Fratelli's Italian Bistro in Center City closes

Brothers Greg and John Whiting have closed Fratelli's Italian Bistro, just off Broad Street at 1339 Chestnut St., just shy of its fifth anniversary.

Armed with the liquor license, Greg Whiting said they were looking for a new location in Center City, most likely with more seating. Business was fine, he said, but as the lease drew to a close with the prospect of a rent increase, it became clear that it wasn't feasible.

There's a sweet spot in restaurant size. In Fratelli's case, the 110-seater did not allow for large parties as well as a la carte business, he said.

The Whitings used to run the Italian Bistro nearby on Broad Street – which had more than double the seating – but lost their lease in May 2011 when the University of the Arts reclaimed the space for student dining.