The historic Moshulu, the only restaurant aboard a tall ship in the world, has just completed a renovation of its interior dining room, making what is old – new again!

The renovation includes a new large lobby bar that welcomes guests and is perfect for gathering at happy hour or before a meal aboard the boat. The design “exudes a luxurious seafaring style, laced with maritime surprises,” according to Barbara Balongue of Balongue Design who completed the new design.

Balongue said the design incorporated elements to both “save and celebrate its history and charm,” she explained adding, “Architectural details were salvaged and refreshed. Irresistible wooden wainscoting and supple fabrics are anchored on new wood deck floors and richly hued carpet. The new bar is marvelously sophisticated; faceted with glittering gold oval-shaped tiles that resemble a mermaid’s tail and accented with brass details. An unforgettable impression!” she said.

The main dining area includes new banquettes, a variety of new tables and chairs, mermaid-inspired wallcoverings, mahogany paneling, carpets and a 139” long by 69” high Natural Beachwood fish light sculpture made out Natural Beachwood that hangs above the rich gold and black marble Captain’s Dining Table. The Captain’s Table chairs are embellished and upholstered with Fornasetti Artwork with faces that could have been those of passengers during any decade of the Moshulu’s travels.

“Moshulu is the Flagship restaurant for Fearless Restaurants, the name Moshulu actually means one that “fears not” in Seneca Indian,” Owner Marty Grims explained. “The renovations were needed to remain relevant and they celebrate the uniqueness of the boat and its importance as a Philadelphia icon,” he said.

With its expansive views of the city skyline and the waterfront, Moshulu offers inspired a la carte dining and is the premier location for brunch and dinner as well as happy hour. The menu features a modern presentation of American cuisine using the freshest and finest ingredients. “Great food and top-notch hospitality along with original elements of the ship remain intact, the renovations offers a fresh and modern look that we believe will appeal to both our current guests and new ones alike,” Grims added.

The Moshulu is also a part of Philadelphia culture, each year countless Philadelphians get engaged at the Moshulu, host their milestone events aboard the ship and come to watch fireworks during the holidays.

The new bar and décor are the final of a four-part renovation that began in June 2016 to create a unique dining experience inspired by Ralph Lauren’s personal yacht.

Previous renovations included the repainting of the entire vessel from black to deep-marine blue, and a complete remodel of the State Room, formerly called the Orchid Room, including window fixtures, mirrors on the ceiling to create a more open feeling for special events, with a custom-built bar locating to the front of the boat.

The bathrooms were remodeled in 2018 and The Deck debuted in spring 2017 offering an array of entertainment, signature cocktails and lounge-like seating with conversation areas of wicker furniture with navy cushions and oversized yellow and white stripe pillows.

I think it’s time to re-visit the historic Moshulu!