Lolita Re-Opening Soon in the Gayborhood
Well there’s finally word on what’s going on with Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran’s Lolita in the Gayborhood. The 10-year-old Mexican restaurant closed for renovations last August, and is expected to re-open this spring “with a fresh look, a new Mexican street food-inspired menu and a full liquor license.” Here’s more on the food, drinks and the new look from a press release:
The Food:
“For her menu, inspired by recent trips to Mexico, Chef Turney will put her modern twists on its well-known street food. She will feature tacos, ceviches and other traditional plates found at taquerías and city street vendors throughout the country. Look out for menu items like Raw Tuna Tostada with sesame, avocado, chipotle and crispy shallots; Duck Fat Tamal with braised chicken and smoked peanut mole; and Carne Asada with crispy yucca and spicy plantain crema. … Chef Turney also installed a vertical rotating spit, or trompo, that slowly cooks stacked layers of thinly cut meats. … Each week she’ll feature a different variation based on some of the world’s most flavorful street foods to be sliced from the trompo and served with [handmade] corn tortillas.”
The Drinks:
“For the slightly health-conscious imbiber, Chef Turney will create a small section of cocktails called “Aguas Fuertes,” made with freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices. Inspired by Aguas Frescas found in many Mexican markets and street stalls, Lolita’s “Aguas Fuertes” will be light and refreshing, but unlike the traditional versions, they will pack a punch with rum, vodka, or tequila. … Also new to the menu will be a selection of eight draft beers, a large tequila selection and a few mezcals to round out the list.”
The Look:
Upon reopening, guests will find the most striking addition to be the 30-foot-long concrete bar. Situated towards the center of the room, it puts guests in between the action of both the lively open kitchen and dining room. It is cladded with custom-made, reclaimed black and white wood panels arranged in a funky chevron pattern. Vibrant decorative accents, include marigold and brass colored pendant lighting, succulents planted in vintage Mexican beer cans and imported colorful handmade tiles that pop against the charcoal painted brick walls. Lolita’s new layout will naturally create a social, lively atmosphere for guests enjoying food and drinks throughout the 45-seat space.
The Nitty Gritty:
Lolita will serve dinner daily from 5 p.m. until midnight and offer late night specials. Lunch will begin shortly after opening. For more information, please call 215-546-7100 or visit lolitaphilly.com.
