Hello dear
Welcome to Jaffa Bar
Jaffa Bar, located in Philadelphia's vibrant Kensington neighborhood, is an exquisite seafood and cocktail haven curated by renowned chef Mike Solomonov. This lively spot offers a hip, cool atmosphere perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Patrons rave about the creative small plates, including standout dishes like the Jaffa gem oysters, fluke ceviche, and the celebrated #1 smash burger. Their cocktails are both imaginative and delightful, enhancing the dining experience. With quick service, a knowledgeable staff, and an inviting ambiance, Jaffa Bar promises not just a meal, but a flavorful journey through seafood like never before.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Yellowtail Pastrami
Fried Calamari
Chocolate Mousse
French Fries
About
Jaffa Bar
Welcome to Jaffa Bar, a standout dining destination nestled in Kensington, Philadelphia. Located at 1625 N Howard St, this vibrant seafood and cocktail bar—fueled by the culinary vision of acclaimed chef Mike Solomonov—boasts an innovative menu that merges the essence of fresh seafood with a delightful cocktail experience. Known for its lively atmosphere and character, Jaffa Bar perfectly sets the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure.
The ambiance here strikes a perfect balance between chic sophistication and casual comfort, making it ideal for everything from a casual brunch to a vibrant night out. Step inside, and you're greeted by a space that feels both hip and welcoming, embodying a modern take on a raw bar with undeniable Philly flair.
Jaffa Bar’s menu dazzles with an array of small plates that encourage sharing and exploration. Collaborating culinary creativity with rich flavors, their signature dishes are highly recommended by patrons. The oysters, whether you choose Jaffa gem, sweet petite, or moondancer, are a must-try. Topped with mignonettes, these gems are guaranteed to elevate your palate (rating: 5/5). Another showstopper is the fluke ceviche, praised for its fresh and tangy profile, which also received a perfect score. The yellowtail pastrami and spicy steamed mussels further add to the flavor tapestry, with captivating spices and seafood preparations that will leave you craving more.
For those preferring heartier options, their crab cake and chicken sandwiches don’t disappoint, both praised for their delightful flavors. Make sure to indulge in their Moroccan Frena Bread—its unique texture offers a delicious side to every meal. Feeling sweet? Guests rave about their desserts, rounding off an already memorable dining experience with indulgence.
For beverage enthusiasts, Jaffa Bar shines with a well-curated cocktail menu crafted by talented bartenders who know how to mix up signature drinks that pair beautifully with any dish. Sipping on their expertly made cocktails while enjoying the lively conversations around you adds to your overall experience—truly a symphony of flavors and vibes.
Culinary gems and a lively atmosphere make Jaffa Bar a culinary force in Philadelphia's dining scene. With its dedication to quality ingredients, exceptional service, and a menu brimming with inventive seafood dishes, it's no wonder why patrons keep coming back. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make your way to Jaffa Bar for a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Don’t just take our word for it; explore the culinary delights for yourself and discover why Jaffa Bar is making waves in the city’s vibrant food landscape.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ We went for dinner on a busy Saturday night and the restaurant was very lively with a busy and fun atmosphere. We sat upstairs and the service was quick and efficient but the server definitely seemed like she was running around or distracted which was interesting but she was very nice and knowledgeable otherwise. We ordered lots of small plates to share and finished with the crab cake and chicken sandwiches which were both delicious. - oysters (Jaffa gem, sweet petite, & moondancer) (5/5) * Get the mignonettes! - fluke ceviche (5/5) - yellow tail pastrami (4.5/5) - spicy steamed mussels (4/5) - salt roasted beets (3.75/5) - fried calamari (5/5 - all were with tentacles so keep that in mind) - Moroccan Frena Bread (5/5) We enjoyed both of the desserts and the drinks were delicious! They clearly have a great bartender! Well put together menu and chefs, we all loved the experience and will be back! ”
“ I think #1 smash burger in the city. Great spices. Tapas style. Amazing service! Also recommend the squash, scallops hot and cold, pastrami yellowtail ”
“ What a gem. Standalone building dripping with character. Cool history. Was able to sneak in on a weeknight for a nightcap and got to try some house cocktails and a beautiful fernet. Bartender was such a cool cat we had a lot of fun chopping it up and learning about the neighbourhood. Definitely coming back to see the uostairs when it’s happening. Thanks again for the hospitality. ”
“ So about tonight! My first date night of 2025 was at Jaffa -- the new seafood & cocktail bar by my pal Mike Solomonov After successfully bringing the concept to Brooklyn, Jaffa arrives in Kensington with a revamped menu and Philly flair. Words can't describe how this experience made me feel -- a hip, cool, and sexy raw bar that's unapologetically invested in giving seafood a flavorful twist. The cocktails were immaculate and the vibe was top tier. I'm so happy he finally brought Jaffa home!!!! ”
“ Food was amazing and great service. This was our first time here and the decor/vibes are classy and cool. The brunch plates were small but enough to share w two people. We also tried several cocktails and had to round out w an iced Turkish coffee which was sweet and delicious!!! ”
“ Wow what a great new restaurant for the neighborhood. For sure not your typical restaurant. If you want a unique and different experience from eating “normal” food. This is the place to go. The historic building ads to the unique experience. Bartenders were very friendly too! ”
“ Excellent dinner experience. Came here with a group of friends and ordered a bunch of small plates and then had the Scallops & Merguez all to myself. Scallops were cooked to perfection and the lamb sausage was amazingly delicious. The yellowfin pastrami was an interesting dish that everyone enjoyed. The burger was also highly praised at the table as were the chicken thighs and mussels. The booth was set for four but we fit five guys with no problem. ”
“ Jaffa Bar is easily one of the top dining experiences in Philadelphia, offering an incredible menu that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious. Chef Andrew adds a personal touch, engaging with guests and sharing his expertise. His recommendation of the pickled mussels was a standout moment—they’re hands down the best I’ve ever had. The cocktails are exceptional, and the staff elevates the entire experience with their attentiveness and knowledge. Patrick, who served my section of the bar, was particularly impressive, offering thoughtful guidance on the menu and sharing firsthand insights about the dishes, which made the selection process seamless. Every bite and sip at Jaffa Bar is truly top-tier. ”