Nick Elmi plans new restaurant and bar concept next to Laurel

Last year Laurel announced plans for expansion to the former location of Dante’s next door, which would double the seats and add a bar to Nick Elmi’s existing restaurant.

Since then, plans have shifted, with Elmi now planning a different concept for 1615 E. Passyunk Ave. With Laurel’s status as the best restaurant in the city for the past two years, this new spot is bound to become another one of East Passyunk Avenue’s delights.

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Next door, he says he’s about two months out from opening a bar. It’s an ideal situation for Elmi to add a second concept, literally connected to his first restaurant. The space will have seating for around 30; 10 at the bar, 14 on the floor and another 5 looking out over the Avenue.

The menu will consist of small plates appropriate for enjoying with wine. Elmi, who says he still doesn’t know how to define the food at Laurel, describes the food as “French but American. Like laurel’s little brother.”