Branzino Restaurant   

261 S 17th St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-790-0103
www.branzinophilly.com

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The Bronzino -- a Mediterranean bass with a sweet, mild taste that's often served whole -- is both the name and specialty of this elegant BYOB, which is within walking distance of the Kimmel Center and Rittenhouse Square. With its dramatic windows and murals, the bi-level space is perfect for a date and the carefully edited menu will likely please most palates. Antipasto misto comes with a range of cold appetizers, including prosciutto and marinated mushrooms, while the insalata finocchio -- a shaved fennel and radicchio salad with citrus vinaigrette -- is a lighter starter. Pasta dishes like the farfalle pasta with shrimp and crab meat can stand alone as entrees, though that would mean missing out on specialties like the aforementioned Bronzino (filleted tableside) and the veal with prosciutto, mozzarella and mushrooms. Remember to bring along a bottle of your favorite Italian wine and plenty of cash since credit cards are not accepted. -- Doree Shafrir