A popular Northern Liberties restaurant is ending its tenure at its current location and preparing to set up kitchen a few blocks away. Apricot Stone, the beloved Armenian-Middle Eastern concept from mother-and-son duo Fimy and Ara Ishkhanian, is making the move later this summer, reports The Philadelphia Inquirer.
The restaurant’s new location at 426 West Girard Boulevard will provide Apricot Stone with ample room to greet customers. The two-story space, which formerly housed Las Cazuelas, will allow the eatery to offer al fresco dining on its outdoor balcony.
Co-owner Ara Ishkhanian tells What Now Philadelphia that the greater space was the largest consideration in the decision to relocate, but that the team wanted to remain close to its roots, in a community it calls home. “We love Northern Liberties and the support we have gotten for 8.5 years, and we wanted to keep our home base here. An issue we had from the start is more seating capacity, especially in the colder months. In our new space we will have four times the indoor seating. We can accommodate private parties, larger groups, etcetera without worrying about weather.”
Chef and co-owner Fimy Ishkhanian is well-established in the hospitality world. She brought a collection of tried and true family recipes with her when she moved to the United States from Syria in 1981. She has honed her craft in a wide array of kitchens, and Apricot Stone allows her to serve traditional Armenian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern dishes.
Customers can look forward to enjoying dishes from a sprawling menu, including stuffed grape leaves, chicken kebabs and shawarma, and fattoush. Apricot Stone is hoping to open in its new location in July.
