The food itself was in a room adjacent to the seating area in what can only be described as a ballroom of food. There was everything you could ever think you would want for Thanksgiving starting with appetizers: raw oysters, bread, smoked mussels, shrimp, soup, cheese, charcuterie, etc.. And the raw seafood was of good quality, not what I expected for an all you can eat selection. I was impressed. Then was the most amazing part: all of the meats. Usually at Thanksgiving you are relegated to turkey. If you don't like turkey, too bad. But here there was everything: turkey, pork roast, leg of lamb, prime rib, fish. There were several different carving stations and each of them had their own sauces and sides. It was amazing. Now, most people love Thanksgiving for the sides (generally because the meat is mediocre at best) and XIX did not disappoint here either. There was a great selection of classic sides each of them done very well. Dessert was in another separate room and there were several tables set up for it. There was 5 or so kinds of pie, some puddings and some other random offerings like cobbler. It was all fantastic but it was hard to have enough room because you wanted to try everything but you had just eaten more than you should and there was so much to choose from. After dinner, we had a glass of wine out on the balcony that over looked the city. It was a great day considering the circumstances and the food will be the measure by which I judge all other Thanksgiving food.
(5)Ling C.
Went here on my birthday and definitely would have wanted to go somewhere else. Although the staff is amazing, the people it attracts are very ghetto people for dinner time. Not only that but the place really could've benefited itself by NOT being in that rusty hotel! You have to walk so far around the floor to go to the bathroom which does NOT match the restaurant. Food was bleh. And very expensive. Wine was delicious. The main dining room area is huge. But again, they could do so much better as an independent restaurant separated from that hotel! The floors are uneven and the walls are very old looking. It doesn't fit what they're going for.
(2)Esther S.
Beautiful setting and the service was very nice when I came. You could tell that they put a priority on how you felt when you came by. Although it was late when we came and they still allowed us to sit and order food. We had the whole room pretty much to ourselves. and a made for special evening. The atmosphere within the restaurant is quite beautiful and the view outside is One of Philadelphia's finest. The main course that I got was the steak. The steak was good but nothing really special. It was cooked to my exact request and was cooked well. The flavors of the steak did not disappoint. The desert was the highlight for me. The chocolate cake that I had with this meal was delicious. Although I can invent that I do have a sweet tooth. So others may believe this cake to be too sweet. Overall I will bring people to this restaurant mostly for the environment that it provides. The food and the drinks are not the best but reasonable for what you pay.
(4)Joanna L.
As a fellow yelper once said, XIX is quite shwanky. The ambiance is classy and the decor is beautiful. I came here for a holiday lunch with my team and we chose the $22 featured lunch menu. For the featured menu, you are given three courses. The first course is an assortment of meats, cheeses and salads, elegantly displayed in the middle of the room on a round table. The second course is your choice from a list of entrees which include a pasta option, sandwich, fish, steak, etc... The final course is dessert and like the appetizers on the same round table in the center of the room, you will find a selection of desserts from cheesecakes, cookies and mousse to berries with fresh whipped cream. So many options! I guarantee you'll leave XIX feeling full of deliciousness.
(3)Clare D.
A dark, chic lounge for bringing your gentlemanly suitors who are will to spend a little extra for nice ambience, a nice view, and extra privacy. Very cool.
(5)Jennie V.
We have been here at least 5 times over the past few years, and each time gets slightly worse. Overall, it is a gorgeous place where you can go for a nice dinner and dress up for a night out. However, the food seemed to be an oversight on our recent visit. Caesar salad was 100% using the whitest parts of the Romaine (I'm not even sure I believe it was Romaine, tasted a lot like iceberg to me), and the dressing was bland. I never knew you could mess up a Caesar salad. When I ordered the salmon, I was glad the waiter told me it was cooked medium-rare because I don't like it that rare, and I asked for medium to medium well. However when it came, it was medium rare, if that. I didn't make a big deal because I typically would enjoy salmon anyway, but after a few bites, my taste buds were shot from all the salt on the fish. It was WAY over seasoned. It was getting late so I just ate what I could to avoid more waiting, but I really was disappointed. You just expect more considering how much you're paying. The weekend before I got Caesar salad and salmon at Devon Seafood and enjoyed it MUCH more, and it cost less. Pistachio dessert was excellent though! As for the service, we've had better there. Our waiter was terse and not friendly in any way. I'm hoping this was just a bad night because we really did love going to Nineteen, but we will be giving it some time before we return (IF we return). So sad, I hope this place can get it together!
(2)Greg L.
I'm actually surprised that the rating here isn't a bit higher. My wife and I went here for dinner after seeing Elf and we had a very nice time here. We had early reservations on a Sat evening so the place wasn't very busy, but by the time we left, it was beginning to fill up. In my reservation, I asked for a table by the window, which we got, but unfortunately my side was covered by drapery, but at least my wife got to look out. The overall ambience in here is very elegant! It's name comes from the fact that it sits up on the 19th floor of the Park Hyatt. Our waitress took very good care of us and even chatted with us for a bit when she realized by wife was from the South, as was she. Her recommendations were spot on. My wife started with the calamari, which was lightly fried and came with a sweet and sour sauce with some peppers on the side. I went with the XIX salad with a crab cake on the side. Both were excellent appetizers along with the complimentary bread basket. The cranberry bread was my favorite and they give you butter topped with sea salt to spread on the bread. For our entrees, I went with the steak frites while my wife had the scallops. Both were very good, but my wife liked my meal better, especially the truffle fries! For dessert, we had the cookie cake and the tiramisu. The tiramisu is not your typical tiramisu and while it wasn't bad, I wouldn't order it again. The cookie cake was delicious though. Would definitely come back here again, but would probably do so when out for a special evening rather than just a dinner after the show.
(4)Rubio R.
This Bar& Restaurant is located on the rooftop of the Hyatt Bellvue right in the heart of the city.The restaurant and bar are separated so if you just want to go eat you can definitely do that.(Of course,we went straight to the bar.)When we walked in there was a really nice display set up in the middle of the room with tons of delicious desserts so of course we had to ask if we could have some.The bartender told us that they were left over from the Thanksgiving dinner buffet so that gave us the green light to go stuff our faces. I got a little taste of everything & everything was delicious,I can only imagine what the Thanksgiving dinner tasted like.I ate some Apple pie, mini Pecan pie, mini Strawberry Cheesecake, Nutella Creme Brulee & some kind of Chocolate Mousse tart.My absolute favorite was the Nutella Creme Brulee.Meanwhile, we ordered some Philly Cheesesteak Wontons & a Chicken Sausage Flatbread while we stuffed our faces with dessert first.When our food got there we devoured it too & even ordered another Chicken Flatbread because it was so good.Its one of the best flatbreads I've ever had ! In fact,I would even put it in the -" One of the best pizzas I've ever had Categories."The Philly Cheesesteak Wontons were also really good it sounded like a cool concept so we figured we would give them a try...no regrets here.The bar was cool & had a good view from what we could see out the window but it is a "rooftop bar" & they had the outside closed bc it was too cold so we couldn't actually go outside to enjoy the "rooftop bar" which was the whole reason we wanted to come check out this bar.I guess no one will be enjoying the nice view all winter.
(4)David G.
It's called XIX because it's located on the 19th floor of the Hyatt at the Bellevue. It could just as easily be called XXX, because you *will* get laid if you bring a date here. Everything about XIX just oozes swankiness and sex appeal. The soaring dome, huge windows, and gorgeous city views are all built to impress. I was introduced to XIX when I met a friend here for a weekday brunch. After scoping out the impressively large buffet in the center of the room, we decided to keep things simple by ordering from the a la carte menu. I had the caramelized onion and mushroom omelet, while my guest had the eggs benedict. Both came with a side of crispy breakfast potatoes. My omelet also came with cranberry toast and silky-smooth butter. Everything was fresh and tasty, but also simple and traditional. Both the omelet and eggs benedict could've benefited from more than a few dashes of hot sauce. Service was fast and friendly, tinged with a formal and old-school vibe. My advice is to go to XIX for the ambiance, and not to challenge your palette with bold flavors. That'll guarantee you a good time (and almost certainly earn you some action between the sheets).
(4)Alex P.
This review is drinks only! We went here after dinner for some drinks on my birthday and boy oh boy were we thrilled! The atmosphere is so chic yet laid back. Loved the fireplace. As soon as I saw fresh berries behind the bar, I knew it was going to be amazing. We tried a few different cocktails that I can't remember the names of...they were that good! Service is fabulous and I can't wait to come back for a meal!
(5)Anna Y.
You come here for the decor don't expect anything else. Decor 5/5 Food 3/5 Service 1.5 / 5 I have to admit , the decor is elegant and classy. It's great for a date night or any celebration. I have only come here for dinner , i called for a reservation and asked if I could be seated by the window , this was for a celebration normally I wouldn't make the request. So i came here on the day and ask the host if i could be seated by the window, he said no. Then a waiter lead us to our table , it was seated by the window. (Wtf?) Food - it's really just so so, ordered some appetizer I forgot. i ordered chicken and lamb chop for entree. The chicken was tender but lack of flavor, the lamb chop was pretty good but definitely not comparable to other restaurants. Service - our waitress seemed annoyed to take our order, she had a frown on her face. Seriously ? No one really checks up on you , although one of the guy there was nice. WHEN YOU DONT HAVE GOOD FOOD TO OFFER AT LEAST HAVE GOOD SERVICE.
(2)Andrew M.
New Years Eve Dinner Reservations @ 7:45pm. Enjoyed a wonderful fixed price menu ($95/each). Food was as good as is it gets and is well worth the price. Atmosphere is incredible and wait staff on point. Purchased a gift card for the restaurant in the hotel lobby prior to heading out to give to family friends. Highly recommended!
(5)Shannon C.
XIX is absolutely stunning. Everything about it was romantic and beautiful. The high, antique-bowl ceiling and the sprawling views of the city are worth the visit. I am tempted to make excuses to go back all the time. I made reservations on Open Table through Yelp for my boyfriend's birthday dinner, per the recommendation of fellow Yelpers. Two glasses of champagne were promptly delivered to our table as I asked for on OpenTable to help celebrate my man's birthday. The view on the 19th floor is stunning with the Liberties looking on as you enjoy the evening. We ordered a calamari appetizer, which came with sweet and sour sauce and marinated peppers, which was amazing. It was crunchy, not too chewy and the sides to pair it with was amazing. I ordered the scallops with jalepeno polenta and whipped carrots. The only part of the meal I did not like were the whipped carrots. They were reminiscent of baby food. By reminiscent, I mean exactly like baby food. Everything else was fantastic. The scallops were seared and had a little crunch with a mango chutney. It was a delicious meal. I also ordered a glass of the Pinot Gris, which was flavorful and light, a perfect pair with the light and flavorful entree. My boyfriend ordered the steak frites, which was such a simple, but delicious meal. After stealing a few bites, I wish I had ordered it as well. The steak was tender, creamy and garlicky and the fries were crunchy and savory. After we finished and talked about how full we were, XIX delivered a complimentary chocolate cake with a chocolate chip cookie bottom and white chocolate ice cream on top. Decadent and delicious. Our waiter allowed us to see rest of the restaurant, as we were seated in the cafe section. The next room is the bar and finally, my favorite, the banquet room features a towering and stunning pearl chandelier. It's like I died and went to 1920s opulent heaven. My first thoughts that went through my mind were: I need to find a reason to have a party here and we'll be back ASAP. The whole evening was wonderful and the wait staff was so accommodating and helpful. I had an amazing time. I can't wait to return.
(5)Dan M.
This was my first time here! And I was truly blown away!!! First off my waiter Wilmer was great!!! Breathe taking view!!! I got the Lake Trout... Wasn't all that to be honest, potatoes very dry not much flavor, the trout was in a sour sauce but wasn't very tasty! But I will try again but get a different meal!
(4)Lydia B.
Had a quick lunch In the bar. The service was perfect, but the burger stole the show! Best I have had in ages. The shoe string fries were also perfect. I highly recommend this spot for a drink and delicious "bar food". It's a cozy getaway from the bustling Philadelphia city... When I stay at the Bellevue my first stop will be back to this bar for lunch!
(5)Mishi C.
Amazing service - our waiter was actually the sweetest and most attentive waiter I have ever had. It was my boyfriend's and my anniversary and the waiter made this night even more special. He even gave us a photoshoot after dinner all around the restaurant. ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS ATMOSPHERE. Just look at those pearls dangling! Not many places in Philly can compare. Food: delicious! We got the scallops, asparagus and cheese appetizer, and cheesecake. PS the brunch there is fabulous! You get to walk around all the high domed rooms to each different station. Plus, that humongous dessert bar ;)
(5)Kimberly Y.
I've always wanted to try XIX, but was a little put off from the 3.5 star Yelp rating. I finally came here for restaurant week, and I'm glad I tried it since the location/atmosphere and food were worth it. Obviously I wanted to come for the view, but that also means that it takes a little more to get to the restaurant. Luckily, I saw a sign for XIX on the outside of the Hyatt, even as I was walking from the other direction. I stepped in and took the first elevator I saw in the lobby since I didn't realize XIX had an elevator that went straight into the restaurant. The rest of the 19th floor is extremely barren, and I nearly walked into the kitchen via a long hall and a conference room. I wish there was better signage (besides the men's bathroom--oh, and the women's bathroom is on the 18th floor!) for the restaurant for those of us who accidentally come through the wrong elevator. We could see 1 and 2 Liberty Place from our table, but some of the other tables had views of apartment buildings and such. Unfortunately, the railing of the balcony obstructs the view a bit, but I imagine the view is much nicer in the summer when the doors are wide open and the balcony is available. The inside is magnificent though, from the comfortable seating to the decorated dome ceiling to the concentric layout of the restaurant. The January 2014 restaurant week lunch menu had about four entrees for us to choose from with a buffet-style salad and dessert bar--I originally thought this was inappropriate for the classiness of the restaurant, but I ended up really enjoying the choices! I'm not really a salad person, but I absolutely loved the roasted veggies, as well as the caesar salad--make sure to get a lot of croutons! Some of the best I've ever had! The grilled flat iron steak was actually cooked to the right temperature. The outside was slightly blacker than I expected (even for my boyfriend's medium), but the steak was quite delicious! There was quite a selection of desserts, ranging from parfaits and madeleines to cupcakes and your classic chocolate chip cookie. Overall, I was a fan of the food, though I didn't really like the iced tea even after adding syrup and sugar. The service was all right. No one greeted me, and so I was a little confused as how I was to be seated. My waiter seemed to be taking care of a lot of people, so I'll cut him a little slack. He was definitely competent enough, but I wish he were a little nicer or happier to be there.
(4)Lea T.
Sophisticated and elegant restaurant in the Bellevue. Beautiful decor inside the restaurant and bar. Beautiful lighting during the day for brunch and very romantic for dinner. Portions are on the smaller side but every bite is perfection. Staff is also trained very well. Check this place out if you are looking for an alternative to the Ritz or Amuse.
(4)Anne K.
This is only a review of their afternoon tea service. It's a gorgeous venue - but for such a nice restaurant, they need to pay more attention to the basics. Our table was missing silverware, sugar, and my saucer had tea stains from a previous diner. All of the tea is loose leaf and each person gets their very own teapot. Their selections include black tea, oolong tea, green tea and herbal tea. The best part about afternoon tea isn't the tea though - it's all of the yummy tea sandwiches and pastries you get on the side! The scones here are PERFECT - buttery and dense, served with lemon curd and Devonshire cream. So, so delicious. I could eat them all day.
(3)Amanda M.
For my third and final stop this round of restaurant week, I booked a table for 2 at XIX. I'd been there once before and had a delicious meal, but was with a group in a private party, so I wanted to check out the romantic main dining room. We had a 6:45 reservation, but my boyfriend and I met early at the bar. As others have mentioned, their happy hour is killer. Fancy room, fancy drinks, fancy people - what's not to love?! For $6 each compared to the usual $12, happy hour here is a steal - especially because they don't skimp on the alcohol. We were super hungry so we ordered the truffle fries - the truffle flavoring wasn't very strong, but they were super thin and crispy, served with a mustard dipping sauce. We were seated at a window, which was perfect - the view is really pretty cool. The waiter was friendly and helpful without being obtrusive. Overall, great service. The food, on the other hand, was just a bit disappointing. Perhaps it was my recent perfectly amazing meal at Barbuzzo, or perhaps it was the restaurant week rush, but I wasn't impressed. We both had the shrimp tempura, which was pretty good, followed by the lobster mac and cheese, with was way too heavy - I couldn't even distinguish the pasta from the lobster. Our deserts, mini chocolate pies with hazelnut ice cream, was good but not amazing. This is a great place if you want a sophisticated atmosphere for celebrating a special occasion. Not sure I'd pick this spot again for dinner, but I'll definitely be going back for happy hour!
(4)Dave L.
Had lunch here yesterday. Have been here several times before. Service was very good. Was seated by one of the the balconies. Flatbread pizza was very good. Deserts were a little disappointing. Creme brûlée not done correctly. Overall, good value for the money, though.
(3)Ryan L.
Nineteen has hands down the best lunch deal in town. The restaurant itself is gorgeous and it has a great view of the city. The lunch prefixe for under $20 is in my opinion the best in the city in its category.
(5)Ron S.
I get off the elevator on the nineteenth floor and immediately I'm enveloped by the elegance, comfort, swank, and the views. I recommend showing up 20 minutes early to enjoy a drink at the bar before your meal. Everyone in the place was dressed nice and smiling. My only complaint was, and this was not the restaurants fault, we were in a private room because I was with a large party. While the room was nice I felt trapped.... I wanted to be out in the dinning room to admire the views and people watch. I could probably go on about the décor of this place, but I don't want to ruin your own experience. As for the service top notch from the host, coat check, waiter, servers, and even the water guy. Yes you water guy, you know who you are.... The unsung hero of constantly flowing water. With you my glass wasn't half empty for one moment and won't be for a long time.... As for the food they nailed it! For an appetizer we shared the raw bar and it was fresh and presented correctly. I also had the shrimp tempura which was very good. For my entree I had the brassies lamb and it was done to perfection. This dish was very heavy in fact I wasn't hungry again until 18 hours later. I enjoyed myself at this place and I am already envisioning my return visit....
(5)Kevin C.
Go here for the view and a cocktail if u can get a table outside on the balcony. The pear car was very tasty! Dont waste your time ordering an old fashion they have no idea how to make it. We tried to refuse it and the waiter just walked away. Our main problem was the service. The server had a very pretentious attitude and even got in an argument with another server at our table when he thought the food was being placed in front of the wrong person. He was wrong but wouldn't listen to any of us. Eventually he just stopped coming to our table and we had to go ask for a manager to help us finish our orders. When we asked if it would be possible to help us split up the checks his was response was " i hope u dont have anywhere to go because its going to take me a while." There is a reason this beautiful restaurant was empty on a Friday night. Get a drink enjoy the view but eat somewhere else.
(2)Kate F.
This review is for one brunch experience only. I ordered an egg white omelet, which came with roasted potatoes. I also got access to a delicious buffet filled with sweet breads, cakes, parfaits, and fruit. The decor is absolutely beautiful. Diners even have the opportunity to walk out onto a balcony, which has a perfect view of the city.
(4)Aliyia P.
Well, I had heard that happy hour here was a must. I'll say that it was good to experience it. We got there at 6 on 12/31 we were able to find seats and after about 10 mins a waitress approached us. The drinks for happy hour are mostly sweet drinks, something I don't really care for but I found a good drink not overly sweet once you ask for the simple syrup to be scaled back. It was a pear drink tasty and easy going down. The bf was unhappy with his first drink which was tequila and melon liquor ( I tried to warn him). We ordered the seafood platter for 2, it was good and well presented. The waitress was attentive until we were done took about 15-20 mins to get our check. All in all the service in the beginning was great, I had better happy hour drinks. Don't see this as a place for a return visit for me.
(2)Unnati P.
I came here for Restaurant Week and was thoroughly disappointed. The courses were tiny in size. I'm not going to say I left hungry but I did go to a bar later that night and those $5 fries hit the spot better than my $45 meal here (after tip and taxes). The first course, a fruit salad, was a quarter of a peach. The main course consisted of five pieces of ravioli with a little cheese sauce drizzled on top. Additionally, it was far too salty for my taste. The dessert was too sweet, and even though this portion was appropriately sized it wasn't flavored well so I ate half and left the rest. The one thing it does have going for it is the view and the ambiance. It's beautiful inside, and I appreciated the opportunity to get dressed up. But the food was meh, and I came to eat.
(2)Brooke R.
My husband and I came here for our 1 year wedding anniversary. We booked our reservation 2 months in advance. When my husband called to confirm.... Yes my husband called because we did receive a confirmation call... They did not have our reservation for 11/19, some one had put it in for 11/9. We then waited for 1 hour for our table and greeted with a waiter from afar saying "hello tap water?" Oma return to the table.. "you know what you want?" The service got more horrible as the night went on. And the very small menu had very poor selection and taste. WITH NO CHEF SPECIALS!??!! We ended up with the waiter explaining the cheesecake as "your typical" cheesecake. Horrible food and service. Gets 2 stars for ambiance and that's it! Don't waste your $$$$!
(2)Cara B.
Went to XIX for restaurant week tonight. Had reservations at 5:45 and due to the time we had the opportunity to sit outside on the balcony and take in the amazing view! Not to mention the weather was perfect. To start I had Crab and Spinach Crostini (Jumbo Lump Crab, Spinach, Roasted Red Pepper, Gruyere Cheese) Absolutely amazing, I did not want it to end. I'd eat it every day if that was possible. For my main course I had Paella (Littleneck Clams, PEI Mussels, Red Grouper, Florida Sun Shrimp, Chicken, Chorizo and Saffron) which was amazing as well, tasted as good as the paella I had in Barcelona. And finally I had the Salted Caramel Vanilla (which was vanilla mousse cake with caramel sauce) for dessert, it was alright. Our waitress was perfect. She refilled our water glasses the second they went semi low, she gave us a large amount of time to decide what we wanted (it took forever, couldnt stop talking, typical) And she let us enjoy our food for a while as well. Overall the experience was Great, I'll definitely be going back, Trying it out on restaurant week was a success! I'd love to go back fro afternoon tea!
(4)Nancy P.
This review is for the afternoon tea set only. I haven't tried the food yet, but so far I loved the finger sandwiches and pastries we had for the afternoon tea set. The madhatters tea was delicious also, it had a fruity quality to it. My favorite was the scone with the lemon curd and butter! The rest of the desserts: cupcakes, madeline, etc were mediocre. The view was okay, the architecture and patio are what seems to make it great. Would love to go back for the outside seatings.
(4)Tony M.
Great drinks and views. I can't really review the food, but this is definitely a good place for drinks. The furniture at the bar is old and the place is in need if renovations.
(3)A E.
Honestly...meh... Not to say that anything was bad, per se. Perhaps this was influenced by it being restaurant week, but what was available for tasting was, all aboard, not fantastic. I had the salad and mushroom ravioli. Both were pretty solid, but somewhat small portions. My girlfriend had the black pepper bisque, which really was just overwhelming in pepper. Her salmon was perfectly cooked (I do have to give props for that) but had kind a weird pairing with chickpeas and their seasoning. Overall...decent. The ambiance is gorgeous, with some absolutely beautiful molding. But man, I think they ride on how beautiful the place is rather than having innovative or delicious cuisine.
(3)Ron H.
Great ambiance. Modern music goes inbetween chill club music and upbeat classical? Hard to describe but what you'd expect to hear as a really good movie soundtrack. The fireplace is the seat to have in the winter. Drinks are well made, staff is friendly and there's always a seat. The little window alcoves and easy chairs by the fireplace are intimate and private, while the bench across the length of the bar is just a tad too close to the table next to you, but comfortable if you're not looking for a romantic drink with the one you're with. I've been here at lunch hours and closed the place down, never have i been disappointed. So why not a 5 star rating? Well, i really like hanging out here but there just isn't enough food options for snacking and extending the night. The flat bread pizza is ok, not something I'd ever go in there to order, the calamari is average, cheese plate is great, and the burger was above average...there are a few oyster/shellfish options on the raw menu, but that's not really the food I'm craving at 11pm while I'm drinking. All in all a solid bar to meet-up and grab a few drinks. There's a restaurant just past the bar which has great food if you're in the mood to sit down to a fancy dinner, but really the beauty of XIX is the fireplace bar.
(4)Larry F.
As my 6th restaurant week restaurant in two weeks, I was getting a bit tired and wallet a bit empty! In the end, I don't regret coming here, but it'll probably take some convincing for me to come back. FOOD: 3/5 Good but not memorable. It has a good combination of seafood and non-seafood, so it worked out between my girlfriend (who absolutely abhors seafood) and I (a seafood lover). As such, I had to indulge in seafood because I don't get these opportunities often, and so I did. The sashimi was too salty and seasoning not well balanced considering I could still sense a fishy smell. The scallops were good, but a bit undercooked and again, too salty! If that's the best dish the restaurant could prepare during restaurant week (according to the waiter), then I'm disappointed. Dessert, again, not good enough to be memorable. The reason why this restaurant still got four stars from my perspective is that I had bits and pieces of girlfriend's food, and they were scrumptious! So ditch the seafood, try to mushroom and meat! AMBIANCE: 4/5 This is the reason why we came here. It's nice, elegant, fairly fancy, and quiet. TRY THIS: if you sit under the dome, you could hear other people's conversations several tables away. It's because the dome is structured uniquely that it works out perfectly! It was creepy at first (thought I was going crazy), but interesting after a while. I felt like a spy :3. Aside from this, the whole place is pretty nice. Loved the decor (be careful not walking into the statue while trying to get the attention of the receptionist). SERVICE: 4/5 Not disappointing. Food came at a good pace, we got our pictures taken at the end of the night. They checked up on us every so often. OVERALL: Come during summer! That's when you'll have access to the balcony because the weather is nice enough. I was a bit disappointed that the view was hidden. Aside from this, good experience, food was okay, and I will probably only come back if the balcony is set to open, and only for lunch because it was just a bit too dark for dinner.
(3)John A P.
We had reservations but decided to go to the bar for a seat by the fireplace...fabulous, love the spot, very nice bar/lounge with a solid menu...great place to "fall back" to on a date night -or to "jump-off" from...
(5)Erin B.
I've visited XIX on several different occasions - Happy Hours, Dinners, A Wedding, and most recently, I've gotten in on the lunch action! I've never had a bad experience or a bad meal at XIX. Recently, I've been super impressed with the lunch, especially the fixed menu. I went about a month ago w/ a good girlfriend (who also happens to be pregnant) ... we had so much fun digging into the salads, pastas and cheese plates for our first course. Our meals were also very tasty as I had the pasta and she had the steak. I returned just yesterday to have lunch w/ a few law school colleagues and again had a great experience - I again had the pasta, although it was slightly different this time around and my friends had a fish (similar to a Branzino) that they both enjoyed. The dessert bar is always a pleasure - yesterday is was decked with assortments including creme brulee, miniature pumpkin pie tarts, madelines, white chocolate & raspberry truffles and seasonal berries. All of this for approximately $22, while you get to take in the beauty and grandeur of XIX. Looking forward to my next trip back.
(4)A D.
Greatly nice place. Food and atmosphere were high quality. They even read my note that we wanted a window seat and worked hard to accommodate us. Beautiful view of the city. Decor was very nice and elegant
(5)Brian T.
Price - $$$ (Pricy) Taste - Fair Good: Tiramisu Dessert We came to XIX for restaurant week. The service remain the same as regular time. But the price definitely worth it. For a $35 dinner set, we got hamachi sashimi as appetizer, scallop as entry and Tiramisu as dessert. It's an enough set for girl, but less enough for guy. Their breads are well made, so have many as you want. We also order another set with entree of pork. That one had a little more portion, but still not enough for a man. Therefore, portion wise the meals are fair. For the food quality, I would say fair too. Scallop is conventional quality, pork is ok, the sauce taste professional and the sides are just near enough. I would say, paying $35 to visit this high end restaurant is worthy for dates or friend reunion, but for food taster, there are others places to try in Philadelphia.
(4)Kate G.
Atmosphere was very impressive! Food was good, but not a stand out. A must return because of the atmosphere. Restaurant week was a great way to be introduced. Had wine pairings for different courses that were made exclusively for Hyatt.
(4)Gabby M.
Such a fancy place! Definitely must dress up. The food was good and they give you some nice bread. However, the desserts were the best part of the meal! I will go back but mostly so I can eat some of the wonderful desserts!
(5)Edward W.
Intro: Beautiful main dining room. Brightly lit and a wonderful view on a clear day. The experience is in the environment and less on the food. The basics: 1. Went for restaurant week during lunch. It was a three course lunch with first and dessert being buffet styled. The appetizers consisted of salads, charcuterie, cheese, and roasted vegetables. I was pretty satisfied with the selection. They were flavorful and paired well with other items. Though the salads were beginning to wilt a bit. 2. The bass I had was decent, not great. It was a bit over cooked and the skin was not crisp but rather a bit stale. My friend's filet was way overcooked for medium temp. 3. Deserts, also buffet, was a hit or miss. Again a large selection, but some of the cakes were desiccated and tasted mass-produced, a la grocery store. Probably the best thing was the berries and cream. But again, that's not that hard to get wrong. Conclusion: Probably need to go back for full service. Restaurant week was definitely sub-par. There was definitely a large gap between the food and the expectations formed once you walk in. Waiting for better weather, a little birdy told me they might open up their balconies again.
(3)Holly V.
Came here for Sunday brunch and was disappointed. This place has all the potential to be a 5 star which makes this review so hard to write! This location offers great views of the city, beautiful decor and ambiance. However, the service was horrible and my food was cold and late. It took about 30/40 minutes to get a omelet and it was cold. The server wasn't all that nice which made it harder to enjoy. Maybe management needs to change because this place can rock under great guidance. I ate here 4 years ago and things were much better.
(2)Cristina P.
I went during restaurant week and did not regret the choice. To start off with the atmosphere and the place in general is very elegant. It is a great date place, in fact my boyfriend and I had our first date there and I think the sophisticated decor, crisp white tables and dim lighting suited our purpose. The waiter was very amicable and ready to clarify anything on the menu as well as make suggestions as to what to order. To begin, I started off with the warm, wild mushroom salad. The mushrooms were flavorful and intelligently paired with a rich pesto, the smooth yet impactful taste of goat cheese, the robustness of the aged balsamic and the nice crunch from the sourdough crouton. For the second course, I had braised rib atop of gnocchi. The braised rib was tender and juicy and smothered in a rich either balsamic or port wine reduction sauce that was...no joke....to die for. I had to practically stop myself from licking the plate. For dessert I had a chocolate cake that was decadent and rich in flavor. The perfect ending to a perfect meal. Overall it was a very memorable date and not just because of my loving boyfriend but also the fabulous food. I highly recommend dining at XiX; however, I can only speak to these three dishes. My boyfriend had a not so satisfying experience with the seafood dishes. I believe he order sashimi as an appetizer and scallops for his entree, both of which he claimed were to salty and the latter undercooked. So seafood lovers beware, and go for the meat. You can never go wrong.
(5)Carly K.
My absolute favorite thing about this restaurant is the location! At the top of the Hyatt, it offers spectacular views of the city. If you go at the night, the view is absolutely magical. The cocktails are delicious. I ordered a cosmo with grey goose l'orange at the bar, and it was delicious per usual, and the bartender did not skimp on the vodka. Once seated, I perused the wine list. I was in the mood for white, and others at my table were not, so I chose the Ferrari Carrano fume blanc by the glass. This fume blanc is one of my favorite whites, so I was a happy camper. I started with the XIX salad. The brioche croutons were divine, absolutely divine. I ordered the steak frites as my entree, not really knowing what to expect, but it was delicious as well. My hanger steak was cooked to a perfect medium, and the fries were perfectly hot and crispy. I was too full to order dessert, but I did try a bite of my friend's chocolate cake. It was really fantastic, and I would definitely order it next time (as long as I haven't stuffed myself like I did this time). I would highly recommend XIX for restaurant week, or for a special date night, or for a special occasion. The food is definitely worth the price tag.
(5)Joe Y.
XIX is really all about the ambiance. They have these chandeliers and classy seating options, and the restaurant is at the top of the Bellevue. The food on the other hand was not that great. I had the Pork Osso Buco with Caramelized Apples and Bone Marrow. The bone marrow really had no flavor. The pork was a bit on the dry side and had little flavor. I was disappointed that such a nice restaurant had such boring food.
(2)Eva H.
Hold your horses. XIX makes a good and reasonably priced (!!!) brunch. And they serve it 7 days a week! Soaked in some great views, sat in a lovely seat, enjoyed my totally awesome dining companion, and drank some (okay, it wasn't that good) coffee. Seriously, that's worth the price of admission, or at least what I expected would be a mediocre hotel breakfast but was actually quite good. My benedict was around $11. It was perfect. The poached eggs were divine (no runny egg whites!), the hollandaisse lemony and divine, the muffin perfectly toasted, and the Canadian bacon was well seared. I will say that the breakfast potatoes weren't my thing--undercooked, too garlicky (which is saying something), and just kind of mediocre. But service was good, the atmosphere was fantastic, and I was expecting price gouging and instead got filled up on the cheap.
(4)David W.
I am only reviewing the bar as I did not eat a meal here. The bar has a great view of the city and the sunset. Along with fantastic cocktails to enjoy it. It is a bit pricey, but the cocktails are extremely well made and quite unique. We enjoyed our sunset cocktails so much we came back after dinner for more and some dessert. Great place to go to have an drink and enjoy a sunset or just to overlook the city.
(5)Sonia L.
It's always a treat to come to this beautiful restaurant for the wonderful lunch buffet. I was taken here for my birthday as it's the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.
(5)Jordan P.
High in the sky, in the middle of Center City, there exists an oasis of fanciness that I've been yearning to visit for months now. However, as a grad student, visits to such an establishment are a rare treat. Cue the dream of the funemployed: lunchtime luxe. A weekday visit, at that. My buddy and I rose in our elevator past the peons on the lower floors, excited to treat ourselves. He'd been before, and suggested we try the XIX Cafe Lunch to try many bites and flavors at once. A sucker for variety, I agreed and we ordered steak and the fish of the day. Before we grabbed our salads, I used the bathroom, which required an elevator trip down one floor to XVIII, seemingly a floor only for bathrooms. Well, seems a little silly, but they were nice enough bathrooms so I didn't ask questions. I emerged from my second elevator trip of the day and headed straight for the charcuterie. Assorted meats and cheeses are my jam, and these did not disappoint. Add in some tiny pickles, and I was a happy camper. We also noshed one a few of the salads, including Caesar, a Caprese-type salad, and a blue cheese/pear/spinach something or other. Every bite was delicious, and our table was right by the window (as are most, since there are all sorts of windows in the rotunda). We ordered some bubbly because, when you get steak and fish for lunch, why not? The steak, ordered rare, was a true rare, which was just a joy. The bread served to the table was warm, the butter spreadable, and our server, Luba (I'm unsure of the spelling), was like this delightful breath of air every time she stopped to check in on us. I thought we were stuffed from lunch until I saw the dessert spread. They were almost out of a whipped cream and berry dish, but I enjoyed the cannoli and the mini cheesecakes. Luba also opened the doors to the STUNNING terrace where we basked in the sun and post-meal bliss, sipping the end of our champagne. And, heads buzzing from height and champagne, we returned to the real world. I'm already planning my next trip. Maybe cocktails this time...
(5)Karina M.
Went for restaurant week. Appetizer: I ordered steak ceviche- barely had any flavor at all; super bland. For entree i ordered grouper- way over cooked and barely spiced; rubbery & bland. Dessert was ok.
(2)Melissa V.
The food, service, decor are all spot on! Recommend the shrimp cocktail and the cheesecake for sure!
(5)Lauren S.
OK guys listen up- do you like happy hour? Do you like to leave happy hour with an extreme buzz? Then, you need to come to XIX. Maybe you think I am crazy, Lauren, you're crazy, XIX is so high class, I can't go there for happy hour in my flannel and vans! Yes!!! Yes you can!! And I promise you, you will keep going back. During the most anticipated hours of the day (5-7) XIX does $6 fall on your face, chocked-full-of alcohol spirits. You can show up in anything and you won't be looked at funny. The lounge itself is dark, woody and inviting, and during the winter they have the fire going. OH yeah- sit by the windows if you can. The views are spectacular. Last Monday, we caught the tail-end of happy hour, and the tail-end of the sunset. Magical. Why not 5 stars? Because when it is not happy hour, the prices are ridiculous and the food is not that memorable. If you don't like throwing money away, just come for the drinks like we talked about. Good talk.
(4)Michelle P.
I've been to XIX several times in the past- once for brunch and the rest for happy hour. Last night my husband and I were in the neighborhood so happy hour was calling our name. I've actually never been to XIX without large crowds- my past happy hours were either for group events or Sips. With no event drawing crowds, it was rather pleasant. We were able to walk right up to the bar and order drinks. We took our drinks to a small table with two formal looking arm chairs. There was a large group in the center of the room that seemed to be there for a business function and would get loud at times. Otherwise the volume in the room was fair and my husband and I were able to converse with each other without screaming. Our first round of drinks was the Best of Philly special. I was under the impression that it was going to be a martini however it ended up being a bourbon drink mixed with some fruity juices/flavors and served in a mason jar. Although I can't remember quite what was it it- it was strong and enjoyable. For our second round of drinks we switched to beer- one Dogfishhead 60 Minute IPA and one Flying Fish Farmhouse summer ale both on draft. You can never go wrong with either and $4 was a rather fair price. The table had waitress service so we didn't need to go up to the bar for this round. XIX was definitely a classy spot for happy hour and I'm glad I got to enjoy it when the rooms weren't packed full to the brim.
(4)Nicole S.
Would be 5 stars except for the comment made by the hostess, Iris when my family and I were being seated along with another group. The comment was about the price per person. She said "just so you are aware, the cost per person is $35." Only my family was told this and we all were surprised at the rather snooty remark and slightly offended. I rather readers to draw their own conclusion so I'll just leave it there. Moving on .... Our server, Monique made up for the ill taste that was felt when we arrived. She was very helpful and pleasant. The main course options were limited and the portions were very small but everyone enjoyed their food. The snack bar and seafood bar didn't have much but was good. There were shrimp and raw oysters in the seafood bar and an assortment of various desserts and pastries in the other sections. Overall a swanky atmosphere and not much offered for the price but enjoyed ourselves nonetheless. Will I come back again? Probably not.
(4)Matt A.
Had dinner here last night. The view and decor were great, nice bar area to wait for all of our party to arrive. Food was pretty bad in general, bland flavors and sauces, but worst was the ribeye. My wife ordered well done and my brother medium, they got them mixed up. The cuts of meat were pretty sorry, looked more like cheap flank skirt than a high priced ribeye, very disappointed. The waiter and manager did take them off our bill, which was nice of them, but definitely not coming back again.
(2)Annie S.
What a lovely bar! I recommend after dinner drinks here on a date or a special anniversary dinner. Savvy Bartenders always make the experience better! Next time I am in Philly I will be back! Desserts are nice and petite and also delicious.
(4)Joe C.
The service from the hostess and the bus staff was fantastic - and that was the highlight. I went with my girlfriend for my birthday, the restaurant was not even half full. We were seated immediately and on-time, but it took our waiter maybe ten minutes to even introduce himself. We started with the crab cocktail - it was probably the highlight of the meal. I asked the waiter for his opinion on the salmon. His response? "It's fish." I waited and stared at him, and he just repeated himself. So I asked, is it farm raised, can you tell me more about the dish, etc., then he finally managed to spit out a few words. Anyways, I decided to go with the cod and my girlfriend had the trout - mine was overcooked and the broth fused all the tastes together (not in a good way); hers was very small and not well seasoned. The waiter did not come by even once for at least half an hour, despite the emptiness of the restaurant, although he had no problem waiting hand and foot on the table two down from us (the woman there looked like a Kardashian and dressed like one, too). When he finally came over and saw my finished plate, he said "Oh you must have liked it" - no apology for not coming over, and not only did he not ask if I wanted another drink, he took off before I could even ask for it. All this on my birthday. At this point, I didn't even want a dessert so I said no, but he said if you don't get one I'll bring one anyways, so I picked one out. To his credit, he put it on the house - however, he made mention of that fact at least three times. We got it buddy, you're a f*cking saint. So, punchline is, mediocre food and less-than-mediocre service. The drinks are good and the view is spectacular, but those merits can't overcome the flaws. Spend your money better elsewhere.
(2)Sara L.
A few more visits to XIX warrant an update, if not quite an upgrade, to my review. I have fit in a few more nice dinners and more than a few trips to happy hour at XIX since I wrote my initial review. I have found it to be consistently excellent, but consistently imperfect. Happy hour is always a great way to feel a little bit fancy at the end of your work day. It can get extremely crowded in the bar, so I try to time visits to take advantage of nice weather on the patio. Since the patio is awesome it can also be pretty crowded, but it's a worthwhile trade-off for the view. Cocktails are excellent, and they usually have decent wines featured for happy hour. Dinners have been positive as well, but with a few minor annoyances. The food has universally been good - what arrives on the plate is always a well-executed version of what the menu says. As such, I will only go into detail on the annoyances. It's the holidays, and I'm in the Festivus spirit. On one occasion, XIX had "extended" restaurant week for a week or two beyond the dates (with no warning on their website or when making reservations), resulting in a VERY limited menu for the night. I have routinely been led to small tables in the well-trafficked center of the room when larger window-side tables are available; fortunately, I'm not shy about self-advocating. Be aware that many of the desserts are artfully deconstructed; so, while my recent cheesecake was yummy, it arrived in three geographically distant blobs with crust crumbled over the plate. The wine list remains adequate, but uninspired for an otherwise high-caliber dining experience. All that being said, XIX holds strong at four stars and remain in my regular rotation of nice places to take visitors for a nice dinner.
(4)Rizwan A.
This place is all about ambiance, vibe, swank, mood, service, pazazz etc, and they're nailing it. It's not everyday you walk into a restaurant atop a hotel rooftop that can easily show you the entire city from its balconies and large windows. The waiters will most likely be dressed better than you in their formal suits, bow ties and coat tails so it's good to at least dress up a little bit. The bar and lounge are all style too, you could be sitting there in shorts and a t-shirt and you'd still look like a boss. And sadly, that exactly what some people do. The unfortunate thing about this otherwise well thought-out and brilliantly executed dinner/lounge/bar experience, is that the clientele doesn't match the character of the place at all. In other words, you get flashy greased up gangsters and their 2 dollar trick cronies hanging out in here rather than some well dressed people looking to ooh and aah over the whole scene as the creator most likely intended. I could be totally wrong about that, but unless 50 Cent owns this place, then I'd say I'm at least half right. The dinner menu and restaurant service also send a totally different signal-- that at least some sort of class is needed. Apart from the clear mockery the customers have made of this place, the service, food, atmosphere and experience are top notch. I had a few different things off the menu, including the risotto, scallops and sea bass, all were somewhat small for the price (especially the bass) but it's fine dining so what can you expect. It does make the whole affair a bit neater, and everything was seasoned well, cooked to perfection. I didn't see any clear areas on my fish. One of my friend's scallops were brought out cold and so they quickly brought out a fresh order and also took the item off the bill, which was a friendly touch. Nothing was exceptionally flavorful or worth bragging about, but overall, the food is good, they have a pretty solid bar, great service, chefs and staff that definitely know what they're doing. I would be eager to come back despite the lounge scene going on here. Fortunately for them dinner is a whole different story!
(4)Armando Z.
Oh hell yes!! Dwayne and Tanya were cooking tonight and boy did they bring it!! I am a spoiled Bay Area diner, and have learned to have an eye for something wonderful. Sometimes I am wrong . The cuisine here is innovative and gutsy, the flavors challenge you. Wonderful service. Please don't go so I can always get a table !!
(5)Laura Jill S.
I've been here once. With my brother & SIL & other friends with much more money than I have. WAY too posh & expensive for me, definitely not my scene. I'm a dive-bar loving hippie. The wine list was great, though...I was just happy that someone else was treating.
(3)Valerie F.
Went here for my birthday dinner date and loved the view, atmosphere and the food. We had calamari as an appetizer and it was one of the best I've ever had, I also loved the rubytini I had 2 of them during dinner! Would recommend for a very nice occasion or celebration but was too fancy and expensive for an average dinner or even a drink or 2.
(5)Shereen C.
Gorgeous. Beautiful. Cocktails are okay, but hey, You're here for the view.
(4)Sally V.
Lovely staff. Great atmosphere. It was a rainy day, so they closed off the balcony. Which was ashame. But as the rain stopped, our waiter let my gf and i go out to take a beautiful photo of the skyline. Awesome view. Very accompdating. Will come back again. I had a filet fish with some veggie and capers. Delicious!
(5)Dave B.
I enjoy coming here with friends and lots of them. They are very accommodating and the staff is always wonderful. This restaurant is so elegant and spacious, located on the 19th floor of the historic Bellavue. The cocktails are always exquisite and I have never had a bad experience.
(4)Sonia P.
Only went there for lunch, but it is my favorite place to go with friends, family or for work. Price range is very reasonable and the service wonderful. Fish of the day is never a bad choice. I rate 4 stars only because it s usually cold (especially in the summer). Bring a cardigan!
(4)George M.
We had Sunday Brunch at Nineteen XIX. The place was great. The atmosphere was was wonderful, it reminded of us at places we had eaten at in Europe. They play chill style music giving the place a upbeat feel not stuffy at all. The service was a bit slow due to the place being busy without being out of control. They really went out of their way to makes us feel both welcomed and comfortable. The dress is nice casual yet we saw hotel guests who were in work out clothes. The brunch is set up with a raw bar to start with shrimp and oysters and other assorted fresh salads and lox and bagels. Then you order off the menu. We had the Crab cake Benedict which was really good. I have had this before at other places and yet this was one of the best Crab cake Benedict I have had. Desert was also done similar to the raw bar you go and help yourself to all you want. The table is set up with different types of deserts everything from chocolate croissants to cookies and tarts of different styles. Over all we really liked Nineteen XIX and would return. It was a great change of pace from what brunch has turned into these days of loud talking and people taking selfies, wait staff feeling that they are doing you a favor by serving you food at a too close to the next selfi taking table. You won't find this at Nineteen XIX . Take a chance and go.
(4)Alexandra D.
Best dirty martini and octopus salad in town!
(5)Liz P.
XIX is simply irresistible. :) I've been here many times for dinner, happy hour and brunch. All great experiences with scrumptious food, amazing service and spectacular views! I love the beet salad, burgers, the lychee martini...and pretty much everything at brunch. Definitely one of the best restaurants in Philadelphia, without a doubt.
(5)Hope C.
We had a complimentary meal at this restaurant while staying at the Bellevue, so this definitely colors my review. I mean, everything is great when it's free - isn't it? The ambiance makes the restaurant. I can't remember a meal in recent memory that was so relaxed, beautiful, unrushed, and fancy without being stuffy. In many high-end restaurants you're often either squashed in next to other diners (this is what "cozy" typically translates to) or immersed in the busy hustle of a popular place. Not here. Spacious and quiet without sacrificing service or style. The food was also commendable. Oysters to start (ok, I'm not an oyster connoisseur...I don't understand all the adjectives people use to describe them. They're usually soft, slimy, cold and, if they're going into my mouth, doused in horseradish and Tabasco or chili which obliterates any nuances to the taste anyways!), which were great. Sea bass and steak as entrees - no complaints. Nothing that evoked a "wow" moment, but definitely very good. I did enjoy my mason jar cheesecake at the end of the meal. It was creative and a small portion, which was perfect considering I was stuffed. This is a great restaurant to celebrate a special occasion or impress a first date. I imagine it would be ideal for a nice business lunch or dinner as well. The ambiance speaks for itself - and Philly is an impressive, though not imposing, backdrop for an elegant meal.
(4)Clifford Q.
Once again our experience was met with great satisfaction. There was not a single part of the evening that was does not stand out as spectacular. From the first moment we were greeted by the hostess and yes once again I forget her name - all know is, it begins with an A - She remembered us from previous visits and also that we got Seth and I had our weeding here in the main dining room. All the wait staff remembered us and came over to welcome us back - It is a pleasure to see the same faces over the years - This tells me it is a great establishment to work for and the employees are treated well. Rashied who we know from another hotel / restaurant I am happy to say is still working here and now in the main dining room. How lucky is XIX. Chuck and Chaz as well and our waiter Max - What great men - Everyone went out of their way to make our visit special to celebrate Seth's birthday. We asked for the terrace to be open since it was 65 in December at 10pm and they allowed us to go outside for a few minutes in between courses. LOL - I do not have to tell you that everyone else wanted to then go out - OOOPS Now for the food - Yummy Oysters and shrimp cocktail as always - Our entrees were Pan Seared Wild Striped Bass and The Grilled Venison - Both new additions to the menu and out of this world. XIX has gotten it's share of not so good reviews for the food over the years but we have always loved going back for the experience. This visit showed us that the overall experience is what counts. - food was great - staff was great and the experience was absolutely wonderful. Give it a try !
(5)Amina W.
XIX is one of those uber fanc places I only dared dreaming about eating at due to my current student slash poor status... But that all chanced on Tuesday when my fellow broke girl class mates and I ventured out in the rain for lunch after a brutal few weeks... we had heard about XIXs awesome lunch option and decided to check it out For $22, you get a first course buffet of various salads, delicious cheese options (Brie, Munster and another mystery delicious bite) and some other goodies that probably gobbled down too fast. Then you get a choice of entree including a steak, pasta, fish, burger, panini (maybe something else?). Lastly there's a dessert buffet with assorted delicious treats. The service was great, and the foods as cooked to perfection. I'd definitely recommend this of you're looking for a shmancy lunch option.
(5)Rita C.
I came here on a Saturday night to have a few drinks with my friend and kill some time before meeting up with our group of friends in Center City. It was a little confusing maneuvering around the hotel to get into XIX (there was a wedding going on and we were redirected a bunch of times), but we finally made it in there. I have to agree with a lot of other reviews that this bar/restaurant area is lovely and has some beautiful views of the city. For drinks, my friend had (several) kettle one martinis (with some fancy pants lingo that I'll never understand "straight up with a twist and jump up and down while holding an umbrella"...or something like that ) while I decided try the lychee kiss (aka lots of flavored liquors and some cranberry juice). The drinks were balanced and well-made; I didn't feel that the $12 price tag per drink was outrageous. I'd definitely come back here for happy hour in the future. I'd like to check out the brunch and Afternoon tea menus. An odd note: There were A LOT of bros here the night that I went. For an upscale place, I was surprised that the bros were allowed in wearing Phillies jerseys and jeans/shorts. Let's just say, I witnessed a lot of Miller Lite and Heineken being ordered...it definitely made me a little sad.
(3)Jennifer L.
We went for Sunday brunch for the first time. At first they tried to tell us that our reservation was for 1030 and wouldn't be able to participate in the brunch. However, after informing them it was one of their own who made the reservation on the phone a reservation miraculously opened. They treated us to a free cocktail and were super attentive throughout the meal. The brunch was amazing! The food was full of variety and plentiful! The waitress and other staff was nice and welcoming. The environment was elegant and peaceful. Because it was a get together we were there for 4 hrs sitting and talking and they were friendly without pressuring us to leave. I will definitely make a reservation for brunch in the future!
(5)Michael C.
Went for Restaurant Week. Overall, it was amazing. Great view, friendly staff. The restaurant is split with a bar separating the two areas. Really beautiful decor and relaxing atmosphere. In terms of dress, I'd advise to wear business casual. People were wearing jeans. Come on y'all. I know it's Restaurant Week but that doesn't allow you to look sloppy in a place like XIX. Food was amazing, but expect smaller portions. Quality, not quantity here. Had the asparagus wrapped in bacon, the short rib and gnocchi, and the cranberry orange cobbler. The short rib was surprisingly larger in comparison to the scallops, which every one else at my table got. The cobbler wasn't what I expected because it was lacking into terms of the crust/crumbly part that I love. Also, it was really tart. Wouldn't recommend that.
(4)Deena S.
Everything is absolutely beautiful. But I'll have to agree with others, the service is kind of wack. No particular situation happened, but I feel it doesn't fit their sophisticated image.
(4)Kendall B.
This place earns five stars because it is a fantastic VALUE for the ambiance, the views, and the quality of the food. The only thing that was lacking was the service (I swear out waiter was promoting other restaurants, as he encouraged us to get dessert elsewhere.....very bizarre). Gentleman, this is where you take a girl that you want to impress without breaking the bank. To start I had the Kentucky Straight Bourbon Cocktail, which was a bit too sweet for my liking, considering that I am normally a Makers' on the rocks kind of gal. If you are just starting to enjoy bourbon, it would be a great cocktail for you since it is mixed with orange bitters and elderflower liquor. The MUSSELS IN WHITE WINE, GARLIC, & FENNEL are stupid good, and at $12 an order, who can pass up that appetizer!? It is served with grilled sour dough bread, and the sauce is so good you will spoon it into your mouth once the dipping bread is gone. The GRILLED SPANISH OCTOPUS was almost as good as Mario Batali's. It was tender and the acid in the vinaigrette was perfectly balanced. The PAN SEARED DIVER SCALLOPS were the BEST i have ever tasted. They were served with a sweet carrot puree and mango ginger chutney. They were delicious. I want to comeback for happy hour on evening because the only expensive thing on the check really was the cocktails, which are half price between 5-7. Hopefully, we will also have a different waiter next time.
(5)Matt L.
Made reservations and took my girlfriend here for dinner. It was a little difficult finding the restaurant within the hotel but we eventually got there. There was really no one to greet us at the door, we kind of stood around for a minute trying to figure out who the hostess was. Eventually I had to grab a waitress and ask to be seated. Not a very welcoming entrance. After we were seated it was nice though. The waiter was polite and on point with his service. The food was good, albeit over priced, and the atmosphere was great. I probably won't go again but it's a definite "one-time experience" kind of place.
(3)Harumi U.
Fantastic food, really knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a great location with a view. Only if the price isn't what it is. (it was really a toss up between 5 and 4 stars) I was seated immediately by the window and was attended right away too. I had several dishes that I couldn't decide and the waiter (Wilma or Wilmar) really went over every one of them in detail to help me. In the end, I really was very happy I made the decisions based on his opinions and recommendations. Sadly you can only eat so many dishes in one sitting - this means I have to go back to try a couple of additional dishes. Octopus salad. We all know that ingredients like octopus or scallops are very difficult to serve well. A little undercooked, it is raw. (If you are meant to eat certain things raw, then that's one thing but if you cook to serve something then you have to properly cook it) A little overcooked, it becomes rubbery. Octopus was cooked to perfection. And it was served with potatoes, arugula, grilled pepper and pleasantly sour dressing. So many amazing mini explosions in your mouth! Sea bass. Served over wild rice and presented with coconut milk (which is spiced with curry spice) based jus. Bass is cooked just right so you can eat skin too and the natural sweetness of coconut milk mixed with just enough curry spice (It is not too strong so you don't feel like eating an Indian dish) adds it a great flavor. Sadly I was so full at this point that I did not have any room left for dessert...
(4)Jess D.
I really do love the ambiance at Nineteen. It makes me feel all tingly and sophisticated and it's not stuffy or filled with loud obnoxious rich people. Don't get me wrong, this place is classy and pricey but it's a nice treat and an excellent alternative to the usual happy hour spots. I've never been here for dinner but I imagine the service and food are decent. The specials during happy hour are OK... $6 for specialty cocktails but no food specials :-( Check it out if you're feeling like going somewhere nice after work.
(4)Nikki R.
I went here last night (Monday) with a couple of friends. We were told in advance that the main dining room would not be open. That did not seem to matter, as we were still able to get a spot to the windows to watch the sunset while we ate. We opted for a meat and cheese plate, which was delicious! They accommodated us when we requested a substitute and explained the options to us. Two of us got the Steak Frittes, which was delicious and prepared just as we had requested. And it came with the most delicious shoestring fries! Another friend got the chicken and seemed to enjoy it. For dessert, we split the cookie cake (ahhhhmazing) and the pineapple upside down cake (very yummy). The service was great and our waitress was very sweet, taking a nice picture of us afterwards. This would be a great place for either dinner, or just to grab a quiet drink and take in a a beautiful view.
(4)