A Philadelphia favorite has officially opened its doors in Bucks County, just in time for the Super Bowl.
Last week, community members and elected officials gathered at 2900 Street Road for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome Founding Fathers Bensalem to town. With Founding Fathers Sports Bar and Grill flourishing at 1612 South St. in the city for the past several years, it made perfect sense to expand operations.
The 14,000-square-foot Bensalem spot, where Quaker Steak & Lube was formerly housed, is being run by the trio of David A. Chiavaroli (past owner of the former Marmont Steakhouse and Bar); Ken Hutchings (current partner/owner of the new Cavanaugh’s Rittenhouse); and Zechariah Leeper (past general manager of Marmont). All are also current partners/owners of the original Founding Fathers in Philadelphia, inspired by Mike Schmidt, Reggie White and the other “founding fathers” of local sports.
Not only is this trio bringing a small business approach to a chain-heavy area, they’re introducing more than 35 new jobs.
Chiavaroli, a Bensalem resident of 23 years, is thrilled to open this second location in his own neighborhood. In fact, he regularly frequented 2900 Street Road when it was Quaker Steak & Lube and, previously, The Great American Pub.
“I’m proud to finally serve the community in my own backyard,” he said.
Founding Fathers Bensalem, which enjoyed a soft opening in early January, features everything that South Street customers have come to know and love: a menu chock-full of burgers, pizza, steak and more, 30-plus TVs to watch the game(s), unique drink options, specialty nights and happy hours, just to name a few. Guests can sit at a table, the bar or, when the weather warms up, on the deck and sidewalk café.
There are also some exclusive aspects to Founding Fathers Bensalem, most notably The Franklin Room — a private event space that can serve between 100-200 guests for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, family functions and more. Plus, in the main dining area, there’s a semi-private table that seats between 10 to 12 and comes with its own television.
In the kitchen, Chef Tim Bennett, who worked with Chiavaroli at Marmont, is leading the culinary team. Upon deciding that Founding Fathers Bensalem would have steaks on the menu, Chiavaroli knew exactly whom to turn to. Bennett’s specialties include 9-ounce filet mignon, 30-ounce bone-in cowboy steak and filet oscar with crab meat and asparagus. The full menu is available until 1 a.m. seven days a week, making it one of the only late-night options in the township.
As a “thank you” to hospital workers, school teachers, first responders and active military, these individuals are entitled to 25 percent off food whenever they visit.
As for the bar program, Leeper designed this so there’s something for everyone. Options include a large selection of local craft beers and gameday domestics, a dozen wines by the glass and bottle, and a lengthy menu of cocktails.
Ultimately, the goal of Founding Fathers Bensalem is to be more than a sports bar.
“We bring many years of steakhouse, sports bar and private event experience between the three of us. It is the best of all worlds brought together for one great new concept,” said Chiavaroli. “While we hope to be a great spot for special occasions, our real goal is for repeat business and regular diners who are local business people and our neighbors. We want to be that place where you can come as you are from a long day in the office or dressed for a night out with the family, and enjoy a great and well-priced steak one, two, three days a week.”
Chiavaroli, Hutchings and Leeper are excited to be part of the Bensalem business community, and the township’s elected officials are thrilled to have them. On hand at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Bensalem Mayor Joe DiGirolamo, Bensalem councilman Joseph Knowles, state Sen. Frank Farry and state Rep. K.C. Tomlinson, as well as Lisa Paglaiccetti, Visit Bucks County’s industry relations and visitor services director.
“It’s wonderful to have you in our community,” said DiGirolamo. “I was here Friday, what a great crowd. We look forward to a great relationship.”
Farry said, “I think it’s important that we have locally owned businesses. It’s one thing to have chain restaurants, but it’s something completely different to have independent and locally owned businesses. It makes a huge difference in the community.”
Knowles, who said he and his wife are already scheduling double dates at Founding Fathers Bensalem, added, “We’re hoping you’ll be the anchor here in Bensalem for decades to come.”
In addition to the ribbon cutting, Founding Fathers Bensalem hosted a grand-opening celebration featuring Bob Pantano Dance Party and DJ Joe Castro, who are slated to return each Friday at 6 p.m.
This Sunday, stop by for a $20 all-you-can-eat Super Bowl buffet and create-your-own nacho station, running from kick-off to 8:30 p.m. There will also be $4 Miller Lite drafts and Tito’s mixed drink specials.
Visit ffbensalem.com or call 215-923-1100 for more information and upcoming events, including happy hour, late night specials and entertainment.
Samantha Bambino can be reached at [email protected]
