Stephen Starr has obtained the Center City Residents’ Association’s approval for what he describes as an “Italian rendition of Parc,” his well-received Philadelphia restaurant. This new establishment will be situated on the former site of the Barnes & Noble bookstore, located on the northern side of Rittenhouse Square.

The yet-to-be-named Roman-inspired trattoria will occupy the first two floors of the building at 1805 Walnut St. Starr’s intentions to develop this restaurant were confirmed in June when a liquor-license notice was posted on the property. The restaurant’s offerings will encompass weekday lunches, weekend brunches, and daily dinners.

The design entails a 70-seat cafe on the ground floor, featuring an 18-seat bar and an 80-seat dining area towards the rear. The second floor, accommodating 80 patrons, will have a balcony area affording guests a direct view of the square across the street. Additionally, a 14-seat bar will be situated on the second floor. The building’s third floor will serve as office and storage space.

The exact timeline for the project remains uncertain, with an estimated completion date in the fall of 2024. Construction is slated to commence in January, as indicated in the plans. The new restaurant’s seating capacity will be approximately 80% of that of Parc. It will also be in close proximity to other Starr establishments, including Barclay Prime at the Barclay and two nearby restaurants, The Love and the Dandelion. Barnes & Noble had occupied 1805 Walnut St. for 26 years before relocating in April to a smaller space at 1708 Chestnut St., previously occupied by Forever 21.