Anniversary Dinner

[jba1216]

We are deciding where to go for our FIRST wedding anniversary dinner!! We have a reservation at Heirloom in Chestnut Hill. But we're also contemplating Savona, Majolica, and Parc Bistro. (I know, we're all over the map...we're pretty central to all of them and don't mind a drive).

Thoughts on which has the best combination of food and ambiance for this occasion??

Thanks!

[Boognish]

Bibou. Call and talk to Charlotte sometime in the afternoon.

[JanR]

Second Bibou if you can get in. Birchrunville is lovely but usually a two month wait.

[jba1216]

Thanks for all the feedback and suggestions!! We have a reservation at Savona! :)

[bsims76]

I've only been to Parc and Majolica - I agree with the previous comment about Parc not exactly being a "anniversary" place. Coincidentally, we went to Majolica for our first anniversary around this time last year (also did our rehearsal dinner) - great food and extremely reasonable prices, it's small and usually quiet, basically the polar opposite of Parc. Only thing I'm usually not thrilled with are their desserts - not big enough for a pastry chef. Of these two, Majolica, hands down - we've done brunch there since, but have been remiss about returning for dinner (one year old makes it difficult to get out!).

This year I was initially thinking of the Birchrunville Cafe, haven't been yet, but heard nothing but excellent things and it seems much more laid back/quiet than most you'll find down the city. That being said, I was lucky enough to score chef's counter seats at Zahav this saturday, so that'll be our second anniversary... It'll be a bit more busy than your typical anniversary venue and since there are 4 seats we'll need to share, but couldn't pass up the opportunity...

[arepo]

They all have their good points but for a first anniversary? Hands down, Savona. It's got it all -- romance, fine food, classic service and perfect ambience.
Felicitations to you both and bon appetit!

[JanR]

Having been to all four, I would second Majolica. However, are you limiting yourself to these four choices?

[arepo]

Another thought for a special occasion is the Waterworks in the Art Museum area.
A more romantic place, overlooking the Schuylkill River, cannot be found. And the service and food are above par.
Make sure to tell them it's your anniversary.

[barryg]

Was just thinking about Waterworks as the gf loves to dine near water. Have heard bad reviews of the food in the past. Any other opinions on the food here? For the prices I would at least want above average. Seeing "Hershey's® Special Dark Chocolate Duck Breast" (yes with the ®) on the menu is a pretty big red flag to me.

Also is it possible to get drinks there and still have a view?

[bluehensfan]

Yikes! At least they sprung for the Special Dark?Or maybe it's part of a locally sourced menu. Oh I forgot...Hershey's makes chocolates in Mexico now. I'm surprised Waterworks didn't pick up on that and call it a mole.

[Bacchus101]

Additive to the' Hershey makes Chocolate in Mexico' comment: they also make chocolate in São Roque, Brazil ,Stuarts Draft, Virginia; Lancaster, Pennsylvania; Hazleton, Pennsylvania; Memphis, Tennessee; Robinson, Ill. . On September 18, 2012, Hershey opened a new and expanded West Hershey plant. The plant was completed at a budget of $300 million.

[Bob Loblaw]

d'oh!

[Hungryin theBurbs]

I haven't been, but have heard terrible things about the food from several different people.

[arepo]

I must agree that Waterworks pales next to Savona. I was mainly thinking of the romantic aspects of Waterworks but the food can be either very good or very mediocre. I 've had both there.
I am sticking with Savona. That's where I'd want to be for an anniversary dinner.
Heirloom is really terrific but the atmosphere for an anniversary leaves a bit to be desired. Very noisy.

[bluehensfan]

Of your choices, I've only been to Parc. While it's romantic in a Parisian sort-of-way, Parc strikes me as being kind of loud and boisterous for an anniversary dinner.