Izzy’s Cocktail Bar in Ardmore is a neighborhood favorite where people stop in for bao buns, cocktails, and an assortment of other dishes and drinks, writes Ed Williams for the Main Line Today.
Securing a seat is tricky because the bar only has 24 tables with no reservations. A window table rewards you with a perfect look at the steady flow of life in the town’s center. Even with standout food, the atmosphere steals the show, offering a mix of intimacy and quiet exclusivity giving it the vibe of a well-kept local secret.
The handwritten menu carries the same thoughtful touch, changes seasonally and encourages small-plate sharing. Co-owner Biff Gottehrer, known for his work at the Refectory, 118 North, and Ripplewood Whiskey & Craft, has joined forces with chef Kenjiro Omori to offer an inventive and vibrant dining experience that suits every taste. The bao buns are the clear stars, especially the shredded brisket birria and the lobster.
Meanwhile, bar managers James Cleland and Brian Azevedo offer a cocktail selection designed to highlight specific flavors or moods that pair seamlessly with the delicious dishes coming from the kitchen.
Read more about Izzy’s Cocktail Bar in the Main Line Today.
