Cherry Hill native Greg Vernick, who cut his culinary teeth on the kitchen lines at some of this country’s top restaurants, including Tocqueville and Jean-Georges, is heading back to his home turf to open his first solo effort, Vernick Food and Drink. It’s coming to 2031 Walnut St. some time this spring, according to a prepared statement. The menu will feature globally-inspired dishes that fall under a range of categories from small snacks to sumptuous larger plates. Plus, it will have raw bar selections and “Simply Roasted” platters that will be served family style. On the drinks side, housemade sodas, classic cocktails, wines by the glass and locally brewed beers will wet guests whistles.
The bi-level space features large bistro windows that open out to Walnut Street, an industrial-looking bar wrought with natural slate and a stained concrete top, and high-top tables. Exposed brick walls and an open kitchen with a chef’s counter flanks the first floor dining room, and upstairs, a 45-seat dining room will have floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the street-scape outside. An opening is expected in mid-April.
