Square 1682 Awards

Square 1682 Restaurant Review:

Square 1682, the sleek restaurant at the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia, a Kimpton property in the former Art Deco American Institute of Architects building, is a convivial spot that's as ideal for power lunching as it is for a cozy dinner for two. But it’s the globally minded fare that you'll remember, especially after sampling small plates such as bacon-wrapped dates with local goat cheese and piquillo peppers or Lancaster duck confit on buttermilk toast. We also recommend the braised beef cheeks in habanero-carrot purée and the inventive catch of the day, which might be scallops with squid ink pasta and baby octopus. Brunch may bring an egg white breakfast wrap in a whole-wheat tortilla with avocado spread and grilled tomato or seared salmon with red quinoa, charred fennel and citrus. The kitchen sources much of the products locally, in keeping with the hotel's green theme (it is LEED registered). The wine list gives a nod to new- and old-world vines, with most priced in the $40 and higher range. Craft cocktails emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients, with favorites including London Beet (gin, spice syrup, beet juice, cranberry bitters). For dessert, try the lavender crème brûlée with honey-poached blueberries or the piping hot donut holes with Valrhona chocolate and orange curd dipping sauces.