After this week, we don’t need a happy hour — we need the happiest of hours. Chef Adam Zensinger of Amada gets this. Every Wednesday through Friday he’s serving up smaller versions of the Old City restaurant’s top tapas, including patatas bravas, garlic shrimp and Serrano ham croquettes. This way, you’re not too weighed down as you pinball through the city in search of the next best drink special.
Tell us about this new happy hour special — what are we having at 5 p.m.?
There are mixed drinks specials and then very small plates. Instead of a small plate that has three of something, you can do everything by the piece.
What’s your ideal post-happy hour destination?
I like going to places that are more casual. So La Calaca Feliz on Fairmount or Han Dynasty. You know, somewhere I can go and eat my way through the whole day with small options.
What are you psyched for when it comes to Philly food?
Fall menus, I’m excited about that. I’m looking forward to the Garces vs. Vetri Turkey Bowl on Thanksgiving. And I’m finalizing a New Year’s menu, too.
Where can we find you when you’re not at Amada?
I live here in Old City. I go to Chinatown for late night snacks and for drinks. Or I’ll go to Buffalo Billiards or Sassafrass.
Best bite
Zensinger is something of an expert when it comes to Philly mac ’n’ cheese.
“You got to get up to North Third once in awhile and have a cocktail and eat some greasy mac ’n’ cheese,” he tells us. “My girlfriend and I did a mac ’n’ cheese walking tour, and out of five places that was our favorite.”
If you go
Happy hour at Amada
Wednesdays-Fridays,
5-7 p.m.
Plates $3-$5; signature cocktails $8, sangria $5
217-219 Chestnut St.
