Seasonal Splendor: Fall Flavors in Delco

As autumn settles in, Delaware County becomes full of vibrant foliage, clear blue skies, and — perhaps best of all — cozy flavors that evoke all the best feelings of fall. 

Whether you’re a lifelong local or a visitor exploring the Philly ‘burbs for some culinary treats, the food and drink offerings in Delco this time of year deliver so much deliciousness. From savory comfort foods to spiced cocktails, here are just a few local bites and beverages featuring autumn-inspired flavors, including apples, pumpkin, maple and warm spices.

 

Pumpkin Martini at Brick & Brew

Kick off a fun night out on the town with a pumpkin martini at this beloved gastropub! Every year, Brick & Brew brings back this PSL-inspired cocktail, nicely balanced between creamy, sweet, pumpkin-y and boozy. Topped with a dusting of cinnamon, it’s a fabulous pairing for a chilly fall day. Try it with the fried Brussels sprouts or Bavarian pretzel sticks for an extra-seasonal feel.

31 E. Eagle Rd., Havertown; (484) 455-7250; 26 W. State St., Media; (484) 443-8441.

 

Pumpkin Gnocchi at Positively Pasta 

This family-owned stall in the Lancaster County Farmers Market is one of our top spots for great pasta in Delco. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients, like semolina, durum and farm-fresh eggs, the fresh pasta here is available in many forms: spaghetti, macaroni, ravioli and more. Enjoy pumpkin in a savory application with Positively Pasta’s pumpkin gnocchi, pillowy dumplings made with potatoes. The pumpkin is kneaded right into the dough, for an earthy-sweet pasta that’s divine, especially when tossed with brown butter and sage, or their house-made alfredo sauce.

389 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne; (610) 688-1399.

 

Cider from Lancaster County Juice

While you’re in the Farmers Market, stop by Lancaster County Juice for its seasonal specials: fresh apple cider and cherry apple cider. The apple cider comes from Weaver’s Orchard, and the cherry cider is crafted with the brand’s fresh-squeezed juices. Just like all of their juices, these are made with natural ingredients, with preservatives added.

389 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne.

 

Swarthmore Bowl at 320 Market Café 

Capture the flavors of harvest season with the produce-packed Swarthmore Bowl at 320 Market Café. This colorful dish includes two great fall veggies — roasted beets and Brussels sprouts — layered over brown rice and a mix of kale and lettuce, with baked tofu, sweet potatoes, avocado, feta cheese and walnuts, tossed with a creamy green tahini dressing. This wholesome, hearty bowl celebrates the bounty of fall and will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished!

713 S. Chester Rd., Swarthmore, (610) 328-7211; 211 W. State St., Media; (610) 565-8320.

 

Pumpkin Pizza at Poseidon Pizza

Calling all adventurous pizza lovers! The pumpkin pizza at Poseidon Pizza in Media is a showstopper—think wood-fired crispy, chewy pizza crust topped with a savory, buttery pumpkin sauce, mozzarella, and the perfect blend of fall spices. This pizza combines the best of sweet and savory flavors, with the pumpkin providing a velvety, creamy base, and the dollops of fresh cheese adding just a touch of richness. A sprinkle of sage on top ties the whole pie together! It’s only available for a limited time in fall, so don’t sleep on this one! 

192 S. New Middletown Rd., Media; (610) 744-1900.

 

Smoky Orchard Margarita at Four Birds Distilling

Not all fall-y cocktails need to include pumpkin; some draw on other fruits and flavors to conjure the spooky season. At Four Birds Distilling in Havertown, the Smoky Orchard Margarita is a sophisticated spin on the classic marg, combining the sweetness of orchard-fresh apple cider with the bright tang of lime, orange liqueur, and agave syrup. A smoked salt rim is a lovely detail that brings a fireside vibe to each sip. 

1901 Darby Rd., Havertown; (484) 454-3074.

 

Apple Fritters at Linda’s Bakery

In fall, it’s all about enjoying as many apple desserts as possible! Of course, there are apple cider donuts, apple turnovers and apple pies, but don’t forget about one of the most delectable bites of them all: apple fritters! Apple fritters are essentially tender donuts studded with chunks of cooked apple, spiced generously with cinnamon and drizzled with a sweet glaze. At Linda’s Bakery in Booth’s Corner Farmers Market, the apple fritters are as good as it gets, golden and fluffy, made fresh and by hand. 

1362 Naamans Creek Rd. #103, Garnet Valley; (610) 497-3933. 

 

Squash Maple Spiced Latte at Camellia Coffee House

During this time of year, it seems like every cafe, from the big chains to the local coffee shops, have a pumpkin spice latte on the menu. And while we love these autumn indulgences, it’s fun to see other seasonally inspired coffee drinks, too. For instance, the Squash Maple Spiced Latte at Camellia Coffee House in Lansdowne, an inviting sipper that combines roasted squash purée, baking spices, and maple syrup, mixed into steamed milk and espresso. Try one with the cafe’s super-tasty cinnamon toast, a custard-y Pasteis de nata, or an egg and cheese breakfast sandwich on a flaky biscuit. 

20 N. Lansdowne Ave., Lansdowne; (484) 898-5592.

 

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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, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Find us at 1501 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA, 19063; (610) 565-3679 or online.

— Emily Kovach 

Featured photo: Pexels