MEATSPACE
Pod, the recently opened Asian fusion restaurant in Philadelphia's University City neighborhood, has already become a popular hangout for employees of the 200-plus research and technology companies near the University of Pennsylvania.
It's easy to see why tech folks like the place, which is part of Stephen Starr's empire of six trendy and eye-popping local eateries. Pod's futuristic and playful decor features what restaurant designer David Rockwell calls "a big jungle gym for adults": Patrons can enjoy their drinks while lounging on a red, foam-rubber sculpture that seats 50. There's also a molded plastic chair that lights up when you sit on it.
At the sushi bar, customers can kick back and watch anime on a Godzilla-sized monitor while they're dining. The sushi rolls by on a conveyor belt that's equipped with a miniature video camera, so the sushi eating can be broadcast live on plasma monitors that are scattered around the restaurant.
Businessfolk can wine and dine (or sake and dine) their clients in one of the ten "pods" that give the restaurant its name. The pods are small, self-contained dining spaces that seat from 2 to 12 people. Three are private and feature translucent ceilings, wraparound windows, and a bank of lights in nine hues, so you can set the right mood. Color this place fun.
Pod: Inn at Penn, 3636 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, +1 (215) 387 1803
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