This town ain't big enough for more than one piano bar.
Today's announcement that the Piano Bar @ 20th and Arch has closed is tempered with the idea that Jolly's Dueling Piano Bar (2006 Chestnut St.) is expected to open within a month.
This project has been in the works since late last year.
That's Jolly as in Jolly Weldon, who formerly ran the Prime Rib with his brother, Garth, and later ran a series of short-lived Center City taprooms, including Jolly's in the Latham.
The new operation will include many employees from the 20th and Arch bar. Food will come from chef Brendan Smith of the nearby Smiths.
And get this: Weldon tells me that all his front-of-the-house staff (waiters, bartenders) will be musically trained for impromptu sing-alongs. It'll be open five nights a week.
Following is the goodbye email from the Piano Bar @ 20th and Arch:
For reasons beyond my control, I am sad to report that the
Piano Bar @ 20th & Arch had to close.
We at the Piano Bar wish to express our sincere gratitude to all those people that frequented our establishment.
We hope that in the future we will be able to create a more stable situation where we can get together, enjoy a beverage and be a part of the music.
With love and respect, hope to see you around town.
The staff at the Piano Bar @ 20th & Arch.