Jeffrey Chodorow has opened splashy restaurants in cities around the world, and his latest, Mr. Edison at the Bellevue, just opened in his hometown. The Inquirer's first look describes bolts of lightning suspended from the ceiling and a Ferris wheel built behind the bar for top-shelf pours, the kind of design that signals a genuinely glamorous night out from the moment you walk in.
- Mr. Edison opened Thursday at the historic Bellevue in Center City, marking Chodorow's return to the city where he got his start
- The design leans fully into theatrical, immersive dining, with dramatic lighting and architectural elements built to create a sense of occasion from the first impression
- The opening adds to a wave of notable Philadelphia restaurant news this month, including a new cocktail bar from Forsythia chef Christopher Kearse and an upscale Korean concept in the works for Washington Square West
- For a city with no shortage of celebrated kitchens, an opening this visually ambitious is a genuine event
The chef behind this project worked alongside me at the Four Seasons years ago, and I have always believed in his talent. If you are looking for a special night out in the city, this one is worth the reservation.
By: Michael Klein | The Philadelphia Inquirer | June 24, 2026
