Ahhh, nostalgia. This really takes me back to the ‘heyday’ of Old City. When you could toss a cheesesteak and it’d land in a bar, nightclub, or some watering hole. I have so many memories of stumbling through the historic district in the late 90s/early ’00s, searching for a good time. Back in those days, I was also a nightclub DJ, spinning at most of the hot spots, many of which are long gone now.
One of them was Lucy’s Hat Shop at 247 Market Street. This place was for everyone. It was always buzzing with activity. The food , the drinks, and the party scene were something else. There were so many epic nights and the morning after Drunken Monkey brunches. Some of the memories are hazy, but I’ve always had a soft spot for Lucy’s Hat Shop. Even as Old City was changing, it was a bummer when it closed down over ten years ago, only to be replaced by a CVS!
Fast forward to 2024, and Lucy’s Hat Shop is making a comeback, somewhat, in Rittenhouse Square. Lucy’s has been reimagined and seeks to be the go-to destination for all sports fans and nightlife seekers, leading the ongoing rejuvenation of Philadelphia’s social scene. No, I will not be coming out of DJ retirement. Those days are long gone. 🙂
Read the full press release here:
FCM Hospitality Group, the team behind a diverse range of Philadelphia’s hotspots including Morgan’s Pier, Craft Hall, Concourse Dance Bar and Rosy’s Taco Bar, has reimagined the infamous Lucy’s Hat Shop, to be a sports fan destination with a hometown Philly vibe. Located in the heart of Center City and inspired by the original legacy, Lucy’s will again become a hub for great entertainment, great food, and a great time. Lucy’s officially opens Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 1720 Chestnut Street.
After a decade since Lucy’s Hat Shop was tragically turned into yet another CVS, renowned restaurateur Avram Hornik and his passionate FCM Hospitality team are breathing new life into the 1700-block of Chestnut Street and injecting a fresh dose of energy into the Philly sports fan scene. Lucy’s carefully curated design pays homage to the original’s iconic charm with the casual, familiar feel of a neighborhood sports bar. The first level is infused with hometown Philly sports pride while a nostalgic nod to the beloved dance party of Lucy’s Top Hat continues on the lower level dance floor. The menu will feature elevated takes on American sports bar classics, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, alongside a creative beverage program designed for sports fans and party goers alike.
Lucy’s Hat Shop, formerly located at 247 Market Street, quickly became a beloved cornerstone of Philadelphia’s social landscape. From its vibrant music scene to its Drunken Monkey brunch, Lucy’s fostered a sense of community and creativity that resonated with both locals and visitors alike.
The team behind Lucy’s views its return as more than just a restaurant opening; they see it as a catalyst for the revitalization of the surrounding area. As with all of their locations, they are committed to working with local businesses and organizations to create a vibrant destination that reflects the spirit of the neighborhood and draws more people into Center City.
“Lucy’s Hat Shop was a destination in the Old City nightlife scene and a go-to for so many regulars,” said FCM Hospitality owner Avram Hornik. “Bringing that spirit back to the heart of Center City and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to gather and socialize, at a pivotal time when the city of Philadelphia is in many ways reimagining itself, is just what Philadelphians need. Lucy’s is a celebration of what makes Philadelphia such a special city – our sports teams, our neighborhoods and the people within our communities.”
Lucy’s will open its doors just in time for March Madness and Spring Training, promising to be the hottest spot in town. DJs spinning every Friday and Saturday on the Lower Level dance floor. Karaoke on the weekends. Menu highlights include a spread of bar bites – Devils on Horseback and Braised Pork Belly Steam Bun – along with a twist on traditional sports bar fare including cucumber and blue crab salad & french onion smash burger sliders. The beverage menu features Pony Buckets, The Buddy System, and a long list of craft cocktails.
Initial Operating Hours will be Monday – Thursday, 4pm – 2am; Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 12pm – 2am. Happy Hour daily, 4pm – 6pm and daily specials will be featured. The full food menu will be available until 10pm; Late night menu 10pm – 12am. Lucy’s will open for lunch beginning in March. Walk-ins only.
Do you have fond memories of Lucy’s Hat Shop? I’d love to hear them!
If you like what I do, throw me a coffee or a stiff drink!
I’m a *REAL* person and your support means the world to me!
Food enthusiast. Travel lover. Social media maven.
Independent Journalist. Food marketing/PR.
https://sogoodpr.com/
https://original.newsbreak.com/@marilyn-johnson-1587690
https://southjerseyfoodscene.com/
Email: phillygrub@gmail.com
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Marilyn Johnson
Food enthusiast. Travel lover. Social media maven. Independent Journalist. Food marketing/PR. https://sogoodpr.com/ https://original.newsbreak.com/@marilyn-johnson-1587690 https://southjerseyfoodscene.com/ Email: phillygrub@gmail.com
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