From smoothies to barbeque, new dining options make way to Penn's campus

· September 1, 2010, 6:57 pm

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A map of restaurants, retailers and on-campus buildings that underwent changes. Related articles: New dining options, Renovations on campus


Whether cooking in your apartment seems too daunting, or you’re seeking a new look for class, several restaurants and businesses are opening just in time for the new semester.

Campus favorite Greek Lady plans to re-open its doors this month. The restaurant, which temporarily closed in June, has nearly completed expansion into the storefront next to its original location.

Greek Lady’s owner, Dimitrios Dimopoulos, said the revamped location will preserve the restaurant’s same menu and concept. While Greek Lady has always served omelets, it plans to have traditional French toast, pancakes and coffee, as well as croissants and bagels to eat plain or as breakfast sandwiches during new morning hours.

Breakfast fare will also be available with regular lunch and dinner options. The layout and design of the building has been transformed to have the “feel of a Greek tavern,” Dimopoulos said.

On the other side of campus, Biba Wine Bar will open in the Left Bank building, at 3131 Walnut St. Offering wine, beer, cheese and a light dining menu, the restaurant will be the fourth from owner Jon Myerow in Philadelphia.

Biba, slated to open later this month, will be a slight departure from Myerow’s two Tria locations and Tria Fermentation School in Center City, providing a casual environment and “streamlined” menu, Myerow said.

In late September, Baby Blues BBQ will start serving its acclaimed ribs in the location formerly occupied by Bubble House. This family-owned restaurant will span two floors and feature “authentic Americana” barbecue, according to owner Steve Fischer. The restaurant will also serve seafood, salads and a large number of vegetarian appetizers.

While the restaurant has three existing locations on the West Coast, this is the first in Fischer’s hometown of Philadelphia.

In addition to these dine-in options, two new food trucks can be found near the intersection of 38th and Spruce streets.

The Mojo Gourmet Coffee truck opened its window in May. In addition to coffee, owners Guy Angelella and Kimberly Edwards serve up gourmet sandwiches, paninis and assorted beverages for breakfast and lunch.

The truck plans to add more vegetarian options and soups to its menu starting later this fall.

New truck “La Vie” Natural Juice and Smoothies opened in July. The truck sells single- and multi-fruit smoothies, with Banana Strawberry and Peach Mango as its most popular. Owner Fednel St. Fort plans to add grilled chicken, wraps and salads this month.

“Our main focus is to bring back a healthier Philadelphia, one smoothie at a time,” manager Manny Colin said.

Facilities and Real Estate Services spokeswoman Jen Rizzi also highlighted several new stores opening this fall.

Sabir, a 24-hour market, recently opened in the Left Bank building. Eyeglass Encounters, an affordable eyewear retailer and ophthalmology office, opened in late August at 40th and Chestnut streets, and Adolf Biecker Salon’s second Philadelphia location is expected to open this month in the space formerly occupied by Ritz Camera.

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