Feeding Frenzy

Restaurants opening, closing and pending

by Drew Lazor

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Published: Jul 9, 2008

>> NOW SEATING

This new pub, owned by Jim Kirk and Jake Hampson, opened last Thursday on an increasingly busy stretch that also features King of Tandoor and Sabrina's 2. The duo, who met working at the Bishop's Collar, have applied their beer expertise to K&K's well-rounded draught list, which currently features locals like Dogfish Head 60-Minute IPA and Tröegs Nut Brown Ale. Chef is Bill Stroebel, who's endeared himself to the neighborhood via stints at Rembrandt's and McCrossen's. His menu features fare like jerk wings, a shrimp po'boy, a quarter chicken and housemade gnocchi.

Robin Gupta's Conshy bar has been around for a minute — so why's it rearing its head in Frenzyland? Easy: It now doubles as a coffeehouse during the day. Manager Jenn Bolker worked to set up local suppliers for Guppy's new arm, which has been running for two weeks; they're serving Chestnut Hill Coffee Co. java and baked goodies from Fairmount's bread*. Soon, they'll introduce panini, salads and sandwiches using ingredients from purveyors like Landisdale Farms and the Lancaster Farm Fresh co-op.

>> WAITING LIST

Munish Narula is a popular guy when it comes to his light-on-the-wallet/tummy Indian fare — every neighborhood wants a branch of his Tiffin Store (710 W. Girard Ave.) to call its own. The first nabe outside Fishtown to hit the vindalotto is Mount Airy — Narula will open a branch of his dine-in/takeout/delivery concept in the former Hamlet Bistro. The space will also feature 28 seats. Opening is tentatively set for next Fri., July 18.

>> LITTLE VITTLES

Gunawan Wibisono, chef/owner of Old City's Zento (138 Chestnut St., 215-926-9998, zentocontemporary.com), is close to closing a deal that would bring his sushi to Ninth and South. More soon.

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