PHILADELPHIA– Philadelphia Parks & Recreation today announced plans to issue a Request for Proposals for restaurateurs interested in creating a unique food and dining experience in the iconic LOVE Park Welcome Center, presented by St Gobain.The Welcome Center’s beloved mid-century modern aesthetic recently received a $5.6 million renovation and rehabilitation, including a contribution of over $700,000 from the St. Gobain Companies to restore the iconic crystal clear views the structure offers of City Hall and Fairmount Park along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The renovations were completed as part of the LOVE Park renovation, and reflect the City and community’s strong desire to retain the beloved “Flying Saucer.” The 5,500 square foot structure was renovated to host a dining service that could seat approximately 185 diners on three levels. The circular dining room features service for 50-55 people, with an additional 35 seats available on the deck. The patio area wraps around much of the structure and seats an additional 100 people, offering opportunities for an extended outdoor season. Other renovations include:
- complete rehabilitation/reconstruction of structure, steps and ramp
- new railings
- Installation of 2,500 square feet of custom energy efficient structural glazing manufactured by St. Gobain
- a new roof
- new wall tiles to restore original design
- new utility infrastructure and fittings suitable for a commercial kitchen
- new mechanical, electrical, fire alarm and plumbing systems
- new restrooms, doors, frames, and interior finishes
“The enchantment of LOVE Park is on full display once again this spring, with special events, weekly programs, and regular visitors,” said Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell. “A uniquely Philly dining experience operating out of the The Welcome Center will be the perfect complement to the art, amenities, and ambiance visitors and residents can expect when visiting LOVE Park, our gateway to Fairmount Park.”The City seeks the following criteria in a concessionaire:
- experience creating unique food and beverage concepts, overseeing design and construction (interior fit out) and operating high quality food and alcoholic beverage operations
- a unique theme and a menu, service and setting that is superior to those of nearby restaurants and cafés
- a vision for a combination of sit down and quick-serve service
“The Welcome Center is ideal for a vibrant after work meeting spot for small plates and beer, wine and cocktails. We are so excited to welcome a visionary food and drink operator into this Philadelphia treasure and finally allow the ‘Flying Saucer’ to realize its potential as a sought-after dining destination for locals and visitors alike,” said Commissioner Ott Lovell.The RFP was published today, March 23, and is available here. Proposals from interested organizations are due Friday, May 12.
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Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) advances the prosperity of the city and the progress of its people through stewardship of nearly 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, and management of 500 recreation buildings, 166 miles of trail, and 250 playgrounds. PPR offers safe, enjoyable recreation, environmental and cultural programs and events throughout Philadelphia’s parks and recreation system. PPR promotes the well-being and growth of the city’s residents by connecting them to the natural world, to each other and to fun, physical and social opportunities. In 2017, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell, set about implementing the park system’s first strategic plan: Our Path to 2020 and Beyond. As a result, PPR is undertaking a period of historic change, setting the department on a course to become a modern, equitable and exceptional parks and recreation system. Visit us at www.phila.gov/parksandrec, and follow @philaparkandrec on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.