Benny’s

Josh Sobel, owner of Ramona’s, approached Mey & Co. to bring his vision of a classic Italian-American neighborhood restaurant to Congress Street. The design concept centered around providing comfort, brightness, and warmth to create an inviting spot to enjoy hearty meals and watch the game. Situated in a 1,545-square-foot space with 32 seats, the space offers a familiar, nostalgic atmosphere for families and friends, all while subtly celebrating Josh’s Philly roots.

The walnut wrapped entry opens up to a bright volume with a vintage-inspired checkered floor. The floor, along with the red-lined, custom enamel table tops adorned with the Benny’s logo, both nod to timeless Italian eateries of the past. The bar face hosts a walnut tambour, designed by Mey & Co., and provides a rich layer of texture. A variety of seating options caters to different guest preferences, including a cozy green leather banquette, robust red stools for a more casual perch, and reupholstered vintage chairs—perfect for lingering over a plate of pasta. Semi-transparent kitchen openings offer guests a glimpse into the lively, behind-the-scenes culinary action.

The key feature is the painted brick wall that showcases a curated collection of Philadelphia and family-themed art, which connects the space to its community roots. Benny’s is a place where tradition meets comfort and feels like it’s been there for decades, making it the perfect gathering spot for all ages. Go birds.