We already knew that Mims was gone, but now his namesake is as well, as The Freehouse will be returning, in about a week or so. Confused? So are we.

After a lackluster run, Villanova’s Maia has closed for good. It’s a shame really — though we had a terrible experience there, the concept was great. The execution, however, was not. And so it goes.

The Lincoln Court Shopping Center (The one with Giant and QVC Outlet — who can keep track anyway?) in Frazer has some new activity worth noting:

Finally, a fish store has cropped up between Wayne and Exton! Gadaleto’s, a NY mini-chain, sells fresh and prepared seafood. They may even have eat-in dining.

Ocean City’s Dixie Picnic has also set up shop, serving casual breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as their famous “upcakes”.

Times are tough, but these seem like two quality additions to Frazer, so get out and support them!

A few interesting tidbits courtesy WCdish.com:

• It appears CJ’s Sports Bar has had a very short lifespan; it’s closed and the space will reopen as Coyote West on 4/18. Not surprising, considering we visited on a Friday night during March Madness and the place was DEAD. A sports bar isn’t going to last without crowds in March. The real question: will Coyote be any better than before?
• Pietro’s Prime is teaming up with Capital Wine & Spirits for Wine Under the Stars on 4.28 from 630-830. Call (484) 760-6100 for more info.
• Lastly, a message from Avalon restaurant has been posted. It’s long but worth a glance for fans.

John Mims’ son has opened Johnny’s New Orleans Pizza Kitchen next to his dad’s BYOB in Phoenixville. They feature brick-oven style pies with crispy pita-style crust; sounds intriguing.

Coming from the minds that bring you Thai Pepper in Ardmore, Flavor in Wayne, Azie in Media, and Teikoku in Newtown Square, a steakhouse called Parker’s Prime in the old Roux 3 site (4755 West Chester Pike) by the Edgemont movie theater.

The wine list will be managed by winemaker/importer Gino Razzi of Penns Woods Winery.

A late summer/early fall 2009 opening is planned (so figure winter at the earliest ;o).

We’ve found ourselves in possesion of an extra 2009 Entertainment book for the Philadelphia West area, a $30 value. The book includes discounts to dozens of area restaurants and stores, including Shangrila, Desi Village, Blue Grotto, Chumley’s, Twin Bays, Casey’s, Neopolitan Deli, Pattymac’s, Java’s Brewin, Flanigan’s Boathouse, Appetite’s Delight, Chinese Delight, Dimeo Pizza, Pepper Mill, Himalyan, Genuardi’s, QVC outlet, Varani Formal Wear, Flag Lady, and many, many more.

So we figured we give it away to one lucky MLD reader! Here’s what you need to do to qualify:

• Become our fan on Facebook
• Become our friend on Facebook
• Follow us on Twitter

If you do all three, you’ll get three entries. If you’ve already signed up for one of these, don’t worry — those votes will also count.

So, just sign up between now and April 20 and we’ll put you in the drawing for the book. Good luck!

Box wine has quite a terrible reputation, and rightfully so. Franzia is consistently at the top of the “best selling wine in the US” list yet tastes like absolute garbage.

A new trend, however, is emerging in box wine, as several brands of quaffable wine are now available in boxes. In addition, these wines are greener (less waste) and last longer (3-4 weeks) once open — perfect for a glass or two during the week.

Have we peaked your interest? Well, now is the time to try them as “Black Box” is on sale at PLCB for $19.99 (for 3 liters) through May 2nd. Try the Shiraz.

Also, a recent visit showed “Killer Juice” also on sale for $18.99 — try the Cabernet or Pinot Grigio.