Top Chef alumnus and proud Philadelphian Jason Cichonski doesn't let anything stand in his way. When his Old City gastropub, The Gaslight, suffered a burst frozen pipe, he turned the mishap into an opportunity to rethink the menu and rebuild his team.
While he's working all weekend (The Gaslight reopens on Monday after being closed for a month), Jason shares some of his favorite Philly eats and love for the food scene.
What are you up to this weekend?
Mostly working. The Gaslight is reopening, and I am excited to be there and make sure everything is done perfectly. Sunday afternoon I am looking at houses with my fiancé Tara.
Aside from your own restaurants, where do you like to eat?
Brigantessa is definitely a favorite in my neighborhood. I love those guys; they know exactly what I want to drink, and the food is always great. I am always down for some tacos at El Jarocho.
For breakfast, the Fitzwater Cafe for a simple two-egg breakfast is also a favorite. If I feel like traveling, I will head over to One Shot Coffee & Cafe as well.
In your opinion, what is one thing in Philadelphia that everyone should see?
Everyone should see Fourth of July fireworks at Penn’s Landing or the Art Museum, or both if you can swing it.
What are you loving about Philadelphia right now?
I am really excited about the expanded food scene in our city. There are a lot of talented people opening restaurants, and the food community is becoming even more close-knit. I am also very happy that spring is finally here and I don’t need to see snow on the streets anymore.
What is the last movie you saw?
"22 Jump Street." It was hilarious and Channing Tatum is pretty handsome.
You can experience Chef Jason Cichonski's vision for modern American food at Queen Village eatery Ela, where he is partner and executive chef, or at The Gaslight beginning Monday, March 30.