Brittingham's preparing to reopen

After six months of work, the circa-1743 Lafayette Hill landmark Brittingham's (640 E. Germantown Pike, 610-828-7351) is fixing to reopen in early November under owners Randy Feinberg and David Eckelmeyer.

With Nov. 7's opening of the nearby Barren Hill Brewery & Restaurant (the former General Lafayette Inn), this slice of Montgomery County will be hop-heavy and hopping.

Morrissey Architects lightened up Brittingham's dark wood panels and hunter green decor, and the interior has been reconfigured into three indoor areas (Tin Room, Elephant Bar, Elk Bar), each with its own bar. There will be a large patio, indoor-outdoor bar seating on elevated decks and a 75-seat rooftop bar.

Chef Joseph Frost will do an American pub menu (top price: $18 for Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout with lentils and whole grain mustard vinaigrette) - plus raw bar - to be paired with 24 beers on tap, cocktails and a wine list curated by sommelier Melissa Monosoff.

Frost will serve Soccer Breakfasts during all English Premier League and Philadelphia Union games, as well as selected international games from other leagues. Brittingham's will feature live music in the Elk Bar on weekends.

Early days will be dinner service only.