By Bill Gelman
Fried Chicken anyone? Adam Volk is bringing Redcrest Fried Chicken to the hot East Passyunk dining scene, setting up shop at 1525 S. 11th St. across from the Singing Fountain. The spot was previously home to Fresh Seafood. The name may be a dead giveaway, but Volk is making chicken the focus here, including a buttermilk version with dried spices. This will be the first Redcrest location. Volk, who was born in Philly, plans to welcome his first customers before the end of the year. …
An official opening date has yet to be announced, but Barcelona Wine Bar, 1709 E. Passyunk Ave., is rumored to be weeks away from welcoming its first guests. The national tenant is based out of Connecticut, will serve wine — as you may have guessed from the name — and tapas. The 4,400 square feet of space will make it one of the largest on the avenue dining strip. Don’t ex- pect a grand-opening bash, as management is planning a soft opening. …
Farewell Lo Spiedo, hello Bar Amis. The Vetri family recently change up the concept the restaurant located by the gate house of the Philadelphia Navy Yard, 4503 S. Broad St. Think homestyle Italian cooking in a casual setting. Sal’s old-school meatball sandwich, pork chop Parmesan, kale Caesar salad and mom mom’s rice pudding are just a handful of the selections. There will be a grand opening block party on Wednesday, July 12 from 5–9 p.m. Food, drinks and entertainment included. Free to attend, pay as you go. …
The Thirsty Soul, 1551 W. Passyunk Ave., is setting up shop on the west side of South Broad Street. Billy Hines is the man behind this coming soon cocktail bar with a full kitchen. The establishment will be open seven days a week from 11 a.m.-1 a.m. An official open- ing date has yet to be announced, but later this year is the target. The Thirsty Soul participated in last month’s Newbold Blues Festival, serving up sucker punch (rum, pineapple, agave and cinnamon)…
For those planning ahead, the South Philly Review’s eight annual Pizza Palooza — formerly the Pizza Olympics — is less than two months away. The date is Aug. 24 from 6–9 p.m. at Penns Landing Caterers, 1301 S. Columbus Blvd. The event, which is being presented by Liscio’s Bakery, is the chance to sample slices from some of South Philly’s top pizza places. Tickets ($10) in- clude admission and pizza slices. There will be a cash bar. This is a standing-room-only event, but tables are available for purchase. For more information, click here.
Email South Philly restaurant news to bgelman@bsmphilly.com.
