Chefs Named for Fork and Growlers

Fork's seasonal American cuisine will get an update; Image via Facebook

By Danya Henninger

Old City’s Fork, which just made our roundup of the 10 most exciting wine lists in Philadelphia, is getting a great chef to go along with the good selection of sips. Proprietors Ellen Yin and Roberto Sella have announced Eli Kulp will be helming the kitchen, beginning in the middle of September. Kulp was most recently chef de cusine at NYC’s Torrisi, a former deli that transitioned into a successful Italian bistro. By October, the Culinary Institute of America grad (who also spent time at Del Posto and Casa Lever) will have rolled out a new menu. Of note, former Fork chef Terence Feury is looking at a September opening for his New American in Swedesboro, known as Tavro 13.

A September launch is also planned for Growlers, the Bella Vista tavern that replaces shuttered Little Bar (nee Vesuvio) at the corner of Eighth and Fitzwater. Partners Jay Willard and Jason Evanchik (Time, Vintage, Bar) have signed Jerry Donahue to the position of top toque. Donahue was formerly chef at Conshocken's Spamps and the Blue Bell Country Club, but is best known for his BBQ, which took the top place at Yards Brewing’s annual Smoke ‘Em if Yous Got ‘Em competition last year. He tells Foobooz the menu at Growlers will feature classy pub food, including housemade pretzels (also in a gluten-free version) and pork belly tacos along with burgers and wings.