Alfresco Dining
Limoncello
9 N. Walnut St., West Chester, (610) 436-6230
“The food is always fabulous. They’ve been doing it right for nearly 20 years.”
—Monica D’Ginto Sekela, West Chester
⋆Critics’ Choice
Afternoon tea
A Taste of Britain
Who says this beloved English tradition has to be stodgy? Debbie Heth Pierce serves an expertly poured and strained afternoon tea daily, accompanied by finger sandwiches, soups, salads, and scones with authentic spreads. All of it’s freshly made on site. 503 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 971-0390.
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Appetizers
Bar Avalon
116 E. Gay St., West Chester, (610) 436-4100; 818 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (610) 520-9700
Bagels
Country Bagel Bakery
145 E. Gay St., West Chester, (610) 696-8890
Barbecue
Jimmy’s BBQ
309 Lancaster Ave., Malvern, (610) 879-8805
⋆Critics’ Choice
Cupcakes
OsoSweet Bakery Cafe
Each is a piece of art worth appreciating—shortly before you’re overwhelmed by the delicious scent, silky-smooth icing and moist cake. Yum. 1609 Baltimore Pike, Suite 500, Chadds Ford, (610) 880-8118.
Bakery
Yori’s Church Street Bakery
15 N. Church St., West Chester, (610) 344-9674
“Their coffee cake is the best I’ve ever had—and my kids love their donuts.”
—Sean McGurk, West Chester
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Restaurant Beer Selection
Teresa’s Café and Next Door
124 N. Wayne Ave., Wayne, (610) 293-9909
⋆Critics’ Choice
Best-Kept Secret
Brandywine Valley Bread
At this popular family-owned spot, daily social media posts keep loyal customers apprised of what’s available. Bagels, baguettes, morning buns and white sourdough are among the more popular items. Get there early. 3941 Lincoln Hwy. E., Downingtown, (484) 698-8172.
Breakfast
Nudy’s Cafe
Various locations
Brewery
Victory Brewing Company
420 Acorn Lane, Downingtown, (610) 873-0881
Brunch
White Dog Cafe
Various locations
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Burger
Brick & Brew
Various locations
BYOB
Fellini Cafe of Media
106 W. State St., Media, (610) 892-7616
Cakes
Clay’s Creative Corner Bakery
700 Lancaster Ave., Berwyn, (610) 647-2119
⋆Critics’ Choice
Caterer With Heart
John Serock Catering
This award-winning catering team has always had a soft spot for the community they serve, whether it’s cooking Thanksgiving dinners for local youth and women’s groups, raising money for YMCA summer camp programs, or pitching in at the Chester County Community Foundation’s annual Sweet Charity event. 835 Lincoln Ave., A-2, West Chester, (610) 640-2836.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Outdoor Beer Garden
Brothers on the Brandywine Beer Garden
If your idea of a relaxing Sunday afternoon involves sippin’ and chillin’ in a shaded oasis alongside a flowing stream, Brothers checks all the boxes. Bring a chair or grab a picnic table and enjoy beer, cider or wine from Skippack Village’s Kershners Brewing Co. Hit the food truck, or bring a picnic basket. 2100 Strasburg Road, Coatesville, (610) 222-2739.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Chicken and Beer With a Korean Twist
Soko Bag
Shea Roggio and J.H. “Alice” Chang are the team behind one of the funkiest new spots in Chester County. Try the Soul Train tray, with a half or full pound of crispy chicken dusted in two of three unique coatings—bamboo, ghost or snow. 95 Nutt Road, Phoenixville, (855) 765-6224, sokobag.com.
Coffeehouse
Twin Valley Coffee
569 Wellington Square, Exton, (610) 286-6500
“Twin Valley is the best part of my Saturday morning routine. Their cold brew is a big hit in our house, but I love to treat myself to a chai latte.”
—Madi Coble, West Chester
⋆Critics’ Choice
Cheese Curds
Rivertown Taps
Chef Lewis Leiterman can’t get enough of this Wisconsin staple, experimenting as he goes. Rivertown’s recent Mexican street variety was a fan favorite—beer-battered cheddar cheese curds with chili-lime aioli, grilled sweet corn, jalapeño and queso fresco. 226 Bridge St., Phoenixville, (484) 924-9112.
Cheesesteak
Lorenzo’s Steaks and Hoagies
216 E. Market St., West Chester, (610) 696-5400
⋆Critics’ Choice
Cheesesteak
Steaks West Chester
Red-hot under-the-radar restaurateur Speer Madanat makes magic with simple ingredients—thinly sliced premium ribeye, chopped onion and Cooper Sharp. The superb seeded roll is the work of West Chester’s La Baguette Magique. 698 E. Market St., Unit 3, West Chester, (484) 373-5500.
Chef
The Black Cat Cafe’s Judy Link
42 Berkley Road, Devon, (610) 688-1930
⋆Critics’ Choice
Chef
Bar Lucca’s Will Langlois
For 15 years, Langlois has relished the challenge of crafting one exceptional seasonal menu after another—and, lucky for us, he continues to outdo himself. Inspired by his father, he also takes full advantage of the freshness that comes with foraging ingredients like ramps and morel mushrooms from the wild. 729 E. Hector St., Conshohocken, (610) 825-2700.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Classic Cheesesteak
Johnny’s Pizza
This South Philly-inspired beast packs a solid pound of shaved ribeye and one of five cheese options into a toasted 16-inch seeded roll. You’ll need a nap after this one. 1025 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (610) 525-4811.
co*cktails
Slow Hand
30 N. Church St., West Chester, (484) 999-8638
⋆Critics’ Choice
Collaborative Spirit
R-Five Wines and Sweet Amelia’s
This special partnership has resulted in some exciting culinary complements to the wines at R-Five. Recent highlights include charcuterie plates, ceviche, chicken kabobs, roasted turnips, upscale pizzas, seasonal tarts and a fantastic flourless chocolate cake. 206 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, (484) 364-4504.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Colombian Cuisine
Mi Pais
An easy-to-miss family-owned spot that should be on everyone’s GPS. We could live on the Columbian bacon, ceviche, and fried green plantains apps alone. Also try the empanadas, soups, arepas and kabobs. For heartier appetites, there’s a hand-cut steak, grilled pork and shredded meats. 477 Lancaster Ave., Malvern, (610) 251-0956.
Pizza (Takeout)
Pica’s Restaurant
1233 West Chester Pike, West Chester, (484) 983-3704
“I’ve been enjoying their pizza since 1957, when they started in West Philly. My dad ordered at the window every Friday for 67 years.”
—Mary Guzman, Newtown Square
Cookies
Yori’s Church Street Bakery
15 N. Church St., West Chester, (610) 344-9674
⋆Critics’ Choice
Cooking Classes
DiFabio’s
You don’t have to have experience in the kitchen to appreciate these weeknight cooking demos—and your first glass of wine is free. Preregistration required. 1243 N. Providence Road, Media, (484) 444-0850.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Date Night
Bar Avalon
Whether it’s an official date night or dinner with a BFF, John Brandt-Lee has you covered at Bar Avalon’s classy and cozy Main Line outpost. Arrive early to linger over drinks and apps at the marble-topped bar, then move to one of the comfy booths for an intimate dinner. 818 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (610) 520-9700.
Deli
Carlino’s Market
2616 E. County Line Road, Ardmore; 128 W. Market St., West Chester; (610) 649-4046
Diner
The Classic Diner
352 Lancaster Ave., Malvern, (610) 725-0515
Distillery
Bluebird Distilling
100 Bridge St., Phoenixville, (610) 933-7827
⋆Critics’ Choice
Dive Bar
Berwyn Tavern
For 68 years, generations of Main Liners have gathered at this rail-side pub and eatery, which has done an impressive job of changing with the times without losing its easygoing mojo. At the BT, it’s not uncommon to find grandparents and parents sharing drinks—and some solid bar food—with their younger offspring. Not bad for a so-called dive bar. 625 Lancaster Ave., Berwyn, (610) 889-9352.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Dog-Friendly Restaurant
Appetites on Main
Serving the area for over 20 years, this recently refurbished pub and eatery in the Main Street Exton complex has its own doggie menu, so you can dine on the patio with Fido. Popular items include beef or chicken steaks, hot dogs, and Miss Lucy’s Dogsticks (homemade natural treats). 286 Main St., Exton, (610) 594-2030.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Dumplings
Margaret Kuo’s Kitchen
A least 10 types of pan-seared or steamed dumplings are always on the menu at Kuo’s Granite Run Promenade location. Our favorite: Szechuan pork in spicy garlic sauce. 1109 W. Baltimore Pike, Suite A, Media, (610) 891-8880, margaretkuoskitchen.com.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Empanadas
V Empanadas
Stuffed with either short rib and potato, Mexican-style chicken, pork, cheese, or vegetables, these golden-brown pockets of homemade goodness are enhanced by various sauces. We also recommend the black beans and rice, fresh guacamole and queso fresco. 389 Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (201) 927-4970.
Farm-to-Table Restaurant
Roots Cafe
133 E. Gay St., West Chester, (610) 455-0100
Food Truck
Dos Gringos Mexican Kitchen
113 S. Olive St., Media, (610) 565-7794
French Cuisine
La Maison
1470 Old Ridge Road, Pottstown, (484) 680-2631
⋆Critics’ Choice
French Toast
Apple Walnut Café
At this Delaware County favorite, freshly baked bread forms the delicious foundation of this breakfast classic. Newbies can opt for the sampler—pound cake, banana and the signature apple walnut. 2924 West Chester Pike, Broomall, (610) 353-1384.
Fries
White Dog Cafe
Various locations
⋆Critics’ Choice
Full-Moon Feast
A Culture Factory
When the moon is full, Olga Sorzano of Baba’s Brew offers these unique seasonal family-style dinners that revolve around lunar themes. The ambiance is quite elegant—think tablecloths, candles and flowers. Events are ticketed and BYOB. 333 Morgan St., Phoenixville, (267) 738-1973.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Garden Dining
Terrain Cafe
A lush greenhouse setting and whimsical lighting provide a magical backdrop for enjoying creative, seasonally inspired brunch, dinner and beverage offerings. Once a BYOB, the Glen Mills location is now crafting co*cktails, stocking wine and hosting a weekly happy hour. 914 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills, (610) 459-6030.
Gastro Pub
Brick & Brew
Various locations
Gelato
Gemelli Artisanal Gelato & Dessert Café
12 W. Market St., West Chester, (484) 557-8482; 247 Bridge St., Phoenixville, (267) 309-3521
⋆Critics’ Choice
Gluten-Free Breakfast & Lunch
Good Life Organic Kitchen
Gluten-free isn’t simply a novelty at Good Life. Their smoothies and smoothie bowls come loaded with fresh fruit—and the maca- and ashwagandha-infused baked oatmeal raises the (breakfast) bar with its seed and fruit toppings. Our lunchtime pick: the sweet-potato black-bean burger. 559 Wellington Square, Exton, (484) 872-2244.
Gluten-Free Fare
The Tomato Shack
31 W. Gay St., West Chester, (484) 887-0241; 2 Harry St., Conshohocken, (484) 243-6053
⋆Critics’ Choice
Handmade Pasta
Mia Ragazza
Executive chef Felipe Calixto is the star of this newest destination from the crew that brought you Goat’s Beard. Calixto’s pappardelle, fettuccine and gnocchi dishes are a fitting reward for battling the evening traffic on 1-76. Or dive into the 20-layer lasagna, with beef and pork ragu and béchamel sauce. 4411 Main St., Manayunk, (267) 323-2143.
Happy Hour Specials
DePaul’s Table
7 E. Lancaster Ave., Ardmore, (610) 589-0500
⋆Critics’ Choice
Healthy Bowls
Lentil & Co.
This feel-good eatery fully embraces healthy living. Vegetarians get all they can handle with the Cool Kid bowl—lentils, quinoa, hummus, avocado, beets, carrots and green beans. The Savage and Psychedelic bowls offer meat protein in the form of tender grilled chicken. And don’t miss the velvety house-made hummus. 44 Rittenhouse Place, Ardmore, (484) 414-4917.
Healthy Menu
The Juice Pod
Various locations
House-Made Desserts
The Bakery House
604 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (610) 525-4139
Ice Cream
Browns Cow Inc.
30 S. Main St., Phoenixville, (610) 933-0695
Indian Cuisine
Shere-E-Punjab
210 W. State St., Media, (610) 891-0400; 301 Byers Drive, Glen Mills, (484) 841-6345
⋆Critics’ Choice
Inventive co*cktails
The Cage
With close to 20 World Cup-themed concoctions on its co*cktail list, soccer is king at this newish jungle-themed bar and restaurant. Around the World (electrolytes, vodka, apricot liqueur and the Greek spirit mastiha) is an ocean-blue tribute to Greece’s historic UEFA Euro victory in 2004. An iridescent pink drink with pop, the One-Touch (dragonfruit, pink grapefruit and strawberry-infused gin) is topped with a smoke-filled sphere. 711 S. Trooper Road, Norristown, (267) 652-7777.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Indian Cuisine
Saffron Indian Kitchen
If you’re new to Indian food, head to Saffron and try their top-notch tandoori. Lightly spiced, with chicken, lamb, shrimp or salmon in yogurt-based sauce, it’s the perfect entry-level dish. Don’t miss November’s Diwali Festival of Lights celebration, with its traditional vegetarian or meat-based thali platters featuring a variety of small portions, each with a unique flavor and texture. 145 Montgomery Ave., Bala Cynwyd, (484) 278-4112; 522 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 254-9100.
Italian Cuisine
Limoncello
9 N. Walnut St., West Chester, (610) 436-6230; 499 E. Uwchlan Ave., Chester Springs, (610) 524-3112
⋆Critics’ Choice
Italian Hoagie
A Cut Above Deli
At this 28-year-old Delaware County institution, there’s a difference between “Classic” and “Old” when it comes to Italian hoagies. The former is stuffed with prosciutto, genoa salami, ham capocollo and Provolone; for the latter, it’s ham capocollo, genoa salami and pepper shooters. Or you can stick to the regular Italian, with prosciuttini, genoa salami, ham capocollo and Provolone. We’ll take one of each. 3523 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, (610) 353-4543.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Neighborhood Bar
Marple Public House
Broomall natives John McKenzie and Nick Reynolds love their town—and now it’s loving them back. Keeping the bar and patio lively on most nights, regulars can’t get enough of the Lunch Lady Sloppy Joe, on a griddled potato bun. 31 N. Sproul Road, Broomall, (484) 420-4502.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Italian Steakhouse
Fiore Rosso
Though Marc Vetri is less of a presence at Fiore Rosso these days, the quality hasn’t suffered a bit. Menu standouts include the fresh pasta and the steaks (dry-aged in house). Finish your evening on a sweet note with a sundae made tableside. 915 Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (484) 380-2059.
Japanese Cuisine
Teikoku Restaurant
5492 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, (610) 644-8270
⋆Critics’ Choice
Kid-Friendly Restaurant
Pomod’oro Pizza & Italian Restaurant
At this tradition-minded eatery, grownups swear by Tony Cataldo’s baked lasagna, seafood ravioli and chicken Parm. More straightforward classics like cheese ravioli, chicken fingers, and spaghetti and meatballs keep the youngsters happy. 200 Chestnut St., Downingtown, (610) 873-0405.
Korean Cuisine
Kooma
123 N. Church St., West Chester, (610) 430-8980
Kosher Cuisine
Hymie’s Deli
342 Montgomery Ave., Merion Station, (610) 668-3354
⋆Critics’ Choice
Mini Donuts
Rose’s Little Donuts
Beth and Justin Campbell have turned a century-old brick building into an enchanting hub for donut lovers. Small but mighty, their namesake comes in creative variations like vanilla rainbow sprinkle, vegan cookie butter, Black Forest, lemon meringue and chocolate caramel crunch. Gluten-free is also an option. 22 N. Darlington St., West Chester, (484) 623-6688.
Late-Night Menu
Ron’s Original Bar & Grille
74 E. Uwchlan Ave., Exton, (610) 594-9900
Live Music
Ardmore Music Hall
23 E. Lancaster Ave., Ardmore, (610) 649-8389
Local Purveyor
Madi’s on a Roll
290 E. Lincoln Hwy., Exton, (484) 695-0162
Locally Sourced Produce
Gentile’s Fruit Market
Rt. 252 and Mary Jane Lane, Newtown Square, (610) 356-9755
Lunch
Brick & Brew
Various locations
⋆Critics’ Choice
Mac & Cheese To-Go
Sorelle Cucina
Go mobile with this gooey indulgence in a single-serving cup. Spicy buffalo chicken, Kennett Square mushroom and jalapeño-popper varieties come in convenient four-packs. 30 Conestoga Road, Malvern, (484) 994-9316.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Meatloaf
333 Belrose Bar & Grill
It’s definitely not Mom’s meatloaf. Executive chef Ross Essner makes his from Wagyu beef, serving it with cheesy grits, roasted Brussels sprouts and a Cajun shrimp pan sauce. 333 Belrose Lane, Radnor, (610) 293-1000.
Mediterranean Cuisine
Opa Taverna
40 E. Gay St., West Chester, (610) 696-4100
⋆Critics’ Choice
Mediterranean Cuisine
Damas Mediterranean Grill
Shawarma, kebabs, muhammara, hummus, tzatziki—Damas excels at just about everything. We’re also partial to the subtle crunch of the falafel, and the not-too-sweet baklava has a nice honeyed balance. 260 N. Pottstown Pike, Exton, (484) 873-3835.
Mexican Cuisine
El Limon Taqueria
Various locations
⋆Critics’ Choice
Mobile Espresso Bar
Cafe Gourmino
Need a java jolt at your next event? For Michael Soland’s hip coffee-cart concept, trained baristas work their magic with premium beans on top-of-the-line equipment. West Chester, (484) 848-7474.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Mocktails
Takumi Bistro & Bar
You might miss the alcohol in Takumi’s virgin pineapple mojito. But for those nights when you want to keep a clear head, it’s the perfect match for those sushi rolls. 821 Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 922-1788.
Muffins
The Farmhouse Coffee & Espresso Bar
115 W. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, (610) 269-1400
New Brewery
Artillery Brewing
4221 Ferne Blvd., Drexel Hill, (610) 626-2937
⋆Critics’ Choice
New Pizza Shop
Gentili’s Pizza & Steaks
Aside from your standard round pies, Tony Altomare offers a killer Old World Brooklyn rectangular version. Names like Godfather, Donato and Corleone give the menu a cool South Philly spin. 318 E. Lincoln Hwy., Exton, (610) 477-7747.
New Restaurant
The Blue Elephant Wayne
110 N. Wayne Ave., Wayne, (484) 580-6142
⋆Critics’ Choice
New Steakhouse
9 Prime
This latest area steakhouse from Top Chef Fabio Viviani is worth the wait. Artsy décor and bank-vault dining rooms provide the upscale vibe. Expect prime cuts, house-made pasta, lavish seafood towers and white-glove service. The impressive setup will eventually accommodate a downstairs speakeasy and an outdoor space. 9 N. High St., West Chester, (610) 365-3309.
⋆Critics’ Choice
New York-Style Bagels
Sweet Brew Cafe
Shipped directly from Long Island, these New York-style bagels are submerged in boiling water before they’re baked, giving them that irresistable crispy-chewy dichotomy. 158 Bridge St., Phoenixville, (484) 927-4795.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Outdoor Happy Hour
The Pullman Restaurant and Bar
It’s social hour on the patio at this trackside spot, with $10 drink specials featuring martinis, negronis, margaritas and other classics. Sophisticated snacks include lobster bites, tuna nachos, Brussels sprouts, oysters, beef sliders and shrimp skewers. 39 Morris Ave., Bryn Mawr, (610) 727-0777.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Overall Dining Experience
Daniel’s Restaurant + Bar
The culinary team at Daniels exhibits an impressive global flare that’s not overbearingly exotic, with just the right balance of modern and traditional. The inventive co*cktail program steals the show. 16 E. 1st Ave., Conshohocken, (610) 941-4652.
Oysters
Greystone Oyster Bar
7 N. Church St., West Chester, (610) 241-3369
⋆Critics’ Choice
Paninis
House
The 15-plus paninis available at House keep the focus on what they do best. The King Khan—spicy chicken salad with caramelized onions, sriracha and Gorgonzola cheese—tops the list. For some regional flair, try the Jersey Joe on marble rye, with roasted turkey, apple slaw, smoked bacon, Swiss and French dressing. There’s also an impressive list of vegan options. 110 S. Jackson St., Media, (610) 566-2505.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Pasta Lab
Anthony’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant
Anthony’s is the place for pasta purists. The impressive centerpiece of their pasta laboratorio is a high-end extruder from Italy. Brass plates make the pasta uniquely porous. The modern, Teflon-coated machines are faster, but the wait is worth it. 127 W. King St., Malvern, (610) 647-7400.
Pastry Chef
Sweet Amelia’s’ Ashley Hathaway
102 E. State St., Kennett Square, (484) 732-7943
⋆Critics’ Choice
Pico De Gallo
320 Market Café
This family-owned market’s pico—made fresh daily with avocados, tomatoes, red onion, garlic, lime juice and cilantro—pairs perfectly with their house-made chips. 713 S. Chester Road, Swarthmore, (610) 328-7211; 211 W. State St., Media, (610) 565-8320.
Pizza (Eat-In)
Pica’s Restaurant
1233 West Chester Pike, West Chester, (484) 983-3704
⋆Critics’ Choice
Plating
At the Table
To orchestrate his edible works of art, executive chef Alex Hardy employs a small offset spatula, six-inch tweezers and various spoons. 118 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 964-9700.
Poke Bowls
PokéOno
59 W. Lancaster Ave., Ardmore, (484) 413-2058
⋆Critics’ Choice
Power Lunch
Sovana Bistro
The ample $20 midday meal at Sovana includes a cup of soup, half a sandwich, a small salad and a petite dessert. Recent offerings have included a turkey BLT, a chicken salad sandwich, Kennett Square mushroom soup and a Caesar salad. 696 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, (610) 444-5600.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Pressed Juice
Properly Pressed Juices
Talk about getting it right. Jillian Maher soaks her organic produce in purified water and food-grade peroxide to eliminate any harmful herbicides and pesticides. A hydraulic press extracts the juice, which is bottled, labeled and given an all-important expiration date. 300 W. State St., Suite 106, Media, (484) 443-8427.
Private Dining Space
The Inn at Grace Winery
50 Sweetwater Road, Glen Mills, (610) 459-4711
⋆Critics’ Choice
Ramen
Rai Rai Ramen & Hawaiian BBQ
Stewed chicken, beef and vegetable broths provide the rich base for consistently superb miso, shoyu, shio and curry ramen variations. Hearty ingredients include fish cakes, oxtail, ribeye steak, fried shrimp and more. 124 E. Market St., West Chester, (610) 738-8808.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Restaurant Remake
Bierhaul Townhouse
James Mullally brings the same rugged panache that’s made Thornton’s Bierhaul Farmhouse such a success to the former Split Rail Tavern in West Chester. This version complements familiar food offerings like the smashburger and honey-peach Caprese salad with over 20 draft beers and a slew of co*cktails. 15 N. Walnut St., West Chester, (717) 918-0868.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Rooftop Views
Lark
Twin elevators whisk diners to a rooftop escape with an industrial-chic vibe, swanky bar mirrors and floor-to-ceiling windows. Grab a seat at the bar or request an outdoor table to fully absorb the sweeping views of Manayunk and the Schuylkill River. 611 Righters Ferry Road, Bala Cynwyd, (484) 434-8766.
Salads
The Tomato Shack
31 W. Gay St., West Chester, (484) 887-0241; 2 Harry St., Conshohocken, (484) 243-6053
⋆Critics’ Choice
Sandwich Bar
Pinwheel Provisions
Anjali Gupta moved her frozen-meal operation from Narberth to Bryn Mawr in November 2023, adding her “Wich Way” sandwich bar to the new location. The on-the-go concept features a focused menu of European-style sandwiches, salads and soups. We love the Scandinavian-style open-face Luisa, which piles chicken salad, blueberries, red onion, toasted almonds, fresh greens, mint and yogurt dressing atop polenta bread. 860 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, (215) 728-9893.
Sandwiches
Tredici Italian Market
185 Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 254-0323
⋆Critics’ Choice
Scones
Mimi’s Tea Cottage
Authentic British scones—warm from the oven with flavors like blueberry, chocolate chip and cranberry orange—are the headliner at Mimi’s lovely afternoon tea. 30 S. High St., West Chester, (484) 355-0970.
Seafood Restaurant
Ludwig’s Grill & Oyster Bar
2904 Conestoga Road, Glenmoore, (610) 458-5336
Seasonal Bar Garden
The Creamery of Kennett Square
401 Birch St., Kennett Square, (484) 732-7040
Seasonal Cuisine
White Dog Cafe
Various locations
Sommelier
Sovana Bistro’s Adam Junkins’
696 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, (610) 444-5600
Sports Bar
Barnaby’s Restaurant & Pub
Various locations
⋆Critics’ Choice
Sports Bar
Flip & Bailey’s
Happy hour and food specials coincide with the schedules of all Philadelphia sports teams, and you can watch your game on one of 20 flat-screen TVs. 902 Conestoga Road, Bryn Mawr, (610) 527-4826.
Steakhouse
Pietro’s Prime
125 W. Market St., West Chester, (484) 760-6100
Sushi
Kooma
123 N. Church St., West Chester, (610) 430-8980
⋆Critics’ Choice
Sushi Rolls
Osushi Wayne
Osushi’s extensive list of classic and signature rolls may be a problem for the indecisive. The heavy hitter is the Wagyu beef roll, with lobster tempura and a topping of slightly torched A5 Wagyu beef. 613 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (484) 584-4067.
Sweets Shop
Bridge Street Chocolates
175 Bridge St., Phoenixville, (610) 935-8100
⋆Critics’ Choice
Taco Bowl
Taco Mar
Taco Mar founder Danny Alkassmi lived in Southern California before making his way to West Chester, which explains the menu’s adventurous West Coast vibe. Octopus taco bowl, anyone? Various locations.
Tacos
El Limon Taqueria
Various locations
Takeout Menu
Hood’s BBQ
1664 W. Doe Run Road, Kennett Square, (610) 347-1670
⋆Cristics’ Choice
Tapas Dinners
Stave and Stable
Internationally themed tapas nights here include Spanish, French, Hungarian and Brazilian feasts, with $10 plates. The food is exceptionally prepared—and getting some background from the chef is a bonus. 232 King St., Pottstown, (484) 232-7016.
Thai Cuisine
Tai Me Up
301 Bridge St., Phoenixville, (484) 302-5141
⋆Cristics’ Choice
Thai Cuisine
Chabaa Thai Bistro
Executive Chef Moon Krapugthong remains a tireless culinary advocate of authentic Thai cuisine. She even travels yearly to her Bangkok home, researching new additions to her menu. Look for fresh takes on chive cakes, braised ribs and grilled shrimp. 4343 Main St., Manayunk, (215) 483-1979.
Vegan Cuisine
Roots Cafe
133 E. Gay St., West Chester, (610) 455-0100
Under-the-Radar Restauranteur
Speer Madanat
Wait Staff
Teca Newtown Square
191 S. Newtown Street Road, Newtown Square, (484) 420-4010
⋆Critics’ Choice
Waterside Dining
The Landing Kitchen
What was once an industrial garage now provides a chic and relaxing setting overlooking the Schuylkill River that’s perfect for enjoying hearty casual fare like grain bowls and a signature burger. Firepits and tasty co*cktails are also part of the package—and pups are welcome. 617 Righters Ferry Road, Bala Cynwyd, (484) 434-8765.
⋆Critics’ Choice
Wine Experience
Turks Head Wines
Allison Owen’s transformation of the historic 19th-century building that once contained downtown West Chester’s Church Street Market House should be complete this summer. Oenophiles can look forward to a tasting room, a lounge, and space for classes and private tastings. A VIP experience is also planned, and there’s already a bottle shop. Turks Head sources, produces and bottles all of its Bordeaux-style wines in Northern California. 120 N. Church St., West Chester, (610) 350-4183.
Wine Selection
Teca Newtown Square
191 S. Newtown Street Road, Newtown Square, (484) 420-4010
Winery
Chaddsford Winery
632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-6221
Related: 11 new Places for Main Liners to Dine at the Shore This Summer
