A new player has come to town, fighting for a drop of the popularity and prestige that flows through old city's stylish streets. Scott Stein opened Red Sky five weeks ago, matriculating a fresh new lounge into Philly's nightlife. So fresh that a step inside and you'd think you left Philadelphia: The stark, cold walls of a trendy New York loft are complemented by warm greens reminiscent of Miami's tropic nights, and polished off with a petite, yet swanky lounge upstairs. Scarlet lights create the glow of Red Sky, and set the flirtatious mood for what Scott claims is "the perfect date."
Already there's a buzz about the assortment of martinis featured in Red Sky's menu. Says Stein, they are products of the creative team of bartenders, who combined ingredients to match their envisioned concoctions. Among the stars are the Greenteani (a blend of green tea, Ketel One Citroen, honey liquor and ginger syrup), the Chocolate Peanut Butter Martini (made with Godiva, vanilla vodka, and peanut butter syrup with a peanut butter crunch rimmed glass), and, my personal favorite, the Smore-tini (a combination of white Godiva, vanilla vodka and marshmallow syrup in a graham cracker rimmed glass). Too outlandish? Stick to a fruity twist, like a Georgia Sky (Ketel One vodka, Arctic peach vodka, fresh peaches and cranberry juice). If you've got a big party, Red Sky has a variety of carafes for the table to share, many that resemble super-sized shots, like the Southern Comfortable (chilled Southern Comfort with fresh squeezed lime juice) and the Sweetened Lemon Drop (chilled Ketel Citroen and candied sugar lemon wedges). Take your pick - the sky is the limit.
Red Sky is proud to have the talents of Chef Michael Salvitti behind the scenes. Coming straight from Audrey Claire's renowned kitchen, Salvitti has compiled an American fusion menu, with strong Southwestern flavors. To start, there is an unusual appetizer for every taste, from almond crusted calamari (for the classy folk), to peanut butter raisin hummus (for the brave). He assures me that the pepper-seared tuna is phenomenal, second only to the grilled ostrich fillet. Save room for the all chocolate dessert selections -- chocolate caramel brulee, chocolate almond crunch or a chocolate truffle torte -- all of which provide a dreamy end to a heavenly night.
Star-studded drinks, food and even clientele -- several members of the 76ers were already spotted -- adorn this sky. As you socialize to the mix of techno, Latin and pop tunes, remember to wear your own class and style. While many will try, only the elite will survive in this Sky.
