Openings

Pub & Kitchen Crew Opening Fitler Dining Room Tomorrow

Fitler Dining Room's kitchen counter.
Fitler Dining Room’s kitchen counter. Photo: Collin Keefe

Fitler Dining Room, the new restaurant from Pub & Kitchen’s owners Dan Clark and Ed Hackett, is shaping up nicely inside what used to be David Katz’s Mémé (before that it was Melograno) near 22nd and Spruce streets. It’s on schedule to open Thursday. Clark and Hackett have been going gangbusters since early October, working with designer Ian Chapin to get the restaurant ready for its debut. Nearly everything inside was ripped out and rehabbed. One of the only things left in place is Katz’s custom-built Montague range and grill, which remains in plain view at the center of Fitler Dining Room’s open kitchen.

With white subway tiles lining the walls, hardwood floors, leather banquette, and a cozy green sofa, the restaurant exudes a vibe that’s fresh and contemporary, but at the same time, gently worn and lived-in. There’s 28 seats at the tables, and four more at the kitchen counter, which will be held each night to accommodate walk-ins. The white marble bar top was salvaged from Independence Mall.

Chef Robert Marzinsky, who’s been with Pub & Kitchen since day one — save for a short spell at East Passyunk hotspot Stateside — helms Fitler Dining Room’s kitchen. He describes his menu as American bistro, since most of the dishes are steeped in French tradition, but have been updated for contemporary tastes. The regular a la carte offerings are limited to about a dozen dishes, but daily additions of appetizers, fresh seafood dishes, and other specials will be offered. There’s also going to be a strong cheese program, with rotating selections of primarily domestic farmstead cheeses. Check the full menu here.

In the beverage department, Fitler Dining Room will have two beers on tap, plus an extensive list of bottles, and an impressive wine list with upwards of 40 to 50 bottles available. A clause in the liquor license keeps the restaurant from offering cocktails and booze.

Fitler Dining Room, 2201 Spruce Street, (215) 732-3331.

Pub & Kitchen Crew Opening Fitler Dining Room Tomorrow