Starr Joining Vetri at 600 North Broad

Shortly after we revealed last week that the Vetri crew is opening an Italian pub at 600 North Broad Street, it seems that Stephen Starr also signed has a project going into the former Wilkie Buick dealership. We couldn’t make it to the lease signing (hey, we’ll leave that to our pals at Brownstoner), but the two restaurant moguls put pen to legal paper last Thursday. Like Vetri, Starr is planning a casual theme for the space — a New England seafood shack-slash-oyster bar — named Route 6, after the thruway that runs the length of Cape Cod. Click through for the PR spin on things.

Like a cross between a seaside Maine lobster shack and an upscale urban oyster bar, the eatery will be seafood focused. Regional New England favorites such as lobster rolls, steamers, fried Ipswich clams and chowder will mix with fish entrees, simply prepared over a wood-fired grill. Shared menu items will include shellfish platters, along with clam and lobster bakes for the table (complete with corn, potatoes, sausage and bread in a pail), encouraging communal dining. A handful of non-seafood items (a gourmet burger, fried chicken in a basket and a small selection of wood-fired steaks) expand dinner options. Dessert will also be simple: diners will chose from a selection of seasonal pies.

The beverage program will include a well-edited beer (craft taps and bottles) and wine list that is mostly domestic. Seaside-focused cocktails (think Salty Dogs) will be available, as will for-the-table daily punch and pitcher options.

Working with the building’s natural warehouse-like vibe, the 140-seat restaurant will be industrial but aged, with two large bars (one that is half-inside/half-outside) and an insulated outdoor courtyard that will feature a clambake/firepit and horseshoe court. The wood-fired grill, large windows, communal picnic tables, airy, neutral space and open kitchen will create focal points.

Strangely enough, Starr didn’t mention this to us when we talked to him for our fall restaurant preview.

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