If you’ve ever walked down South Street in Philly, you know the vibe. It’s loud, it’s historic, and it’s got that specific grit that only Philadelphia can pull off. But then you see it: the Royal Theater. Or rather, what used to be the Royal Theater and is now Rex at the Royal.
It’s a place that feels like a time capsule.
Honestly, when people search for "Rex at the Royal photos," they are usually looking for one of two things. Either they want a peek at those gorgeous, turquoise-blue velvet booths and the massive, glowing chandeliers for their next Instagram grid, or they are digging into the deep, soulful history of a building that basically defined Black culture in Philadelphia for decades.
A Theater with a Soul
Before it was a place where you could order a "Royal Curtain Call" (that’s a foie gras-washed bourbon drink, by the way), the Royal Theater was the "Finest Colored Photoplay House" in America. We're talking 1920s.
Imagine the scene back then. Bessie Smith and Cab Calloway weren't just names in a textbook; they were performing right there. The photos from that era—though grainy and black-and-white—show a community that was thriving despite everything the world was throwing at them. It was a safe haven. A place for joy.
What People Get Wrong About the Renovation
Some folks think the new Rex is just another trendy restaurant that slapped a historic name on the door to look cool. It’s not.
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The developers actually kept the 1920s facade. It took years. The building had basically crumbled into a shell, but if you look at modern photos of the interior, you can see how they tried to mirror that old-world theatricality.
- The soaring ceilings are a direct nod to the original auditorium.
- The lighting is intentionally dramatic, like a stage set.
- The wood is dark, heavy, and feels expensive.
The transition from the old Rex 1516 (which was just a few doors down) to this massive space at the Royal was a huge gamble. It was about moving from a cozy, cramped cafe vibe to something that felt... well, royal.
The Food is the Real "Photo Op"
Let's be real. You’re probably here because you saw a photo of the catfish and waffles or those grilled oysters on your feed. Chef Angie Brown, who took over as culinary director, doesn't just cook; she builds plates that look like art.
The biscuits and rock shrimp? It’s a mess of cream and crunch that shouldn't work but totally does. It's the kind of food that makes you put your phone down—after you take the picture, obviously.
Expert Tip: If you're going for the photos, go on a Sunday. The live music adds a layer of "lived-in" energy that you just can't fake with a filter.
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Why the Rex Features Confusion Happens
Sometimes, when people search for "Rex royal photos," they end up in a weird corner of the internet looking at the British Royal Family. That's because of Rex Features.
Rex Features is a massive photo agency (now owned by Shutterstock) that has documented every move of the Windsors for like, seventy years. If you see a photo of Prince William or the late Queen Elizabeth in a tabloid, there’s a high chance the watermark says "Rex."
It’s a funny coincidence. One Rex is a temple to Southern-inspired seafood and Black history in Philly; the other is a massive British media empire. Both are obsessed with "royalty," just in very different ways.
Capturing the Vibe
If you are planning to head to the Philly location to take some shots, here is the deal: the lighting is tricky. It's moody. It’s dark.
You’ll want to sit near the bar if you want that "golden hour" glow from the chandeliers. The back booths are better for intimate, moody shots, but you'll struggle with shadows.
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The most photographed spot? The bar. It’s a beast. It stretches across the room and has this "last great jazz club on earth" feel to it. It’s where the history of the Royal Theater meets the modern luxury of the Rex.
The Real Legacy
At the end of the day, a photo is just a photo. What matters at Rex at the Royal is the fact that this building is still standing. In a city where historic buildings get torn down for "luxury" condos every week, the Royal survived.
It’s a place that honors the past without being stuck in it. You go for the history, you stay for the bourbon, and yeah, you take a photo because it’s damn beautiful.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check the schedule: Live music isn't every night, so if you want that specific "theater" atmosphere, aim for the weekend.
- The Bottle Shop: There’s a retail shop up front. It’s a great spot for candid, brightly lit photos compared to the dim dining room.
- Order the Fried Chicken: It’s only available Friday through Sunday. It’s iconic for a reason, and it’s the most "authentic" Rex experience you can get.
Don't just look at the pictures on a screen. Go stand under those chandeliers and feel the weight of the 1920s for yourself.