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Question about the grand tasting menu at Vetri's

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:19:59 GMT

We do the grand tasting menu on most visits. While it is a lot of food, we took my 87 year old mother last year with high hopes that we'd get extra tidbits because she doesn't eat very much these days - she cleaned up every crumb! The grand tasting also gives you such an array of Marc's food that you'd miss ordering off the menu

Fun gifts for a Phila Foodie

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:17:03 GMT

my bad - I assumed a gift cert to the headhouse market

What sandwich to order at Tony Luke's?

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:22:17 GMT

roast pork w/ sharp prov and log hots

Attention Philly hounds! Car-less visiting L.A. Chowhound needs to know-- Where is the best Philly Cheesesteak available by SEPTA (subway and W2 lines)

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:58:23 GMT

I totally agree with the DiNic's choice. It's right off Market East. I would also say that walking to South St. is a waste, at least if you are eating at Jim's. My last steak there years ago was dry and gristly. Rick's in the Bellevue is decent and takes no time at all to get to from Reading Terminal, and then you are a block from dessert at Capogiro.

Estia

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:55:04 GMT

I have never tried the steak at Estia because the seafood is great. My son has had chicken a number of times at Estia and it's very good. Nothing all that fancy but cooked perfectly and tasty.

Desperately Seeking Foie in Pittsburgh

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:53:05 GMT

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/cityregion/s_306972.html Of course, this is old news. In fact, I think the place is under new ownership, but not new management. I've always enjoyed dining there and never even thought about foie gras.

Restaurant near the Academy of Music in Philadelphia.

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:46:58 GMT

Estia http://www.estiarestaurant.com/menu_view.asp?lid=1&mid=15&cid=47 is across the street from the Academy of Music (on Locust) and has a $30 3 course pre-fixe theater menu. They have great grilled fish and octopus. I think the food is better than El Vez IMO but El Vez may be more appealing to your sisters because it's definitely more funky and more of a visual treat. Whatever you do resist the temptation to go to Ted's Montana Grill a few blocks south.

Seeking Good Seafood and BYOB in Pittsburgh

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:19:23 GMT

I would recommend Avenue B, which just opened last week on Centre Ave near the Market District. It is BYOB and I had an excellent meal there last week. Definitely has atmosphere that would be conducive to a birthday meal.

Chinese in Bucks and Hunterdon Counties?

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:36:23 GMT

IMHO, there are no 'decent' Chinese restaurants in Hunterdon County, never mind 'good'. There used to be a place called Jan's China Gourmet in Whitehouse Station (Route 22E) but it closed. I never went to Jan's but it seems that people either loved it or hated it. Jan's has been replaced by a new Asian restaurant that seems to offer mainly Thai and Japanese dishes. There are a few Chinese items on the menu but it is certainly not what you'd call a Chinese restaurant.

Please help finalize Philly list!! (Researched)

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:54:33 GMT

SquareBurger is closed for the season.

Great Burgers in Chestnut Hill or Mount Airy?

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:26:59 GMT

I agree with the recommendation of the Tavern on the Top of the Hill with the real blue cheese on the burger, and I like their spicy fries too.

Looking for great fish & chips in Philadelphia.

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:11:20 GMT

I liked the Fish and Chips at the Bards.

Help getting to Brauhaus Schmitz on South Street

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:47:49 GMT

There's a lot at 5th St between Spruce and Pine (I think there's also an entrance on 6th) that, at least the last time I parked there, had a pretty decent late night rate if you parked after a certain time, I think 5pm or 6pm.

Brauhauss Schmitz: Philly

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:46:07 GMT

I had the Käsespätzle and thought it was pretty good, albeit a little overpriced at $15. The portion seemed similar to what I'd get for $11 at Ludwig's.

Low-key Bar in Center City?

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:50:06 GMT

Why hasn't there been any "b.s." about the Locust Rendezvous or McGlinchey's, two dive bars in the same neighborhood? At McGlinchey's, I can get a good whiskey for $3 or $4 and unlike Oscar's, it's actually what I ordered.

Which Steakhouse? Which Steak?

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 04:35:01 GMT

It's a close call between Cap Grille and Barclay Prime but I have to give the edge to Barclay Prime. Kansas City Strip is my steak of choice there. Get the creamed spinach also. Best in the City.

Seeking a Pittsburgh dinner rec for Friday night

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 04:16:01 GMT

Iovino's in Mt. Lebanon might meet your needs (and your dad's). It's BYOB with $5 corkage. Had a delicious dinner there a couple weeks ago.

thanks for Modo Mio (Philly)

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 01:50:05 GMT

We just returned from a sumptuous meal at Modo Mio and it's very worth the trip! The waiter was almost apologetic that their portion sizes were modest, yet due to the wonderful flavoring and the balance of carbohydrates, fats and vegetables, it was the perfect serving sizes. The pasta is light-a wonderful juxtaposition to the rich and ample sauces. We enjoyed the menu creativity, i.e. the lasgna with marshmallow enfused sauce, the lovely starters, and the complimentary digestive. The chef made the rounds and charmingly took an interest in our table (with a toddler) and remembered our names, soliciting after our meal and wishing us a good evening. And a good evening it was! We would definitely enjoy a pleasant meal with them again. Thank you, Modo Mio!

Pizza in Pittsburgh

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:43:16 GMT

Agree on Dinette's excellence, but note that most of the posts on this thread predate Dinette, And if you look at 5th from top, you'll see a mention in a post from this past July. Plus there are a bunch of other threads on Dinette.

In Search of Corn Tortillas in Philadelphia

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:16:29 GMT

Los Taquitos del Pueblo has freshly made tortillas--when they have their booth at the Head House Square farmers market you can watch them being made from a big pile of masa. I've not been to the restaurant but I assume it's the same. Maybe they'd sell a couple dozen. Also, what about 12th St Cantina in the Terminal?

Looking for restaurant in Reading, PA

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 22:40:16 GMT

I have not been to Dan's in a while, but I do recall it being a great experience. I will add my vote for Judy's also.

LA Chowhound needs Pittsburgh help

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:03:10 GMT

glad you enjoyed your trip!

Sabrina's, Cafe Estelle, Cafe Lift, Carman's, Morning Glory, or....?

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:20:24 GMT

YES, Carman's is worth the hassle!!! I have had some awesome brunch meals there. It's a very small, cozy, eccentric atmosphere - so be prepared for a wait. Although, I have never waited more than 20 minutes in all of my experiences there. Carman is the only person cooking, she is great. Morning Glory, Honeys, Sabrinas are great too. Although, I don't waste my time there anymore and just go straight to Carman's.

Cocktails in Philadelphia

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:15:27 GMT

BarryG's list is perfect, stick with that. My best friend loves Pegu Club in NYC and her favorite bar in Philadelphia is Southwark, and is a big fan of Franklin.

unique bars/lounges for upscale bachelor party in Philly?

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:40:52 GMT

if you don't need food: franklin mortgage and investment co if you need food: southwark

19th Century Philadelphian Festive Menu...Need Help!

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:38:50 GMT

Here are a couple columns from the esteemed Rich Nichols that may help: http://www.philly.com/philly/restaurants/43444067.html http://www.philly.com/inquirer/food/20091112_On_the_Side_.html

Domenico's in Blue Bell Opens

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:04:05 GMT

Apparently Domenico's in Blue Bell, the former Blue Horse, opened for dinner yesterday. Their website says they'll serve lunch eventually, just not yet. I'd be interested in knowing if anyone's planning to go and how it is.

Domenico's in Blue Bell Opens

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:01:10 GMT

Updates (2009) on Indian restaurants in Philly area

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:12:22 GMT

Thanks for the detailed review. If I remember correctly, TOI serves a super flavorful garlic naan and equally good puffy bread on the weekends - YUM. I'm surprised you didn't opt for the rasmalai (sp) for dessert. It's hit or miss - depending on whether they are leftover from the week prior, but I definitely leave room for a couple of them. I agree that the oily sauces at TOI will be better suited in the winter months. I just hope the prices remain the same.

Slider Rolls

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:40:26 GMT

I have gotten slider rolls at the Super Fresh on Delaware Ave and also at the headhouse farmer's market from Wild Flour Bakery (brioche)

PHL - Blue Sage chef coming to Philadelphia

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:21:40 GMT

Do you mean Siam Lotus for the Thai place? That place was awesome, but closed a while ago (I thought). That was on my mind as an example of a good place not making it because of the tough neighborhood. "Eraserhead District," some call it, though that really refers to the part below SG. I love Jose's too. I have not found a better burrito in Philadelphia, or even close. It is rare that I am cutting through those parts, but whenever I am, I stop for a burrito. Those blocks in there are pretty shady though...

village whiskey - chew man chu - fish

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:25:21 GMT

it's been an eventful fall for restaurant openings in philly, so i thought i'd share thoughts on three relatively new places. village whiskey (20th and sansom) garces' latest venture is probably old news on these boards by now. But if you haven't stopped by to try the burger, cancel whatever plans you have tonight, and gird your liver for the double-whammy of whiskey and a fat-laden joy-patty. for my money, the village burger with a fried egg and jasper hill cheddar is nirvana: the juicy and perfectly seasoned meat and the richness of the runny egg hit that primal umami craving, while the sharp chedder cuts through to provide contrast. it's close, but i'd take that over the whiskey king, which is delicious but strikes me as a bit overwrought. but again, the burger is known here. the reason i was really excited about vw is the connecticut-style lobster roll (though they don't call it that). for the uninitiated, CT-style rolls are served hot, with mayo-less, butter-poached meat. the standard-bearer for me is neptune oyster in boston. stacked against that, the vw version, served with a lemon aioli and smoked bacon, disappoints. mind you, there's nothing wrong with their exectuion: the lobster's hot and cooked properly. but the whole point of a CT-style roll is to put the lobster on center-stage, unadorned. it's lobster, brioche bun, butter. that's it. it strikes me as a shame to cover the flavor with the zesty lemon and the bacon and the whatnot. chew man chu (broad and pine) a couple of weeks ago, we hit this new pan-asian spot that replaced du jour in the symphony house. the chef is tyson wong ophaso, who opened new york's chinatown brasserie. the new space is one large room, bright and loud. cooks clang away in the open kitchen, while we watched from the bar seats. there's table seating along the north wall and in the back, while the middle of the room is dominated by a huge, lit communal table. it's a little overwhelming and i wonder if it's the best use of space (there seems to be a lot of dead area in the middle of that table that nobody can reach). when we visited, the height difference between that table and the stools created a really awkward eating situation, but the hostess told me that they were cutting it down to size that weekend. enough about the decor. scanning the looong menu of small and mid-sized plates, you realize what this place is: david chang's momofuku (down to the famous five-spice pork bun) but with a menu on steroids. and for the most part, that's actually a great thing. the oxtail soup dumplings are served in a sublime ginger and tarragon broth, though the actual soup dumplings are at best an approximation of the real deal. satisfyingly crispy scallion roti come with an addictive sweet chili dipping sauce. the real winner, though, is the aforementioned momofuku-style steamed pork bun. outstanding succulency in the pork, a really nice hoisin sauce, and an excellent bun. sit at the bar and watch the chefs pull out slabs of pork belly and slice of pieces for orders; it'll make you want to order a dozen. the menu is so long that there are bound to be less successful plates. of what we sampled, that included the following: crispy chicken garlic roll, shanghai duck lettuce wrap, and the pad thai. we were glad to try to them, but the flavors were a little less distinct / more generic so we probably wouldn't order any of these again. no question about it, though: we'll be back. fish (17th and lombard) we visited fish, the larger, new restaurant from the owners of little fish, quite a while ago, so this review isn't fresh. quick impressions from what i can recall: it's nice to have another good oyster place in town. the octopus carpaccio appetizer is creative and wonderfully executed. the skate wing with truffled spaetzle? sigh-inducing. just as with little fish, stollenwerk knows how to do innovative things while still respecting the robust natural flavors of his seafood. our only complaint is that the dishes were uniformly a little on the salty side - the entrees especially. it's a funny quirk because it's the only criticism we had of little fish as well. no matter, it's a minor quibble with an otherwise exceptional place.

Lunch at Jose Garces' Village Whiskey

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:02:04 GMT

It is kind of ridiculous to break it out that way, but $9 is really cheap for a high end burger, and $12 is not bad at all. Good Dog's famous stuffed burger is $11 in a pub setting (though that comes with fries). I think the Butcher & Singer, Parc, and Rouge burgers are all about $15 though I think those places include fries, too. Casual pubs outside of Center City with "elite" burgers are in the $10 range (Standard Tap, Royal Tavern). I guess they figure most people will order with cheese and add fries, both of which are high margin items, and the < $10 price tag makes it seem cheaper on the menu.

DeTerra Wine Bar - all I can say is wow!

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 23:25:47 GMT

On our November visit, the wine list had several imported labels as well as a number of domestic. The fries with my steak were wonderful! The server was competent (but the reservation clerk could use some help). Our wines were great, by the glass and served promptly. Maybe time has been a benefit.

Heading to Philadelphia for 2 days ONLY - have done research! Advice Rq Pls

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 23:11:54 GMT

You can go to Jim's Steaks right on South Street for steaks. They are my favorite!

Confection Perfection in Bucks County?

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:58:53 GMT

Wish I had seen this sooner; I have had multiple experiences with this bakery. The only disappointment was my friend's wedding cake but probably due to poor communication between them all. Glad everything went well!!!

Anyone been to Avenue B in Shadyside (Pittsburgh)?

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:26:10 GMT

Has anyone been to Avenue B in Shadyside? Where Istanbul Grille used to be? It just opened up a couple weeks ago (I think). Trying to figure out if I should give them more time to "work out the kinks". Looking for info on menu/food quality, price range, management/service skill... I know it's BYOB, which is attractive. Thanks!

Tiffin: Elkins Park

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:07:47 GMT

It's at the corner of Old York Road and Church, in the same complex as Marco Polo and Szechuan Mandarin. Please go! That's a cursed location for most restaurants, and I really, really want Tiffin to survive there.

La Cava - new ownership

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:42:32 GMT

Excellent news indeed. It was a one-time reastaurant, after one visit no one went back because of the owner. Since the 2 Indian places in Lansdale are not that great at all I'll always welcome another good (yes, emphasis GOOD) Indian restaurant! And in lovely downtown Ambler no less, I know where I'll be eating before a show at the theatre!

What is THE food-related item that defines Philadelphia (gift idea)??

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:21:04 GMT

actually tony luke's frozen cheesesteak's are supposedly edible. my best friend (also a philly native) lives in austin and her man ordered them for her for her birthday. she was surprised that they were better than decent (so i am sure a non-native may even do backflips for them). they also ship frozen pork sammies too....oh no, it's $27.95 though..... http://www.tonylukespronto.com/

Bedford PA

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:41:30 GMT

Hi, You might want to check out the Union Hotel in Everett, PA. It's about a 20 minute drive, but it's been totally renovated and is reasonably priced. I've been to the 1796 room twice--loved the ambiance, but thought the food was dull and overpriced. Lots of people like the Jean Bonnett Tavern, it's fine too: http://www.jeanbonnettavern.com/

Thoughts on Garces' restaurants, and the Next Iron Chef

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:33:37 GMT

Congratulations Chef Garces!

Baja Fresh in Montgomeryville

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 03:33:30 GMT

i'm going to have to check the shrimp taco out! sounds yummy. :)

Birthday dinner this Wed., Jenkintown or very close

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 01:48:04 GMT

Thanks for the replies. Tiffin is a great suggestion - when we lived in the city, we frequently got takeout from the Girard Ave. location, and loved it. We're planning on Jules for Tues. night, the night of the move. We've only been there once but did like that whole wheat crust.

Need PA-centric foods for my new book

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 01:06:51 GMT

What about the Schmitter sandwich? Maybe it is too specialized, but now that it is served at Citizens Bank Park it can be included? I eat one a year...soooo good!

Where to buy a turducken in philly?

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:39:22 GMT

Oh yeah. It was enough for 20 people. We had about 15 people on thanksgiving and it took another 2-3 days for all of us to finish it.

HARRISBURG--MANGIA QUI

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:52:46 GMT

OMG! The Tuscan Grille must be the second best steak of my entire life. Well, half of it -- I had to split with my man (22 oz. are you kidding me? Who can eat that much meat in one sitting???). Had the grilled king trumpet mushrooms & endive salad with olives, pistachios, and peppadews as apps, both of which were really nice. Split the rigatoni with maitake mushrooms in truffled sheep's milk cheese, which were meh. Clearly used truffle oil, and the pasta was underdone, which is kinda ludicrous for an Italian place. If anything, they should have cooking their pasta right down to a tee. But the steak was perfect. Just perfect. I'd recommend the place for that dish alone, though I would recommend to split it, even if you just have an appetizer.

Keffir / Kefir Lime Leaves???

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 17:18:42 GMT

Often you will find them frozen at Asian markets (they freeze beautifully). In CC, Sue's at 18th and Sansom and Anastasio at 9th and Christian sell them fresh. Also, its KAFFIR. Thai cooking is incomplete without this ingredient for sure.