Jim's Steaks South Street, a Philadelphia cheesesteak institution forced to close due to a devastating fire in July 2022, is gearing up to once again open its doors. A countdown to May 2024 has excited fans as the eatery teases its much-anticipated return on Facebook. The blaze, which required the efforts of more than 100 firefighters, destroyed the building after it spread through the HVAC system, as NBC Philadelphia reported.
In January of last year, hopeful blueprints of a new structure were released, suggesting an optimistic comeback. However, the precise reopening date in May remains a tightly held secret. Not content with just a return, Jim’s has expanded into the neighboring plot which once housed Eye's Gallery, "you have been the most incredible neighbors since we arrived as the fresh new face on the block in 1976," a post on Instagram read, expressing gratitude toward the former occupant's trust. According to PHL17, the gallery has since moved to another location on South Street.
Describing the vision behind the reconstructed venue, "May 1 is the target date for Jim’s reopening," said owner Ken Silver, as reported by the Inquirer. The renovated space incorporates not just Jim's historical footprint but also the folk-art store that stood adjacent to it. It is set to boast large-scale glass-and-tile mosaics by artist Isaiah Zagar, including an original dining room mural and a salvaged piece from five decades ago found during renovations.
Despite the changes, loyal patrons can expect familiar traditions to remain. There's no shift to fried food, it is cash-only, and the much-loved staff are making a return after working elsewhere during the hiatus. Silver reported to the Inquirer, although pricing details are currently up in the air. Structural enhancements to the establishment at 400 and 402 South St, which date back to the 1800s, comprise a ground-floor extension and more dining on the upper levels. Accessibility improvements and a second staircase promise a smoother soar for customers as they move through the venue.
