PHILADELPHIA – The curtain has risen on a new dining era at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Leo, a European coastal-inspired restaurant, has officially taken over the Spruce Street space formerly occupied by José Garces’ long-running Volvér.
Named in honor of the legendary Philadelphia Orchestra music director Leopold Stokowski, the new venue aims to bring a "bold and innovative" spirit to the Avenue of the Arts, much like the conductor who helped define the "Philadelphia Sound" a century ago.
A New Chapter After Garces
The opening of Leo marks a significant shift for the Kimmel Center's culinary landscape. For a decade, the space was home to Volvér, an upscale concept by Iron Chef José Garces. Volvér served its final meal in the summer of 2024 after its 10-year lease concluded, ending a chapter that saw the restaurant become a fixture for pre-theater fine dining.
With the departure of the Garces Group (which also saw the closure of Garces Trading Co. in the same building), the Kimmel Center partnered with the Rhubarb Hospitality Collection to reimagine the space. The result is a venue designed to be more than just a pre-show stop—it aims to be a standalone destination for Philadelphia's dining scene.
Coastal Flavors and a New Vibe
Leading the kitchen at Leo is Executive Chef Chris Cryer, whose résumé includes time at New York City’s Hudson Yards and a background deeply rooted in sustainable seafood.
Cryer’s menu is described as "European coastal with a Mediterranean twist," focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Standout dishes that have already generated buzz include:
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Squid Ink Campanelle with lobster and an aged ham ragù.
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Lamb Merguez Dumplings paired with cool cardamom yogurt.
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Fennel Cured Hiramasa (Yellowtail Kingfish) with smoked olive.
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Brick Chicken and Succulent Pork Shoulder for heartier entrees.
The space itself has been refreshed to feel both elegant and accessible, encouraging guests to visit for a full dinner or just cocktails and small plates.
Practical Details
Leo is currently open five nights a week, Wednesday through Sunday, from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
One key detail for locals: No ticket is required. While the restaurant naturally caters to theatergoers with a convenient location for a pre-show meal, it is open to the general public.
The opening of Leo completes the Kimmel Center's post-Garces transformation, joining the recently opened Curtain Call, a café and cocktail lounge that took over the former Garces Trading Co. space earlier this year.
