NOW SEATING
Popolino | Chef Peter McAndrews' new Philly joint, joining Modo Mio, Paesano's and Monsu, is a trattoria serving up interpretations of Roman cuisine both contemporary and ancient. Taking over the short-lived Lafayette Bistro space, Popolino (Roman dialect for "commoner") offers a menu split into three segments — one fish- and veg-friendly, one classic (carbonara, cacio e pepe, etc.) and one adventurous, with offal preparations like braised tripe, calf's tongue and nervetti, a calf's foot presented in a headcheese-like format. The centerpiece of the BYO is the tavola calda (pictured), a traditional Roman spread of room-temp antipasti that rotates every day. Four Seasons vet Steve Flis is running the show. Popolino serves lunch and dinner every day but Tuesday. More on Meal Ticket. 501 Fairmount Ave., 215-928-0106.
Rex 1516 | Jet Wine Bar owners Jill Weber and Evan Malone are bringing more dining to their stretch with Rex 1516, a clever boutique space that caters to the 'hood with a sharp beverage program and Southern-inflected menu from 'Bama-bred chef Regis Jansen. His specialties, from crawfish pot pie and seitan meatloaf to stuffed pork loin and a sick burger (a blend of filet tips, brisket and pork belly), are sided up nicely by GM Heather Rodkey's interesting wine-by-the-glass and cocktail lists. Rex is open for lunch daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and for dinner daily from 5 to 11 p.m. 1516 South St., 267-319-1366, rex1516.com.
LITTLE VITTLES
Square Peg (929 Walnut St., 215-413-3600), the new one from chef Matt Levin, soft-opened last night. They're taking a limited amount of reservations as they ease into things. More on Meal Ticket.
The new Machi Sushi (209 S. 20th St., 215-545-2388) is offering 15 percent off orders through March 31. More on Meal Ticket.
