The good folks at the city-promoting Center City District point to the corresponding surge of locally owned eateries and suggest there’s nothing to fear.

But even their own figures show the number of national chain restaurants close to doubling - from 7 percent in 2000 to 13 percent today.

The fact that it only seems like more is little comfort: The chains have scarfed up some of the most visible frontage in Center City, their deep pockets recasting the streetscape.

In the hospitality business more than most, perception is reality. And what I fear is not merely the dull tread of Applebee’s, but the mighty tsunami gathering in the distance - the character-assassinating invasion of the casinos.

You said it, brother. At least we have a backup plan: We’re registering “Camdenebrity” today.
Inky: Eatin’ Good In The Neighborhood Is Eatin’ The Neighborhood
Related: It’s Not Casi-MAYBE, It’s Casi-NO!

This entry was posted on Friday, June 30th, 2006 at 9:21 am.