Ocho Supper Club feels less like a restaurant and more like a culinary event — intimate, intentional, and full of storytelling. Led by the incredibly talented Chef RJ Smith (@chefrjsmith) with impeccable table-side charm, this Afro-Caribbean tasting experience at the Rittenhouse Hotel is one of Philly’s most exciting dining moments right now. Thoughtful service, memorable flavors, and real heart in every course. This is special-occasion dining done right.
Afro-Caribbean brilliance from the very first bite. The Jamaican festival stuffed with confit shredded duck and drizzled in curry-spiced hot honey - my favorite — perfectly spiced! The Kanpachi crudo with heirloom masa tostada, yellow curry, citrus, and roasted garlic was bright, balanced, and beautifully layered.
Then came the comfort and craft. The cornbread in mole negro — inspired by Chef RJ’s grandmother — was fluffy, sweet, and deeply nostalgic, while the mole brought earthy complexity from dates, carob, cinnamon, and nuts. The Atlantic cod was even more refined than before, sourced straight from Cape May and butter-poached to perfection, topped with teff puffs, basil oil, and Ghanaian seafood stew accents. Subtle, elegant, and deeply satisfying.
The main event? The jerked duck. A heartier PA-sourced cut, perfectly spiced and paired with an ultra-umami roasted duck bone demi-glace. Coconut rice, crisp scallion emulsion, and golden carrot purée rounded out a dish that was rich, balanced, and unforgettable. This is the kind of plate that makes you pause mid-bite and just appreciate what’s happening.
Dessert didn’t miss a beat. A roasted miso brown butter ice cream with watermelon hibiscus granita refreshed the palate before the stunning jet-black cocoa tart — filled with raspberry jelly, cream, and chocolate ganache, topped with coquito whipped cream. The pairings by @slowdrinks impressed — especially the three-rum blend cocktail topped with a plantain chip.
#chefrjsmith #ochosupper #ochosupperclub #afrocaribbeancuisine #adventure
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