Wayne is set to welcome a new “boutiquey” restaurant with an intimate dining experience and uniquely crafted dishes.
The restaurant’s name has not yet been announced, but it is registered under Free Hugs LLC, led by Laurence Kagan, a partner at The Campus in Downingtown.
On March 9, Kagan appeared before the Radnor Township Board of Commissioners to transfer a liquor license from 2901–03 W. 3rd St. in Chester to 166 E. Lancaster Ave., a move approved by the council.
“Free Hugs is just the entity. The restaurant name is yet to be determined,” Kagan said at the meeting.
The new concept will occupy a 3,000-square-foot space with seating for 85, though Kagan said it won’t be a “giant restaurant, but that’s just part of the concept.’”
The restaurant is said to have the “soul” of a typical steakhouse but will take a grill-style approach. The chef, a native of Wayne, is “highly pedigreed.”
“The engine of the restaurant is going to be a wood-fired grill. The proteins will feature steaks, poultry, fish, smoked vegetables, but it’ll go beyond that–potentially a dry-aged fish program, which is something you don’t see too often,” he said.
Well-renowned designer Richard Stokes will design the interior of the new spot.
“There were very recently some Michelin Stars awarded in Philadelphia, and two of the three restaurants that were awarded Michelin Stars were designed by him. It’s going to be approachable fine dining, comfortable, in line with what the Main Line would expect,” Kagan said.
The restaurant plans to open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., with the kitchen “potentially” closing at 9 p.m. on weekdays and at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.
Kagan told What Now Philadelphia the team isn’t ready to share additional details.
The site is still under construction, and no opening date has been set. Stay tuned!
