You no Longer have to KNOCK, it's open, really

The City inspectors finally got around to inspecting the long anticipated resturaunt, KNOCK. It was orginally supposed to open last Friday, but you know how it is the last few weeks of August everyone moves a little slower. I just got off the phone with KNOCK and the bar will be opened today at 4PM and dinners will begin tomorrow night at 5PM. Bill Wood or as he is known in the GAYborhood, Woody, and his brother Steve (& their spouses), have finally opened their global restaurant-lounge. KNOCK whose name takes its inspiration from an Irish town, will occupy the northeast corner of 12th and Locust Streets, in the ground floor space that has housed a series of short-lived eateries (Lula, Sukothai, Cafe Cosmo and the longest tenant at 5 years, Pamplona, a branch of Dmitri's).
When I spoke to Bill Wood, earlier this week, he told me that he wanted to do some things that would break the curse that seems to have occurred at the corner of 12th and Locust Streets, in addition to really wanting to do something special to the space and for the community. Trust me, he has, it's amazing, down to the detail on the floor, the bar, lighting, linens, hearth (yes its true) and it's very stylish "Green" bathrooms (Hopefully he didn't have a problem with the plumbing unions that the Comcast Building did). The rumors are true the new place does have a piano, but its just for show strategically placed as you sweep into the foyer to request a table.

And as soon as I walked in the place it felt like home again, the feel, the atmosphere, seeing Bill Wood and some familiar faces. Woody's was always one of those places that closely reminded my friends and I of TV show Cheers; they always knew our name, it was always a safe warm atmosphere and everyone was family, (& who can forget those free pour drinks.) It's great to see Woody back in the neighborhood, to see old friends again, make new ones, and enjoy a good meal by Chef Stephen Huey. Woody hopes the restuarant/lounge captures the eclectic atmosphere of the neighborhood and welcomes everyone to enjoy his fare.
Pictured above Thom Cardwell and James Duggan of BUCKmonkey, Bill Wood, his Partner Lee Mallon, Partners David White and James McManaman of Absolute Abstract.All the art work at Knock is from Absolute Abstract located at 141 S. 13th Street, in the newly created Midtown section of Center City http://absoluteabstractart.com/ I have only showcased a small part of the restaurant, as you will want to stop by not only for a delicious meal, but to take in the beautiful design of, damn I failed to get the name of the interior designer, I will get it because everyone will want a piece of them after seeing KNOCK. The hours will be limited at first, Dinner being served 5 – 9, Sat & Sun Brunch 11 – 2. Eventually KNOCK will be opened for Lunch and Dinner beginning everyday at 11AM KNOCK 225 South 12th Street Philadelphia, PA 19107 215.925.1166 http://www.knockphilly.com/

Happy First Anniversary to The Waterworks Restaurant

Happy First Anniversary, also, to owner Michael Karloutsos, of The Water Works Restaurant and Lounge, 640 Water Works Dr., on the banks of Schuylkill River, at the foot of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Water Works' neoclassical exterior, built in 1812, remains the most photographed and painted landmark building in Philadelphia.

Michael Karloustsos is bursting with Philly Pride these days with accolades from Savuer Magazine who included the restaurant in its "Top 100" (February, 2007); Architectural Digest on its "Top 150 Most Designs in the World" and recent features in Gourmet Magazine and Elle Décor. The Philadelphia Inquirer Food Writer Rick Nichols said that Waterworks was "One year later, THE place to be." The restaurant now employs 95 people, giving each the financial means to support their families," he said, "But most importantly, it has served over 150,000 customers since it opened."

"Our greatest accomplishment was opening a restaurant in a historic space when no one thought it was possible," said Karloutsos."Breathing new life into a building that had been written off for so long was a real feat. For more information, 215.236.9000;

Jesse Archer Booksigning and Afterparty

Whew I can hardly catch my breath after all the BUCKmonkey sponsored events this week. I do want to post one of the more exciting events that happened. Jesse Archer once again graced our City of Brotherly love and Sisterly Affection with a book signing at Giovanni's Bookstore at 12th and Pine Streets. I finally know what those banana's are about, but you are going to have to read the book to find out for yourself "You Can Run" which can be picked up at www.amazon.com or on Jesse's blog www.jesseonthebrink.com which is hysterical.After the reading we all headed over to Tavern on Camac where Steve and Dennis hosted a nice party for Jesse with treats from David Wagman's Capriccio's Cafe

James Duggan, David Wagman, Thom Cardwell, Jesse Archer, Laura Burkhardt, Dennis and Steve

JESSE ARCHER reading TONIGHT 5:30PM

BUCKmonkey's Thom Cardwell & James Duggan
and
WHERE Magazine's Laura Burkhardt

Invite you to welcome
JESSE ARCHER
Actor, Screenwriter (A Four Letter Word, Slutty Summer), OUT Magazine columnist and author of
"You Can Run: Gay, Glam and Gritty Travels in South America"
At a special reading and book-signing at Giovanni's Room,
5:30-7:00 PM, Thursday, August 9 Giovanni's Room is located @ 345 South 12th Street, Philadelphia

Laura Burkhardt's Big Birthday Blast can be found

here:
http://phillychitchat.blogspot.com/

Thom's Table at Susanna Foo Tuesday 8/7/07 Cancelled

Darn I just got word that this event is cancelled. I will keep you posted on when it might be rescheduled.