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Capogiro plans cafe in Old City

Stephanie and John Reitano have signed a deal at 233 Chestnut St. in Old City, next to the Best Western Hotel, for a cafe that will include a bar. The couple plans to relocate the liquor license from the University City location.

Capogiro, the gelato giant whose business has grown from a single store 11 years ago to four locations and a wholesale operation, is on the move again.

Stephanie and John Reitano have a deal at 233 Chestnut St. in Old City, next to the Best Western Hotel, for a cafe that will include a bar. The couple plans to relocate the liquor license from the University City location.

Stephanie Reitano says the new cafe - whose name has not been determined - will include gelato, of course, but will have a wood-fired oven. The Reitanos take regular trips to Italy for inspiration. Stephanie, who makes her own charcuterie at home, studied focaccia-making in Genoa, for example.

The 19th-century building, a former paper company, has beautiful features, she says, including a spiral staircase. They are working with building owner Tim Shaaban on the decor, which will feature a tin ceiling and a bar made from original wooden beams.

Timeline is this winter.