University City will soon welcome a new spot for diners to gather and enjoy classic Italian fare.
Bistro 31, founded by Chef Genti Mataj and Anisa Bardha, will open at 3131 Walnut St. in the former Misconduct Tavern space, The Philadelphia Business Journal reported.
The 1,100-square-foot space occupies the ground floor of Left Bank, an apartment building developed by Dranoff Properties.
The duo brings years of industry experience, having launched Osteria Ama, a BYOB Italian restaurant known for its scratch-made pasta, brick-oven pizzas and traditional dishes, in Chadds Ford in 2021 before expanding to West Chester and Rittenhouse Square.
They also own Lucas Smash Burgers in Rittenhouse Square and recently opened Trattoria Ponte Vecchio in Old City.
Bistro 31 will bring a taste of Osteria Ama to the space, serving its renowned pasta and fresh bread alongside elevated yet approachable entrees.
Bardha told the outlet the team hopes to create a welcoming spot reminiscent of Central Perk, the neighborhood coffee shop from hit sitcom Friends where the characters regularly meet to catch up, socialize and spend time together.
Bistro 31 will initially only offer dinner service, with plans to expand its hours to include lunch.
The team has not announced an official opening date but is targeting the end of the month.
Stay tuned!
