Philadelphia Parks & Recreation today announced plans to issue a Request for Proposals for restaurateurs interested in creating a unique food and beverage dining experience in the iconic LOVE Park Welcome Center, presented by Saint-Gobain.
The Welcome Center’s beloved mid-century modern aesthetic recently received a $5.6 million renovation and rehabilitation, including a contribution of over $700,000 from the Saint-Gobain Companies to restore the iconic crystal-clear views of City Hall and Fairmount Park along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The renovations were completed as part of the LOVE Park renovation, and reflect the City and community’s strong desire to retain the beloved “Flying Saucer”.
The 5,500 square foot structure was renovated to host a food and beverage operation that could seat approximately 185 diners on three levels. The main level can seat 50-55 people, with an additional 35 seats available on the deck. The patio area that wraps around much of the structure will seat an additional 100 people, and provides opportunities for an extended outdoor season. Other renovations include:
- a complete rehabilitation/reconstruction of structure, steps and ramp,
- installation of 2,500 square feet of custom energy efficient structural glazing manufactured by Saint-Gobain,
- a new roof,
- new railings,
- new exterior wall tiles to restore original design,
- new utility infrastructure and connections suitable for a commercial kitchen,
- new mechanical, electrical, fire alarm and plumbing systems,
- and new restrooms ready for restaurant operator fit-out , doors, frames, and some interior finishes.
“The magic of LOVE Park is on full display once again this summer, with food trucks, local vendors, and free community events,” said Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell. “A uniquely Philly dining experience operating out of the The Welcome Center will be the perfect complement to the art, amenities, and ambiance that visitors come to expect at LOVE Park, our gateway to Fairmount Park.”
The plans for an RFP follow a successful 2021 season of a full service pop-up restaurant at LOVE Park. ‘The Lawn at Loveluck’ was operated by the previously appointed concessionaire, the Safran Turney Hospitality Group, which shared the following statement:
“Prior to the pandemic, when we announced plans for Loveluck in LOVE Park, we were thrilled at the opportunity to transform one of the city’s most iconic buildings, in one of its most beloved parks, into a dining destination for both Philadelphians and visitors to enjoy. Everyone involved knew it would be a long road and we were ready for it. However, almost four years later, the pandemic and its ripple effects have created challenges that none could have anticipated. After much consideration, it’s with much dismay that we end the Loveluck partnership. We’ve always been heavily involved in the daily operations of our existing businesses, but we must be more dialed in now than ever so we may continue to support our incredible staff. We want to extend our deep appreciation to our great city of Philadelphia and the various organizations who worked with us over the past few years, notably Philadelphia Parks & Recreation.”
The City will seek the following criteria in a concessionaire:
- a minimum of three years’ experience creating unique food and beverage concepts, overseeing design and construction (interior fit out) and operating high quality food and alcoholic beverage operations;
- a unique theme and a menu, service and setting that is superior to those of nearby restaurants and cafés and
- a vision for a combination of sit down and quick-serve service.
“The Welcome Center is ideal for a vibrant after work meeting spot for small plates and beer, wine and cocktails. We look forward to welcoming a visionary food and drink operator into this Philadelphia treasure, which will finally allow the ‘Flying Saucer’ to realize its potential as a sought-after dining destination for locals and visitors alike,” added Commissioner Ott Lovell.
PPR plans to release the RFP in late July, 2022. Interested parties will be invited for a tour and Q&A session in the weeks that follow. Proposals will be due in early fall 2022, and the City expects to award a concessionaire by the end of the year.
Note to editors: Image available here. Photo credit Albert Lee/City of Philadelphia.