>> NOW SEATING
Jerry Roseman and wife Alia opened their second PJC about two weeks back. It's comparable size-wise with the couple's original location off Fourth and South (less inside seating, but more outside), with a similar fresh/local menu, save for a handful of new smoothies, wraps and panini. Pastries come straight from Le Bec-Fin's bakery. "This corner was particularly destitute," says Roseman, a Queen Village resident, of the northwest wedge of Second and Christian where the new café sits. "People really wanted to see it improve." Bite This: The new location is big on Middle Eastern-style treats, including shredded wheat bird's nest snacks with honey and pistachio.
>> WAITING LIST
Who knew it'd take just three months for Astral Plane to enter a New Age? The venerable sit-down, which Reed Apaghian closed in July after more than 34 years, is being revitalized — and renamed — by local caterer Christine Fischer and partner Clara Gomez. "I felt something in there," says Fischer of the first time she checked out the dormant space. The interior is being overhauled, with hardwood flooring and an exposed kitchen; the walls will be painted a simple cream to make sure the focus is on the food. "We're doing what Philadelphia has become — international," says Fischer of her menu, which she'll construct with chef Gerardo Cortez. The approach will include, but won't be limited to, Spanish, Italian, Greek, Jewish and Indian specialties. Opening's expected for sometime in October. Bite This: The menu will include an entire section of carpaccio, including filet mignon, tuna and octopus.
>> LITTLE VITTLES
Mike Naessens of Eulogy says his Beneluxx Tasting Room (33 S. Third St.) earned LCB approval Sept. 18 and will debut shortly; Naessens teases mac 'n' cheese with noble blue as one of his set menu items. Elsewhere, it looks as though the restaurateur's sold off his shares in the restoration of Blue Bell's Broad Axe Tavern. >>
Supper (926 South St.), the "urban farmhouse" concept from caterers Mitch and Jennifer Prensky, will likely soft open in the second week of October. >> Featuring an Old English dart league, Hold 'Em tourneys, book club meetings and more, the game room at Yello'bar (2425 Grays Ferry Ave.) has hit its stride. The G-Ho pub has also added outdoor seating.