Rouge
| Address | 205 S 18th Street |
|---|---|
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Rittenhouse Square |
| Phone | (215) 732-6622 |
| Website | Official site |
| Cuisine | American, Burgers |
| Price range | $$$ |
| Established | 1998 |
| Owner | Maggie Wasserman, Rob Wasserman |
Rouge is an American restaurant and café at 205 S 18th Street on Rittenhouse Square, famous for pioneering outdoor sidewalk dining on the square and for the Rouge Burger—voted one of the 20 best burgers in America by GQ Magazine. Opened in 1998 by Maggie and Rob Wasserman, Rouge remains one of Philadelphia's premier spots for people-watching and al fresco dining.
History
[edit | edit source]Rouge opened in 1998 on the east side of Rittenhouse Square, quickly establishing itself as the pioneer of outdoor dining on the square. Maggie and Rob Wasserman created a European-style café culture that was new to Philadelphia at the time.
The restaurant's sidewalk tables became the place to see and be seen in Center City, drawing everyone from young professionals to celebrities. More than 25 years later, Rouge remains synonymous with Rittenhouse Square's sophisticated social scene.
The Rouge Burger
[edit | edit source]The restaurant's signature dish has achieved legendary status:
- GQ Magazine — Named one of the "20 Hamburgers You Must Eat Before You Die"
- 12-ounce patty — Well-seasoned, cooked to order
- Toppings — Gruyère cheese, caramelized onions
- Served with — Pommes frites
- Price — Approximately $18
The Rouge Burger has been consistently rated among the best in the nation and remains the dish that defines the restaurant.
Menu
[edit | edit source]Beyond the famous burger, Rouge serves:
- Brunch — Weekend favorite with cocktails
- Steak Frites — Classic bistro preparation
- Salads — Including the Rouge Salad
- Seafood — Fresh oysters and fish dishes
- Cocktails — Craft drinks and wine list
Vibe
[edit | edit source]Rouge's atmosphere centers on its prime Rittenhouse Square location:
- Sidewalk seating — The main attraction, overlooking the square
- People-watching paradise — Prime spot for observing Rittenhouse society
- European café feel — Relaxed, social atmosphere
- Indoor option — Chic interior when weather doesn't cooperate
- Day-to-night — Transitions from lunch spot to evening cocktail destination
Key Details
[edit | edit source]| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 205 S 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 |
| Neighborhood | Rittenhouse Square |
| Price Range | $$$ ($30–50 typical) |
| Reservations | Recommended, especially for outdoor seating; book via Resy |
| Best Seats | Sidewalk tables overlooking the square |
| Good For | Brunch, People-watching, Casual dinner, Drinks |
Getting There
[edit | edit source]Rouge sits directly on Rittenhouse Square at 18th Street:
- Walking — East side of Rittenhouse Square between Walnut and Locust
- SEPTA Subway — Walnut-Locust Station (Broad Street Line)
- SEPTA Bus — Routes 9, 12, 21, 42
- Parking — Street parking limited; use nearby garages
See Also
[edit | edit source]- Rittenhouse Square
- Parc — Another Rittenhouse Square icon across the square
- Best Burgers in Philadelphia
References
[edit | edit source]
External Links
[edit | edit source]- Official Website
- Reservations (Resy)