Philadelphia, get ready to Harlem Shake!
The award-winning burger and shake concept Harlem Shake, founded by Jelena Pasic, is set to debut at 1330 Walnut St. The restaurant will mark the brand’s first franchise location and its first outpost outside New York, where it currently operates locations in Harlem and Brooklyn.
“We think it’s a natural extension of our footprint. It has a great culinary scene, so it’s burgeoning,” Pasic told What Now Philadelphia. “Culturally speaking, Philadelphia does have an affinity for Harlem culture. There’s a whole subculture with music, so that’s another reason why we think Philadelphia will embrace Harlem Shake.”
The diner’s “Harlem of the past” theme will carry into the City of Brotherly Love.
“We have that hexagon tile, the tin ceilings, vintage decor elements, the diner booths and stools, the chrome, the flashing lights outside—all of it will be present in the Philadelphia design, along with our signature striped awning and black storefront signage,” she said.
The menu will also showcase Harlem Shake favorites, from burgers made with custom-blend Pat LaFrieda patties to all-beef hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese melts and salads, along with handmade shakes featuring Blue Marble ice cream.
“The plan is to keep it simple, keep it good quality and replicate the menu that’s already shown to be a huge success over the past years. That’s not to say, down the line, we won’t be able to develop specific Philadelphia items,” Pasic said.
Pasic looks forward to the brand’s continued expansion.
“We’re just excited! This is the first place outside of New York City, so we’re excited to have that experience of expansion and, of course, for the city to get to know Harlem Shake and all the great things that make us different over the past 15 years,” she said.
Harlem Shake will continue its expansion efforts, with additional locations already signed in New York City and Columbia, South Carolina.
The Philadelphia location plans to open before the end of 2026.
Visit the Harlem Shake website and follow along on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates.
