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Casual, airy and accessible, Route 6 looks like it's going to be awesome. Expect a serious raw bar program, classic dishes such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, crab cakes and johnny cakes, as well as daily whole fish specials from the restaurant's impressive wood-burning oven and grill. Plus lobster bibs. (Photos by T. Scheid for GPTMC)

It’s been a busy 2011 so far for Stephen Starr in Philadelphia. And we’re reaping the rewards.

Already this year, Starr has opened up Talula’s Garden in Washington Square, Frankford Hall in Fishtown, and just a few weeks ago, Il Pittore in Rittenhouse Square.

And now he’s putting the finishing touches on what is sure to be another exceptional addition to the Starr Restaurant repertoire: Route 6 on North Broad Street.

We were fortunate enough to get a sneak peek at Route 6, and we can say this: we can’t wait for its doors to open. Here’s an overview of what to expect once Route 6 debuts later this week — first service will be dinner on Friday, November 18:

The Location

Route 6 is at 600 N. Broad Street at the corner of Mt. Vernon, one of several exciting new developments coming to North Broad Street. Marc Vetri will be opening a new restaurant next door, coming in January. Joe Volpe has already opened his Vie catering venture, which is in addition to plans for new housing and a new light design installation, all of which are contributing to an exciting new energy permeating the neighborhood.

The Ambience

Route 6 is named after the famed highway that begins in Provincetown, Mass., and runs through the heart of Cape Cod. The restaurant is also situated, incidentally, on Broad Street, also known as Route 611.

The design evokes the charm of classic coastal New England, with a modern twist. There’s an open kitchen and large wood-burning oven, filling the space with a warm, hearth-like essence and the smells of oak and fruit woods.

The space includes an open-air courtyard with outdoor seating, leading to the rustic, white-washed wooden exterior of the restaurant. The decor includes antique window panes, which also serve as curio cabinets with nautical artifacts such as knotted sailors’ ropes and fishermen’s tools. Real sailboat sails bedeck the windows. A double-sided fireplace anchors the north side of the restaurant, complete with comfy lounge area, while a large skylight helps the dining room feel airy.

Also: the table settings have claw crackers, mallets and, yes, lobster bibs. We’re huge fans of the lobster bibs.

The Food

Executive Chef Anthony DiRienzo, previously Executive Sous Chef at Morimoto and Executive Chef of Buddakan in Atlantic City, is serving dishes inspired by the coastal towns spanning Maine to Maryland. Integral to Route 6’s culinary offerings are the restaurant’s wood-burning oven and grill, which add a distinct flavor to the menu and ambiance to the dining room.

Diners can expect a robust raw bar program and dishes such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, crab cakes and Johnny cakes, as well as daily lobster and whole fish selections. The crunchy, house-made oyster crackers and specially spiced tartar sauce prove the kitchen’s meticulous attention to detail. The wood-burning oven and grill add distinct flavor to the menu.

Non-seafood dishes will include grilled steaks and fried chicken, while the dessert menu will feature a selection of freshly baked seasonal pies and cobblers.

The Drinks

Route 6 will feature 20 beers by the bottle and six on tap, including an unfiltered Rye ESB called “Route 6 Ale,” created exclusively for the restaurant by New Hampshire nano-brewery White Birch Brewing. Guests will eventually be able to buy the beer to take home in custom-labeled 22-ounce bottles. Rounding out the beverage offerings will be a 40-bottle wine list and seasonal cocktails.

All in all, Route 6 is going to be another great addition to city’s dining offerings. It’s a fun new spot where you can go for a variety of reasons: a date, dinner and drinks with friends, a full-on clam bake… you get the idea. Check it out early and often — Starr has another hit on his hands.

Route 6 will serve dinner Sunday-Thursday, 5-10 p.m., and Friday-Saturday from 5-11 p.m. Call (215) 391-4600 for reservations or you can make them online.

Route 6 – Opening Friday, November 18
600 N. Broad Street
www.Route6Restaurant.com