Feeding Frenzy

Restaurants opening, closing and pending

by Drew Lazor

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Published: Apr 3, 2007

>> NOW SEATING

Buxco native Shannon Stewart, who's held gah-I'm-jealous jobs like Guinness beer taster and film caterer, can now add cafe owner to her résumé. Open about six weeks, this fledgling brekkie-lunch-brunch spot has already drawn comparisons to Sabrina's and Morning Glory. In addition to roasting her coffee beans on-site, Stewart whips up goat cheese omelettes, whole-grain pancakes and Greek salads. She still takes the occasional movie job, of course: Currently, she's catering the local production Cover. Tell Vivica that I just want to talk, and that I know she's home every night — I can see her from my car. Bite This: Stewart's apricot French toast is fast becoming a Set Table signature.

>> WAITING LIST

Next Monday should see the debut of Bistro Juliana, a new neighborhood BYOB from Raddichio co-owners Luigi Basile and Massimo Coscia. Basile, who also co-runs Ristorante Laceno in Voorhees, N.J., says the 35-seat spot will take a casual lunch-and-dinner approach; head chef Isahia Morales will craft everything from whole-wheat orecchiette to roasted free-range chicken. Sounds delish, but what about the location, deep down in the heart of the Fish? "Anybody can open at 17th and Walnut," says Basile. "I've always liked up-and-coming areas." Bite This: Watch for daily specials available weekly — think organic pork chop Tuesday, fillet Saturday, etc.

Korean BBQ Porky and Porkie is straight bacon, so it's up to Vietnamese franchise Pho Hoa (84 worldwide) to fill the seats at this huge space. I know what you're thinking: Wash Ave. needs another Viet joint like I need a poisoned dart in my thigh. (Seriously, eight is enough.) But while many pho houses just add water to their kettles when the supply dips, Pho Hoa uses a secret technique that keeps its bottom broth as bold as the first ladle. Mark your calendars: The first 100 customers to show up for the grand opening on April 28 get free pho.

The Gayborhood's defunct Stellar Coffee will soon see new life in the form of Mochima, a cafe that's still two or three weeks out. Restaurant rookies/co-owners Ricardo Urbina and Betty Ortiz will serve coffee, tea, Italian sodas, bagels, etc., plus a selection of flans, including coconut, vanilla and caramel varieties.

 

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