Philadelphia: A Spiraling Culinary Canvas Worthy of Exploration
Uncover The Drive And Creativity That Fuels Culinary Maestros
In the city of Brotherly Love, a gastronomic revolution is brewing. Philadelphia, known for its historic landmarks and sports enthusiasts, is now a thriving culinary epicenter. From celebrity-chef-owned establishments to Michelin-starred venues, James Beard award-winning cuisines, and rising culinary artisans, Philadelphia’s food scene is as diverse and flavorful as the city itself.
At the heart of this culinary explosion is Vetri Cucina, an Italian marvel by celebrity chef Marc Vetri. Nestled within a quaint townhouse, Vetri Cucina has transformed into a culinary mecca. Vetri's hand-crafted pastas, wood-fired specialties, and an exceptional wine program ensure a dining experience where each plate tells a captivating story.
On the other end of the spectrum is Zahav, a modern Israeli restaurant by Chef Michael Solomonov, a James Beard award winner. Solomonov, along with his co-owner Steve Cook, has been widely recognized for bringing the many cultures of Israeli cuisine to diners across the U.S., and around the world. Zahav, which opened in 2008, has been a trailblazer in showcasing the extraordinarily diverse culinary landscape of Israel. Its innovative dishes, such as creamy, smoky hummus and the legendary pomegranate-lacquered lamb shoulder, have earned it the title of the best restaurant in America in 2019.
A culinary tour of Philadelphia is incomplete without a visit to the Reading Terminal Market. This historic farmer's market is home to an array of food stalls serving up local delicacies. One such gem is Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies and Cheesesteaks. Family-owned and operated since 1983, Carmen's heats up the grill every morning to make Philly’s best-known sandwich for visitors from all over the world. From the classic cheesesteak with onions, mushrooms, and peppers, to their creative liberties, Carmen's has a sandwich for every palate. Not too far away is the Dutch Eating Place, one of Reading Terminal Market’s most iconic eateries. This bustling diner offers rib-sticking, Pennsylvania Dutch fare to take away or to enjoy at the counter, elbow-to-elbow with locals and visitors alike.
In the midst of Philadelphia's culinary scene, Chef Greg Vernick stands as a beacon of inspiration. As the Chef & Owner of Vernick Food & Drink, he has earned accolades from the likes of Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, StarChefs, Philadelphia magazine, The Washington Post, and The New York Times. In 2016, Greg was named "Chef of the Year" by the Philadelphia Inquirer. Vernick's culinary prowess and his establishment's reputation solidify Philadelphia's status as a burgeoning gastronomic hub.
The city's culinary scene also boasts the influence of acclaimed restaurateur Stephen Starr. His empire spans an array of culinary styles and atmospheres, from the French brasserie charm of Parc to the carnivore's paradise of Barclay Prime. Starr’s influence has helped shape Philadelphia into a haven for food lovers.
Amid the traditional and the established, the future of Philadelphia's culinary scene is buzzing with innovative artisans like Okie Dokie Donuts and Third Wheel Cheese Co. reinventing traditional foods with a modern twist. From gluten-free donuts to farm-to-table cheeses, these artisans drive the city's culinary innovation.
The Philadelphia culinary scene is set to get a dash of festive Mexican flair as Stove and Co. Restaurant Group is set to open its second location of the Mexican cantinas, Al Pastor, to the heart of the Main Line. Owners Justin Weathers and Joseph Monnich are bringing their vibrant and welcoming culinary experience to a wider audience.
Al Pastor Havertown is taking up residence in the former home of Town Tap, which is set to be a fun, family-friendly modern Mexican eatery. The restaurant will house 100 seats inside, but the real charm will be the extensive outdoor margarita garden, which will offer 100 additional seats and an unmistakable summertime vibe. Al Pastor Havertown is expected to open its doors in early summer, further enriching Philadelphia's blossoming culinary landscape.
From its rich historical roots to its innovative future, Philadelphia's culinary scene is a captivating symphony of flavors, cultures, and experiences. Whether you're a die-hard foodie or a casual diner, Philadelphia promises a culinary journey that will leave you falling in love one bite at a time.
We are highlighting our Chef AF Podcast, where we delve into the culinary world to gain unique insights from two renowned Executive Chefs, each wielding their own special blend of passion and innovation. First, we chat with Executive Chef Jeremy Shelton of Verde, the gastronomical highlight of the Pérez Art Museum Miami. Shelton dishes on his early fondness for comfort food, his journey toward menu innovation, and he even whips up a fresh take on a timeless classic. For Shelton, cooking isn't just a profession, it's his calling.
Switching scenes, we also sit down with Chef Kaytlin Dangaran, the culinary wizard behind the Bistro at Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College. Dangaran traces her unique path to becoming a chef, her deep-seated love for Italian cuisine, and her unwavering commitment to sourcing the freshest local ingredients. Like Shelton, Dangaran's passion for cooking is deeply rooted, so much so that she admits, "I can't remember a time that I didn't want to cook.” Tune in to these engaging interviews to uncover the drive and creativity that fuels these culinary maestros.
An Executive Chef Brings Culinary Expertise to The Pérez Art Museum
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The Chef AF Rating System has launched and is tracking the best food artisans worldwide based on consumer sentiment. Curtis Duffy, April Bloomfield, Michael Schwartz and Vinny Dotolo are just a few of the chefs we’ve featured.