Feeding Frenzy

Restaurants opening, closing and pending

by Drew Lazor

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Published: Dec 3, 2008

NOW SEATING

John and Pasquale Nolano's WineO, which was originally slated to take over Ministry of Information in early 2008, hit some snags along the way, but it finally opened three weeks back. The space, which features a concrete slab bar and ample dining room seating, has been done over in rustic bistro fashion — a far cry from the Minfo's Swanson-frozen-dinner-serving charms. Sommelier Luca Cimmarotta's offering a well-rounded wine list, with options spanning the likes of California, Argentina, Australia and France; chef Fabrizio Pace's Medi-American menu features eats like octopus salad with baby arugula and leeks; and the "WineO burger," served with cheese, bruschetta, avocado and sweet potato fries. Photos and full menu on Meal Ticket.

>> WAITING LIST

There's already gluts of buzz out there for Noble, which Bruno Pouget (APO), Todd Rodgers and chef Steven Cameron are prepping in the former Gioia Mia. And for good reason: When the restaurant debuts in January 2009, we'll have yet another James Beard-anointed chef active within city limits — Cameron earned a "Best Chef Mid-Atlantic" nomination this year for his work at Long Beach Island's Blue. Cameron's menu, which'll work off local products, will include dishes like orange-glazed Pa.-raised beef short rib with caramelized onion pudding; and lobster soufflé with carrot-lime crustacean essence and chervil.

>> LITTLE VITTLES

Jason and Cindy Caminos of Swallow (Liberties Walk, 1030 N. American St., 215-238-1399, swallowbistro.com) have retooled their bistro menu to feature nothing but mac and cheese. No dish costs more than $12.25 — choose from the chefs' offerings (e.g. "The Greek," with gyro meat, feta and Monterey Jack cheeses, Kalamata olives and spinach) or build your own. Check out the full menu on Meal Ticket. >> Swallow's neighbors Shannon Dougherty and Liz Petersen, who run Home Slice (Liberties Walk, 1030 N. American St., 215-627-2726, homeslicepizzeria.blogspot.com), have introduced bike delivery in and around NoLibs.

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