Table Talk: Blackbird's Capasso starts on second spot

Collingswood keeps growing.

Alex Capasso of Blackbird Dining Establishment (619 Collings Ave.) says he's starting work on West Side Gravy - a 50-seat contemporary diner - across the street at 616 Collings. "I kept looking out the window and saying, 'I wish somebody would open another restaurant here,' " Capasso says. He's also location-hunting in Philly.

Meanwhile, Colls crowds have found Joseph Tucker, who's owned a slew of eateries in Philly and at the Shore, including Joseph's, Joseph's on the Avenue, Pompeii, and Tucker's Steak & Seafood House. Tucker opened the South Jersey branch of Joe Pesce (833 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, 856-833-9888), an Italian-seafood BYOB, shortly after Thanksgiving. (Nothing to do with the actor Joe Pesci; "Joe" is Tucker and "pesce" is fish.)

The original Joe Pesce operated during the 2006 and 2007 summer seasons in Ventnor. Tucker then brought the concept - more seafood, lighter preparations, easier prices - to brother Robert Liccio's restaurant Pompeii (1113 Walnut St.). That place was reflagged Joe Pesce last fall.

The Joe Pesce in Collingswood - decked out in the blues and stainless steel of a casual market - also has a raw bar, fish display and open kitchen; a fish display is planned for Philly.

Expect to pay $15 to $29 for most entrees; it's open nightly, and weekday lunch will start in mid-April.

Also Collingswood-related: Jimmy Marino of Bistro di Marino (492 Haddon Ave.) opened an Italian takeout next door, called Bistro ToGo. . . . Il Fiore, an Italian BYOB, is under construction at 693 Haddon Ave. . . . The episode of Throwdown With Bobby Flay taped in January at the Pop Shop (729 Haddon Ave.) will be shown April 13 at 10 p.m. on the Food Network. The challenge was grilled-cheese sandwiches.

What's coming

Jim Kirk and Jake Hampson, bartenders/managers at Bishop's Collar, are converting the former Savannah at 1836 Callowhill St. into Kite & Key Tavern. Kirk promises lots of beers and solid food, and they hope to open at the end of May or early June.