Wanamaker Building gets zoning approval for new dining and retail space

The Philadelphia Zoning Board granted approval on Wednesday for new food and beverage operations in the historic Wanamaker Building.

The decision allows developers to convert the 30,000-square-foot Grand Court into a mixed-use area featuring formal restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries. The space has remained largely vacant since Macy's closed its doors last year.

Connor Burke, principal at Alterra Property Group, stated that the approval moves the project forward toward a 2028 reopening. He described the plan as an effort to return natural light to the interior, which has been blocked since World War II.

Construction crews are currently installing scaffolding around the structure. Work is already underway on the upper levels, where 622 apartments are being built with a rooftop pool and other amenities. The building, which opened in 1911, stands on East Market Street across from City Hall.

Burke said the design includes a new arcade of shops and kiosks at the Chestnut Street entrance to guide visitors into the reimagined Grand Court. He noted that the goal is to make the space accessible again for people to view the organ and experience the architecture.

The Crystal Tea Room remains open to the public while renovations continue elsewhere in the building. Burke added that the traditional holiday light show and organ performances are expected to return in 2028.

He said the development team is focused on preserving the building's history while introducing modern elements. Burke emphasized that the Eagle statue and the holiday season are central to the building's identity for locals and tourists alike.