May 18-24, 2006
Eats : Food
Feeding FrenzyIt's that time of year: Owner Bill "Like the Spice" Curry says he's breaking out the outdoor seating at all three Copa locations. They've also started offering a slew of new dishes as specials. Why? Back in early March, all (two) of you loyal Feeding Frenzy readers might remember me mentioning a "mystery tenant" moving into 1716 Chestnut St. Come mid-June, it'll be Copa Miami, a bi-level, upscale take on the current formula. The specials are test runs for Miami's TBA menu. Bite This: New dishes include the chicken tropicana, made with coconut milk, mango and papaya, and skirt steak with chimichurri sauce.
For the past four months, this J-Town mainstay was closed for massive renovations. Owner Nick Fadel reopened his 14-year-old 'hood fave earlier this month. The Lebanon native brought a "new face to the place," revamping the dining room and introducing new dishes. Fadel invites guests to stop by and check out the updated lunch menu. Bite This: For dinner, try the snapper, served over spinach with a garlic, olive oil and lemon sauce.
Gino DeJesse decided to shut down this South Philly coffee spot in March to concentrate his attention on Stephie's, his more lucrative catering business. He recently moved the operation into a kitchen on South 11th Street; customers can place orders by calling 215-551-6579.
If anyone deserves a break, it's Joe Poon. A mere five months removed from the debut of this exclusive design-a-meal restaurant, the star chef has announced he's closing the doors and hanging up his apron (for now). Late June looks to be the last hurrah. Oh well, that's our Poon. (I smell a sitcom.)

