River Twice, a Michelin Guide-recommended South Philadelphia restaurant, will expand this fall.
Owned by Chef Randy Rucker and his wife, Amanda, the restaurant plans to nearly double its footprint by taking over the former Mantawny Still Works space next door at 1603 E. Passyunk Ave.
In the seven years since its debut, River Twice has earned numerous accolades, including recognition from Philadelphia Magazine, The New York Times and the James Beard Foundation.
In a statement, Chef Rucker described the expansion as the “next natural step.”
“When we chose the name River Twice, we made a commitment to never stand still. The restaurant has always been rooted in the idea that change is inevitable and should be embraced, and that philosophy has guided every menu we’ve written and every decision we’ve made since opening in 2019,” he said.
The expansion will include a 13-seat bar, additional table seating, a standing drink rail for guests dropping in for drinks, a temperature-controlled wine display and an additional restroom.
Amanda, the designer behind the interiors of River Twice and its sister restaurant, Little Water, is leading the charge of the new space. She said she wanted it to feel “connected to River Twice” while creating a mood “that’s a little sexier.”
The bar’s beverage program, curated by River Twice General Manager and Beverage Director Jhazmyn Wallace, will feature signature cocktails, a curated wine list, local and seasonal beers, and nonalcoholic beverages.
Guests can also enjoy an à la carte bar menu featuring the Mother Rucker Burger, shrimp toast with uni, ricotta beignets, a nightly oyster crudo, and rotating cheese selections developed in partnership with The Farm at Doe Run.
Wallace said the team wanted to create a bar with its own identity while staying true to River Twice’s DNA.
“It feels like River Twice’s more playful sister—a little moodier, a little more spontaneous, but with the same thoughtful hospitality and attention to detail guests already know. Whether someone stops in for a cocktail and a burger or lingers over a bottle of wine, we want it to feel welcoming and approachable,” she said in a statement.
The team has not announced an official opening date, but the bar is expected to welcome guests Thursday through Monday beginning at 5 p.m.
Visit the River Twice website and follow along on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates.
