-Courtesy of Punch Media
Feature photo: The Papery by Leah Ben, Old City District
Old City District eagerly anticipates the arrival of numerous new businesses this spring, marking a significant addition to the neighborhood’s commercial landscape.
“New and returning business activity signals the robust economic potential and enduring appeal of Old City as a vibrant and welcoming destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike,” says Old City District Executive Director, Job Itzkowitz. “Notably, there is a compelling narrative of businesses opting to reestablish their presence or reinvest in the neighborhood.”
In the coming months, several retailers will join newcomers in opening their business in Old City.
RETURNING TO OLD CITY:
The Papery (18 N 3rd St) – A full-service stationery studio and gift boutique, serving Philadelphia and beyond for more than 15 years. The Papery, initially established in Old City before relocating to Center City, is now making its triumphant return to Old City. Owner/Creative Director Carolyn Brandhorst and her team are dedicated to blending custom designs, classic printing methods, high-quality materials, and current trends to create personalized invitations and stationery that reflect each client’s unique vision for special events of all kinds.
“After ten years at our Center City location, I am overjoyed to announce the return of The Papery to Old City,” said Carolyn Brandhorst, Owner and Creative Director of The Papery. “This neighborhood holds a special place in my heart, and I couldn’t be more excited to reconnect with the community that has always been so supportive. We’re eager to bring our design services and retail storefront back to the neighborhood where it all began and create new memories with our loyal customers and fellow business owners.”
OPENING SECOND BUSINESSES IN OLD CITY:
BlackHen Fried Chicken (120 Chestnut St) – BlackHen Fried Chicken is Philadelphia’s newest hotspot for gourmet fried chicken. This fast casual restaurant is the second concept by restaurateur Felicia Wilson, who also owns AMINA, an American Southern restaurant located at 104 Chestnut Street. BlackHen will feature a variety of chicken dishes, all made fresh with the highest-quality ingredients.
Calandrino’s Old City Vino (110 N 2nd St) – Embracing Sicilian and Italian heritage along with cherished family values, this sophisticated wine bar and bottle shop is set to open in Old City this spring. Founded by the trio of brothers, Stephen, Frank, and Michael Calandrino, this venture marks the third addition to the Calandrino portfolio in Old City.
Society Hill Hotel Restaurant & Bar (98 S 3rd St) – Almost two centuries old, The Society Hill Hotel sits on an iconic corner in the heart of Old City. After remaining vacant for the past few years, United by Blue cofounders Mike Cangi and Brian Linton embarked on a plan to breathe new life into space. Cangi and Linton are familiar faces in the Old City retail scene, having previously owned and operated United by Blue’s former brick-and-mortar store at 205 Race Street. Their decision to choose Old City for their latest venture underscores their commitment to doing business in the neighborhood. They have been renovating Society Hill Hotel Restaurant & Bar into a boutique hotel featuring a café, restaurant, and whiskey bar. The venue is set to open in May.
RELOCATING WITHIN OLD CITY:
Blokes Barbershop & Gentleman’s Emporium (116 N 3rd St): Last month, Blokes Barbershop relocated from its location of 151 N 3rd Street to a new location just down the street at 116 N 3rd Street. Owned and operated by the husband-and-wife team of British transplant Duke Dunne and Philly native Jill Ervais, Blokes Barbershop & Gentleman’s Emporium features high-end hair and face care for men, as well as posh shaving paraphernalia and men’s gifts.
“We are thrilled to announce our relocation to 116 N. 3rd Street, emphasizing our unwavering commitment to Old City,” said Jill Ervais, co-owner of Bloke’s Barbershop & Gentleman’s Emporium. “Leaving was simply not an option for us; our deep-rooted affection for the neighborhood, its residents, businesses and our clients made this decision clear. We look forward to continuing to serve and engage with this vibrant community in our new location for many years.”
Han Dynasty (110 Chestnut St) – This highly popular Sichuan-style restaurant chain plans to remain in Old City as it relocates, moving just across the street from its current space at 123 Chestnut St. Its current space will remain open until the move. Building owners are actively seeking new tenants for this highly desired location.
ICI Macarons & Cafe (Address TBA): Known for delicious macarons and pastries, ICI will relocate from its current home at 230 Arch Street to a new location on 3rd Street. Their decision to purchase the new building in the Old City indicates their intention to establish a long-term presence in the neighborhood.
Together Old City (305 Cherry Street): Husband and wife duo Kate and James Connelly opened Together Old City, Philadelphia’s premier sculpt studio, in January of 2022 at 138 N. 3rd Street. In April, they unveiled a stunning new studio at 305 Cherry Street. Their new space will allow them to welcome even more members, and their previous space will remain for private instruction.
Additional information on forthcoming Old City storefronts will be made available in the coming weeks. Follow @oldcityphilly on Instagram for updates
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