Franklin Social, an all-day American café concept led by Chef Patrick D’Amico, will begin service of a newly unveiled dining concept in Old City on Wednesday, June 12th.
Situated at the corner of 4th and Chestnut Streets, the restaurant will offer guests stunning new al fresco seating just in time for summer, featuring ambient lighting, ample greenery, and lovely views of the gardens surrounding the historic Second Bank of the United States. Opening in conjunction with Franklin Social will be the Franklin Lounge, a relaxed cocktail bar also offering a variety of international wines and draft beers. With a vast selection of new and familiar flavors, Franklin Social will offer something for everyone.
The name Franklin Social was inspired by the Junto Club, a social club founded in 1727 by Benjamin Franklin a group of his friends. The members met Friday evenings to discuss issues of morals, politics or philosophy, and the Junto Club was a launching pad for public projects such as the creation of the first lending library and the University of Pennsylvania. In the same vein, Franklin Social was imagined as a hub for neighbors and visitors alike to come together for a bite with friends, a relaxed meal with family, or any reason in between.
“We are proud to introduce Franklin Social to this neighborhood, and excited to introduce a menu that reflects our location in the heart of historic Philadelphia, while also offering selections which satisfies guests’ desire for inventive flavors,” said Michele DiPietro, General Manager. “Franklin Social & Lounge pays homage to Benjamin Franklin by creating an atmosphere where guests are invited to leisurely sip, share, and spend time over a meal together.”
Franklin Social’s menu will rotate to integrate fresh local produce and seasonal favorites. For summer, the small plates menu includes dishes like Brussel Sprouts served with Maple Vinaigrette and Shaved Parmesan, Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Drum Sticks, Tuna Carpaccio, Maple-Bourbon Glazed Pork Belly, and more. The casual sandwiches and flatbreads portion of the menu includes dishes like an Heirloom Tomato and Mozzarella Flatbread; the Chestnut Street Club made with Turkey Breast and Avocado on a Sourdough Roll; South Street Sliders made with Southern Fried Chicken and, pickles, coleslaw, and Sriracha aioli; and more. Large Plate offerings include Roasted Chicken Breast stuffed with Gruyere and Prosciutto; Linguine Pesto; Grilled Yellow-Fin Tuna, Pan Seared Tuna, Quinoa and Watermelon; and more. Franklin Social’s convenient coffee and juice counter will offer the local neighborhood all-day, grab-and-go offerings including locally sourced pastries, fresh juices and smoothies, and a bespoke coffee and espresso program from Philadelphia’s own La Colombe.
Franklin Social will also feature a stunning outdoor seating area offering scenic views of bustling Chestnut Street, as well as the sprawling green lawns of the Second Bank of the United States . The al fresco dining space will feature overhead string lighting and beautiful greenery, providing guests the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a cold glass of wine or strong cocktail.
An extension of the restaurant, Franklin Lounge & Bar offers a space where guests can relax, eat, drink and listen to live music every Friday night. This cocktail bar will offer a unique experience for residents and visitors, alike. Guests will be invited to sip and savor hand-crafted cocktails, as well as a wide variety of wines and draft beers. Franklin Lounge & Bar will also offer space for private events, receptions, and happy hours.
Both locations will be open to the public on Wednesday, June 12th and are located at 401 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106.
About PM Hotel Group
PM Hotel Group is a Top 20 Third-Party Hotel Management Company. This award-winning organization operates full-service and select-service hotels in the Hilton, Marriott, and IHG systems as well as internationally notable independent hotels. PM Hotel Group provides expert leadership in all aspects of hotel operations, including development, technical services, marketing, accounting, and pre- opening. The company manages more than 40 hotel and development projects, comprised of more than 10,000 rooms, throughout the United States. Based in Washington, D.C., PM Hotel Group has participated in the development and acquisition/renovation of dozens of hotels with a market capitalization in excess of $2 billion. PM Hotel Group is an approved management company for all leading hotel brands. Additional information about the company may be found at www.pmhotelgroup.com.
