By the time the weekend rolls around, most of us are looking for an escape. We want to free ourselves from the stresses of an all-too-busy workweek and simply relax. And while many look to the city where nightlife, music and good food all happily coexist, Tom Frank, owner of the Knight House and the new 86 West, is bringing that same urban flair to Doylestown.
Located on West State Street along Doylestown’s de facto restaurant row, the Knight House enjoys a storied reputation in Bucks County’s culinary scene. Housed in the historic Jonas Knight building, the restaurant is a destination for many with its intimate ambiance, secluded back-patio bar and inviting pub. Still, Frank wanted to offer his customers more.
“I wanted to build something that people would come to Doylestown for,” he explains. “I wanted something with vitality.”
And with that goal in mind, Frank has breathed new life into one of Doylestown’s most respected restaurants, as well as embarking on an ambitious new idea. Located next door to the Knight House, 86 West is an upscale, modern venue designed to serve as both a compliment and extension of the already popular restaurant.
86 West was born after Frank took a long look at what he felt the community was lacking: nightlife. In response, his latest venture will feature two large bars, a dance floor and plenty of space for live entertainment, which Frank plans to supply on a nightly basis.
Along with the launch of his new establishment, Frank has also given the Knight House a new energy. Both venues will feature redesigned, inventive menus. Executive Chef Will Lewis, who has been by Frank’s side since day one, says his new offerings will allow customers to “design their own meal.”
Beyond the 15 to 20 new tapas-style small plates, Frank and Lewis are introducing a distinct, Asian-infused character to their menu. Both delicious and healthy, their new sushi and sashimi selections will take center stage as their latest culinary options.
While the tried and true staples of the Knight House will remain, the new menu has been designed to afford the customer a truly unique experience. “You can come in, have a cocktail and choose your own adventure,” says Lewis. “We take advantage of our resources. We offer our customers the best ingredients at a good price.”
And focusing on his customers’ needs remains a driving force for Frank. “People shouldn’t have to give up everything in bad times,” he says. “When I started seeing less and less of my regular customers, I knew what I had to do.” Keeping his faithful patrons in mind, Frank made the bold decision to slash his entire price list by 15 to 20 percent.
“It all boils down to people,” he explains. “There is not one element of our business that is not significantly improved by our customers. We have a great clientele.”
With the opening of 86 West, the possibilities seem endless for the Knight House. While they have always offered off and onsite catering, the new venue allows room for much larger events. “We are booking holiday parties now,” says Frank. As we dive head first into the holiday season, you just might find yourself looking for that escape. Promising that both his establishments will rival the best of what Philadelphia has to offer, Frank offers a word of advice: “Stay in town.” Next time you find yourself having an intimate dinner at the Knight House or dancing the night away at 86 West, you may wonder why you ever thought of leaving.
Go Online at www.theknighthouse.com