The Colonial-themed restaurant has closed its doors after more than 25 years of service.
Sadly, the coronavirus pandemic continues to take its toll on the Philadelphia restaurant scene. Located in Old City, City Tavern was Philadelphia’s most storied eatery, but like many other local victims suffered terribly during the pandemic and now after more than 25 years, it has permanently closed.
“After a wonderful journey, it is with heartbreaking sadness we announce the immediate closure of City Tavern Restaurant,” said restaurant owners in a heartfelt post on their social media channels.”It has been our privilege to be a part of so many special life occasions, and to have been a hallmark of the Philadelphia community through many great years, even during difficult times. Chef Staib would like to thank our friends, family, fans, guests, vendors, and staff for their stalwart support over the last 26 years of his proprietorship. Thank you!”
Housed in a building dating back to 1773, the famous eatery had kept the Revolutionary spirit going for the past 26 years. The building served an unofficial meeting place for delegates of the Continental Congress and the nation’s most important founders, serving as the scene for many Revolutionary-era events. A legacy City Tavern kept alive with its colonial-costumed waiters and historic dining experience.
Owner and chef, Walter Staib, told the Philadelphia Business Journal City Tavern had been severely impacted by the decrease in overseas tourism which made up the core of its clientele.
While it remains unclear what the future holds in store for the historic City Tavern building, Staib and his team believe its journey isn’t over yet. ” There will surely be much more in store under the stewardship of the National Park Service of this 247-year-old treasure,” the team wrote.
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[Featured image: Facebook/ City Tavern]