There’s a new secret in Philly and it’s hiding behind a vintage 7UP vending machine. A vending machine, a velvet curtain, and a world beyond! Step off Germantown Avenue in Northern Liberties, between Bell’s Flooring and the new Amina, and you might just stumble upon Newsroom Philly, the city’s newest speakeasy -if you know where to look.
Brought to us by Rose Hospitality, the team behind some of NYC’s most seductive dining destinations, Newsroom blends mystery, mood, and mouthwatering Japanese fusion all within a space you’d never expect.
The look: Tokyo meets midnight library
Walk through the hidden entrance and you’ll emerge into a completely different world. Think glowing red sunsets, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, hand-painted geishas, and moody interior inspired by vintage newsrooms and Japanese folklore. It’s sexy and surreal. It’s a place that doesn’t just serve food…it tells stories.
The food: Chef Nobu’s sensual Japanese Fusion
At the helm is Chef Nobu Hmazaki, former Executive Sushi Chef of KOI and veteran of Tokyo, Milan, London, and beyond. Indeed, the menu is equal parts refined and daring.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s on the tantalizing menu:
Small Plates
-
Wagyu Gyoza with savory dipping sauce
-
Yellowtail Tiradito kissed with garlic ponzu and yuzu
-
Spicy Edamame and Shishito Peppers with citrus salt
-
Popcorn Shrimp with fiery tobanjan mayo
-
Crispy Rice topped with spicy tuna or salmon tartare
Signature Rolls
-
Newsroom Roll: Seared wagyu, avocado, truffle salt
-
Editor’s Roll: Salmon sashimi, jalapeño, yuzu miso
-
Cover Story Roll: Black cod, crab, and soy paper seduction
Large Plates
-
Whole Fried Branzino with coconut curry
-
Yakitori skewers with fried rice
-
Miso-marinated Churrasco Steak served with tableside flair
The cocktails: theater in a glass
Next, the drinks also go beyond basic. Patrons can expect cocktails that flirt and linger, including:
-
The Front Page: Vodka, matcha, honey, edible flowers
-
The Interview: Mezcal, coconut milk, chocolate bitters
-
NR Spicy Paloma: Tequila, grapefruit, house lime cordial
-
50 Cent Scoop: Branson VSOP, thyme strawberry purée, champagne
Or share with your table:
-
Editors Punch (serves 4): Rum, lime, Chambord, blossom bitters
The Newsroom experience: every night is a surprise
Each night, Newsroom offers something unexpected as far as entrainment goes. Specifically, expect aerialists spinning above, jazz musicians tucked in corners, sultry singers and DJs creating unforgettable soundtracks to your night. The vibe is a perfect mix of intrigue and intimacy.
When to visit Newsroom: hours & reservations
Newsroom Philly opens its velvet curtain Thursday through Sunday:
-
Thursdays: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
-
Fridays: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM
-
Saturdays: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
-
Sundays: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
✨ Don’t miss Martini Thursdays: $10 espresso, lychee, dirty, and other martinis all night long.
✨ Reservations are now open and can be made here.
📍 1102 Germantown Ave (Inside the Beverly Building)
📱 Follow @newsroomphilly | 🌐 newsroomphilly.com