After closing at the height of the pandemic, Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co., one of Philadelphia’s early upscale speakeasy-style bars, will reopen in a handsome new location near Rittenhouse Square Friday, April 22.
Like the previous location on 18th Street, the 90-seat Franklin will be unmarked. But finding this spot will require a bit of additional sleuthing. It’s on a back alley a half-block from Rittenhouse Square at 1718 Latimer St., tucked into the rear of theHotel operators are working with the Franklin management, including general manager Alison Hangen, head bartender Andrew Peterson, and principal bartender Wei Wei Weintraub. Drinks are priced at $15 to $23.
In a first, reservations will be accepted via Resy. And in another first, vodka will be offered — but not common brands such as Tito’s. The Franklin had never sold vodka because an early manager deemed it boring. They’ve added equipment to allow the making of infusions, syrups, aromatics, and bitters in house. Smoke-filled bubbles can be added to cocktails, as Instagram is now a thing.
Art Deco-inspired interiors are designed by Christina Boschetti of Widell + Boschetti. There are VIP rooms, a scotch room, and a wine room, all of which can be booked.