Chris D'Ambro is the Chef/Owner of Ambra and Southwark in Philadelphia.
Insights
Local ModernUpscaleDinnerFine DiningFarm To Table
Last updated: 9/9/2026, 3:11:52 AM
Key Information
Ambra is a restaurant located in the Queen Village neighborhood of Philadelphia. It offers a unique dining experience with options for communal dining and a special 'Kitchen Table' experience where guests can observe the chefs at work.
Customer Perception
Customers seem to appreciate the intimate and interactive dining experience, particularly the 'Kitchen Table' option. The restaurant is noted for its unique approach to service and its focus on the culinary process.
Additional Details
The restaurant's name, Ambra, is likely a nod to the chef's surname, D'Ambro.
We had a phenomenal experience at this restaurant. The food was outstanding—creative, diverse, and deeply seasonal. Every dish felt thoughtful and inspired, showcasing not just technical skill but a real sense of culinary joy.
One of the highlights was getting to dine in the kitchen. It was a rare treat to experience things up close, and the interaction with the chef was both personal and insightful as each dish was described. You can tell the team takes pride in what they do.
Service was excellent from start to finish—attentive without being overbearing. The wine list was a standout as well: detailed, curated, and refreshingly different. Mostly biodynamic bottle from small family-run wineries in Europe, but they said they also have a domestic selection.
Highly recommend this place! Just make sure to book ahead. We’ll definitely be coming back.
Wow - what a night! My wife and I had the pleasure of dining at Ambra, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable dining experiences we've ever had in Philly.
Ambra offers a single seating per night, featuring a multi-course tasting menu and wine pairings, with the entire experience lasting approximately 3.5 hours. That might sound long on paper, but trust me - the evening flies by. Every course was beautifully presented and full of flavor, with clear Italian influence but lots of creative, modern touches. The wine pairings were fantastic -- each one felt like it elevated the dish in a really thoughtful way.
The setting is also what makes Ambra special. Everyone sits around a communal table, which honestly could have gone either way, but ended up being such a highlight. Besides the couple we came with, we met two other couples during dinner, and we all ended up really hitting it off. It felt more like a dinner party than a restaurant -- but with food and wine on another level.
Service was smooth, attentive, and well-paced. The team knew the dishes and wines inside and out, and they explained everything with just the right amount of detail - never too much, never too little. It's clear they care deeply about what they do, and it shows in every part of the experience.
If you're looking for a special night out - something beyond the usual dinner - I can't recommend Ambra enough. Between the food, the wine, the setting, and the great company, it was truly unforgettable. Already looking forward to going back.
5
I cannot recommend this place enough!!! Everything was top level. The food, service, attention to detail… it is likely the best meal we ever had and definitely worth the experience.
5
Got taken out here for a celebratory dinner, and nothing was disappointing. Served a nine-course meal with caviar, black truffles, and lamb. Everything was delicately handcrafted, and made with care and love. Not one course was a disappointment. Vibe was nice and isolated with an ambient vibe, and servers wiped off your part of the table after each course. Service was very accommodating. Five stars in every category.
5
The experience of being in the kitchen at the bar watching everything was absolutely fascinating. One of the best most unique dining experiences ever. And the food….incredible to say the least. This Chef and Team are the Real Deal! For me personally I appreciated the time between when a dish is prepared and then service takes to the tables INSTANTLY!! BRAVO BRAVO BRAVO!!! 👏👏
