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;