Romance It Up at These Delco Restaurants! — Round 1

It turns out that romance isn’t all hearts, flowers and dimly lit restaurants! It can be, of course, but we do things our way in Delco, and that might mean a bar known for its beer list, an ethnic-themed bistro with a break-out pizza, or a brightly-lit spot known for its fresh cuisine.

Pro tip: Are you the one looking to impress? Then start by listening to what your better-half is interested in and passionate about before you make a reservation. Take a look at our favorites and see which one (or ones — can’t have too much romance!) is a fit. In fact, we found so many options, that we dropped a second list of must-try Delco favorites.

Romantic Weeknight

At The Table BYOB

You may think this hot spot is for special occasions only, but then you’d be cheating yourself out of mouthwatering fresh and local cuisine — plus a little romance. BYOB to complement something from the a la carte menu. Want to really impress at this quaint and inviting spot? Treat your partner to the six-course chef’s seasonal tasting menu — which changes with the season, of course! Look for a starter, salad or soup, perhaps a pasta course, mains and a tempting dessert. We loved the recent summer treat: strawberry panna cotta! Pro tip: Choose a Thursday versus the weekend and get a reservation quicker! Trust us, you can romance any day of the week. Open Thursday to Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. Reservations required.

11 Louella Court, Wayne, (610) 964-9700.

Romantic and Farm-to-Table

Broad Table Tavern at The Inn at Swarthmore

This is the ideal place for those who find romance in an experience that celebrates local farms, vineyards, breweries and makers. Its New American cuisine spans it breakfast and all-day menus inspired by the seasons. Step through the doors in a bright and airy venue with lots of natural light that perfectly complements the fresh cuisine. Want to impress your gluten-sensitive partner? Offer the rice flour pancakes at breakfast, three impossibly fluffy pancakes with maple syrup, ping for the berry compote, too! May we suggest, from the all-day menu, the goat cheese ravioli with broccoli rabe, roasted red peppers, garlic, chili flakes and tomato coulis. Open Monday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday from 12 to 9 p.m., Saturday breakfast from 9 a.m. to noon and the all-day menu from noon to 9 p.m., and Sunday breakfast from 9 a.m. to noon and the all-day menu from noon to 8 p.m. Reservations recommended.

10 South Chester Rd., Swarthmore, (610) 543-7500. 

Romantic Award-Winning Burger and a Brew

Glenmorgan Bar & Grill at The Radnor Hotel

Here, you’ll find a spectacular bar, a tight craft beer selection, and an award-winning burger. It’s the right place when your partner prefers to lock eyes in a smart-casual, non-pretentious atmosphere! Outdoor seating is a fun option when the weather cooperates, too. Bonus: There’s ample vegetarian and gluten-free options. We applaud that, yet still choose the Radnor burger with bacon jam, cheddar, the special “R” sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion and a pickle, plus a choice of house-made kettle chips, fries, sweet potato fries or a side house salad. Open Sunday through Thursday from noon to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from noon to 11 p.m. Reservations recommended.

593 E. Lancaster Ave., St. Davids, (610) 341-3199.

Romantic and Cozy Italian

Fellini Cafe of Media 

If your partner enjoys a cozy trattoria, then this is the spot, complete with granite tables in individual alcoves, Roman columns and Italy-inspired hand painted murals. Looking to stretch your budget at this BYOB? Head over on Monday or Tuesday for the three course menu at just $35 per person. Fill up with an appetizer or salad, entree and dessert from its Southern Italian offerings. We swoon over all the pastas here, but recommend the penne Sofia Loren with fresh diced tomatoes, broccoli and chicken breast in an oil, garlic and white wine sauce with a hint of marinara. Pro tip: Really show off and bring your partner out on Opera Night on Mondays! Open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Monday. Reservations recommended.

106 West State St., Media, (610) 892-7616.

Romantic Something for Everyone

Byrsa Bistro Glen Mills

Does your partner’s eyes light up at the prospect of a great pizza? Then consider this intimate bistro and wine bar, tucked away among gardens and near an historic train station,that’s known for its western Mediterranean fusion cuisine but is winning the gourmet pizza game, too. That’s what happens when you use Italian pizza flour, house-made tomato sauce, whole milk cheese from Italy and locally-sourced toppings. It also means you can dig into the lamb shank (gluten-free!) in its own light Sauce, dried apricot and vegetable ragout while you’re better half noshes a Kennett mushroom pizza topped with arugula, cheeses, truffle oil and Parmesan. Open Thursday through Saturday from 3 to 10 p.m. Reservations recommended. 

128 Glen Mills Rd., Glen Mills, call (610) 558-4700.

Romantic and Casual

The New American Bistro

Don’t want to dress up? No problem (we don’t most of the time, either!). Want to feel at home in a family atmosphere that respects your quiet table for two in the corner? Done. Your partner will also remember that everything was house-made — right down to the bread, dressings and can’t-resist desserts — and that menu customizations are welcomed at this BYOB. Ask about the vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, too! We can’t stop raving about the sauteed Maryland crab cakes lobster or chipotle sauce. Choose the chipotle sauce! Open Wednesday to Sunday from 4 to 9 pm. Reservations required.

217 Morton Ave., Folsom, (484) 497-8111.

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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. Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email, or online.

— Nina Malone

Featured photo: Pexels