Pod is closing. Pod
Stephen Starr’s Pod to Close After Nearly 25 Years in Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s dining scene is losing one of its most distinctive restaurants. Pod, Stephen Starr’s futuristic University City eatery, will close its doors just shy of its 25th anniversary. The University of Pennsylvania, which owns the property, confirmed the closure, with final reservations available until February 22.
A Restaurant That Evolved With the Times
When Pod debuted in 2000, it was ahead of its time—a sleek, Space Age sushi spot designed by the renowned Rockwell Group. With a conveyor belt sushi bar and private dining booths that glowed in customizable colors, it quickly became a favorite among college students and locals. Over the years, its menu expanded to pan-Asian cuisine, and in 2022, it was rebranded as Kpod, shifting focus to Korean food.
However, the change didn’t stick. “Customers kept asking, ‘Where’s the sushi?’” Starr told Eater in 2024. Responding to demand, he transitioned the space back to a Japanese izakaya concept, blending elements of the original restaurant with a more refined approach.
A Legacy in Philly’s Food Scene
Pod was Starr’s third restaurant in Philadelphia, following The Continental (which closed in 2020) and Buddakan. Over the years, it became a launchpad for some of Philly’s top chefs, including Michael Schulson, who later helped open Buddakan in New York before returning to the city.
Despite its multiple reinventions, Pod never quite regained its early momentum. Now, as it prepares to close, it marks the end of an era for one of Philly’s most unique dining experiences.
