Loose Ends and Blackboard Specials

Always the last to know: Apparently, my good friend—and one of my designated “Last Supper” chefs (July issue, 2008)—Lacroix’s Matthew Levin, failed to give me advanced scoop on the long-awaited—and much-needed—overhaul of Rittenhouse’s second-level watering hole. The new lounge (as opposed to dungeon) will be called Bar 210—named after its famous street address, 210 W. Rittenhouse St.—and will open in mid-September, situated in the elevated portion of the Lacroix dining room. Current ETA is the second week of September.

The best part: Levin-crafted cocktails made with house-infused liquors. If they’re anything like his food, a visit to Bar 210 is sure to leave you in a state of sensory overload. The U-shaped Bellagio granite bar’s swanky prime-real-estate barstools will be yours for the taking till 1a.m. Sounds like a chic winter’s afternoon or evening escape, or an excellent prelude to a romantic weekend getaway.

A sneak peek at the menu coming shortly ...

Not exactly sure how I missed this, but better late than never: Historic Kennett Square will be hosting its 23rd Annual Mushroom Festival this Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6-7. The down-home family fun includes the first ever Mushroom Festival 5K Run/Walk, farm tours, cooking demonstrations and a fresh mushroom soup cook-off—the first-prize winner will take home $500 and a commemorative plaque. In addition, there will be a Mushroom Parade complete with 100 antique and classic cars (you can check them out up-close afterward on Broad Street). To learn more, click mushroomfestival.org.