Visions of Chef Richard Sandoval Opens “Aqimero” Opening at The Ritz Carlton
Last week celebrity chef Richard Sandoval opened his new restaurant Aqimero at the Ritz Carlton (The hotel renovations were led by Wimberly Interiors with contributions from LW Design out of Dubai, and Philadelphia-based firm Coscia Moos Architecture.) The 206-seat restaurant is located in the landmark property’s marble lobby, which is modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, as as well as the far side of the room on Chestnut Street and will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner
The space is amazing, finally the lobby and restaurant matches what you would think a Ritz-Carlton brand should be.
Gone is that terrible wine cooler that encased the beautiful chandelier that brightens the ballroom on the floor below.
You can now see the beautiful hand sewn crystals hang from the light fixture,
and you can see from one side of the room to the other.
Everyone loved the glass wall room dividers. I’ve learned that the walls are very heavy, and set deep into the floor. They can’t be moved, but you can marvel over them.
The restaurant will occupy the lobby as well as the far side of the room, which used to house the fabulous 10 Arts restaurant headed by my friend Jennifer Carroll. In this space there will be tables as well as a banquette area for dining.
I love, love the bar. Now it is set away from the wall, and
has created a lounge with seating along the wall. It’s very sleek and private, no doubt many of the celebrities that stay at the Ritz will be dining in these spots to avoid prying eyes, and my camera.
Fashion forward Ernest Owens and Bobbie Booker
The Sushi and Ceviche Bar offers a combination of raw bar – Alaskan King Crab, shrimp cocktail, Wellfleet Oysters, Bay Scallops, Maine Lobster and
Spanish Rock Octopus – alongside sushi, ceviche and tiradito.
Bryan Buttler and Josh Middleton stepping out in style
The best dressed couple of the night – Check out Philly Mag for the runner ups
Aqimero will be centered around a wood-burning grill and guests can select hand blended marinades to complement their grilled fish of choice – Atlantic Halibut, Wild Salmon, Golden Tilefish, Ahi Tuna, Wild Caught Black Bass and Fluke. A whole-roasted snapper will be served “Mexican beach campfire style” with a rich tomato and chili adobo, avocado, warm tortillas, chayote slaw & limes.
Check out more photos in Metro Philly
The Menu’s. The prices match the luxurious ambiance.
