A Taste of Spain in Philly: Amada Restaurant in Philadelphia, USA

Amada is one of those exceptional spots in Philadelphia that, from the moment you step inside, transports you to another world. Located in the historic Old City at 217-219 Chestnut Street, this Spanish tapas gem, created by the renowned chef Jose Garces, has been a cherished destination for both locals and visitors since its doors first opened in 2005.

As soon as you enter Amada, you’re embraced by its warm, rustic charm. The exposed brick walls and wooden beams create a cozy atmosphere, while the soft lighting adds a welcoming glow. The open kitchen serves as the heart of the restaurant, where you can watch the chefs skillfully preparing each dish. This lively and engaging setup makes it clear that here, the food is the true star of the show. It’s the kind of place where you don’t just come to eat, you come to experience the joy of Spanish dining. At Amada, every meal feels like a celebration of great taste and even better company.

The Chef

Amada is a testament to the vision of Jose Garces, one of America’s top Latin chefs. Born and raised in Chicago by Ecuadorian parents, Garces draws heavily from his Latin heritage in his cuisine. After honing his culinary skills in Spain and perfecting his craft under the guidance of Stephen Starr at Alma de Cuba and El Vez, Garces opened Amada in October 2005 inspired by the name of his grandmother, Mamita Amada, bringing the Spanish tapas tradition to Philadelphia. But this isn’t just another trendy spot. Amada has earned its reputation as one of the country’s top Spanish restaurants, with Garces receiving numerous culinary accolades including a James Beard award.

Albondigas

The Menu

Amada’s menu is all about the art of sharing. Tapas, those small, flavorful plates meant to be passed around the table to encourage sharing. Each dish is like a little adventure, packed with the rich, vibrant flavors of Spain.

One dish that truly captures the essence of Amada is the Pulpo a la Gallega. This dish, with its tender grilled octopus, smoky paprika, and creamy potatoes, brings the coastal cuisine of Galicia to life. Another dish to try is the Albondigas. These Spanish-style meatballs are a perfect blend of lamb and beef, cooked to tender perfection and rests in a rich, savory sauce. The flavors are deep and satisfying, with just enough spice to keep things interesting.

Top: Patatas Bravas, Bottom: Gran Table (Chef’s Selection of Cheeses, Charcuterie, Accompaniments)

And of course, no visit to Amada would be complete without indulging in the Patatas Bravas. These crispy, golden potatoes, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and creamy aioli, are the very definition of comfort food. They’re simple, yet so addictive, with just the right amount of heat. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, the paellas are a must. The Paella Valenciana, in particular, is delicious. It’s a hearty, rich dish, with saffron-infused rice packed with the flavors of chicken, chorizo, and shellfish. 

Amada’s wine list is like a love letter to Spain, offering selections that perfectly complement the food. But if wine isn’t your thing, their sangrias are just as delightful. Refreshing and fruity, they add a sweet, light note that balances out the richness of the dishes. For those who prefer something stronger, Amada’s craft cocktails are not to be missed. 

After indulging in the savory delights, Amada’s desserts are yet another feast. The Ganache de Chocolat, a decadent treat with rich chocolate mousse layered beneath a chocolate wafer, Arbequina olive oil and topped with crumbled hazelnuts. Next, the Tarta de Queso. This traditional Spanish cheesecake dessert, with its creamy texture and slightly burnt top, was served with a few slices of green apple and a side of rich sauce. The balance of sweetness and tartness was just right, making for a luxurious yet light finish to the meal. Lastly, the Turrón Ice Cream is another delightful surprise. Served with slices of toasted bread or crispy pastry, the sweet, nutty flavor of the turrón paired beautifully with the crispy elements, providing a unique and satisfying conclusion to an already memorable meal.

Top: Ganache de Chocolat, Bottom: Tarta de Queso

The price range at Amada varies depending on what you order, but generally, you can expect to spend from around $50 to $75 per person for a meal, excluding drinks. Tapas dishes typically range from $9 to $35 each, with larger shared dishes like paella costing between $55 and $68. Chef’s Selection: A special tapas menu selected by the chef is available for $75 per person.

Turrón Ice Cream

A New Chapter for Amada

In a new update, Amada, the first restaurant opened by Chef Jose Garces, is poised for national expansion after being acquired by a new restaurant operator. Ideation Hospitality has sold the Spanish tapas restaurant to SPB Hospitality, a Houston-based company that operates or franchises more than 500 restaurants across 37 states of the US. Currently, Amada has locations in Old City, Radnor, and Atlantic City, but SPB Hospitality plans to add two or three Amada locations annually, with a focus on the Sun Belt region, where the warm weather will complement Amada's iconic Spanish cuisine. Through this acquisition, SPB Hospitality takes ownership of all Amada and will oversee the leadership and restaurant employees. Chef Garces will remain the face of the brands and stay involved with culinary and creative development.

Note: First two photos of the restaurant were taken from the website of Amada.

Croquetas

Amada Restaurant

Address: 217-219 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Tel: +001 (215) 625-2450
Website: https://www.amadarestaurant.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Amada.Philly/