Gypsy Rose in Collegeville

[ssturn]

Hello all! I heard rumor (and just confirmed via online county records) that David Markel has purchased the Gypsy Rose.

Does anyone know his plans for the space? I'm looking forward to our old 'haunt' being a go-to place once again! (My husband and I live about 1 mile away).

[Chefpaulo]

Well, Dave has the deep pockets for sure but, c'mon man, another friggin' sports bar? The county is crawling with them. How about something imaginative? And what is an upscale sports bar, anyway? Finger bowls after your hot wings and shooters?
CP

[phillyjazz]

In the old days (before I could drink legally) The Rose had lots of Philly Jazz talent there. I used to see Bootsie Barnes, Tom Lawton etc. all the time.

Upscale Sports Bar ?? That was a good one Chefpaulo...

[crazyspice]

That made me laugh!

[curly girl]

Loved your comment chefpaulo - still smiling. You are so correct. They are trying to upscale everything these days. Even WalMart with their new Better Homes & Gardens section, etc. In this economy, they should just focus on good food, good service with a little bit of ambience for the people who are spending their hard earned money and just looking for a relaxing night out.

[Jdbc]

I spoke with someone last night who should know, who confirms he bought it; says it's going to be a larger banquet venue, plus they're considering having it as a more upscale sports bar.

[ssturn]

Thanks for the info - albeit dissapointing. Banquets? Sports bar? Ho hum. Although it's definitely better than having a place with so much potential deteriorate even further.

[Jdbc]

I'm not saying this is 100% what's going to happen; it's just what someone who works for him told me.

[Bacchus101]

Currently, as Curly notes, this place is a dump. The venue is extraordinary but it will take deep pockets, a good concept with talented chief/cook to make a go of it. Here is hoping it can be done!

[Chefpaulo]

I'm a stone's throw away and would love to have another area option. I hope he considers a Thai place as there is nothing in the area.
CP

[curly girl]

Hi Chefpaulo - I would love to see the property renovated and spruced up again. It is such a beautiful setting on the creek and it really looks like H*LL right now, since it has been vacant for a few years. As far as Thai food, there are two places I would recommend, each about 15-20 minutes from Collegeville........Nadia in Lansdale or Thai Orchid in Blue Bell.