As a native to Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs, a great way that I love to keep the culture of our neighborhoods alive is by visiting the amazing restaurants, cafés and bars that the area has to offer. Not only do I get to experience fantastic dining, but I get to share my favorites with my clients, friends and colleagues while also supporting local.
Keep reading to find out what my top five local restaurants are this season and hopefully you will get to experience them too!
Be Well Bakery & Cafe
The first on my list is Be Well Bakery & Cafe, which is located in the Huntingdon Valley area, which my team member Melissa and I just can’t get enough of. The bakery and cafe, which is owned and operated by husband and wife duo Ryan and Adriann. Adriann is the culinary mind behind the delicious sweet and savory treats, and Ryan uses his business degree to run the financial side behind the scenes. According to their website, the couple’s vision for Be Well was to share amazing fruit and veggie rich dishes that their clients would come back again and again for. With a multitude of different options on their menu, including gluten free and vegan options, they have been able to craft a menu that will have something on it for everyone to enjoy. Be Well also serves top notch coffee, smoothies and fresh juices, as well as made to order desserts for any occasion.
El Poquito
​​​If you’re looking for a refreshing margarita or a delicious curry cauliflower taco, then El Poquito on Germantown Ave in Historic Chestnut Hill is the place for you. According to their website, El Poquito was inspired by the beach side cantinas and taquerÃas of Baja Mexico to bring a bit of a vacation vibe to its patrons. Originally opened in 2015, the restaurant has become a staple on the Avenue for Happy Hours, date night spots and much more. While their menu features dishes you would expect to see at a great Mexican restaurant, they are also serving interesting other options like plantain tempura swordfish tacos and Impossible chorizo tacos. Stop by El Poquito for a pitcher or passion fruit margaritas and you are sure to have an awesome evening.
The Young American Cider Company
Another Germantown Avenue favorite is Young American Cider, which is conveniently located in Mt. Airy, serving an eclectic menu of hard ciders and non-alcoholic beverages like kombucha.
​​​​​​​Young American is a great option for locals looking for natural and gluten free options with a bit of a flair like their Blue Ginger or Bourbon & Bitters ciders. In addition to their tasty drinks, they also have a delicious list of food options too, like their savory hand pies, which range from spinach pie to the ‘Route 23’ pie, which features a classic Philly cheesesteak filling. Go check out the tasting room for your next gathering with friends or fun night out.
Gypsy Blue
The next great local spot you need to visit is Gypsy Blu, which is located right off of Spring Garden St in Ambler. Of the three I have mentioned thus far, Gypsy Blu is one of my favorites not only for the cuisine but also for the fun atmosphere. This unique restaurant offers an amazing rotating menu in their downstairs area with delicious flatbreads, tasty ‘Sammiches’, and a long list of specialty cocktails. Gypsy Blu also features a fun upstairs space called, Upstairs at the Blu, this fantastic upstairs space includes a special cocktail menu as well as a rotation of live music all year round on Friday and Saturday nights. With open outdoor seating, a gorgeous balcony and live music opportunities, you should go reserve your table now at Gypsy Blu.
Le Onde Ristorante
Last, but certainly not least, is Le Onde Ristorante in Elkins Park. Le Onde’s executive chef, Artur Haxhiu, who draws on experience from Albania, Italy, and Greece, has created a fantastic menu that you need to taste. Le Onde offers a fantastic selection for dinner and brunch, like a Peach Burrata antipasto for dinner or Smoked Salmon Benedict for brunch. They also have the option to enjoy a Chef’s Tasting Menu, which rotates seasonally and features 5-7 personal dishes from the executive chef. If you’re looking for a local fine dining experience like none other, I recommend stopping by Le Onde Ristorante.
Go check your calendars and select a day to make a reservation at one (or all) of these awesome local restaurants and bars to spice up your restaurant experience, and let me know if there are any other great businesses that I should support this season!
