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Inside Union Gourmet Market & Cafe

Monday, March 3rd, 2008 at 3:40 pm

posted by Drew Lazor

categories Bite This

Soon-to-be-former Down Town Club exec chef Felix Maietta asked us if we wanted to take a tour of Union Gourmet Market & Cafe, his 3000-square-foot hybrid concept opening on the ground floor of the Residences at the Western Union Building (1113 Locust St.) in early April. Of course, we said yes.

This thing is insane. Tons of photos and info after the jump.

Photo | Drew Lazor

Here's the main aisle when you walk in off Locust. The case on the left will feature hot prepared foods, entrees, vegetables, salads and "completes" – they're full, ready-to-go dinners, main course, sides and all. Choices will change daily. On the right, Maietta will stock a small selection of artisanal cheeses and hors d'oeuvres that'll change weekly. Next to that is an antipasti bar with olives, Italian salads, grilled vegetables and more by the pound.

Photo | Drew Lazor

A little further down, you'll find this case, which'll be stocked with sandwiches. (Maietta says one of Union's signatures will be a roasted salmon BLT.) The rear counter will feature panini presses. On the end is a pick-up station for phone orders.

Photo | Drew Lazor

Here's the coffee bar in the rear, which'll feature all the caffeinated prerequisites. The case in the middle will be stocked with pastries and desserts.

Photo | Drew Lazor

A few shots of the WiFi-enabled seating area, which is situated smack dab in the middle of the space. It'll soon feature an 8-foot stainless steel community table; Maietta predicts that the area will most likely accommodate about 30. They'll also offer window seating looking out onto the street. The space will double as a BYOB dining area on the weekends, when Union will offer a selection of small plate snacks ("fun food" like sliders, says Maietta) and entrees.

Photo | Drew Lazor

Tired yet? Deep breaths. This is Union's "grab and go" section, where customers can run in and pick up beverages, pasta sauces/gravies, meatballs, dips, hummus, salads, flowers, gelato, ice cream and dry goods. This is for those who prefer to do the preparation at home. Maietta stresses that it's "not a grocery store," but it'll be ideal for working types with zero time (which is everyone).

Photo | Drew Lazor

Ooh, right – here's a peek at Maietta's pizza ovens. They'll do two sizes – personal and "large," or 14 inches. Available for pick-up. They'll be around six set varieties in addition to a "create your own" option. Toppings will include smoked salmon, roasted veggies, caramelized onions, shallots, etc.

Photo | Drew Lazor

Finally, here's the chef showing off his refrigerated trash room. Keeps garbage from rotting and smelling and attracting vermin. Three cheers for cleanliness.

April cannot come soon enough.

6 Responses to “Inside Union Gourmet Market & Cafe”

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by Foobooz » Blog Archive on March 4th, 2008 at 11:25 am

can’t wait to get to Philly., God bless you both with good health and much success. Uncle never doubted for one minute that you would be successful and I just think you’re so handsome.

by Ed & Roe Occhipinti on March 5th, 2008 at 6:25 am

I’m never going to have to leave my block again! I can’t wait until this place opens!

by Christy on March 5th, 2008 at 10:25 am

I always knew you were a hit Dad, and I’m so proud to be your son. I’m sure you’re gonna make it even bigger than you are now. I’m excited to see this business grow, and also to see you and theresa grow with it. Love you

P.S. I have a job here right?

by Chris on March 6th, 2008 at 4:57 pm

*drool*

by LM on March 11th, 2008 at 1:30 pm

Phil and Theresa, I am so happy for you both. Lunch on Saturday was wonderful. I brought the leftovers home and they joined with Uncle Frank’s Picnic on Sunday night at Seaside on the porch. Love ya!

by Cousin Chrissie on May 6th, 2008 at 3:45 pm