New Restaurant Report: Week of July 30–Aug. 3

Waffle Chicken, a straightforward chicken and waffle joint, is coming to West Chester on Monday, August 6. Menu highlights include a selection of Southern fried chicken sandwiches on brioche, and sweet-and-savory chicken and waffle plates, like The Lancaster Waffle, topped with gravy. 1257 West Chester Pike, West Chester; (610) 719-9900.

Tropical Homemade Ice Cream, sibling to the celebrated La Michoacana Homemade Ice Cream in Kennett Square, is becoming Qué Rico, a “Homemade Ice Cream and Latin Grill” and taking over the former 39 West Bistro space. No date announced yet for opening. 39 West Gay St., West Chester.

Perch, a new breakfast and lunch cafe, is slated to open soon in the former Mrs. Mikes space. Look for extensive renovations and improvements to the building, including a new front porch. 653 Downingtown Pike, West Chester.

Though we were sad to report the closing of Box Car Brewing last March, we’re excited to see a new tenant arriving in its space! Appalachian Brewing Company is expanding its ever-growing Pennsylvania empire with a new brewpub in downtown West Chester. The location is currently hiring, which is a good sign that doors will open soon. 142 E. Market St., West Chester.

Stickman Brews recently announced that it is opening Stickman Brews’ third taproom in Chester Springs in the shuttered Vinny’s location. Look for its opening in early fall 2018. 861 Kimberton Rd., Chester Springs.

Philadelphia

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmBe-DrlFsi/?taken-by=helmrittenhouse

Helm Rittenhouse, the new outpost of the much-applauded BYOB in Fishtown, opens in Rittenhouse this weekend in the former Aldine space. South Helm, the team’s location at Front and Morris, will temporarily close. 1901 Chestnut St., 2nd floor, Philadelphia.

Tradesman’s, is a new American BBQ, whiskey and beer hall, from the same folks behind Philly favorites BRU Craft & Wurst, Cinder Copper & Lace, U-Bahn, Finn McCool’s Ale House, Tinsel and Uptown Beer Garden. Located in the historic Tradesman’s Trust Building at the corner of Chestnut and Juniper, the multi-level restaurant, bar and entertainment complex will feature over 6,000 square feet of space, including 200 seats, indoor and outdoor seating, multiple levels, two grand main bars and a large private-event space. Tradesman’s opens to the public on Thursday, August 9. 322 Chestnut St., Philadelphia; (215) 800-1079.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl2uJQSBDj9/?taken-by=theroosterphilly

Rooster Soup Company, the charitable concept from Cook N Solo, has rebranded to become The Rooster, an elevated Jewish deli. The change was announced via Instagram, and the menu switch is already complete, with plenty of sandwiches like a turkey club, smoked whitefish bagel and a vegetarian beet reuben. Don’t worry — matzo ball soup is still on the menu. 1526 Sansom St., Philadelphia; (215) 454-6939.

Pittsburgh

Lorelei, a gorgeous, airy new cocktail bar from the team behind Hidden Harbor and The Independent opened last week in East Liberty. Creative drinks, beers and snacks await! 124 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmBc-l_gvoT/?taken-by=springhillbrewing

Spring Hill Brewing is now open on the North Side! The joint project of local music personalities, Greg Kamerdze and Mike Seamans, this 2-barrel Belgian-inspired brewhouse and taproom is operating out of the old Workingmen’s Beneficial Union Hall. 1958 Varley St., Pittsburgh.