By Molly Given
There’s a new event space opening up in Old City—and it’s quite sweet.
The Cacao Pod comes from a partnership with two historic dessert establishments in Philadelphia — Franklin Fountain and Shane Confectionery. The private venue opened earlier this month in Old City, on the same block as both of these locales. It aims to be a spot for locals to gather, but one day a week, Head Chocolate Maker Kevin Paschall can also be found in the ‘Pod’ roasting cacao beans to turn into Shane Chocolate.
The site itself is an artifact (and in the running to possibly be the oldest building on Market Street) estimated to date back to the late 18th century. And that’s shown in its details — the interior is clad in 19th-century wooden paneling and decorative trims with a bespoke drop ceiling design made from illuminated swirled white and amber slag glass, a release notes. And its all punctuated with soft white pendant lamps from the past.
All of the details were rescued from long-gone candy shops, and the former Bomberger’s pharmacy in Germantown with a focus on paying homage to a historic chocolate roastery atmosphere.
The Cacao Pod can hold up to 24 guests (or 18 if it’s a seated affair), and while inside, locals can find a full ice cream counter, soda fountain, and hot chocolate bar. Those who rent out the space have their choice of a full spread of ice cream sundaes, floats, or Shane Confectionery hot cocoa, with additional add-ons available.
The interior was designed and built by Chris Jones of Ready Set Go Design + Build, artist Jim Reed, and former co-owner Ryan Berley. As the release also notes, the sign out front (a painting of a cacao pod) was designed by artist Nicky Pasterfield. Everything was placed with intention, and every detail set to transport locals to another time.
The Pod is currently open for anyone who wishes to host a sugary event, but in the future, the team at Shane Confectionery and The Franklin Fountain hope to host private celebrations, and eventually reintroduce their classes and educational programming. One fun way to experience this venue in the future will also be coming next summer: Historic Philly will be partnering with both dessert establishments to host ice cream and chocolate history tours that will start and end at the Cacao Pod (more details will be released soon).
To find out more information and to book your event at The Cacao Pod (104 Market St.), visit shanecandies.com/the-cacao-pod
Keywords
Cacao Pod,
Shane Confectionery,
Franklin Fountain,
Old City,
Chocolate Maker