There is that certain element of comfort that definitely lingers in each dish. The kind of comfort that makes you want to kick off your shoes and throw on an old sweatshirt. Yes, House’s staff is the laid back, friendly type but they’d probably advise you to keep your shoes on while consuming their exceptional fare.
PA Eats had a chance to explore this exceptional fare one fine Tuesday afternoon. Well, to be honest the weather was unappealing but our day suddenly brightened when stepping inside the tiny dining spot on South Jackson Street. I was smacked—quite pleasurably if you can believe—with a wall of savory scents upon entering through the front door. Then, without a choice, my mind warped the exterior world I just left into a magical forest or something whimsical along those lines. In other words, their cozy set-up was a perfected fairy tale knock off that you can’t get enough of on a gross, misty day—or any day for that matter. Although, as much as my heart longed for a full transformation into an imaginary time, the modern day cooler stocked with house made, sugar free, all natural ice teas threw off my focus a bit. Not mad about the distraction, I snagged a Peppermint flavored tea and re-focused.
Jim was manning the counter with a smile and endless knowledge of their locally farmed greens, organic produce and fair trade items. His culinary comrade worked swiftly right next to him. I could tell she crafted the House paninis a million times, but was still in a state of utter focus while preparing her current order.
Known for their one-of a-kind, gourmet grilled paninis, salads, and house-made soups, we wanted to order one of everything but opted for posing the “last meal” theoretical question to Jim. He was convinced “The Godfather” should always be in the running for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal before they die. It’s that good. Really. It is.
Creamy macaroni and white cheddar cheese was thoughtfully placed between two slices of grilled Le Bus bread, along with slow cooked pork, braised greens, and house made ranc-e-q sauce—a combination of ranch and barbecue. The home-grown, comfort element was there but this was in no way a sandwich whipped up by your mom or even your grandma. Those ladies’ kitchen skills wouldn’t hold a candle to House’s fresh Mushroom Soup either, complete with blue cheese crumbles and truffle oil topping.
It’s time you paid a visit to this genuine eatery. Their open 7 days a week with winter hours ranging from 11 am to 5 pm. House has also been wise to tastefully expand some of their offerings through Burlap and Bean, so look to snag a bite when getting your coffee fix there. Plus, they will be taking over the cafe spot at Broomall Swim Club in Media this summer. To find out more about House, visit their website at eatathouse.com.
Exterior, soup and sandwich photographs credited to Nina Lea Photography.
