Romance It Up at These Delco Restaurants! — Round 2

Did you try all the great restaurant options in our Round 1 blog yet? It’s a great list for impressing your other half, Delco-style. Great news: We found even more! Elevate your romance game with classics, a getaway or brunch!

What are you waiting for — dig in, and wow your partner.

Romantic and Cozy Classics

Photo courtesy of Autograph Brasserie

Autograph Brasserie

This modern American brasserie has something for everyone: a cozy lounge with walls covered in classic album covers, the bright sycamore room built around a live tree, the boulevard of private booths and more. The menu pulls inspiration from classic dishes from France, Spain, Italy and America — don’t get us started on the wines and specialty cocktails list. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to woo your partner, this is the place. Go all out with filet mignon, New York strip steak or Chilean sea bass. Not your jam? Ask for the vegetarian menu. Reservations highly recommended. Open for lunch Monday to Friday from noon to 3 p.m.; dinner Monday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m.; and brunch Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

503 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, (610) 964-2588.

Romantic and Old World Classics

Portobello Cafe

Classic Italian cuisine itself just says “romance.” Rich colors, warm lighting and a Mediterranean-theme makes this cafe inviting. The menu is a nod to old-world cooking methods the proprietor brought over from Italy embracing a fresh-ingredients philosophy right down to the daily specials sourced from what’s fresh at the local market. You’ll find just about all your favorites, but we want to highlight a dish that when made right — as it is here — is outstanding: Melanzane parmigiana, traditional eggplant made Parmesan-style with mozzarella, Parmesan cheese and tomato sauce. Simple and delicious! Open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 2:30 to 9 p.m. Reservations recommended.

1423 Chester Pike, Eddystone, (484) 816-0574.

Romantic Getaway

Photo courtesy of Inn at Grace Winery

Inn at Grace Winery 

Step into a tranquil getaway on 50 acres in the scenic Brandywine Valley! There’s nothing like a vineyard to soothe the soul and wow your partner (plus the wine!). The farm-to-table menu changes monthly, and has included corn and avocado soup, melon salad, mushroom gnocchi, swordfish, duck breast and peach melba or corn creme brûlée for dessert. Pro tip: Book a room and make it a romantic weekend. Inn guests can enjoy breakfast, plus the tasting room is open Friday through Sunday with light fare. Dinner is available Friday and Saturday evenings in the Manor House Dining Room for two seatings at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. During the wedding season, dinner will also be offered on Sunday evenings. Reservations required.

50 Sweetwater Rd., Glen Mills, (610) 459–4711.

Romantic Brunch is Served

Photo by Andy Shelter Photography, courtesy of La Canelle Café

La Canelle Café

A romantic meal doesn’t have to be dinner, and while you can do dinner here, why not consider brunch? It’s light and airy, with lots of wood tones for a comfy and casual feel. This is a great place for those who value “fresh, nutritious cuisine” made in house with locally harvested ingredients. It’s a BYOB, so you can delight your partner with a favorite libation! Try the mixed berry French toast made with challah bread and topped with whipped cream and anglaise sauce. Open Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; closed Monday. Reservations recommended.

21 North Providence Rd., Wallingford, (484) 445-2108.

Romantic and Old World Abruzzi

La Locanda Ristorante Italiano in Newtown Square

It’s a fusion of sorts, mixing Old World traditional Abruzzi cuisine with a New World flare. What sold us on romance is the menu packed with recipes inspired by an old family cookbook. Need more? How about a stone fireplace, well-appointed dining rooms that transport you back to Italia, an epic wine wall, and ample bar seating, means something for everyone. You’ll have a hard time choosing among the regional Italian delicacies, so let us introduce you to our go-to: Chicken Massimo, chicken breast sauteed with asparagus, mushrooms, sun-dried tomato, fresh mozzarella and white wine with a touch of tomato sauce, plus the vegetable and potato of the day. Open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Reservations recommended.

4989 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, (610) 353-7033.

• • •

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