Philadelphia Restaurant Trends - June 2004

Ask any local what Philadelphia’s most popular restaurant was in the 1950s and ’60s and the answer is sure to be unanimous: Old Original Bookbinder’s. In its heyday, this dining landmark, located in historic Old City Philadelphia, played host to countless presidents, politicians, international dignitaries and celebrities, including Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra.

A few years ago, the restaurant closed. After a multimillion dollar renovation, it will reopen this fall with the goal of reclaiming its spot as one of Philadelphia’s classic dining destinations.

There are plenty of regional restaurants that have thrived for decades (no small feat in the restaurant business). Here are some of the most noteworthy:

In the City

• Astral Plane
  This 31-year-old restaurant in an historic townhouse was chosen as the spot for Bette Midler’s 30th birthday party. The dramatic setting includes flowing fabric on the ceilings, mismatched china and silverware and pictures of film stars on the walls. Executive Chef Rodolfo Ramirez uses the freshest locally grown ingredients in his contemporary American cuisine. 1708 Lombard Street, (215) 546-6230

• Deux Cheminées
  Chef/owner Fritz Blank has created one of the most highly regarded classic French restaurants in the country. Opened in 1979, Deux Cheminées, which translates into "two fireplaces," is in an historic townhouse that was designed by Frank Furness in the 1880s. Menu highlights include crab soup Marguerite, a rack of lamb and venison with spaetzle. 1221 Locust Street, (215) 790-0200

• Fountain Restaurant
  This award-winning restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia has been a favorite for special occasion meals for decades. Rated as the best restaurant in Philadelphia by Zagat’s, the award-winning Fountain overlooks the exquisite Swann Fountain on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Some favorite items on the global cuisine menu include veal medallions with lobster ravioli and asparagus soufflé. One Logan Square, (215) 963-1500

• Friday Saturday Sunday
  This romantic, cozy restaurant, serving classic American dishes, has been a favorite date spot since it opened more than 30 years ago, when it was launched on a dare. The restaurant has a very popular second floor wine bar with an extensive wine list, and is committed to a meager $10 mark up on all bottles. 261 S. 21st Street, (215) 546-4232

• Le Bec-Fin
  Famed restaurateur Georges Perrier introduced Philadelphians to fine French cuisine when he opened this upscale restaurant in the 1970s. Although the dining room has undergone a major renovation, the food and atmosphere remain formal. Long a favorite of critics, the restaurant recently earned back its fifth star from Mobil Travel Guide. Reservations and proper attire are a must. 1523 Walnut Street, (215) 567-1000

• London Grill
  Terry and Michael McNally purchased this bustling Art Museum area tavern in 1991. Since that time, they have created an innovative Contemporary American menu with international influences. In the tavern, patrons can enjoy upscale bar food, while the dining room offers more formal cuisine. London is also well known for its quirky seasonal events, including an annual Bastille Day party in July. 2301 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 978-4545

• Philadelphia Fish & Company
  Owners Janet and Kevin Meeker have operated this popular seafood restaurant for more than 20 years in Old City. Executive chef Kevin Cliggett dishes up entrees such as grilled ahi tuna mignon and seared sea scallops. The restaurant’s best bargain is its $6 bar menu, which changes daily. 207 Chestnut Street, (215) 625-8606

• Rose Tattoo Cafe
  The garden party atmosphere of this Fairmount restaurant has made it a popular date spot since the 1980s. Contemporary cuisine is the specialty, and some classics include the cream of mushroom soup, crab cakes, lobster quesadillas and ribs with barbequed peanut jalapeno sauce. 1847 Callowhill Street, (215) 569-8939

• Sansom Street Oyster House
  This Center City restaurant has been a favorite hangout since it opened in 1947 for diners seeking simple, freshly prepared seafood dishes. Patrons are drawn here for the snapper soup, the traditional crab imperial and fried oysters and chicken salad, a restaurant special. 1516 Sansom Street, (215) 567-7683

• White Dog Café
  While Chef Michael O’Halloran serves up international dishes using organic and free-range ingredients, owner Judy Wicks organizes lectures, tours and films on social issues. Located in three adjacent Victorian brownstones in University City, the restaurant has long been a favorite for several generations of West Philly students and residents. 3420 Sansom Street, (215) 386-9224

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