Brick American Eatery to debut
The space that formerly held Astral Plane and Fish will open Friday.
Brick American Eatery to debut
Michael Klein, Philly.com
Restaurateur Jolly Weldon (Jolly's Dueling Piano Bar, Mammoni, et al) is behind Brick American Eatery, at 1708 Lombard St. (267-639-9440), whose "sneak peek" debut is penciled in for Friday, Feb. 17.
This spot was last Fish (and for many years was Astral Plane) before its recent move to the corner of 13th and Locust Streets.
Fish's Mike Stollenwerk, who still holds the lease and the chef's title, had intended to run Brick, but decided to put all his energies into his new seafooder.
He enlisted Weldon to open it. Weldon commissioned interior designer Karen Pelzer to go to work.
She had the place gutted; result is a homey, neighborhood spot with earth tones, black-and-white photos and vintage touches on the walls, and hardwood floors. Because the building was the longtime home of the Philadelphia Independent newspaper, oldtime front pages from building owner Reed Apaghian's collection are displayed.
Chef Dayna Russo (Kings Oak, Liberties) offers entrees that are under $20, and initially include such friendly fare as grilled swordfish; skate wing; roast chicken; pork tenderloin; short rib; and a lamb burger. Menu is here (.PDF).
It's dinner/late night to start. Brunch will begin in two weeks.
Well that sucks. I was excited about this place when I thought Mike Stollenwerk would be at the helm. Good luck competing with P&K, Ten Stone or even Tangier with that beer list. PBR cans, Sam Adams, Blue Moon or Miller Lite for $5?— blee357- Looks like Reed got flimflammed. The old bait and switch!— Joe Diner
- I'm a Posidelphian, but I agree with blee357 about the prices on that beer list. Hope Weldon's kidding with that.— evolutionary
- There's a lot of good beer on there for $5 too. Seems like they went with a one price fits all approach.— le sigh
- Youse guys are quibbling over a 50 cent hike on those beer prices. Sheesh.— Patriciaann
- Checking the menu... seems the chef is afraid to include a few vegetarian options. Behind the times.— mmds
- Isn't Philly always behind the times?— cognoscenti
- Philly doesn't follow nor does it lead. It goes its own way and those who have a problem with it can get out. There are dangerous parts and thriving parts. I've lived here, NYC, London, Florence and Montreal. I still love Philly more than the rest combined— suzuka22
