Proof that there are great visionaries out there, besides Stephen Starr and Avram Hornik, comes a new establishment with a lot of personality in Center City.
In between the swanky Four Seasons Hotel and Comcast’s prime piece of new real estate, is Public House, the city’s newest dining and nightlife destination.
Equal parts business and pleasure, the spot fits perfectly into the location known as “just off the Parkway.”
Located in the heart of Center City’s financial district, it is a premiere spot for power lunches and laid back happy hours, while also being a prime option for late night cocktails on weeknights and weekends. Most spots look to attract young professionals, but owners Brian Harrington and Gary Cardi designed a place that’s comfortable for all ages to enjoy.
The partners have created a place that finally puts the “business casual” misnomer to rest, with their “sophisticated yet fun” concept. In addition to the nightlife aspect, Public House is paired with an American comfort food menu. The difference here is that the food is not an afterthought, but rather an equal component to the vitality of the scene itself.
Chef Terry White, currently of Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse in New York City and formerly, chef at four locations for The Palm, including Philadelphia, has created an authentic American menu that captures the rich flavors of continental cuisine from the Midwest to the deep South. White uses only the freshest ingredients to prepare every element of the menu on premises, and from their appetizers to their entrees, you will taste the richness in every bite.
As if the food, atmosphere and location aren’t strong enough selling points, Harrington and Cardi brought on arguably the best architects in the area for the job, DAS Architects. The nationally recognized architectural and interior design firm specializes in the hospitality industry and have created some of the most memorable dining settings in Philadelphia, most notably Le Bec-Fin, Novelty, and Pod. They captured Public House’s conservative, contemporary ambience by layering modern accents over traditional design elements.
Exposed brick walls and rich, earth tone woods are set against retro accents like sleek metal chandeliers that hang from the 16 ft. high ceilings. Columns throughout the space have been transformed into abstract works of art by using washed-out red and white hues combined with metal grating and accent lighting, resulting in a subtle yet unmistakable American flag theme.
Away from the 70 ft. granite bar, the focal point of the space upon entering Public House, an elevated dining area with butcher-block tables and upholstered booth seating offers a quieter setting to enjoy lunch or dinner. Slip into the semi-private side lounge area to relax during late night hours or share appetizers. A fourth dining area beyond the bar is reserved for private parties. And there are even HDTV plasma screens throughout to offer another visual component to the already aesthetically pleasing location.
Public House, 2 Logan Square (between Arch and Cherry Streets), 215.587.9040, www.publichousephilly.com
AroundPhilly Staff
