Lauren Biederman opens an oyster bar in a garage in South Philadelphia.

Biederman, an entrepreneur with a growing reputation in the culinary landscape of Philadelphia, has launched her latest venture, a seafood-centric bar named Tesiny, located at 719 Dickinson Street in South Philadelphia. The restaurant opens its doors on Thursday and represents a significant shift in Biederman’s entrepreneurial journey, which began in late 2020 with the opening of her appetizing shop near the Italian Market. Her initial offering of smoked fish, bagels, and matzo ball soup quickly garnered local acclaim.

Biederman has expanded her culinary footprint with the addition of Tesiny, a sophisticated bar that highlights a variety of seafood dishes and charcoal-grilled offerings. Reflecting on the genesis of this project, Biederman initially had no intention of starting a restaurant when she first viewed the space two years ago, seeking only new locations for her shop. However, the idea of an oyster bar had been lingering in her thoughts, and upon visiting the old auto garage, she envisioned the potential for a vibrant dining space. The design includes a U-shaped open kitchen, a raw bar, and ample seating that fosters a welcoming atmosphere.

Partnering with Devon Reyes, a former general manager at Laser Wolf, Biederman aims to deliver a refined yet playful dining experience. The menu at Tesiny features cold seafood platters, oysters, and unique dishes like Chicken Lollipops in shrimp stock sauce and broiled oysters topped with Calabrian chili butter. Chef Michael Valent, who has an extensive background in esteemed kitchens like Zahav and various Philadelphia hotspots, rounds out the culinary team with his innovative approach to flavor.

The ambiance of Tesiny combines dark wood and brass fixtures to create a warm, inviting setting. Biederman emphasizes a balance between aesthetics and the focus on food, ensuring that guests enjoy a captivating dining environment without distraction from the culinary offerings.

Biederman’s wine selections include classic options such as Laurent Perrier Champagne and unique choices like a Müller-Thurgau from Germany. The bar also serves several craft beers and a full cocktail menu, aiming to accommodate a range of tastes and budgets. Biederman hopes to create an accessible and enjoyable dining experience for all patrons, emphasizing the importance of great food and drink.

The choice of the name Tesiny carries personal significance for Biederman, honoring her family’s history and simultaneously offering an appealing SEO advantage. The restaurant operates from 5 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and prospective diners can make reservations via Resy, noting that the schedule is already experiencing high demand.

This opening marks an exciting chapter for both Biederman and South Philadelphia’s culinary scene, promising a delightful experience for seafood lovers and culinary adventurers alike.

Tesiny, 719 Dickinson St., is poised to become a notable destination, reflecting Biederman’s dedication to quality and innovation in Philadelphia’s diverse dining landscape.