First Pics: Karina’s reopens just off South Street

We’ve been keeping you up to date on all things Karina’s since they’ve moved out of their former space at 1520 E. Passyunk Ave. (where Bringantessa is opening up shop soon).

While Karina’s was originally going to move down the avenue a bit near the fountain, plans changed. It’s now reopened in the former Hoof + Fin spot just off of South Street at 617 S. 3rd Street.

Formerly owned by Chef Pedro Beltano, Karina’s is now owned by his wife, Rosa Uzcha, who is also the head chef. Those who were keen on the the cuisine on Passyunk Avenue needn’t worry, they’ve kept the Spanish/Italian-fusion menu as is and are looking forward to life near bustling South Street.

The new space is a little more dynamic in that it has a great outdoor space that comes complete with a landscaped fountain. While they can seat around 45 guests inside, they hope to sit another 25-30 outside. Do-everything hostess Elise Lykins mentioned that they’ve already booked a bunch of parties and that anyone looking for a place to hold an intimate dinner-party should give them a call.

We bumped into Fred while touring the new space. He’s been a loyal customer since the days on Passyunk Avenue and always gets the Salmone Alla Griglia, a grilled salmon dish that Elise jokingly referred to as “Fred’s Dish.”

The move also means they’re closer to Center City and will offer delivery from Spring Garden Street down to Bigler. We recommend  you bring a little bit of bubbly and stop down next time your down near 3rd and South Street.

– James Jennings is the founder of the blog Pennsporter — a site dedicated to exploring the neighborhood  from Washington to Snyder, the Delaware to Fourth.