The Saints, A Modern West African Dining & Nightlife Haven, Has Softly Opened in Rittenhouse
For a city that prides itself on its diverse food scene, The Saints adds another layer of cultural richness married with opulent, Instagram-worthy style.
“The DJ is coming in 20 minutes – stay and try the jollof rice!” Clearly, we were in the right place, at the right time to experience some of what The Saints Restaurant & Lounge had to offer.
Located on the second floor just above Jeni’s ice cream The Saints has opened its doors as a dining and nightlife destination that seamlessly blends traditional West African flavors with contemporary culinary techniques, replacing its cocktail predecessor Noche.
A Grand Entrance Sets the Stage
The journey to The Saints begins with a dramatic ascent up an elegantly appointed staircase, where warm orange lighting and sophisticated fixtures immediately signal that guests are entering something special.
A Visual Feast Before the First Bite
Upon entering The Saints, guests are immediately transported into a world where opulence meets warmth. The restaurant’s interior design vibes are elegant, featuring intimate booth seating upholstered in rich navy blue velvet, set against a backdrop of cascading floral arrangements in soft pinks and whites complemented by lush green moss installations.
The centerpiece bar area showcases the restaurant’s commitment to creating an Instagram-worthy environment. A stunning living wall of moss and flowers creates a natural backdrop for the sleek bar seating, while an ornate crystal chandelier adds old-world elegance to the space.
Large windows throughout the restaurant offer diners views of bustling Chestnut Street below, while the wood tones and curated lighting create an inviting atmosphere perfect for both intimate dinners and social gatherings.
The main dining room exemplifies The Saints’ commitment to sophistication, featuring multiple crystal chandeliers, rich orange and navy color schemes, and a mix of plush seating options. The decorative tin ceiling and warm lighting create an ambiance that feels both grand and welcoming.
Various seating areas throughout the restaurant cater to different dining preferences, from cozy corner booths with rich red upholstery to more open table arrangements, all unified by the restaurant’s design aesthetic.
Modern Taste of Western Africa
The Saints positions itself as offering “A Modern Taste of Western Africa,” and their approach reflects a philosophy of honoring traditional flavors while embracing contemporary technique.
Signature Dishes
The menu showcases both familiar and innovative interpretations of West African cuisine:
Appetizers and Small Plates:
- Suya Bites – A modern take on the beloved West African street food.
- Crispy Calamari – Offering a fusion approach to the classic preparation
- Puff Puff – A traditional West African sweet treat.
The standout dish appears to be The West Broken Lasagna, described as a “West African style beef lasagna with layers of ricotta and parmesan, served with garlic bread.” This innovative fusion dish exemplifies the restaurant’s approach to bridging culinary traditions, combining Italian pasta techniques with West African flavors and ingredients.
Other notable offerings include:
- Steak & Sunny Skewers – Bringing West African grilling techniques to premium cuts
- Jollof Rice Bowl – A refined presentation of the beloved West African staple that serves as a cornerstone of the cuisine
The restaurant also features a dedicated brunch menu.
Beyond the dining room, The Saints offers a sophisticated lounge experience that invites guests to “unwind in our stylish lounge with signature cocktails, curated wines, and premium spirits.” They offer hookahs and are currently BYOB due to the PA liquor laws we all know and love. ETA for getting their license is June.
A Cultural Bridge Through Cuisine
As The Saints establishes itself in Philadelphia’s competitive restaurant landscape, it represents more than just a new dining option. The restaurant serves as a bridge between cultures, offering Philadelphians an opportunity to experience the rich flavors and traditions of West African cuisine through a contemporary lens that feels both accessible and sophisticated.
Whether you come for the vibes, the interesting fusion of West African and contemporary techniques, or simply the nightlife experience, The Saints appears ready to deliver on all fronts, so we’re excited to have them here!
Follow The Saints here on Instagram for special event notifications and the official opening date.
