The Moshulu had a long and taxing journey before opening its doors as a culinary destination in 2003. Built in 1904 by William Hamilton & Co., its first sails were spent transporting coal to Chilean ports from Hamburg, Germany. After years of shipping cargo all over the world, the tall ship was restored and opened as a restaurant by David Tallichet in 1974. Today, it’s owned and operated by Fearless Restaurant Group. While the spectacular sunset views of the Delaware River remain the same, below deck, there’s an entirely new look and feel. “The Moshulu is different because it has two restaurants, one lounge, five bars, a special event venue and nightlife venue all in one,” says Sydney Grims, director of business development. Grims worked with Balongue Design, the suburban interior design firm behind other Fearless concepts like Autograph and Daddy O, to take the space from Tommy Bahama- inspired to Ralph Lauren-worthy. While historic elements like the original staircase were kept, fresh updates include mermaid-inspired wallcoverings, mahogany paneling, and a new bar and lobby in the main dining area—along with a natural beachwood light sculpture in the shape of a fish. The installation floats above the gold-and-black marble Captain’s Dining Table, where new plates like hamachi tartare dotted with white sturgeon caviar are best enjoyed. “Moshulu is a timeless vessel,” Grims says. “It is a restaurant for the city to be proud of.” 401 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., 215.923.2500, moshulu.com
Photography by: CHRISTIE GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY
