By Bill Gelman
Those who have driven by SOMO SoPhi at 3101 S. 13th St. will notice the stylish multi/level restaurant, bar, lounge and nightlife concept is moving along as scheduled and remains on target for a late April opening. Morrissey Design LLC and M Architects LLC are in the process of transforming the 70-year-old building into a modern, yet warm and inviting space for dining, lounging and entertaining.
“SOMO SoPhi encompasses the juxtaposition of eco-chic modern design and details with a nod to the industrial and maritime history of the area in which the building is located,” restaurateur and partner James Morrissey said.
The space will feature plenty of outdoor seating, including a raised terrace with a significant view of the city skyline, and café seating separated by sidewalk planters for up to 40 diners on the expansive sidewalk along Packer Avenue. The exterior will feature decorative emblems and logos that pay homage to storied Philly sports teams of today and yesteryear, including all of the teams that play in the region today as well as the former Philadelphia A’s, Warriors, Stars and Firebirds. The number “73” facing 13th Street is a nod to partner Jahri Evans’ jersey number as a Green Bay Packer, New Orleans Saint, Bloomsburg Huskie and Frankford High Pioneer. A “green” living screen wall provides a visual and sound buffer to the neighborhood and abutting property.
The first floor, a “luxed-up” rendition of SoMO Manayunk, is a 1,900 square foot bar and lounge with large flat screen TVs.
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How does dinner and an opera sound? Call it a two-for-one deal as FrancoLuigi, 1549 S. 13th St., is hosting the 19th season of Amici Opera Company’s production of Verdi’s II Trovatore dedicated to Jim Corrado on Wednesday, March 21 at 6 p.m.Tickets are $20 for the opera. Attendees will order dinner off the menu for an additional fee. To make a prepaid reservation, call 215–755–8903 Wednesday through Sunday after 3 p.m.
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It’s time to raise a glass again as Philly Wine Week returns Thursday, March 22 through Wednesday, March 28 with events taking place across the city. The opening cork, the official opening ceremony is taking place on March 22, 6–9 p.m. at the 23rd Street Armory, 22 S. 23rd St. General admission is $48 and early admission (5 p.m.) is $90. Guests can look forward to a selection of more than 100 wines. Food is on the menu, too, with The Good King Tavern, 614 S. 7th St., American Sardine Bar, 1800 Federal St., and Plenty Cafe, 1710 E. Passyunk Ave. For more information, including a complete schedule of events, visit localwineevents.com.
Cafe y Chocolate, 2100 S. Norwood St., is hosting a Cinco de Mayo Festival on Saturday, May 5 from noon to 8 p.m. Attendees will be able to enjoy tacos, margaritas, beer, Mexican pizza and ice cream from Cafe Y Chocolate, The Thirsty Soul, Brewery ARS, Ramble Pizza and Lil Mario’s Frozen Treats. There will be live mariachis and Latin music, too, Proceeds will fund Newbold CDC’s initiative to install 50 bike racks in the neighborhoods. For more information, visit facebook.com/thethirstysoulphilly/events/.
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