We love Ardmore—two square miles steeped in local history and continuously evolving as a vibrant community on the Main Line. Located within Delaware and Montgomery Counties—and nestled between Haverford and Wynnewood—Ardmore is home to many mom-and-pop businesses, local galleries and eclectic shops, one of the best-known farmers’ markets in the region and Ardmore Music Hall for those who enjoy tapping their toes.
Ardmore is also host to a prodigious dining scene. From simple grab-and-go spots and eat-in bistros to casual pubs, taverns and trend-setting restaurants with award-winning cuisine, Ardmore is abundant with something for everyone. This summer, you’re in luck: The Ardmore Initiative, Ardmore’s downtown management organization, is bringing Ardmore Restaurant Week back for its second year from July 18–31.
That’s two full weeks overflowing with happy hours, prix fixe menus and special pricing that just have to get you anticipating some of the most unparalleled menus and dining hot spots in the area. We’re positive you’re going to come back for more.
Fuel
The scoop: Recharge yourself at Fuel, where everything is under 500 calories. No need to sacrifice flavor to stay mean and lean with new American cuisine and fresh vegetarian options served up here. Salads, wraps, smoothies and hummus are all on-point.
The vibe: Pull up a seat and feel good about what you’re throwing down. Become energized with a tasteful palette of vibrant decor and smiling, knowledgeable customer service.
The deal: Enjoy $5 appetizers from 5–7 p.m. nightly through Restaurant Week. 5 W. Lancaster Ave., (610) 896-3835
Hummus
The scoop: You can’t go wrong with a Mediterranean menu of traditional falafel, baba ghanoush, Moroccan cigars and, of course, the restaurant’s signature hummus.
The vibe: Tucked into The Ardmore Plaza, the feel here is comfortable and modern yet intimate and authentic with warm mustard and clay colors punctuating local vibrant art.
The deal: Get 25% off a select menu from 5–7 p.m. nightly through Restaurant Week. 18 Greenfield Ave., (610) 645-9500
Jason’s Toridasu
The scoop: Chef Kim has a way with creating some of the most delicious Japanese delicacies this side of the Main Line. Currently celebrating its one-year anniversary, be sure not to miss the Toridasu signature red roll.
The vibe: An unassuming exterior gives way to a clean, slick, urban-chic interior full of bright yellows, light woods and plenty of stainless wrapped around eye-popping presentations of sushi to go.
The deal: The restaurant is offering 25% off a select menu from 5–7 p.m. nightly through Restaurant Week. 40 Rittenhouse Pl., (484) 417-6350
McCloskey’s Tavern
The scoop: When Irish eyes are smilin’, it’s usually because they’re here. The quintessential tavern has been a Main Line staple for over 75 years. Sixteen rotating taps of local craft beer welcome the neighborhood in for a great time for all.
The vibe: The place where everybody knows your name gives this warm and nostalgic pub’s crowds some of the best service in the area.
The deal: Enjoy $4 front bar drafts in addition to 50% savings on a menu of munchies including steamers, panko-encrusted tomatoes and Irish skins from 5–7 p.m. during Restaurant Week. 17 Cricket Ave., (610) 642-9280
Robeks Fresh Juices and Smoothies
The scoop: Healthy eating shouldn’t be an adventure in tastelessness, and this approachable spot prides itself on providing outstanding flavor with fresh, seasonal and natural ingredients.
The vibe: Located in Suburban Square, this vegetarian oasis boasts a bright cheery color scheme, easy to-go options and helpful customer service.
The deal: Get 25% off select goodies from 5–7 p.m. nightly through Restaurant Week. The Courtyard at Suburban Square, St. James Pl., (484) 413-2998
Tired Hands Fermentaria
The scoop: Opened last year, this award-winning brewing big brother to the cafe located a short walk away offers a killer menu and some of the best on-site craft beer in the area.
The vibe: Whimsical caricatures and hands abound in this funked-up Ardmore eatery. Reclaimed woods, metals and skylights fill the space with an industrial feel with plenty of tables to share good times and great grub.
The deal: 25% off select menu tacos, tacos and more tacos await during Restaurant Week happy hour from 5–7 p.m. Don’t leave without scoring a crunchy bite of the one-of-a-kind brussels sprout tacos. 35 Cricket Ter., (484) 413-2983
Hunan
The scoop: Serving incredible classic cuisine for over 35 years in Ardmore, Hunan makes it difficult not to want to eat here every night—the food is that good.
The vibe: Enjoy the elegantly appointed dining room replete with Asian-inspired decor, comfort and intimacy.
The deal: A full four-course prix fixe menu is $25 during Restaurant Week. 47 E. Lancaster Ave., (610) 642-3050
Jack McShea’s
The scoop: Feel right at home as this gastropub serves eclectic fare alongside over 100 craft bottles and cans. Did we mention Irish whiskey flights?
The vibe: Whether you’re watching the game on the large screen TVs or settling in for a fun date night, this local watering hole provides just the right amount of old-fashioned tavern charm.
The deal: Get three courses of some of the finest Irish fare including wings, homemade perogies and corn chowder for $25 during Restaurant Week. 34 E. Lancaster Ave., (484) 416-3547
The Tasting Room
The scoop: This 20-seat cafe serves seasonal New American fare and retail specialties from the full-scratch kitchen of JPM Catering with an emphasis on flavor and flexibility and also offers speedy pick-up service.
The vibe: A pleasant staff awaits at this clean Euro-cafe spot with lots of natural light and warm tones.
The deal: A scrumptious-looking select menu of three courses for $25 may make you come back every night of Restaurant Week. 8 E. Lancaster Ave., (610) 642-2670
Firinji
The scoop: Chef Saida Davis brings her best game with mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine that includes perfectly spiced tagine and kabob fare. Be sure to snag some extra housemade baklava for the road.
The vibe: Large windows let in tons of light in the redone and comfortable space. Warm earth tones and ethnic touches bring a modern feel of Morocco to the Main Line.
The deal: The regionally themed three-course menu for $35 is a definite experience to cherish during Restaurant Week. 54 E. Lancaster Ave., (610) 658-6246
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
The scoop: Iron Hill always knocks it out of the park with consistent, upscale, creatively prepared and plated scratch New American kitchen fare and an award-winning list of brews to complement your meal.
The vibe: You can’t go wrong with the great service and on-point atmosphere here—fast but not rushed and always something for everyone. Pastel vintage murals and metallic tones give the restaurant a chic industrial feel.
The deal: A three-course prix fixe menu for $35 will have you definitely stuffed for the night. We recommend the fried brussels sprouts (even if you’re not a fan). 60 Greenfield Ave., (610) 228-2280
Local Wine & Kitchen
The scoop: A recent Best of Main Line Today winner, this charming spot boasts international cuisine from owner and Wynnewood native Stefan Gagliano.
The vibe: The laid-back and unpretentious rustic ambience provides just the right glow for a special date night.
The deal: A lovely three-course menu for $35 during Restaurant Week includes a flavorful coffee-braised rabbit pappardelle that is not to be missed. 39 W. Lancaster Ave., (610) 658-6246
Mikado Thai Pepper
The scoop: Executive chef Takao Iinuma promises a beautifully prepared and flavorful list of Japanese and Thai cuisine unmatched in the area. Don’t miss the salmon carpaccio.
The vibe: Polished sophistication and elegance await as you dine among a palette of rich golds and burgundies. Comfy seating and a sushi bar provide a fascinating viewing and tasting experience.
The deal: The three-course prix fixe menu for $35 during Restaurant Week is full of stunningly displayed Japanese and Thai cuisine. 64-66 E. Lancaster Ave., (610) 642-5951
Besito Mexican
The scoop: Embrace the spirit, grace and culinary experience of the Mexican culture founded by restaurateur John Tunney.
The vibe: Situated within Ardmore’s Suburban Square, Besito exudes charm and elegance both inside and out with comfy seating, high ceilings, rich earthy colors and subtle lighting.
The deal: Offering a $35 prix fixe extravaganza during Restaurant Week. 105 Coulter Ave., (484) 417-6825
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Christine Vilardo, executive director of Ardmore Initiative, sums up the event precisely: “We are thrilled that Ardmore Restaurant Week is back for a delicious two weeks this summer. Ardmore’s dining scene has really taken off in recent years, and we are proud of the variety and quality our restaurants offer. We chose these weeks with the intention of giving diners exciting, local dining opportunities while the Democratic National Convention is happening in Philadelphia. No need to venture into the city to enjoy something new—whether you prefer Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean, Asian or American pub fare, participating Ardmore restaurants have prepared an amazing lineup of happy hour and dinner menu options. Try a different one each night!”
Count your blessings and don’t forget that you can also help the Ardmore Food Pantry with a Dine and Donate contribution of a nonperishable item (or more) during this annual event. To view a list of much-needed items please visit www.ArdmoreRestaurantWeek.com.
- Featured and Tasting Room Photos: The Tasting Room
- Jason's Toridasu and Mikado Photos: Teng Teng
- Iron Hill Brewery Photo: Todd Photography
