PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Clarke’s Group is bringing a new culinary experience to Center City with the launch of Rockwell & Rose, an elevated steakhouse and seafood restaurant set to open October 8, 2025. Located in the historic Curtis Building overlooking Washington Square Park, the venue blends modern dining with Philadelphia’s storied past, honoring the city’s heritage while introducing a fresh, vibrant approach to hospitality.
A Modern Steakhouse With a Personal Touch
Created by the award-winning team behind P.J. Clarke’s, Rockwell & Rose aims to redefine the traditional steakhouse. Guests can expect prime cuts of steak, the freshest seafood, and handcrafted cocktails served in a warm, inviting atmosphere that emphasizes personality and comfort over formality. The full-time raw bar will feature nightly live shucking, while an extensive wine list curated by a local sommelier rounds out the upscale offerings.
“Our goal is to create a place where every guest feels welcome,” said General Manager Tim Killeen. “We wanted to design a steakhouse that’s perfect for celebrating milestones but equally inviting for locals stopping by after a day in the city.”
Honoring History Through Name and Design
The restaurant’s name pays tribute to its location and Philadelphia’s cultural history. “Rockwell” references the Curtis Building’s past as home to the Norman Rockwell Museum and The Saturday Evening Post, where iconic illustrations, including Rosie the Riveter, were published. “Rose” reflects both the warmth of the restaurant’s design palette and a personal homage to owner Phil Scotti’s late mother, Rose Scotti.
Inside, four distinct dining spaces — the Rockwell Dining Room, Oyster Bar, Walnut Room, and Rose Room — offer seating for up to 146 guests. The design blends lush greenery, soft tones, and curated artwork with architectural details that celebrate the Curtis Building’s historic character.
Culinary Highlights
Rockwell & Rose’s scratch kitchen emphasizes local sourcing and seasonal ingredients, featuring partnerships with Philadelphia-area growers and regional purveyors. Menu highlights include:
- Raw Bar: East Coast oysters, jumbo shrimp, chilled Maine lobster, and seafood towers built tableside.
- Steakhouse Favorites: Premium cuts of beef, twin broiled lobster tails, jumbo lump crab cakes, and classic French onion soup dumplings.
- Innovative Options: “Freedom From Want,” a full Thanksgiving-style turkey roulade, and pear-and-gorgonzola fiocchette.
- Special Diets: Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes are integrated seamlessly into the menu.
Drinks, Happy Hour, and Events
The bar program, led by Killeen and Michelle Zarallo, features classic cocktails under the “Rockwell” label and innovative floral-inspired creations under “Rose.” A sommelier-curated wine list complements global and regional selections, while happy hour specials will run Wednesday through Sunday from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.
With multiple private rooms, Rockwell & Rose will also host events such as rehearsal dinners, micro-weddings, and corporate gatherings.
Opening Week and Beyond
Rockwell & Rose will open just in time for Philadelphia’s Navy and Marine 250th Celebration, drawing thousands of visitors to the city. Following its debut, the restaurant plans to introduce weekend brunch and explore additional culinary concepts to enhance Washington Square’s dining scene.
“This is more than a restaurant — it’s a homecoming,” said owner Phil Scotti. “Rockwell & Rose combines history, hospitality, and heart to create a space that celebrates Philadelphia’s past while shaping its culinary future.”
First service begins Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 601 Walnut Street, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled the evening before.
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