Chris Scarduzio and Georges Perrier are planning a more casual change of course at Brasserie Perrier (1619 Walnut St.) later this month, as the opening of the posh Table 31 in the Comcast Center draws nearer.
The thinking: "We don't want to cannibalize ourselves," says Scarduzio.
Among changes, some cosmetic (new waiters' uniforms), will be the menu, based on Brasserie Perrier's current lounge menu; it will cover the entire restaurant. Entree prices will sink substantially; top price will be $30. Since BP's opening in January 1997, critics have carped that Brasserie Perrier is not a brasserie. The changes may address that. "You'll be able to get a burger or steak frites in the back," Scarduzio says.
Table 31 is down for a May 2 opening.
Scarduzio, meanwhile, is returning to Atlantic City, where he and Perrier own Mia in Caesars. This time, he'll be a solo act.
Scarduzio's, a homey Italian at the Showboat, will occupy the space now taken by Casa di Napoli. (Scarduzio also says John Besh is opening a steakhouse next door.)
Scarduzio's, opening in the late third quarter of 2008, will have an antipasto bar, bread station, brick-oven pizza, charcuterie -- "the food I grew up with" in Overbrook.
Comments (2)
Our experience at Brasserie Perrier during restaurant week (Thursday evening, 1/31/08) was disappointing to say the least.
Three of our party of four wanted the steak au poivre entree that was listed on the Brasserie's menu posted on the Restaurant Week web site. Only, when handed the menu, we were told that the chef had "added" the dish as a special for the evening, at an additional charge of $5 a plate, adding $15 to our bill.
This type of "gotcha" game is beneath a restaurant of BP's caliber, and should NOT be permitted by Restaurant Week participants.
We ordered the steak anyway, which was rather flavorless, tough in places, and altogether disappointing. Needless to say, we won't be coming back to the Brasserie Perrier, and may not come back to the next Restauarant Week either.
PS I sent a similar e-mail to Center City District, Restaurant Week sponsors, and am awaiting a response
Posted by Ramona Salotti | February 4, 2008 8:51 AM
Posted on February 4, 2008 08:51
Not a good move. The best part about Brasserie Perrier was the civilized section in the back. What a shame.
Posted by David | February 4, 2008 9:09 AM
Posted on February 4, 2008 09:09