Unearth The Voyage
Philadelphia’s dining scene is about to get a neon-lit shake-up. Opening on September 30, 2025, at 17th & Sansom in Rittenhouse, the highly anticipated Dancerobot brings a fresh, insider twist to Japanese comfort food.
It’s the latest venture from James Beard–nominated chef Jesse Ito of Royal Sushi & Izakaya, who has teamed up with longtime collaborator Justin Bacharach as executive chef and partner.
Locals who crave under-the-radar spots will want to mark their calendars. Below are 7 reasons why Dancerobot is poised to become Philly’s next must-visit restaurant.
1. It’s Inspired by ’80s Japan
Step inside Dancerobot and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to 1980s Tokyo. The restaurant describes itself as a “neon-lit ’80s Japanese izakaya,” combining the electric energy of Japan’s bubble era with authentic food culture.
Bright neon lights illuminate Victorian-style design elements, creating a unique atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and exciting. The decor captures the spirit of old-school Japanese cafes, where friends gathered to share drinks and comfort food.
This retro theme isn’t just for show – it influences everything from the menu design to the music, making every visit feel like an adventure through Japan’s most colorful decade.
2. Located at 1710 Sansom Street, Philadelphia
Dancerobot has chosen the perfect spot in Philadelphia’s trendy Rittenhouse neighborhood at 1710 Sansom Street. This location puts the restaurant right in the heart of one of the city’s most walkable and dining-friendly areas.
The 17th and Sansom intersection is known for its mix of upscale restaurants, cozy cafes, and bustling nightlife. Food lovers already know this area as a destination for great dining experiences.
Being in Rittenhouse means Dancerobot will be surrounded by other popular restaurants and attractions, making it easy for diners to explore the neighborhood before or after their meal.
3. Chef Jesse Ito is Behind the Project
The mastermind behind Dancerobot is Jesse Ito, a James Beard-nominated chef who’s already made his mark on Philadelphia’s food scene. Ito gained recognition through his first successful restaurant, Royal Sushi & Izakaya, which earned him acclaim throughout the city.
Known for his innovative approach to Japanese cuisine, Ito brings years of experience and a deep understanding of traditional flavors. His reputation for creating memorable dining experiences has food critics and diners excited about what he’ll bring to Dancerobot.
This second restaurant venture represents Ito’s evolution as a chef, allowing him to explore new creative directions while staying true to his Japanese culinary roots.
4. Justin Bacharach is a Partner Leading the Kitchen
Working alongside Jesse Ito is Justin Bacharach, a longtime collaborator who will serve as both partner and kitchen leader at Dancerobot. This partnership brings together two culinary minds who have already proven they work well together.
Bacharach’s role as kitchen leader means he’ll be responsible for the day-to-day operations and ensuring every dish meets the restaurant’s high standards. His partnership with Ito goes beyond just cooking – they share a vision for what Dancerobot should become.
Having a trusted partner like Bacharach allows Ito to focus on the creative aspects while knowing the kitchen operations are in capable hands, a recipe for success.
5. Reservations are Now Open with September 30, 2025 Opening Date
Mark your calendars because Dancerobot officially opens its doors on September 30, 2025. The restaurant has already started accepting reservations, which means eager diners can secure their spots for opening week and beyond.
Getting reservations early is probably a smart move, especially given the buzz surrounding Chef Ito’s new venture. The restaurant’s unique concept and prime location are likely to make it a hot ticket in Philadelphia’s competitive dining scene.
Having reservations available months in advance shows the restaurant’s confidence in their opening timeline and gives food enthusiasts something exciting to look forward to in the coming year.
6. Bar Seats Will be Held for Walk-ins
Even without a reservation, you might still score a seat at Dancerobot thanks to their walk-in friendly policy. Following the same approach as Royal Sushi & Izakaya, the restaurant will keep bar seating available for spontaneous diners.
The 20-seat bar offers front-row access to the action, where you can watch bartenders craft inventive cocktails like matcha spritz and miso boulevardier. Bar seating often provides a more casual, interactive dining experience.
This policy ensures that even busy food lovers who can’t plan ahead still have a chance to experience what Dancerobot has to offer, making it accessible to more people.
7. Brunch and Late-Night are Coming Soon
While Dancerobot will start with regular dinner service, the restaurant has bigger plans for the future. Their website currently lists brunch and late-night offerings as “coming soon,” hinting at expanded hours down the road.
The late-night service is particularly exciting, with plans to keep the bar open until 2 AM on weekends. Imagine enjoying Japanese comfort food like egg salad sandwiches and steamed buns after a night out in Rittenhouse.
Brunch will feature teishoku (Japanese set meals) with broiled fish, fluffy pancakes, and house-made milk bread toasts – a unique twist on the typical weekend brunch scene in Philadelphia.
