Chefs Amanda Shulman and Alex Kemp are cooking up a new concept.
The duo, who co-founded Libbie Loup Hospitality, plan to open a restaurant at 1736 Spruce St. in the former Barclay Pharmacy spot, according to an application filed with the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.
Shulman told The Philadelphia Inquirer she “fell in love” with the space, which is within walking distance of the couple’s home.
The new restaurant will mark Libbie Loup Hospitality’s fourth concept.
Shulman first opened Her Place Supper Club in 2021, where she serves as executive chef. The restaurant has since earned recognition with a Michelin star.
Her Place is a 24-seat dinner party restaurant offering two seatings a night, up to four days a week. The small kitchen team works with local farmers, butchers and fishermen to create a seasonal, multi-course menu blending French, Italian and American Jewish cuisines.
Shulman’s culinary journey, however, began long before then.
She studied political science and journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, where a writing assignment led her into Philadelphia’s restaurant scene. The assignment sparked an 18-month stint at Marc Vetri’s Amis, followed by a job at his flagship restaurant, Vetri. She later expanded her culinary experience at acclaimed restaurants in Italy, New York City, Las Vegas and Montreal, including Osteria della Brughiera, Ko, Roman’s and Joe Beef.
The chef has earned numerous accolades, including back-to-back James Beard Award finalist nominations for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic in 2025 and 2026.
My Loup, the group’s second restaurant, is where Kemp serves as executive chef. The French Canadian menu features small plates, seafood towers and a “Let Us Cook For You” experience.
Kemp began working in kitchens at 14 in Canada before honing his skills at acclaimed restaurants, including Joe Beef in Montreal, Eleven Madison Park in New York and Restaurant Moor Hall in England.
The duo also operate Pine Street Grill, an upscale American restaurant serving classic dishes, including burgers, rotisserie chicken and sandwiches, alongside cocktails and a curated wine list.
While details about the upcoming spot remain limited, it’s reasonable to assume the group will bring the same culinary creativity and attention to detail found across its other restaurants.
Stay tuned!
