[PHLtoNYC]

Michael Schulson brings on former Kanella chef for new Laurel restaurant in Rittenhouse

https://www.bizjournals.com/philadel...he-laurel.html

Schulson told the Business Journal that the Laurel project is currently in its research and development phase, with the final name, design and menu for the restaurant still being worked out. The name has been narrowed down to three or four contenders that he declined to disclose.

Construction on the approximately 5,500-square-foot space is estimated to begin in about 30 days, Schulson said. He expects the restaurant to open in seven to eight months.

“It will feel unique and different than anything anyone's ever eaten in this city," Schulson said.

While the menu is not finalized, Pitsillides said it will feature ingredients unfamiliar to Philadelphians to fill the gap in the local market left by a lack of Mediterranean cuisine and to highlight "real Mediterranean cooking." The restaurant will also have a charcoal oven that will add to the flavor of the food.

When it opens, Schulson estimates the restaurant will seat between 140 and 165 guests. A floor plan submitted at the city's Zoning Board of Adjustment hearing on March 29, shows 154 seats available across the 100-seat indoor dining room, 32-seat outdoor dining space, a 13-seat bar and a nine-seat drink rail.

Along with the Schulson restaurant, luxury fitness club Equinox also plans to make its Philadelphia debut in a portion of the Laurel’s retail and restaurant space.