Center City     Philadelphia: OTHER      South Philly      Suburbs     South Jersey

Recent Additions: Sonam, Dim Sum Garden, Bar Lyonnais @ Le Bec Fin, Sovalo, Ansill, Nora Lee

Intro Several years ago, I went into a French bistro-type restaurant in New York City called Chez Napoleon. We had with us a horizontal of 1985 second growth Bordeaux and foolishly assumed we could work out a "bring our own" deal, even though the place had a license. The food was good, the prices reasonable, but the place had always been annoying because of their horrible wine list. Not that I have much interest in buying off overpriced wine lists anyway. The way my "boys" drink, in both quality and quantity, what is there is unaffordable, quite literally, and in any event not likely to be bought just on principle due to the large markups--and of course, because we usually have better at home in our cellars. Why, by the way, is it that a bottle that sells for $30 retail generates a sufficient $30 profit if sold on the restaurant list at a typical markup for $60, but a bottle that sells retail for $90 must be sold at the same markup, leading to a list price of $180--a $90 profit? I've heard the argument regarding the cost of money and cellaring the wines, but let's be honest: very few restaurants cellar wines for decades or even years. Most are happy to look a year into the future, let alone twenty, and they turn over their inventory quickly. Where exactly did this concept of "percentage" markups come from? See my  BYOB issues Article for this rant continued. Back to our story:  The best bottles on this restaurant's list invariably were Beaujolais-Villages. Yet, the only answer we could get on corkage privileges was "no," "no" and "no" again. We finally offered them the equivalent of their entire profit on one of their nicest bottles of wine as a per bottle corkage fee. Still, "no." So, we left. Apparently, this made no one happy, but it happened anyway.** Every wine lover has a story like this. And every wine lover needs a collection of good restaurants where wine that is brought will be welcomed without hassle. Sometimes that means making a deal with a congenial owner, an option not to be overlooked. There are such. But often it means BYOB. Here are some of my local picks. I've tried most, am a regular at many. The ones I have not tried were highly recommended by readers.   

[Some places like to promulgate the myth that it is illegal to bring wine into a licensed restaurant! NB: I obtained a written opinion to the contrary from the Penna. LCB some years ago, which was republished in a more elaborate form HERE. IF there is any issue, it is whether an UNlicensed restaurant may charge for BYO--not whether a licensed one is prohibited from allowing BYO.]  

 ** 2003 update: Chez Napoleon by email told me that they now allow BYO with a $10 corkage fee. About five years too late, but a welcome change.

CENTER CITY

1521 Café (Ernesto's)
1521 Spruce Street, (215) 546-1521 Heart of Center City, near Kimmel Center       Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
This place used to allow BYOB, then got a license and prohibited it. I ragged on them for that here. Apparently, the light has dawned and BYO is again permitted on most nights. Call for details. I have been told that there is not even a corkage charge, but you should confirm that. Unfortunately, the competition in the area from Italian restaurants that now allow BYOB is now very stiff: Prima Donna, Casta Diva, La Fontana della Citta, La Baia, Branzino, Mercato and La Viola have combined, among others, to create an uptown Little Italy. The food is good, though.

Academy Café (Doubletree Hotel) 
Broad and Locust,  (215) 893-1675 Heart of Center City, near Kimmel Center     Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
Not yet tried. Has a corkage-free BYOB policy on Thursday nights only, as long as you're at least buying an entrée--which shouldn't be too onerous a policy.  This is not exactly the first place that comes to mind for BYOB dining, but it is extremely convenient to the Academy of Music, Kimmel Center and other attractions. I'll be interested to try it to see if the food makes it an under-the-radar choice.

Ansill
627 S. 3rd Street (South Street area) (215) 627-2485    Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
Not yet tried, but tried Chef Ansill's former restaurant, PIF, now defunct, many times. The food at PIF was often very good, but sometimes variable. Ansill allows BYOB all nights with $15 corkage. Corkage is waived on Tuesdays.

Ava
518 South 3rd Street, (215) 922-3282, South Street area (near corner of 3rd and South)
I liked the food here. The calamari was good, if cluttered up by a big plate of fries--others may like that presentation. The pasta with rabbit was superb. The place had ample room and reasonable ambience. The bad news: On a slow night, it still seemed like it took forever to get served. There was only one waiter. True, we had a group of 10, but it was also a night where there weren't too many other customers to divert attention. We sat for quite awhile without so much as a basket of bread.  The $12 cheese plate was pretty skimpy, although good.

Amara Café
22nd & Sansom, (215) 564-6976  Western Center City
Thai oriented. The restaurant has been there for nearly a decade.   reader writes: "Try anything grilled! That's all I can tell you. Actually, try anything period! Everyone enjoyed their selections from the appetizers all the way to the deserts, which are all homemade, BTW. Have you ever tried handmade coconut ice cream or real cream caramel???" 

Aqua
705 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA  (215) 928-2838 Center City
Reader recommended. Malaysian and Thai, with other influences as well, this has gotten good reviews from readers.

Audrey Claire
20TH & Spruce, 276 S 20th St   (215) 731-1222, Western Center City
Lauded by many and Philadelphia magazine's choice for best byob, 1999, for whatever you think that is worth.  However, for food, as a pure BYO, I'd rank Overtures, Chloe, PIF, and Django higher in Center City. Not to say there's anything wrong here--the food is super. It's just that the competition these days is real stiff. Bring real glasses! Their stemware was awful as of my last visit.  Excellent, unpretentious, and reasonably priced bistro-style food. This is a happening area that, like much of Center City, is now bursting with restaurants and outdoor tables.

Bar Lyonnais @ Le Bec Fin
1523 Walnut Street, 215-567-1000  Heart of Center City Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
The downstairs bar at Le Bec Fin, Philadelphia's most famous restaurant, has BYOB Mondays.

Bistro 7
7 North Third Street, 215-931-1560  Olde City
This restaurant is just off of the intersection of 3rd and Market Streets. The decor is rather elegant and formal, and the menu is called "contemporary American."  I ate here the first week it opened, but it has dramatically improved. I had some of the best venison I've had in awhile. Returning in August, 2007, the restaurant was even better. It has become one of the city's upper level BYOBs, with a classy feel and impressive food.

Branzino
261 South 17th Street   (215) 790-0103  Heart of Center City
An attractive resto, Branzino provides a nice, reasonably priced menu, with good ingredients and well prepared dishes. I loved the filet mignon special. There is a long pasta list, but other dishes as well. Except for the branzino and various specials, Most entrees are at about $20-ish or under. Nothing is over $30. The crowd is rather sedate, rather elderly. 

Caffe Casta Diva
227 S. 20th Street, 215-496-9677  Western Center City
My prior description of this restaurant based on a reader recommendation was woefully inadequate. It is an attractive little BYOB off Rittenhouse Square, which attracts a lot of neighborhood folks. The service is friendly and good. The pastas were excellent and everyone loved their entrees. Entrees included items like steak, salmon and veal. There was also a good value $30 prix fixe for three courses available, although that excluded some of the more interesting selections like the steak and veal. Prices are quite reasonable. There are also nice outdoor tables in this attractive neighborhood.

CHLÖE
232 Arch Street, (215) 629-2337  Olde City/Historic Area
In the location Marco's used to have in Olde City, this small place takes no reservations, seems mostly crowded, and serves delicious food. Great scallops, great steak. Everyone seems contented. The most expensive entrees top out around $20. A place with great food, nice energy, atmosphere. For my money, this and Radicchio are the best restaurants actually in Olde City, if you consider Fork to be on the dividing line. NB: We traditionally refer to Northeast of Market as Olde City versus Society Hill, but these days the Powers that Be seem to refer to all of Eastern Center City as Olde City, which is a different matter. I'm a traditionalist in this regard!

Copper Bistro
614 North 2d Street, (215) 627-9844  Northern Liberties
I had a fine meal at this Northern Liberties restaurant. The Executive Chef is Daniel Connelly, of Shanachie in Ambler and Sonoma in Manyunk, the chef de cuisine is Todd Braley, of the Grill at the Ritz Carlton and Bliss. The type of cuisine is "New American."  It is a creative and elegant, white linen style place, with reasonable prices for its quality. It reminds me a bit of Mandoline. Open Tuesday - Sunday, dinner only.

Dim Sum Garden    Chinatown
59 N. 11th Street 215-627-0218
An unpretentious BYOB in Chinatown with emphasis on Shanghai specialties, including dumplings.

Django
526 South 4th Street, 215-922-7151 South Street/Historic Area
SOLD TO THE OWNERS OF RX IN OCTOBER, 2005, and then sold again not long after.  In my first visit with the RX regime, I was pretty happy, but it was a notch below Django's standard. The subsequent regime began firing on all cylinders once again, however. The food is creative. An octopus appetizer was great. The unusually prepared cassoulet (they should really describe it better...being mostly meat and few beans, no bowl) was terrific. The desserts were impressive. I have had some odd meals here on occasion since, but it is fair to say that Django is still a top BYOB, and it is easier to get a reservation than in its heyday.

Dmitri's
3d & Catherine,  795 S. 3rd St   (215) 625-0556  Queen Village
Philadelphia isn't known for seafood, but this place specializes in Greek style seafood. Not your typical Greek-American (moussaka, etc) restaurant,  the food is creative and delicious. And cheap. Which means that it is typically mobbed. The fact that they take no reservations is the most irritating thing about the place. Get there early or be prepared to hang out in the bar across the street.

Effie's
11th & Locust Streets Heart of Center City
I know people who think Effie's, which is also haute Greek, is picking up where Dmitri's leaves off.  Less seafood.  

Farmicia --  farmiciarestaurant.com
15 S. 3rd Street (215) 627-6274  Olde City        Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
Not a pure BYO, they allow BYO with a no corkage on Wednesday, and with $10 corkage on other days. They do have a wine list. Call to be sure of the policy. The place is beautiful, another trendy, interesting place in Olde City, but also has fine food. I loved everything I had. The ambience and decor are great. As an added bonus, they bought Metropolitan Bakery's Center City outlet and sell fine bread to take home.

La Fontana della Citta
1701 Spruce Street (215) 875-9990 Heart of Center City, near Kimmel Center
This is now part of the Italian Triangle, consisting of Prima Donna, Branzino (across the street) and this place, which seems so very similar to Branzino. The food is quite nice--loved the lobster ravioli. The prices are fine, and the restaurant spacious. The most impressive thing though is the service--friendly and attentive. They try to make you welcome. A lot of fun for a modest amount of money, and many dishes that seem quite authentic.

Fork  www.forkrestaurant.com
306 Market Street, (215) 625-9425, Olde City/Historic Area     Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
Like a lot of licensed restaurants these days, FORK has a policy of allowing BYO. For a restaurant this jammed and this good and this inexpensive,  this attractive...BYO is a privilege.  The hefty $15 corkage fee, about standard for nicer places these days,  is therefore worth it. Fork can be  an experience as well as a meal. Incidentally, it is useful to note that, while in the early days Fork's kitchen was sometimes a little inconsistent even while the restaurant was at its trendy peak, for some time the food has been simply superb, a noticeable uptick of their first six to twelve months, and very consistent. Fork went from a "see and be seen" place to a neighborhood stalwart, a home bar so to speak for a lot of folks, largely due to the savvy marketing and attention to detail by owner Ellen Yin.

Gayle 
617 S. 3rd Street, South Street Area 215-922-3850       Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
I've heard mixed reviews of Gayle, but some love it and it has a following. Corkage is allowed @ $35 (call in advance), but they have BYOB-Corkage free Thursdays.

Ghittone--->La Locanda del Ghiottone 
130 N. 3d Street, Olde City/Historic Area   215-829-1465.  
This place has had its ups and downs, for reasons unrelated to food quality, but is extremely popular, with hearty, middle of the road Italian food and very reasonable prices.  They closed at one point due to fire. At another, they seemed to have an unlisted phone #. None of which has hurt their business much.  A great, inexpensive, informal choice.

Gnocchi
613 E. Passyunk  (around the corner from   5th & South, just next to Overtures, listed below) 215-592-8300 South Street/Historic Area
From the former co-owner of San Carlo, Sandro Frusone. His brother still owns Ristorante Prima Donna. They used to run Ristorante San Carlo (now defunct) Inexpensive, mostly pasta and antipasti, with  some bigger and better platters mixed in.  Excellent, delicious, reasonably priced value. Many of the recipes were identical to San Carlo, for instance, the tiramisu.

Hostaria da Elio
615 South 3rd St.  215-925-0930 South Street/Historic Area
Off South Street, not far from Overtures, Django,  this place has heavy BYOB competition in the area and acquits itself very well. The food was great, the service friendly, the atmosphere warm, prices reasonable. Very nice. Excellent, in fact.

Bistro La Baia
1700 Lombard, (215) 546-0496  Heart of Center City
The former maitre d' from Tiramisu goes out on his own.  I ate here last in March, 2005. The place is small and cramped, but the food is very good--and dirt cheap. The standard menu items rarely broke $15 for an entrée, although the specials tended to be $19-$28. I enjoyed everything I had, cramped as it was. A nice neighborhood place. 

Lacroix
210 W. Rittenhouse Square,  215-790-2533, Heart of Center City           Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
Reader recommended for BYOB Mondays without corkage. I have not tried the new restaurant, but the Chef's output at the Four Seasons made him one of the best in the City.

Little Fish
600 Catherine, (215) 413-3464, Queen Village
More or less around the corner from Dmitri's,  focusing on fish, fish, and fish. 

Lolita
106 South 13th (at Sansom), (215) 546-7100, Heart of Center City
Mexican new wave-ish. I was pleasantly surprised by the informal but upscale demeanor of the restaurant, together with the many interesting dishes. The fundido appetizer was superb. The stuffed pork wasn't quite as tender as it could've been, but the price was right, the food plentiful and the atmosphere excellent.

Matyson www.matyson.com 
37 South 19th Street, Heart of Center City Phila, (215) 564-2925
An elegant, cool looking French bistro, between Market and Chestnut. Generally well received from everyone in my group. Food was very tasty with big portions. Appetizers in the $8-11 range (great scallops!). Entrees in the upper teens to low 20s for the most part. Very good, although the Morrocan braised ribs, as tasty as it was, was pretty fatty.  Still, this is a GREAT place and subsequent meals have been creative and fine.

Overtures
609 E. Passyunk (off 5th & South Streets), (215) 627-3455 South Street/Historic Area
Upscale restaurants without licenses are common in New Jersey, but not in Philadelphia. Simply one of the best. Elegant, refined, superb in both ambience and atmosphere. I absolutely love Peter's cooking. Pricey for a BYO, nonetheless the $50 prix fixe gives you an extra course for free and is worth every penny. Few BYOs have elegance; this does. La Campagne may best it in that regard, but the food here is more consistent since it stems from the owner, Peter, and doesn't have to go through a wave of chefs.

Pumpkin
1713 South Street, 215-545-4448   Western Center City
This popular, crowded and tiny BYOB left me rather unimpressed. Its popularity--it was packed--rather befuddles me considering the quality of the nearby competition. Like many BYOBs it is cramped and a bit uncomfortable (see PIF, La Baia, etc). But it is also one of the noisiest restaurants in which I have eaten, so much so that it was hard to hear the person directly across from me at times. The shrieking women behind us didn't help, but even without them the place was a madhouse. There is not much in the way of decor, and the ambience is nil. The open kitchen keeps the place a bit on the warm side. The food was average, pleasant enough but nothing special compared to Philadelphia's list of fine BYOBs.  The staff was ok, but not terribly accomodating. (A request for a dump bucket and ice bucket was met with the response that we could have one or the other, but not both--even though we had a table for six.) There are just too many fine BYOBs for this to be my destination. Within a couple of blocks, it has superior neighbors, like Branzino, Fontana della Citta, Prima Donna, La Baia. 

Porcini
2048 Sansom, 215 751 1175 Western Center City
Well recommended by readers for reasonably priced Italian fare, apparently beloved by all who have gone--but beware the shoebox size....Convenient to U of Penn campus.

Prima Donna Trattoria
1506 Spruce Street, 215 790-0171, Heart of Center City, near Kimmel Center     Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
Owned by Giancarlo Frusone of San Carlo and Gnocchi fame, this restaurant fills a nice niche that used to see us going to 1521 Cafe before they stopped allowing BYO. Many of the recipes are the same familiar fare from the late, lamented San Carlo. Terrific antipasti, home made pasta like canelloni, copious quantities. They get a lot of orders for stuffed veal and the like, but note that they usually have an excellent touch with fish.  The best choices come from the wide antipasti selection and the pastas. That's easily a meal in and of itself, and an entree, some of which can be hit or miss, is redundant at that point. It is also very attractive, with a garage just right across the street. One block from the Kimmel Center. Of the Uptown Little Italy group that has gathered in recent years.

Radicchio Cafe
4th & Wood (314 York St., officially)  215-627-6850  Northern Olde City http://www.radicchio-cafe.com
This is a place everyone loves for its low prices and fine Italian food. The downside is that it is loud, hectic and hard to get to, but the food is great and the service is friendly. Their refusal to take reservations is a major irritant and as a result, I don't go as often as I might.

Sonam
223 South Street (215) 922-3092   South Street/Historic Area sonambyob.com  email: info@sonambyob.com
This eclectic place calls its menu "global dim sum." The dishes are claimed to be small, although some are bigger than you think. They are all creative and often a little eccentric. I found that the eccentricity, however, doesn't diminish the food--that is, things work and taste great. We had both an interesting and rather tasty meal. In fact, it is fair to say that I loved the place, from the greetings of the friendly owner, to the excellent food and reasonable prices. The food is often more white friendly, and much of will pair well with whites that have attitude, like Gewurztraminer, Alvarinho, and Sauvignon Blanc. This location has not done well in the past--but Sonam is easily the best quality restaurant that has been here. It deserves some support. Closed Tuesdays as of this writing, and open for brunch on Sundays.

Sovalo
702 N. 2d Street, Northern Liberties, (215) 413-7770     Licensed, not a pure BYOB, restrictions may apply
This restaurant in Northern Liberties is homey, and makes pretty good Italian food. I've enjoyed it very much the two times I have gone. BYOB is only permitted on Mondays as of this writing, corkage-free. Call to confirm, as with licensed restaurants you never know when policies will change.

Smile Café
105 S. 22nd Street,  (215) 564-2502  Western Center City website
Reader recommended. The owner was at Little Thai Kitchen in Cherry Hill. Open for lunch and dinner. Entrées inexpensive, in teens.

Tamarind
117 South Street, (215) 925-2764    South Street/Historic Area
Thai food, nice looking place, service can be  slow with large groups, and the food is good but not exceptional and rather inconsistent. I really liked the salmon tamarind dish. The spring rolls were delicious, some of the best I've had. The fish cake appetizer was rubbery and unappealing. Others complained about the leathery pork, although I rather liked its savory spices. Dirt cheap, we ordered everything in sight and still got out for $26 a person.

Valentino
1328 Pine Street, ( 215) 545-6265,  Heart of Center City
Reader recommended for simple, inexpensive, back-to-basics Italian food. The owners also own the pizza shop next door.

Return to Top

PHILADELPHIA: OTHER

Guido's http://www.guidosrestaurant.com/
3545 Welsh Road, Northeast Philadelphia
215.335.1850
Reader recommended, not tried. I don't get out to the Northeast very often. For those in the neighborhood, this might be a nice pick for hearty Italian food.

Hamlet Bistro hamletbistro.com
7105 Emlen Street  West Mt. Airy section
215- 247-5800
Reader recommended: "I'd say it was like home cooking that you don't have to cook yourself.  Wonderful turkey meatloaf.  Soups are always good.  There's always a vegetarian choice. Desserts read like homespun types.  I'm not a dessert person so can't attest to how they taste. Welcoming atmosphere.  We've sent many people there & all have enjoyed it."

Las Cazuelas
426 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA (215) 351-9144
A reader writes: "The food here is definitely Mexican, but with a difference.  It features the cuisine of the Puebla region of Mexico.  Consequently the menu is a little different from the average Mexican restaurant.  The owners of the restaurant seem to be on the premises, and the food is carefully prepared.  I would say that if one appreciates Mexican food, they would love La Cazuelas.  It has the additional distinction of being one of the quietest Mexican restaurants in which I have ever eaten."

Mariaisabella
8121 Rowland Ave.,   (215)624-4440
Small, family owned restaurant, with entrees from $12-$19. Not tried. In Northeast Philly.  No reservations. 

Marigold Kitchen
501 South 45th, 215-222-3699  (cross street: Larchwood) Off University of Pennsylvania campus (5 blocks south of Market St)
Like RX, NAN and Studio Kitchen, Marigold is continuing a tradition of interesting new restaurants in West Philadelphia, which was not exactly deemed to be a restaurant destination--until now. The place is very small, with very few seats, in an old, turn of the (20th) century home. Groups of more than 5 or so are hard to accomodate gracefully. This neighborhood, called "Spruce Hill," is actually pleasant in isolation although close to some iffy areas.  Note: Originally, Marigold's chef was known for innovation. Not all the dishes worked, but I enjoyed the creativity and attempt to do something else. Then, the restaurant hired a sous chef from Vetri. The food was solid, but not as interesting, frankly. In my most recent visit (August 2007), the chef was on a Middle Eastern craze (perhaps because he is Israeli). Few of these touches worked well, and the food was mediocre at best. The stuffed chicken sounded great, but the stuffing was flavorless and the chicken dry and a bit tough. I did like the escargot appetizer, but there was nothing special about it. This place is once again in flux, and has yet to return to its original heights, and I hear there is yet another new chef. Love the ambience--no longer sure what to make of the food.

RX
4443 Spruce St, off University of Pennsylvania campus. (215) 222-9590
Quaint place in an old, old pharmacy (hence, RX...). Good food, very reasonable prices. Crowded, no frills, noisy. There is nothing elegant here, but the food is a fine value for the price. I'm not sure it's worth the trip, as the food is good, not ethereal, which is fairly far out of Center City, and a bit off campus, but if you're in the area, it's a real find and cheap for the quality. More or less around the corner from Marigold. 

Umbria
7131 Germantown Ave.
The Italian name has nothing to do with the excellent American food. Creative cooking. Inconvenient to Center City-ites, but great for those in the area.

Return to Top

SOUTH JERSEY
(a mecca for BYO's due to NJ Liquor license laws)

Alisa Café
Barclay Farms Shopping Center, East Side of Route 70, Cherry Hill  856-354-880
Thai/continental.  One of the traditionally popular BYOB choices in the 'burbs. It was in Upper Darby forever, but finally they gave up the ghost and moved to Joisey.  

Arnie's Gourmet Steakhouse
8021 Centennial Boulevard, Voorhees, Camden County, New Jersey (856) 424-7774
Reader recommended: "The filet mignon is to die for. The service is great along with the prices."

Bacio Italian Cuisine
2806 Route 130 North, Cinnaminson , NJ , NJ 856 303-9100  www.baciorestaurant.com
Like the name says--Italian. I found the food good, and the welcome friendly. The Chef does a fine job, and you have to love the big, big Toque. :) Everything was tasty and well prepared, and there was a welcoming atmosphere that I appreciated. There are some dishes that seem a bit Americanized. There is lots of space, too. 

Cafe Mélange
1601 Chapel Avenue, Cherry Hill, NJ 856 663 7339
http://www.melangecafe.com
An unusual concept....a mix of Italian and Louisiana cuisine. The food's creative and excellent. Try the Crab meat "cheesecake!" It was hard to dislike this fun place, with an eclectic cuisine.

Champa Laos
219 Haddonfield-Berlin Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 (In the Centrum Shoppes) 856-795-0188.
From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President:  "Thai-Laotian-French Cuisine. Recently opened, and deserving to be full every night, this is some of the best food of its genre, very reasonably priced.  The menu is the size of a small phone book, broken down into various regions of Thai food and Laotian food. The Laotian side is particularly recommended for those who like their food spicy. The servers are Laotian and well able to make recommendations among the exotic sounding dishes. The Chilean Seabass is superb, comes with lump crabmeat and spinach surrounded by rice with fruit and nuts. Also loved the Apricot Salmon, "baked cajun seasoning pistachio crusted with light honey apricot brandy sauce." This is place is a real find."

Creole Café
1333 S Black Horse Pike, Unit # 4 WILLIAMSTOWN, N.J.  (on route 168). 856-262-2334
Reader recommended: "A bit of a drive from center city Philadelphia, but well worth it. This unassuming spot, a residential dwelling converted to a restaurant, has some well deserved local buzz going. The menu has a large and varied selection which includes seafood, chicken, duck, pasta, and more exotic items like alligator sausage, blackened buffalo steak, mesquite grilled elk chop and lemon pepper ostrich. The game is anything but gamey - both the buffalo and ostrich were done to perfection on a recent visit, tender, succulent and delicious. The creole sauce tasted authentic to me and the shrimp were also cooked just right. Save room for the goatcheese cake, a creamy, tangy house specialty that sells out - reserve your piece with your entree!"

Bistro Di Marino
492 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, NJ 08108 (856) 858-1700.
From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "Very nice Italian menu with reasonable portions and reasonable prices. The seafood and veal dishes are outstanding, and the pasta is pretty darn good, too."

Elena Wu
910 Haddonfield-Berlin Road, In the Ritz 16 plaza in Voorhees, near Ritz Seafood. 856-566-3221. 
We had a fine bargain in a Chinese banquet for $35 that included fabulous lamb and great soup. Some of the other items were a little hit and miss, but this is a lot of quality for the price. Also loved the tuna steak. A lot of quality for the price.

Emerald Fish
Barclay Farms Shopping Ctr., Rt. 70E   Cherry Hill  609-616-9192
Reader recommended. Comfortable, and varied with dishes like Lobster Pomodoro. I've enjoyed the seafood at very reasonable prices.

Fuji 
116 E. Kings Highway, Haddonfield, N.J.  856-354-8200  WEBSITE
Reader recommended. Japanese and Sushi. Open for lunch and dinner most days.

Food For Thought
Marlton Crossing Shopping Ctr. Rt. 73 Marlton (just past Olga's Diner)  609-797-1126
I've never quite seemed to have gotten here, but judging from the numerous reader references to it, this appears to be one of the most popular BYO's in South Jersey.

La Campagne
312 Kresson Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ  (856) 429-7647
Upscale French-type inn, results are usually very good to excellent. I've had a lot of great meals here, and they have survived the departure of some great chefs.  Fairly expensive, one of the most elegant, prettiest BYOs in the region. For a top of the line BYO, this is one of the places to start in South Jersey. www.lacampagne.com

Laceno
Echelon Village Plaza (near Genuardis), White Horse  Road, Voorhees, NJ (856) 627-3700
This is owned by the folks who own Radicchio in Philadelphia. I think the food is better at Radicchio, but the places are very similar--noisy, frenetic, jammed. One difference is that Radicchio does not take reservations. Although Laceno pretends to take reservations, for a group in particular that may be mostly a guess on busy nights.  Not bad, but not exactly a calm, elegant establishment, either.

A Little Café
Plaza Shoppes, 118 White Horse Rd., Voorhees, NJ  609-784-3344
A reader writes: Appetizers are  creative, i.e. crab cigarettes. Seafood, chicken, pork and beef.   Balance of flavors are done well."  In my own experience, the food here is upscale and excellent. This is one of the most elaborate BYOs on this page, competing more with classical places like La Campagne and Overtures, than Dmitris and Gnocchi. Nice little touches like "amuse bouches," as in fancy places. As you might expect, a little pricier than the cheaper bistros, too, but surely worth it.

Megu
1990 Rt. 70 East, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 (Village Walk Shopping Center) 856-489-6228. From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "Traditional Japanese with an exceptional sushi bar. They also offer 30% off sushi on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, which is a great deal. They make a host of exotic specialty rolls, of which my favorites are the Spice Girl Roll (spicy tuna, spicy salmon, spicy yellowtail and avocado inside, flying fish roe outside) and Volcano Roll (spicy crunchy tuna with avocado, hot spicy sauce on top). Their featured specialty is white tuna, a melt in your mouth delicacy, which they will prepare to your order, either raw or cooked." 11/05

Monsoon - Malaysian Cuisine and Sushi Bar
1215 Route 73, Mt. Laurel, NJ in the West Marine Plaza - 856-866-0123.
From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "Totally unique cuisine. The descriptions on the menu do not do the dishes justice. This is a place to go and trust the owner/hostess, who will gladly guide your choices. Satay, curries, and special Malaysian dishes that are exceptional for their sublty and complexity. A tiny hole-in-the-wall worth seeking out." 11/05

Nunzio's Ristorante Rustico
706 Haddon Ave.,  Collingswood, N.J. 856-858-9840
Good news for Philadelphians: this is two blocks from the Collingswood High Speed Line (Patco). Eagerly awaited, this opening in 2004 has seen people streaming in. Why? Nunzio was the celebrated chef at The Monte Carlo Living Room in Philadelphia, where some of Philadelphia's best food was served during his tenure. After a rocky start, the quality has soared, and the food seems like it is coming from Nunzio again.

Pelican Fish Company
508 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, N.J. Washington Township 856-589-6969
From German Wine Society President, Beth Sheligo: "Tucked away in a strip mall in the wilds of South Jersey, this is a VERY popular (at least, by Saturday night standards) restaurant. The large dining room was filled to capacity, and there was a lengthy table wait, even for those with reservations. Once seated, however, the pace was perfect. Our orders were taken promptly, though we were not rushed, and the food arrived in the amount of time it took to prepare it. The menu offers numerous versions of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, with obligatory chicken and beef for the non-fish fans. The house speciality is steamed king crab legs, which looked fantastic, and probably explained the lengthy table wait (they take some time to eat). Appetizers included cajun crab cakes (all crab meat)with two dipping sauces, mussels, grilled portabello mushrooms, salad and fried calamari, priced at $6-$9. Entrees included rosemary crusted salmon (done to perfection, the creamy fish flesh and the fragrant herbs make the palate do backflips), salmon in parchment, chilean sea bass, lump crabmeat crabcakes, and seared ahi tuna with wasabi sauce, done as rare as you like it. I asked to substitute the rosemary and mushroom smashed potatoes for the garlic smashed potatoes, an inspired choice, as they were truly awesome. Entrees are a great value, ranging from $13 to $20; the most expensive item was $24. Homemade desserts rounded out the evening beautifully. Passing on the chocolate and cheesecakes, the peach cobbler was a perfect ending to what was a longer than expected evening. I'll definitely go back, most likely mid week rather than weekend."  November, 2005.

Red Hen Café
560 Stokes Road, Medford, N.J. (609) 953-2655
European cuisine in general. I haven't been yet, but readers have indicated that they liked it..

Red Lantern
Short Hills Shopping Center on Evesham Avenue, Cherry Hill, N.J.  856-857-9006
This review by German Wine Society President, Beth Sheligo: Total seating is around 32. The good news is: everything else! The menu includes most traditional dishes, and the chef's speciality is fish. (There are three or 4 daily specials). Most are whole filleted, but some are served with head (you are advised of this at the time you order, in case you want to change your mind.) All are delicious, given the special preparation one finds at formal Chinese banquets. The remaining dishes, beef, pork, chicken, duck and shellfish, are prepared with great care. Chicken with broccoli is melt-in-your-mouth tender, calamari and shrimp litely batter fried impressed both for the lack of any greasiness as well as the absolutely exquisite tenderness of the calamari. Steamed pork dumplings with lump crabmeat were delicately flavorful and very filling ($5.95 buys 6 huge dumplings of 4 bites each). The emphasis of the chef is on enhancement of the natural flavors of the dish, rather than a heavy handed use of sauce. The staff is courteous, knowledgeable, and very wine friendly. A special additional feature is a tea bar, featuring 20 unique Chinese teas, many with fruit flavors. With excellent QPR, the place is a real gem.

Ritz Seafood
910 Haddonfield-Berlin Road, (856) 566-6650 In the Ritz 16 plaza in Voorhees.
Review by German Wine Society President, Beth Sheligo: "Sandwiched between Chez Elena Wu and The Blue Gill in The Shops at the Ritz, this restaurant/seafood shop is the hottest place in Vorhees right now. Limited seating, word of mouth and a good review in the Philadelphia Inquirer make calling ahead a must. The food is Asian/fusion (i.e., andouille sausage spring roll), reasonable and delicious. The New Zealand green mussels in broth are to die for; the soft shell crab almondine exquisite. There is also a 1-1/2 lobster special with corn on the cob and cole slaw for $14.99. Be sure to leave room for dessert, one dish that changes daily with the whim of the chef: bread pudding. Not just any bread pudding; they range from double chocolate to any sort of fruit in season, served warm with vanilla ice cream. A great place to open your favorite whites."  Now has Kobe beef! 

Sapori Tratttoria
501 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, NJ 08108 (856) 858-2288.
Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "Sapori means "flavors" in Italian (at least, it says so on the back of the menu) and this little gem is full of them. Wonderful, authentic northern Italian cuisine. Every dish is cooked to order, the pastas are wonderful and the meats even better. (They get my vote for best lamb chops in the Delaware Valley). The service is pleasant but never hurried, the staff courteous and the pacing perfection. It is possible to dine as they do in Italy, and order your courses one at a time, if you prefer. A hidden treasure." .
 

SIRI's
2117-2119 Route 70 West, Cherry Hill, NJ  (TRACK TOWN MALL)
(856)  663-6781
Continental dishes with oriental touches, a fusion of Thai/French cuisine from owner/chef Siri Yothchavit. Excellent value for the quality (but not Chinatown kind of prices.) Very good.  Dinner and lunch served. It's an easy trip from downtown Philadelphia--over the Ben Franklin bridge to 70E, a few blocks past the Hilton, in the plaza on your right. The "Golden Bags" appetizer is a favorite, crispy outside in sweet and sour sauce, stuffed with seafood. The lamb dishes are usually excellent, as are the beef dishes.

Somsak
Echo Shoppes, 200 White Horse Road, Voorhees, NJ 856-782-1771
From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "Venerable Thai restaurant, one of the oldest BYO's in the area. Excellent food and great QPR. The Salmon Garlic Chili is a favorite, while I prefer the fish steamed in banana leaves. (this place is next door to A Little Cafe.) 11/05

Tarantella Ristorante
Medford Plaza Center   Hartford Road and Rt. 70
Medford, NJ   (609)714-9050
Reader recomended: "Oversized portions, great food. They do sell local winery wines, but are still a BYOB. They accept reservations for parties of 6 or more only. We've been known to tailgate in the parking lot while waiting for a table, but always worth the wait. Mostly Italian food, but mixed menu and specials with fish, steak, etc. The owners are there 7 days a week and join in on a few songs with Willie (an older accoustic guitarist that actually sounds somewhat like Willie Nelson singing Italian songs, but adds to the fun) on Friday and Saturday nights. They and the staff make everyone feel like part of the family. My favorite BYOB. It's become a tradition in our group of friends to spend our birthdays there."

Tortilla Press--  tortillapress.com
703 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ  856-869-3345
From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "Innovative BYOB on Haddon Ave. The colorful decor,and excellent Spanish guitar player added ambience to this cheerful spot in what has become a happening restaurant town in South Jersey. One look at the days special menu, and there is little incentive to peruse the regular items buried in the back. ...[O]ne of the finest pieces of tuna I have ever tasted. .. Throughout the evening, service was excellent, attentive but not intrusive, courteous and warm. The owner told us he is planning to expand into the space now occupied by a deli next door, a good move, considering the somewhat limited seating space. We'll be back soon."

Water Lilly
665 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, NJ 08108 (www.waterlillybistro.com) 856-833-0998.
From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "The former chef at Siri's has opened his own restaurant on the trendy Haddon Ave. strip. Fans of Siri's will recognize a number of the dishes on the menu, including the wonderful asparagus soup with lump crabmeat. Duck, beef, lamb and veal add a Continental flair. Unlike many of the BYO's, this one is designed to give groups a little privacy at seating and the noise level is considerably lower than many. " 

Word of Mouth
729 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, N.J. www.wordofmouthrestaurant.com
(856) 858.2450
Related to the also-very-cutely-named "Food for thought," this place is one of the more attractive and roomy BYOs around, on Collingswood's hot main drag, about 2 blocks from the PATCO stop. The elegantly upholstered furniture gives it an upscale, classy feel.  The food is very good--prime rib was a huge slab of perfectly cooked meat. Prices are reasonable, service excellent. Worth the trip.

YoshiaYa Pan-Asian Cuisine
1475 Brace Road Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 (in the former Super G shopping center) 856-428-8999.
From Beth Sheligo, German Wine Society President: "Two excellent chefs, both named Steve, head up the helm here: one supervises the shushi (which is excellent), the other the cooked food. Together, they are capable of presenting a unique and remarkable meal. A blend of Chinese, Japanese and Caribbean cusines, the sauces are the star here. There is a private room to accommodate large parties, and the chefs are amenable to working out a tasting menu in advance. "

Return to Top

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA

Albertino
1617 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 339-5211
Part of  South Philly's burgeoning Restaurant Row, this attractive restaurant does a real nice job (loved the Cioppino sauce!) at reasonable prices. The portions are large, the service friendly.

L'Anglo
1415 W Porter St,  South Philadelphia (215) 389-4252
Reader recommended: "I think it represents everything Philadelphia is about. My wife is Italian and finds most Italian restaurants lacking in the ability to prepare decent simple rustic Italian food. L'Angolo met her requirements and more! "

Franko & Luigi's (now the High Note Café)
13th & Tasker Sts, South Philly
(215) 755-8900
Southern Italian style. The food is simple but an excellent example of its type, mostly pasta, and huge portions. They will make special upscale dishes like tuna steak and Osso Bucco if you call Franko in advance and have a group.  The ambience is the thing here. The waiters all sing opera. They're pretty good, too. Also, features take-out pizza. They will also make upscale dishes like veal and lamb for you if you call in advance. Very nice owners, waitstaff. A fun experience.  On the best nights (Thursdays-Saturdays), the place can turn into one giant party. It is hard to have more fun for less money, good food, and BYO, too. Depending on how you eat, runs about $30-$40-ish, including tax and tip.

Nido
1540 West Ritner Street, (215) 755-0860
Public relations release: from  a former Girasole chef of Neapolitan heritage, a cozy spot in South Philly. Not yet tasted, but reader recommended.

PIF
215-625-2923
CLOSING AS OF MID-JULY, 2007.

Scannicchio's
2500 S. Broad Street (at Porter) (215) 468-3900
Reader recommended for good food in a friendly atmosphere. Italian, of course, way down near the stadiums.

Tre Scalini
1915 E. Passyunk Ave. *It was formerly at 11th & Tasker.*  (215) 551-3870
The new location is much nicer and roomier, but it is one of the noisiest restaurants in the city. I hear (as of June, 2007) that they are looking into solutions for that. The evening was seriously marred by having to orate all the time. The place still seemed noisy with only two or three tables filled. Earlier, it seemed like all your effort was put into every sentence, to the point where you'd prefer to put your head down, eat and leave as soon as possible. The food is good, not a revelation. The veal was ok. The pasta was better. I would go back, though, if it were not for the noise.

Return to Top

SUBURBS
Alba
7 West King Street, Malvern, PA (610) 644-4009
Located just west of the intersection of Warren and King, Alba is directly in front of the train station. Reader recommended. A reader writes: "They cook with locally grown foods and many of the dishes are prepared over a wood burning grill.  The menu is not long, but the options all sounded delicious.  I had the Hanger Steak and my wife, the Tagliatelle.  Both were fantastic.  Prices are reasonable.  Most entrees were in the mid 20’s. The staff was very attentive and helpful in deciding on an entrée. The crowd was on the older side…55+…(comparatively to my wife and I who are in our late 20’s) ."

Alison at Blue Bell
721 Skippack Pike, Blue Bell, PA (215) 641-2660
A reader writes: "Alison Barshak certainly established her reputation as one of the area's outstanding chefs at Striped Bass, if she had not done so before.  The food she is now turning out in her own restaurant in Blue Bell is most tasty and outstanding.  The restaurant itself is of moderate size, pleasant, modern and comfortable."  www.alisonatbluebell.com

Arpeggio 
Lower Gwynedd/Ambler vicinity, Bethlehem Pike & Norristown Road in Springhouse Village Center.  215-646-5055. Reader recommended. "This is an inexpensive spot, average entrees are  $10-12, a few may be $15-17, great salad entrees and wood burned pizza for under $10...

Athena
Glenside, across from the Keswick Theatre.
A reader writes: Moussaka to die for, and other Greek specialties that are a good excuse for opening up your zin collection. Warning: no credit cards! Personal checks are accepted. Quite busy on show nights. Outdoor deck is a good place for larger groups. No corkage fee. 

Avalon
312 South High Street West Chester, PA Chester County
Eclectic. Partly owned by the guy who owns Amore next door. Mid-priced. Includes Mediterranean, Carribean and Southwestern cuisine. Dinner, Tues-Sun. 

Birchrunville Store Café
1403 Hollow Rd., Birchrunville PA (610) 827-9002 Chester County
I've been here a couple of times. The food is French (as is the owner), and very good, prices reasonable. The noise level can be incredible, and is one of the worst I've ever seen. Evidently, something about the design magnifies the noise. It's a shame--located in an historic building, with good food, this moderately priced place is otherwise a find. Warning: No matter how often I go, I get lost every time. And finding it in the dark is a real trick as the area is so unlit and so black that I actually had to stop the car at street signs and get out to see where I was. Last reviewed, 2003. A reader wrote in 2005 that the noise level had been substantially reduced by installation of a new ceiling, but I have not had the chance to test that myself.

Black Lab Café
Bridge Street, Phoenixville
Reader recommended: "The owners of The Black Lab Bistro .. bought an old pharmacy ... and put in a first class Bistro that serves the local walk-in trade as well as the McMansion crowd that is taking over the area.   They promote themselves as a bakery, too, so there are always fabulous breads for sale and served with sandwiches and other meals.  Desserts, too, are inventive and top notch. The typical lunch and dinner menu includes everything from Portobello Mushroom sandwiches on thick slabs of home made bread, hamburgers, club and chicken sandwiches to full-blown entrees ..from crab cakes to lam to steaks – you name it. Priced $10-$15.    There’s a huge municipal parking lot behind the restaurant, another on the corner and lots of on-street parking.  

Bunha Faun
152 Lancaster  Malvern PA   610-651-2836
Thai-French fusion. Reader recommended. Not personally tried.  Menu   limited, features things like  escargot ($7.00) and roast duck ($14.95) or rack of lamb ($18.95). The stemware is decent.

Carambola  web site
1650 Limekiln Pike, Reader recommended. 215-542-0900
Reader recommended. Check out their web site for details.

Carmine's
818 Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr 610-520-9100
No longer a BYOB, this long standing restaurant still offers BYOB without corkage on Sunday nights in its relatively new (December, 2006) Lancaster Avenue location.

Domani Star  website
57 West State Street, Doylestown, PA (215) 230-9100
Reader recommended for fine Italian cuisine.

Fayette Street Grille
308 Fayette Street, Conshohocken 610-567-0366  Montgomery County
Reader review: "Surprisingly diverse (seafood, pork, chicken and filet) menu, which I would label 'American with a French influence.' The three course prix fix menu is very well priced at $27.50/person.   Reservations necessary  a week ahead. Crowded and noisy but fun and worth it"

Fellini's
Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore, (610) 642-9009
Reader review: "The food is good, reasonably priced, plentiful and a nice atmosphere on the kitchen side of a 2 room establishment. No corkage fee."

Fioravanti
Business Rt 30 @ 322 in Downingtown, Chester County, 105 E.  Lancaster Avenue; 610-518-9170 
A reader writes: "A BYOB with NY class, open kitchen, great execution, good staff/service, decent glassware, extensive menu, and (are you ready?) $15 prix fix if you get there by six pm for four courses.  This is absolutely a trip!  If it was in Philly, it would be another Dmitiris.    Four visits and no bad reviews yet.  Get the quail appetizer.  $8-10 apps and $15-22 entrees." Another reader reports being baffled by this reviewed, constantly finding overcooked dishes. I haven't been...   

Funky Lil' Kitchen 232 King Street, Pottstown, PA 19464   (610) 326-7400
Hours:Lunch ( Tu-Fri) 11:30-2:30  Dinner (Tu-Sat) 5:00-9:00. I have not yet tried this but the owner says the idea is to bring a city style of dining to the 'burbs, with Modern American food.  It has gotten some good reviews from readers.

Gilmore's
133 East Gay Street, West Chester, (610) 431-2800 Chester County
A former Le Bec Fin chef went out on his own. The result was stunning food in the 'burbs. This restaurant that has generated enthusiastic reviews from everyone I've talked to. When I finally got to go in 2003 after a long wait, I was treated to a charming, if tiny, restaurant with some of the best food I've had in the area. It takes a lot to make me enthusiastic--this did! If I lived nearby, I'd go here every week. This has to be on everyone's short list for "Best BYOB" in the region.

Little Saigon
113 Fairfield Street, Upper Darby, PA  (610) 352-1002. 
Reader recommended.  A few doors from the venerable Alisa Café. 

Magnolia Café
583 Horsham Rd, Horsham PA 19044
Reader recommended, complimenting great food and service.

Meredith's website
10 Lepoard Road, Berwyn  (610) 251-0265
Reader recommended. Contemporary American cuisine.

Nais Cuisine   http://www.naiscuisine.com/
13-17 W. Benedict Ave., Havertown, PA 19083  (610) 789-5983
Long-standing resto in the 'burbs that has a devoted following and serves the by now well know French with a touch of Asian mix. I've always liked their food. 

Nora Lee's   http://www.noraleescafe.com
227 Morton Avenue, Folsom, PA  (484) 494-5155
Reader recommended for Cajun cooking from an alumnus of Media's former New Orleans Cafe.

Sovana Bistro
696 Unionville Road, Kennett Square,  at 926 and 82, Chester County.  610-444-5600
A reader writes: "excellent Italian styled cuisine and attentive staff who just love to see you!  Very crowded most of the time, with the horse breeder/Land Rover crowd.  Decent glassware, not great.  This kitchen turned out my crab crepe in record time, despite the onslaught of at least 50 covers in 20 minutes.  Extensive menu, and very good execution.  No bad remarks to make in three visits.  $8-10 Apps, $14-20 entrees."

Springdale Café 
Whiteland Business Park, 880 Springdale Drive, Exton, PA 610-524-8600
Reader recommended, contemporary cuisine. From the owner of the former Peaches.

Teresa's Café Italiano
124 N. Wayne Avenue, Wayne, PA  610- 293-9909
Inexpensive Italian food on the Main Line.

Thai Pepper Restaurant
372 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, Pennsylvania. 610-688-5853
Reader recommended especially for the spicy dishes. (Bring gewurz!)

Return to Top

Other BYO lists and sites for our region: Dining Info A free BYOB site...amazing detail, easy to use.  Tells you the BYOB policies of licensed restaurants, too.  Herb Englebert, a friend of mine, compiled his own list for the International Wine Society. Download here MS WORD format.   In addition, others in the region compile BYOB lists. A professional operation, widescale  BYOB guide.  Some others that used to be listed here recently returned a "not found," so they have been deleted.

This site designed and created in content and in form by Mark Squires.   Copyright ©  2001-2008, all rights reserved.