The East Passyunk neighborhood has been anxious to find out about what has been under construction on 1536 East Passyunk Ave. Misinterpretation of the Zoning notice had locals wary that a late-night club was under construction on the street, but these concerns have been allayed. We’ve learned that Stephen Slaughter, co-owner of the Green Eggs, has been creating a new bar/restaurant in this space that most recently housed a laundromat. The building, which sits directly across the street from the singing Tasker St. fountain, has been vacant for almost 20 years.

A current image of Stateside, under construction

An image of Stateside, before construction began. Image copyright Google, 2011

In its place- a patriotic homage to all things American. The new restaurant, Stateside, plans to serve American craft beers, liquor and food. In the eco-conscious manner of Green Eggs, Slaughter promises to procure food “from as many local purveyors as possible,” and diners will feast on “American small plates.” The current plans for the restaurant reveal it to be compact, with seating for approximately 24 guests inside in addition to 10 bar stools. There is also hope for some outdoor seating. Construction did not include any building extensions, and Slaughter plans to work with the existing shell. Decor will be inspired by the 1930s era prohibition style, with exposed faux and original brick and piping, a concrete bar top, and french windows that open to the avenue.

Stateside is still looking for its chef, but fans of Green Eggs are sure to be excited this new Slaughter enterprise. With the addition of Stateside and Birra in the coming months, Passyunk Ave. continues to thrive as South Philly’s restaurant row. Healthy competition has kept East Passyunk Ave. restaurants up to high levels of quality and diversity and we hope to see these new restaurants push the Avenue to new heights.  –Suzy Grimberg