WSFS Celebrates Local Flavor from Conshohocken to Dover

As we enter the holiday shopping season, it’s important to support local businesses this Small Business Saturday and beyond. As a trusted advisor to businesses in the community for nearly 200 years, WSFS Associates understand the importance of entrepreneurs including businesses that have been around for years like the Conshy Girls Restaurant Group and new favorites Curry Pizza House and Hidden Tap and Barrel.

This Small Business Saturday, WSFS celebrates the businesses that offer more than a tasty bite to eat, place to shop, or service; they are crucial members of our community.

A Future-Forward Focus: The Conshy Girls Restaurant Group

For more than 20 years, Conshy Girls Restaurant Group has helped define the suburban Philadelphia dining scene with two Conshohocken restaurants, Gypsy Saloon and Southern Cross Kitchen, alongside full-service catering company, Conshy Girls Catering. Gypsy Saloon, a lively restaurant in the heart of the city hosts an eclectic menu with Italian flair, and across the river, Southern Cross Kitchen boasts a southern comfort brasserie menu with an upscale twist.

The “Conshy Girls” behind the brand, Kim Strengari and Marianne Gere, became instant best friends in 1990 while bartending on the Main Line. Now, more than three decades later, they have turned that friendship into a long-running partnership. In 2014, they added the “Conshy Guy” Michael Golden to the team to bring in capital and business management expertise and with the support of WSFS continue to grow.

Beginning their relationship with Bryn Mawr Trust, a WSFS company, Golden turned to the bank for all of their financial needs, a decision driven by WSFS commitment to service. The WSFS Business Banking team offered more than financial services, they supported their growth and best positioned their balance sheet to be resilient while preserving flexibility for growth opportunities.

“A huge milestone we are proud of is completing the purchase of the building that houses Gypsy Saloon. When we started the business, we were at the mercy of landlords,” said Golden. “Owning our buildings gives us leverage and optionality over our future.”

Beyond serving delicious food to the greater Conshohocken area, the restaurant hosts annual Reindeer and Halloween events, supports the community, the police and fire stations, and hosts drives and donations for the Colonial Neighborhood Council and food pantries.

“The Conshy Girls are a great example of the powerful impact of local business,” said Ed Morris, VP, Business Banking Relationship Manager at WSFS. “They have become pillars of the community and represent what a successful business and brand looks like. They excel in providing a great dining experience and serving amazing food.”

To celebrate Small Business Saturday, The Conshy Girls are offering 20% off gift cards that are good at both restaurants. The sale, which launches on Black Friday, will be available on their website. You can follow Gypsy Saloon on Facebook and Instagram and Southern Cross Kitchen on Facebook and Instagram.

Fueling Local Flavor: Curry Pizza House

Called a “hidden gem” in Dover, Nik Patel and his partner, Chirag Bhavsar’s new restaurant is reinventing the traditional flavor of pizza. Curry Pizza House blends American pies with Indian flavor.

“We make our dough in-house daily, prep our vegetables every morning, and keep our ingredients simple and clean,” said Patel. “People usually walk in curious, try something new, and then come back with friends because they didn’t expect the combination to work this well.”

Beyond a menu filled with familiar favorites and tasty fusion surprises, guests can enjoy a connected bar, Hidden Tap and Barrel, featuring cocktails, mocktails and local beers for a relaxed, lounge-style experience. Opening earlier this year, Patel says WSFS’ local feel, combined with stellar customer service, allowed him to take on such a large project.

“WSFS takes time to understand the people behind the business instead of just the paperwork in front of them,” said Patel. “The entire team has supported us from day one keeping everything clear and consistent.”

Starting as a commercial real estate agent and business owner, Patel always wanted to enter the food industry, but he had high standards. Once he tasted the pizzas and learned about the Curry Pizza House franchise, he knew they could build something special and convinced his partner to take the journey with him.

“Nik and his business stand out for its disciplined, hands-on leadership. He is in the restaurant everyday making sure the daily operations are going in a positive direction,” said Margie Crouch, SBA Relationship Manager. “He knew his market and believed in the concept.”

Nik gives the same advice to other business owners. “Be realistic with your time, your budget and your patience. Build something you’re willing to show up to every day,” said Patel.

Curry Pizza House will run holiday specials and Small Business Saturday promotions, while Hidden Tap and Barrel will roll out seasonal cocktails and mocktails. The team is also planning options for families who may not celebrate traditional holidays but still want somewhere to eat. You can follow Curry Pizza House on Instagram and Facebook and Hidden Tap and Barrel on Instagram and Facebook to learn more.

A Combination for Success

WSFS’ team of trusted advisors can help you grow your business or work with you to get your ideas started. Connect with one of our Associates to talk about financing, cash flow, or growth strategies.

WSFS Celebrates Small Business Saturday
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