PHILADELPHIA - May 9, 2007 - Tavern 17 unveiled an innovative dining experience to Center City when it opened its doors at 220 South 17th St., adjacent to the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel.

Don't expect a pub-like atmosphere, say restaurant designers from Plan B, the renowned restaurant experts who count The Greenbrier and Illy Caffe Chicago among their clients. This isn't "Cheers." Tavern 17 is a bar-forward concept that marries the modern tavern with upscale cuisine.

The 170-seat interior features leather and wood, creating a warm, yet architectural feel to the restaurant. Vintage timber flooring, candlelight, shades of cream, cinnamon and chocolate, combined with clean, uncluttered lines, will give the space a sophisticated surround that never goes out of style.


Welcome, "Artisan Flights and Bites"

This may be the first menu where less and more exist simultaneously. "Artisan flights and bites" are a unique selection of miniature entrees, mix and matchable, with flights of cocktails, beers and an array of wines - of which you'll find 17 classic reds and 17 palatable whites. And that's just for starters.

"Flights and bites are appealing because they allow customers to try a variety of items, instead of choosing just one meal or one bottle of wine," said Josh Dougherty, general manager of Tavern 17.

With the public shying away from restaurants with ridiculously oversized portions, flights and bites offer a creative, high-quality alternative. It also allows for a lower price and gives customers a fun, group experience through sharing.

Fresh, local, and organic ingredients are featured in Tavern 17's contemporary recipes. "Food tastes better when the ingredients are from around the corner, not across the country," said Mark Blevins, Tavern 17's chef. "We're very proud to support Philadelphia's food product and microbrew suppliers."

Tavern 17's signature dishes include orange marmalade glazed salmon, calamari steak and "two-bite tavern sliders." With tavern sliders, the traditional beef slider is revolutionized with bite-size offerings of lamb and feta, smoked pork, lump crab cake and beef short rib. Sliders will be available individually or in a pack of five.

1700 Hour

"1700 Hour" is Tavern 17's interpretation of happy hour and runs from 5-7 p.m. weeknights, with special $1.70 tavern sliders and mini cocktails. A variety of Tavern 17's "bites," along with its core menu and beverage lineup, round out the 1700 offering.

On the liquid end of the value proposition, wine, beer and cocktails will be available in "flights," to create custom pairings of food and fare, resulting in a tailor-made experience.

Meet, share and unwind

Taverns have traditionally been a meeting place, but Philly's Tavern 17 raises the bar in more ways than one. Whether it's gathering with business associates and clients, or simply getting together with friends and family, the restaurant gives customers a comfortable and unpretentious, yet up-to-the-minute atmosphere in which to wine and dine.

To cater to the business crowd, Tavern 17 offers free wireless Internet access to allow busy customers a chance to get some work done while enjoying a great meal.

Outdoor dining with a twist: "Woof!"

Coming this summer is Tavern 17's outdoor dining area. Awnings, teak tables and large potted plants allow for a relaxing garden setting that will seat 16-20 patrons, as well as their four-legged friends.

The highlight of the outdoor area will be the special "doggie menu" for the most discerning of canine customers, which will be unveiled later this summer.

ABOUT TAVERN 17
Tavern 17 puts a modern spin on the classic tavern. Serving artisan flights and bites in a contemporary tavern setting, the restaurant is the newest place for Philadelphians to meet, share and unwind. Tavern 17 is located at 220 South 17th St. in Philadelphia, between Walnut and Locust Streets, adjacent to the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel. For more information, visit www.tavern17restaurant.com.