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Twenty Weeks, Twenty Stories: Twenty Manning

To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of Center City District Restaurant Week, we’ll be spending time celebrating the chefs—and some of their favorite recipes—as we get closer to the event.

This week, we’re excited to share some stories and insights from Zachary Bates, one of the chefs at Twenty Manning. Located right off of Rittenhouse Square, Twenty Manning has been a fixture in the neighborhood, offering a bold stop to enjoy modern cocktails mixed with middle-eastern street foods.

 

Q&A with Chef Zachary Bates at Twenty Manning

What inspired your journey to become a chef?

My inspiration came from all the other chefs and hearing their stories. I have always wanted to challenge myself and face defeat head on.

What inspired your approach to cooking?

I found inspiration in the joy and happiness that food can bring out in people. Whether it is at home with family and friends or out to eat for a special occasion.

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What has been the proudest moment of your journey as a chef?

The proudest moment has to be watching people have a great time. Just knowing that people are relaxing and really enjoying themselves with good food and drinks makes my job effortless

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Can you tell us about the recipe you shared, including the story behind it, it's inspiration, and why you chose to submit it?

I decided to choose a dish that was a classic but had my own spin on it. Something that anybody can make and taste delicious. The Fattoush has been on our menu since we opened, and it has always changed with the seasons.

Click here to view the recipe.

With an abundance of greenery and “photo moments” in the restaurant,  what inspired the décor for the restaurant?

The decor was meant to help relax you as you take a seat at a table. All the greenery and plants helps put your mind in a state of relaxation.

Celebrate Twenty Years of Restaurant Week

We thank our friends at Twenty Manning, especially Chef Zachary Bates, for sharing these stories! To visit Twenty Manning, make a reservation on their website, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram!

Stay tuned as we continue to share more of these stories as we celebrate the twentieth anniversary of Center City District Restaurant Week, and check out all of the amazing restaurant options in Center City!

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