An unusual restaurant is preparing to open in Center City Philadelphia.
The new establishment, Recipe Philly at the corner of Broad and Arch streets, will feature a menu crafted by Philadelphia home cooks. According to an Action News 6abc report, the winning recipes were selected as part of a food competition being filmed for a docuseries.
American Idol’s Josh Randall hosts the Recipe Philly series. “Everyone thinks they have a recipe that belongs out into the world,” Randall told 6abc, “and this is the first opportunity that they can actually have that happen.”
Last fall, more than 1,000 people showed up to the casting call with recipes and stories in tow. Local influencer Josh Moore from Josh Eats Philly served as one of the judges.
“This is for us, by us,” Moore told 6abc. “This restaurant is for Philly, and it is by Philly — everything on the menu. So as we’re tasting things, I’m tasting different neighborhoods. I’m tasting different cultures, and it’s all happening right here in this restaurant.”
Moore was joined by Top Chef alumna Jen Carroll and Chopped alumna Clara Park, according to 6abc.
Judges heard emotional stories from contestants about family, relatives, and lost friends during judging, underscoring how personally meaningful the recipes are.
The judges are working with Executive Chef Andy Revella of Rainforest Cafe and Benningan to select the 31 best dishes that will be featured on the menu.