Dining Around Delco: A Day Out in Havertown

Just a few miles from Philadelphia, other parts of Delco and the Main Line, Havertown is a charming bedroom community, beloved for its convenient location and tight-knit vibe. With deep roots in Pennsylvania history (it was founded by Quakers in 1681 on land purchased from the William Penn), Haverford Township is home to a number of historical buildings, like The Grange Estate, Old Haverford Friends Meeting and Nitre Hall, as well as green parks, independent businesses and many churches. Havertown is also known for its strong Irish heritage, and is sometimes referred to as the “33rd county” of Ireland.

 

When it comes to great places to eat and drink, Havertown is not wanting for options. From rowdy dive bars to fine dining BYOBs, there’s a little something for everyone! Whether you’re a lifer, a transplant from the city, or just stopping through during one of Havertown’s popular events, like the Haverford Heritage Festival or the Haverford Music Festival, why not stay awhile? There are a lot of great spots to explore:

 

Breakfast

Every town needs a place like the Havertown Grille, a straightforward seven-days-a-week spot where locals can fuel up for the day with affordable food served in generous portions. From classic plates, like two eggs, home fries and toast, to veggie-packed omelets, to fluffy pancakes and waffles, this is no-frills breakfast fare at its best. Don’t skip the coffee! During midday meals, find the place full of regulars tucking into chicken salad clubs, patty melts and Greek salads.

2409 W. Darby Rd., Havertown; (610) 449-2500.

 

 

Of the many tasty places to find fresh juices and smoothies in Delco, The Juice Pod is one of the best! This locally owned small chain recently opened an outpost on Brookline Boulevard, and neighbors have been flocking in for nutritious meals and snacks ever since. For breakfast, try avocado toast, a granola-and-fruit-topped acai bowl, a cold-pressed Pod Juice (kale, cucumber, green apple, lemon) or a Superfood Smoothie with an extra scoop of protein powder. Order ahead to skip the line!

30 Brookline Blvd., Havertown; (484) 454-5051.

 

Across town, on West Chester Pike, find Tuscany Cafe, a sit-down restaurant with a hometown feel. The menu offers many of the classics along with some creative twists, like the Tuscany Crêpes with strawberries and Nutella, and the avocado BLT with two over-easy eggs. The coffee bar pours La Colombe coffee and espresso drinks, and the kids menu is great for the little ones! At lunch, choose from deli sandwiches, panini and fresh salads.

803 West Chester Pike, Havertown; (484) 453-8363.

 

Lunch

No matter the day of the week, Kettle is always packed with a diverse array of diners: families with little kids, retirees, young couples and more! It’s a testament to the crowd-pleasing options on offer. In addition to serving delicious breakfast dishes, Kettle is a cozy place to catch up with friends or take a break during a busy day. Fan-favorites include the homemade soups, Aunt Kathy’s Grilled Cheese and the Kettle Burger on a brioche bun. Note: There is sometimes a wait during peak weekend hours!

1 Brookline Blvd, Havertown; (610) 446-1234.

 

For a satisfying grab-and-go lunch, swing into Colonial Market, an old-school meat market and deli in Manoa Shopping Center. There’s a surprisingly robust selection of appetizers, hoagies, sandwiches, salads, wraps and more! Keep it simple with a tuna salad sandwich on rye, an Italian cutlet hoagie on a long roll, or a juicy cheesesteak. Or, try one of the rotating specials, like the White Russian, with housemade deli turkey, Swiss, coleslaw and Russian dressing on rye.

1305 West Chester Pike, Havertown;  (610) 449-1776.

 

 

If you fancy a pub lunch once in awhile, The Crossbar is just the ticket. Sidle up to the bar, order a pint of a hoppy pale ale or a crisp lager (there are plenty of local craft brews on tap), and dive into the impressive menu. You can’t go wrong with inventive options, like lamb naan, Cajun dry rub wings or the kimchi bulgogi cheesesteak; or stick with familiar favorites, like shrimp tacos, fried chicken sando, or the Secret Burger with fries. 

2225 E. Darby Rd., Havertown; (610) 449-4200.

 

Happy Hour

Barnaby’s Restaurant and Pub, the sprawling sports bar on the border of Havertown and Broomall, does not mess around when it comes to happy hour! Every Monday through Friday, from 4 to 6 p.m., there are lots of great deals on deck. We’re talking $3 light drafts, $4 Pennsylvania craft drafts, $5 house wines, $6 select canned cocktails, $7 Tito’s vodka drinks, and $2 off all starters. It’s the perfect spot to catch a mid-afternoon ballgame, or wind down after the work day.  

1901 Old West Chester Pike, Havertown: (610) 789-1885.

 

 

Margs for happy hour? Yes, please! Everyone Monday through Friday, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the bar and the adjacent high-top tables, Al Pastor gets the party started with a festive array of wallet-friendly drinks and snacks. The happy hour menu includes $6 margs and spiked lemonades, $3 select domestic drafts and $5 select craft beers. Pair your libation of choice with fun snacks, like $8 wings, $8 dragon tots (with queso, salsa, pico, corn and cilantro) and more.

13 W. Benedict Ave., Havertown; (484) 455-4585.

 

Dinner

Can’t choose between Chinese and Japanese food? Sampan Inn has you covered! This comfy Asian-fusion restaurant has two separate menus: one featuring classic Chinese dishes, like beef lo mein, wonton soup and Peking ducks; and the other with fine Japanese food, including an extensive sushi selection, tempura and teriyaki dishes. A limited bar offers cocktails, some Japanese and American beers, and a small selection of wines, as well. 

2-8 Brookline Blvd., Havertown; (610) 446-3000.

 

The lovely dining room and sophisticated menu at Burrata’s Havertown location (the other is in South Philly) make it a wonderful place to celebrate a special occasion or go on a date. The menu shifts with the seasons, but no matter when you go, you’ll find expertly composed appetizers, beautiful pasta dishes (don’t skip the gnocchi) and decadent entrees. Burrata is a BYOB, so bring along a bottle of your favorite wine to complement the lovely meal. 

26 E. Eagle Rd., Havertown; (610) 808-9933.

 

 

Not too sleek, not too casual, Brick & Brew hits just the right tone for an elevated neighborhood gastropub. Sure, you can grab a pint or a whiskey sour and some nachos and be quite satisfied, but once in awhile, go for a larger plate on the menu. From the steak frites to the crab cake sliders to the fig, walnut and feta pizza, dinner here does not disappoint. Weekly specials mean there’s always something new to try, too!  

31 E. Eagle Rd. Havertown; (484) 455-7250.

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Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA. They say we’re A LOT…and they’re right! Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email or online.

– Emily Kovach

 

Featured photo: Al Pastor Havertown