French Luxury Hotel Brings an Elevated Match-Day Experience to the Heart of the City
Philadelphia, PA – As the world’s most celebrated soccer tournament comes to the Philadelphia region, Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square is bringing its distinct French heritage to the pitch. The iconic French luxury hotel is positioning its Liberté Restobar as Philadelphia’s premier elevated viewing destination for international football – blending the energy of the global game with the refinement of a Parisian-inspired experience unlike anything else in the region. Sofitel will host three gameday watch celebrations to lead the charge in cheering on the French team – on Tuesday, June 16th (vs. Senegal), Monday, June 22nd (vs. Iraq), and Friday, June 26th (vs. Norway). Each will have multiple large-format screens and an enhanced sound experience,. a dedicated elevated bar menu, specialty cocktails, currated exclusive beverage offerings, and vibes that blend the excitement of the games with French flair. No reservations required – all matches are first come, first served. For those wishing to cheer on the French team or experience French culture while visiting Philadelphia, Sofitel will also offer Weekend Brunch, Champage and Vinyl Nights, Afternoon Tea Service and more from June 11 to July 19. Sofitel also has room packages available for those wishing to spend the night for a fuller experience.
THE FRENCH CONNECTION
With France among the most anticipated teams in the tournament, no hotel in Philadelphia is better positioned to celebrate than Sofitel, a brand born in France and rooted in the art of French hospitality.
“As a French luxury brand, there is a natural connection when France takes the field,” said Pierre Jotterand, General Manager of Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square. “We wanted to create a place where fans can celebrate in a way that’s uniquely Sofitel.”
That vision comes to life inside Liberté, the hotel’s French-inspired Restobar, which has undergone a significant transformation over the past year.
“We’ve evolved Liberté from a traditional hotel lounge into a vibrant French-inspired restobar,” said Jotterand. “We’re creating experiences, not just serving food and drinks.”
THE GAMEDAY EXPERIENCE
“When Les Bleus play, Liberté becomes a little piece of France in the heart of the city.”
France vs. Senegal – Tuesday, June 16th, 3:00pm
France vs. Iraq – Monday, June 22nd in Philadelphia, 5:00pm
France vs. Norway – Friday, June 26th, 3:00pm
Sofitel Philadelphia is not positioning Liberté as a sports bar. The goal is Philadelphia’s most elevated match-day experience – sophisticated, energetic, stylish, distinctly Sofitel and distinctly French.
Every match day at Liberté will feature multiple large-format screens and an enhanced sound experience throughout the bar and lounge, a dedicated elevated bar menu, specialty cocktails and curated beverages, and an atmosphere that blends luxury hospitality with the excitement of international football. No reservations required – all matches are first come, first served.
“Multiple large screens, enhanced sound, themed food and cocktails, and a room full of passionate supporters,” said Jotterand.
THE AUTHENTIC FOOD
The culinary experience at Liberté during the tournament is designed to be indulgent, social and shareables with elevated takes on bar food that reflect both French tradition and a playful luxury sensibility.
Signature match-day bites include:
* Le Nugget Royal – Sofitel’s signature elevated take on chicken nuggets, served with caviar
* “Penny Stock Wagyu” Sliders – premium Wagyu beef sliders crafted for the occasion
* Mini Croque Monsieur – a French classic, reimagined for the match-day crowd
“One of the highlights is our Le Nugget Royal — a fun luxury take on chicken nuggets served with caviar,” said Jotterand.
Executive Chef Sylva Senat will lead Sofitel Philadelphia and Liberté’s culinary experience.
With over 18 years in the industry, Chef has made a national name for himself with his high profile background working in restaurants across the world including Marcus Samuelsson’s Aquavit (NYC), Stephen Starr’s Buddakan (NYC/PHL) and Andrew D’Amico’s The Sign of the Dove (NYC), Jean-Georges at the Trump Hotel Central Park (NYC) and Narula Restaurant Group’s Tashan, as well as Koco in El San Juan Resort & Casino, Puerto Rico.
This Haitian native is a two-time James Beard nominated chef and semi-finalist, and was a contestant on Season 14 of Bravo’s hit show, “Top Chef.” Additionally, he appeared on the Food Network show, Chopped. He attended the Ecole de Cuisine Gourmets by Institute Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France, and is also a benefactor and patron of Careers Through Culinary Arts (C-Cap).
Chef is dedicated to the culinary arts through his exceptional ability to create dishes that cater to diverse palates and is rooted in a French foundation mixed with bold Caribbean flavors and spices along with hints of Asian inspiration and simplicity.
THE DRINKS
The beverage program has been curated to reflect both the occasion and the hotel’s French identity.
* Don Julio 1942 FIFA World Cup Edition – featured throughout the tournament
* Taittinger Champagne “by the glass because, after all, we’re French” he added
* Kronenbourg 1664 on draft – one of France’s most iconic beers, on tap throughout
“We’ve partnered around some unique products that guests won’t find everywhere,” said Jotterand.
THE JERSEY RAFFLE
For every French national team match, Sofitel Philadelphia will hold a halftime raffle open to all guests in attendance, with an official French national team jersey awarded to one lucky winner each game.
“What makes sports special is that they bring people together,” said Jotterand.
OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCE
Beginning on June 14, Philadelphia is hosting six matches. Here, walk the cobbled streets of Old City with a local historian to hear the stories behind iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, then gaze at masterpieces from around the world on a private docent-led tour of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
The summer of 2026 promises to redefine the very essence of global sport. As the world’s biggest international soccer tournament expands to welcome 48 competing nations for the first time in history, three countries – the United States, Canada and Mexico – unite to host what promises to be a magnificent competition. This celebration of football artistry will unfold across 16 cities, each offering its own symphony of culture, cuisine and sophistication.
For the discerning traveler, this is an invitation to explore North America in all its richness. Imagine mornings that begin with a decadent breakfast, match days filled with VIP privilege and a host of exclusive cultural and gastronomic experiences in between. Ready to elevate your international soccer experience into a voyage of prestige and discovery?
Let Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square immerse you in its refined embrace. Retreat to tranquil suites with glittering skyline views between matches, or savor French-inspired gastronomy at intimate Chez Colette. Only 6 miles from Philadelphia Stadium.
A DESTINATION FOR LOCALS, VISITORS AND THE FRENCH COMMUNITY
Philadelphia is one of the host cities for the 2026 tournament, and Sofitel is positioned to welcome the wave of international visitors arriving in the region.
“Philadelphia is going to be buzzing with international visitors, and we are excited to welcome them,” said Jotterand. “The tournament is about bringing people together. We’re bringing together French heritage, Philadelphia energy, great food, great drinks and world-class soccer under one roof.”
Liberté is open to hotel guests, locals and visitors alike, with no reservation required for match-day viewing. Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square is located at 120 S. 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
THE FRENCH EXPERIENCE
For those visiting Philadelphia who want an authentic French experience, please join Sofitel between June 11 and July 19th for:
LE BRUNCH
SATURDAY & SUNDAYS 11:00AM – 2:30PM
Indulge in a French-inspired brunch experience at Liberté Lounge, where timeless elegance meets modern flair. Le Brunch features a curated menu of refined classics, decadent pastries, crafted cocktails, and signature champagne pours perfect for a leisurely weekend escape.
CHAMPAGNE & VINYL THURSDAY
EVERY THURSDAY 4:30PM – 8:00PM
Unwind in style at Champagne & Vinyl, a weekly rendezvous where French elegance meets retro rhythm. Sip on sparkling champagne, savor happy hour-priced oysters and unlimited French Fries for the table, and let our vinyl DJ set the mood with timeless grooves.
AFTERNOON TEA
SATURDAY & SUNDAYS 12:30PM – 2:00PM
Join us for Sofitel Philadelphia’s annual Festive Tea Experience for $42++ (per person) every Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Liberté Restobar invites you to indulge in an elevated Afternoon Tea with feature bubbles and cocktails.
Relish an array of traditional scones with classic accompaniments, delectable tea sandwiches, and decadent desserts, all paired with specially curated Palais des Thés teas from Paris. Vegetarian and Gluten-F ree options available. Kindly note any dietary preferences in your reservation.
HAPPY HOUR
SUNDAY-FRIDAY FROM 4:00PM – 6:00PM
Unwind in style with Happy Hour at Liberté Restobar, where French flair meets Center City energy. Enjoy specially priced wines, craft cocktails, and beers alongside a curated selection of small plates in our chic and inviting setting. Whether you’re toasting the day’s end or starting your evening, Liberté is the perfect place to sip, savor, and socialize.
For more information and updates, visit:
sofitel-philadelphia dot com/happenings/
ABOUT SOFITEL PHILADELPHIA AT RITTENHOUSE SQUARE
Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square is the region’s premier French luxury hotel, located in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. With 306 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, a signature restaurant and bar, and a commitment to the art of French hospitality, Sofitel Philadelphia has long been the region’s leading connection to French culture, cuisine and style. The hotel’s Liberté Restobar serves as a French-inspired social destination for both guests and the broader Philadelphia community.
120 S. 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | sofitel.com | @sofitelphiladelphia