So I’m thrilled that the restaurant will finally open its doors later this month. Just this past week I had the opportunity to chat with the kitchen talent, Executive Chef Matt Schuler and Chef de Cuisine Pete Hess, to get the first ‘taste’ of what Ella’s is all about.
Ella’s, named after owner Cortright Wetherill’s mother, is focusing on casual bistro fare comprised of local ingredients from farms in our surrounding region, which an emphasis on sustainable, naturally raised, organically grown and chemical free.
Chef Schuler was born in Lancaster, but raised in Georgia, so expect his southern influence to shine through. Like his favorite dinner dish, “The BBQ Berkshire Pork Chop is a great cut of Pennsylvania pork with a barbeque glaze, served with a sweet potato puree with a little maple syrup mixed in,” said Chef Schuler. “From biscuits and cornbread to desserts, we’re a from-scratch kitchen.”
For Chef Hess, highlights of the menu include the Iron Stone Farms Sirloin Burger at lunch, which boasts optional toppings like fried onions and mushrooms. “We’re offering a great salmon dish during dinner – it’s seared hot on both sides, and served with a cool tzatziki sauce and roasted root vegetables.”
Additional menu items include Ella’s deviled eggs, grilled pizzas, buttermilk fried chicken, crispy red snapper and lobster mac & cheese. The restaurant, which has been in the works since February, also has a pastry chef arriving, whose focus will be comforting desserts like cobblers, bread puddings and crisps.
Following the menu’s pure approach, the restaurant will feature natural distressed wood-paneled walls and a bar made of organically milled Sycamore tree. The drink menu will focus on local craft beers and timeless cocktails like Mint Juleps and Old Fashioneds.
Most recently, Chef Shuler and Chef Hess both served as culinary instructors at The Pennsylvania School for Culinary Arts in Lancaster. I questioned Chef Schuler, who’s worked in a variety of culinary positions, whether he’s ready to be back in the ‘heat’ of the restaurant kitchen. Without skipping a beat he said, “I’m ready for the late hours.”
And, there’s no doubt that we’re ready for a taste of Ella’s.
Look for a late December opening of Ella’s American Bistro, located at 214 Sugartown Rd. in Wayne, Pa. For more info, visit ellasamericanbistro.com or call 610-964-ELLA.
