Sao Oyster Bar Opening soon on East Passyunk Avenue in Philadelphia

South Philly’s Newest Gem: Meet Sao, the Southeast Asian Oyster Bar on East Passyunk

If you’re as obsessed with East Passyunk’s dynamic food scene as I am, get ready—because Sao, the highly anticipated Southeast Asian–inspired oyster bar from the team behind Mawn, is coming soon to 1710 E. Passyunk Avenue.

South Philadelphia locals, this one’s for you: Sao is set to marry the raw bar vibes you love with bold, inventive flavors that celebrate Southeast Asian seafood traditions. Think of it as an oyster house with a Philly twist—intimate, exciting, and full of character

What to Expect at Sao

Sao’s concept is all about that delicious Southeast Asian punch:

• The Menu: Expect fresh oysters, creative crudos, and grilled seafood with flair. A standout dish? Littleneck clams in Cambodian sour curry with basil oil, lime, and herbs. You’ll also see dishes quietly smoked or charred over charcoal, capturing the essence of Southeast Asian coastal cooking.

• Sauce Game Strong: Forget the basic cocktail sauce—Sao is shaking things up with Kampot black pepper mignonette, jalapeño and Thai chili “hull sauce,” and other custom creations to complement every oyster.

• The Vibe: A cozy, 30-seat restaurant featuring a central oyster bar and vibrant coastal-inspired design. Expect boardwalk textures, warm lighting, and eclectic details that make the space feel both personal and distinctly South Philly.

• The Team: Chef Phila Lorn leads the kitchen, bringing his bold culinary vision, while Rachel Lorn curates the front-of-house experience. Drinks come courtesy of Jesse Levinson, a seasoned Philly bartender known for his creative cocktails.

Why Sao Is the Talk of South Philly

East Passyunk Avenue is no stranger to great restaurants, but Sao stands out for its bold flavors and one-of-a-kind approach to oysters. With its fusion of Southeast Asian traditions, creative sauces, and a cozy bar-centered dining experience, this oyster house is already making waves before it even opens its doors.

Ready to Shuck and Savor?

If you live nearby or love East Passyunk’s walkable dining scene, Sao should be right at the top of your must-visit list. It’s poised to become one of South Philly’s most exciting new restaurants, whether you’re an oyster lover or just someone who enjoys exploring fresh, creative flavors.

For official updates, menus, and reservations, visit Sao's IG.

Sao Oyster Bar
1710 E. Passyunk Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19148