A little less than two years ago, Sowe opened its doors at 22nd & Carpenter, replacing Divan Turkish Kitchen. Located across from the recently rededicated Julian Abele Park and just a block from the popular Sidecar, the stars were aligned for this business to find great success here. But it seems that the place wasn't doing the kind of business envisioned by its owners, as Sowe shut down yesterday for an interior redecoration and rebranding.
According to Michael Klein, Sowe will reopen on Saturday as The Strip Joint, a neighborhood steak house. The place will offer a very limited menu, with a few types of steak, a fish dish, a pork chop, and something for the vegetarians. Prices will top out at $19 for a steak with two sides, which is only possible because of a relationship with a local slaughterhouse. There are also plans for reasonably priced wine and a bar menu.
Will the new concept click with the neighborhood? Will somebody who lives nearby try to fight them because they misunderstand the concept after hearing the name? Will folks enjoy a $19 steak dinner?
Those questions and more will be answered in the months to come. We'll certainly keep out eyes and ears and mouths open.