March 17, 2016
Many Philadelphians were incredibly excited two weeks ago when we announced that Shoo Fry, a french fry bar, would be replacing Underdogs hot dog shop in Rittenhouse. We reported that the group planned to open multiple locations in quick succession, and it looks like the rumors are true: Shoo Fry will soon come to Fishtown, too.
Matt Baiada, who runs Shoo Fry with wife Rachel, confirmed the news Thursday that Shoo Fry will take over the space at 200 E. Girard Ave., which formerly held East Girard Gastropub.
"It'll probably be the end of summer," Baiada said of the Fishtown locale's opening. "We're still not completely done-done, and because it was a bar, it'll probably take a little bit longer to convert."
Philadelphia Business Journal reports that the Zoning Board of Adjustment has given the go-ahead to the takeout concept, though the space was formerly meant for a sit-down restaurant. The Zoning Board is also requiring Shoo Fry to make the business handicapped-accessible.
Shoo Fry takes on the build-your-own model and applies it to french fries, allowing customers to pile on toppings to curly, classic or wedge fries. They'll also be selling sliders and milkshakes. Their Rittenhouse location at 132 S. 17th St. is set to open by late April or early May.
