Delaware County is one of the most popular places to visit around Philadelphia, known for its historic sites, beautiful scenery, wine trails and of course, the fantastic dining options. From traditional American fare to cuisine influenced by European and the Far East, diners will never go hungry in this part of the world. Here are the top ten restaurants in Delaware County, as well as surrounding areas. http://instagram.com/p/1dnuX9glAh/?taken-at=3508629
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
Located in a bustling entertainment spot on the picturesque Christina waterfront in Wilmington, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant offers sweeping views and a wonderful menu. Boasting an admirable menu of New American cuisine, diners have plenty to choose from to satisfy their hunger. For those into beer, this is the top spot in Delaware, enthusiasts have the option to watch the brewing process first-hand through the windows looking into the on-site brewery. Seasonal beers are constantly on rotation.
Cajun Kate’s offers authentic Cajun specialties in the area, exposing visitors to the eclectic taste of New Orleans. While the crawfish pies and crispy Cajun mac ’n’ cheese are local favorites, the jambalaya, gumbo, red beans and rice are also known for bringing in the crowds. Make sure to leave room for the deep-fried French toast and the powdered sugar beignets. Although this joint isn’t really an ‘eat-in’ kind of restaurant, it’s still worth your time if you’re in the area and fancy some Cajun home-style cooking.
La Porta
Restaurant, Italian
La Porta serves inventive Italian specialities in a rustic setting, complete with a wine bar. Unlike many restaurants of its kind, which focus on one area of Italian cuisine, this restaurant draws inspiration from all across Italy. With an emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients, the menu encompasses soups, salads, pastas and pizzas. Yet, it is the eye-catching entrées that really stand out. Tuck into the home-made ricotta gnocchi with lump crab and pistachios, or the spaghetti aglio e olio, cooked to perfection with caramelized cauliflower and smoked bacon. Alternatively, the crispy crab cakes, the wood-roasted and mustard-glazed salmon, and the rustic fish stew are also worth a look. Meat eaters can go all out with the bistecca, a strip steak served with potato gratin, gorgonzola, roasted pepper and crayfish bordelaise.
Mood Cafe
Cafe, Restaurant, Indian
Tucked away in a snug setup, Mood Cafe is perhaps the best Indian restaurant for miles, offering colorful arrangements of Indian delicacies, ranging from chicken, lamb and seafood entrées, to piping-hot naan breads and tandoori specials. However, it is the chaat (an eclectic mix of fruits, onions and sauces with a selection of meats and vegetables) that really brings in the crowds. Wash any of the above down with a lassi, a fruit-infused yoghurt-based drink, and you’re good to go. Naturally, Indian desserts are also on the menu, with the carrot-based gajar halwa standing out as the signature option. With such a welcoming setting and a taste out of this world, it’s no wonder that Mood Cafe has turned into a local staple.
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Jason’s Toridasu
If you’re on the look-out for a top sushi spot, Jason’s Toridasu will certainly deliver. As expected, the menu here is comprised of Japanese delicacies such as rice balls, dumplings, miso soup and salads. Hungry diners can also pick and choose staple sushi favorites such as the California rolls, spicy crab or salmon rolls. Alternatively, be a bit more adventurous with options such as the red dragon roll, a delicious creation comprised of shrimp tempura, fresh chopped tuna and japaleño. There is also a large selection of nigiri on offer, as well as crispy gyoza.
El Limon
El Limon is a tiny taquería that serves up arguably some of the most authentic Mexican eats in the area. From tacos and sopes, to burritos, fajitas and enchiladas, taste buds are sure to be satisfied; and the fact that it’s BYOB makes it even more appealing. For dessert, sample the Mexican custard flan or the sponge cake made with three types of milk products (tres leches). Don’t forget that everything is made fresh to order and the spices really pack a punch. Undoubtedly, in a world of commercialized Mexican cuisine, this unpretentious joint continues to stand out.
Maggie O’Neill’s has been around for years and is the go-to Irish pub and one of the best comfort food spots in the area. It spreads over three floors in a friendly environment, which ensures patrons keep coming back to sample the freshly prepared pub fare. From the famous Guinness wings to the popular potato soup, and including classics such as beef stew and shepherd’s pie, there’s a lot to choose from. Additionally, for those looking to fill up in the morning, the breakfast menu is also attractive: the hefty traditional Irish breakfast served with a Bloody Mary will certainly set you up for the day.
Trieste
Restaurant, Italian
Trieste is an independent Italian restaurant that has been a culinary landmark in the heart of Delaware County for 55 years. The old-fashioned establishment has won numerous awards over the years, including ‘Best Italian’ and ‘Best Overall Restaurant’. The extensive menu serves a wide variety of pasta dishes, from the classic spaghetti, to speciality options such as crab-meat giovanni and the sausage scallopini. Alongside this, diners can opt for chicken and veal dishes, as well as a large range of delectable parmigiana selections. For dessert, go for the Italian rum cake or the tiramisú, drenched in coffee liquor and mixed with fluffy mascapone cheese. There is a food and drink special each night, and note that the restaurant also caters for children, with over ten choices for little ones.
Lehman's Tavern and Restaurant
Diner, Restaurant, Seafood
Diners in the area are often attracted to Lehman’s Restaurant, an old-fashioned steak house that has been operating since 1938 and it’s easy to see why. Entering through the doors, visitors are welcomed into a warm setting to sample the fine menu of quality steaks, fresh seafood and Italian specialties. For those struggling to pick something to eat, the restaurant offers combination platters, giving patrons an all-round tasting experience. The jumbo seafood combination is not to be missed. Wash it all down with a pick from the extensive wine and cocktail list, and you will have yourself a wonderful evening.
Lamb Tavern
The Porch Restaurant at the Lamb Tavern specializes in all-American fare, serving a no-fuss menu in a historical landmark dating back to 1729. Start your meal by indulging in one of the many sharing plates, with the bruschetta with goat cheese, fig jam, prosciutto crisps and baby arugula definitely standing out. Afterwards, opt for one of the large salads or sandwiches, or go all out with the classic entrées, ranging from braised ribs, grilled petite filet mignons, and lobster ravioli, to veal cutlets and seared sea scallops. Take note that you probably won’t be able to pass up on dessert either, with the mouthwatering white chocolate raspberry cheesecake, and the flour-less ‘chocolate decadence’ cake on offer.
Originally born in Moscow, Varia moved to London at a young age before re-locating to historic Edinburgh to complete her MA in English Literature and German, enabling her to speak three languages fluently by the age of 21. Today, she lives in Berlin, embracing the fast-paced lifestyle and the whirlwind of activities that the sleepless city has to offer. Having worked for international publications such as the BBC, The Moscow Times and for various content platforms, she is grateful for her editorial role at The Culture Trip for fueling her passion for travel and the discovery of new things to eat, see and do. For a glimpse of what she's up to these days, take a look at her Instagram.
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