‘Better’ than Starr?Restaurateur with 28 locations signs lease for A Man’s Image
A year ago A Man’s Image announced that they’d be looking to sell or lease their current location at 1709 E. Passyunk Ave. so owner Abe Mandel could downsize and pass on the business to one of his employees. Now the massive, 4,400 sq. ft. property has been leased to what seems to be a interesting prospect for this prime corner property.
At first we heard rumors that Stephen Starr would be taking over the space to open a spot here. But according to Mandel, it’ll “better than Starr.”
While Mandel didn’t share what it is, as they’re expected to announce it sometime in the new year, he gave us the hint that they have a total of 28 restaurants.
“Their food everywhere, Boston, DC, everywhere is just phenomenal. It’s going to be really good for the avenue.”
According to Mandel, Starr had shown interest in the property, but the “price was too high for what he wanted.” As of now, Starr has 20 spots in the city, but his only South Philadelphia restaurant is Serpico on South Street.
As for the future of A Man’s Image, Mandel is expected to relocate to a smaller storefront on East Passyunk Avenue and then pass off the business for three of his salesmen to own and operate. A source tells us that he may be leaving the property within the span of five months.
With A Man’s Image and Interior Concepts both leaving their large storefronts, along with the recently-sold three-building package next door, we could be seeing some huge changes coming to this portion of the avenue.
Anyone have guesses as to who this restauranteur this could be?
While I love the restaurant scene, I am a bit sad that we’re losing another retail spot to another restaurant. One of the things I love about EPA is the diversity of offerings.
Agreed we need more retail
Doesn’t sound good.
The store is MOVING, not closing. Geez, not hard to read is it? Anyway, that building is wasted being a clothing store that’s only open 7 hours a day.
As a matter of fact, with that “pass on” grammatical error, it is a bit hard to read.
Wolfgang Puck has 28 restaurants and outposts in Boston and DC but I don’t think it’s him.
Google searched “owns 28 restaurants” and found a bunch. This one looks possible… http://www.richardsandoval.com/rs/restaurants.php
Sandoval doesn’t have any restaurants in Boston. He is opening up a restaurant in Philly at the Ritz Carlton.
Really disappointing news that we will basically have a glorified chain operator. Shame on Abe for the sell out especially as a so called independent retailer. “Beter than Starr” simply because they paid to play. After a year of staff turnovers this will be a disgrace on the avenue.
Wow, optimistic, Sunshine.
Be patient , don’t speculate about something you have no idea about!!!
Ark restaurant group fit the description
OMG!!! PF Changs nuggga!!! Can’t wait:)
They better have parking!
Not a Starr restaurant? Good! That means the restaurant’s food wont taste like bland hospital food.
Sounding like Barcelona wine bar from CT area. Chris Lee who used to have Sofia on the Avenue, is their culinary director and it’s interesting that he recently started following a whole bunch of Philly food people and restaurants on Twitter. No Spanish on the Ave either. I put my money on that.
Barcelona Wine Bar only has 12 locations, not 28.
They also have the Bar Taco concept which has several locations and is in major expansion mode.
And it appears that 5 are under construction bringing it to 27. Seems pretty damn close if you ask me. http://nrn.com/latest-headlines/general-atlantic-invests-barteca-holdings
Not enough for you?
How would you know?
Oh, good. Another high-end eatery on Passyunk where I can grab a bite after shopping for $30 baby onesies and $25 dish towels!
No cheap fast food on the Ave if that’s your speed lady!
@ Anahi, Broad & Snyder is right down the street. If that’s more your speed, have at it.
Barcelona Wine Bar gets my bet. Been to the one in D.C., it’s ok. Nothing special. But yah, definitely $$$.
I still remember Mandels on 7th, good for you Abe this time you get to make a profit on the building!!! Have a wonderful retirement and best of luck to the 3 new owners! Doesn’t matter who comes in, I will still be dining at Marras. Happy there is new life on Passyunk, it’s all good!