Breaking: José Garces Is Unstoppable

José Garces is opening up something in the Western Union building (at 11th and Locust), and his new something involves the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. That’s right — as part of a wider effort to rebrand its image, the PLCB will be pairing up with notable chefs and restaurateurs to open a handful of boutique wine stores, aiming to give oenophiles a more personal experience. (The Philadelphia location will be the first.) The specialty stores, whose inventories will include a few hundred bottles of wines not available in traditional Wine & Spirits stores, will hold tasting events and have a highly trained staff to help you find that perfect Pinot.

So where does José come in? This 600-square-foot boutique wine shop will actually be a corner of a concept from Garces that involves cheese, dessert, and of course, wine, where you can either eat there or take stuff to go. Look for a summer opening.