Restaurant Reviews

>"Valentino’s Ristorante Italiano" >"Westgate Pub" >"Mama Maria Ristorante Italiano" >"Lotsa Pasta & Pub" >"Giampino’s Cucina Italiana"

>"Cajun Kate’s" >"Caroline’s, Secane" >"Five Guys Burgers and Fries" >"Dynasty Buffet" >"DeMarcos Restaurant"

>"Llanerch Diner" >"Jimmy Mac’s Restaurant"

When I arrived at the Dynasty Buffet in the Stoney Creek Shopping Center in Springfield, PA I was impressed from the start with the restaurant. My guest and I were seated at a booth in the large dining room with other guests seated generously around the room. The waitress took our drink orders and left us to pick our food, as much as we wanted, from the buffet. The buffet included sushi, chicken and broccoli, BBQ pork, general chicken, vegetable fried rice and much more. Another section of the buffet includes fruit and vegetables to make salads. Soups and desserts are also available.

I chose some vegetable fried rice, chicken and broccoli and an egg roll while my guest tried the general chicken, buttered potatoes and french fries. The food was hot, cooked thoroughly and comparable to traditional Asian cuisine. While we ate waitresses were standing by to refill our drinks and promptly take away empty dishes.

Throughout our lunch my guest and I noticed more and more people arriving and I couldn’t help but think to myself how impressive of a crowd there was for a Sunday afternoon. People filed into the dining room and chose their food at the buffet with smiles on their faces.

Dynasty Buffet also has take out and allows you to take any leftovers for a price measured by weight.

The buffet prices are as follows; Monday-Saturday 11am-3pm; $6.49(Adults), $3.99(Children ages 6-10) and $1.99(Children ages 3-5), Monday-Sunday 4pm-9:30pm and holidays; $9.99(Adults), $6.49(Children ages 6-10) and $3.99(Children ages 3-5). Senior citizens over 60 always receive a 10% discount and children under 3 eat for free. Dynasty Buffet is open seven days a week for all you can eat lunch and dinner.

When looking for a sit-down restaurant with Asian and American cuisine for a reasonable price with a family atmosphere, Dynasty Buffet is the place to go!

Dynasty Buffet is located at 427 Baltimore Pike, Springfield, PA. For more information call, 610-543-2626.

Charlie DeMarco has once again created a warm and welcoming place with DeMarco’s Restaurant. The casual atmosphere and friendly service makes you feel like you’ve returned to the old neighborhood, and are sitting at a table heaped high with wonderful food, enjoying the company of friends and loved ones.

Located at the corner of Garrett and Burmont Rds., DeMarco’s is open Monday through Friday from 11:30am until 2:00am and from 12:00pm to 2:00am on Saturdays and Sundays. Additional parking is available after 5:00pm in the Farm Fresh Produce lot across the street. Credit cards are accepted and Gift Certificates available in any denomination. Take out is always available and delivery offered from 5pm to 10pm, 7 days a week. Visit them on the web at www.demarcosrestaurant.com for pictures, menus and coupons.

Charlie opened his last restaurant, DeMarco’s Pasta and Pub, in 1987 and then moved to his present location in August, 2002. The restaurant and bar areas share equal space; close enough to allow viewing of the five TV’s from the restaurant, but discreetly separated in such a way as to give a feeling of privacy in the dining area. Soft music plays in the background for an overall relaxing dining experience.

Monday through Thursday the lunch specials include “A Pitcher and a Pie’ $11.95, Wings with Fries, Burgers with Fries, both at $4.95 and Steak Sandwich with Fries for $5.95, respectively. Pizza is available every day at $4.95. Gourmet Sandwiches at $6 to $8 are also offered.

Happy Hour runs from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with $2 drafts on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and $2 Well Drinks and Domestic Bottles on Tuesday and Thursday. Food specials from 4:00pm to 6:30pm range from pizza, wings, mozzarella sticks, crab balls and bruschetta to fried ravioli. However, the full menu is offered any time of day in either the restaurant or bar area.

Mixed drinks average $3.50 and a full fifteen choices of martinis are available at $6.00 each. A wide variety of wines, beer and other beverages were also offered by our friendly bartender, Joe.

Each night, chef Jimmy creates a different dinner special to please the many customers who return time and again for the delicious fare. Everyday daily specials include Sunday’s $10.95 Pasta Blitz, with a choice of three types of pasta accompanied by garlic bread. Monday is Parmesan Night with your choice of Chicken, Veal or Shrimp served with pasta, $11.95. Tuesday is all-you-can-eat Mussels at $11.95.

Wednesday is “World Famous Marsala” night with a choice of Chicken, Veal or Shrimp at $13.95. According to the clientele, Chicken Marsala is what keeps them returning to DeMarco’s and is a must-not-miss dining experience. Thursday brings New York Strip Steak with vegetables and a potato at $13.95. Dinner specials include soup or salad, rolls and butter.

Weekend dinner specials vary. The week I visited the restaurant brought Filet Mignon and Steamed Shrimp, Monk Fish Francaise served in a Amareto Cream Sauce with Crab, or Grilled Swordfish in Honey Tequila Lime Sauce to the table.

The dinner menu has a wide variety of appetizers under $7 and a few higher-end items such as Steamed clams, Mussels in red or white sauce, Roasted peppers and Shrimp Lejon for under $9. My companion and I decided on Crab Balls for $6.95 and the Combination Plate at $10.95.

The four Crab Balls with lemon and pizza sauce were delicious. The crunchy breading was very thin, allowing the taste of the warm crabmeat to shine through. The Combination Plate included 2 Shrimp Lejon, 2 Stuffed Mushrooms and 3 Clams Casino. The Dijon sauce offered in addition to the drawn butter had just the right tanginess. Large piles of crab erupted from the mushrooms and the large, meaty shrimp wrapped inside the done-to-perfection bacon was the best I’ve ever had.

The appetizers brought by our server, Lauren, were followed by a House Salad with Creamy Italian dressing for me and Chicken Escarole for my companion. The generously portioned bowl of soup was served piping hot. The broth was very hardy and filled with tender chicken and carrots blended perfectly with the escarole. My salad was garden fresh and just the right size.

With such a large variety of food on the menu, it was very hard to decide on an entrée. Six ‘Pasta Pizazz’ dishes under $12 and five ‘Specialty Pasta’ dishes under $14 were offered along side a wonderful Lobster Ravioli covered in Sherry Cream Sauce with Jumbo Shrimp and Crabmeat for $17.95.

Eleven Chicken and Veal entrees share the menu with New York Strip Steak and are all under $18. The extensive Seafood selection includes thirteen offerings ranging from Shrimp Parmesan to Pan Seared Salmon with Crabmeat covered in Dill Sauce and served with Potato and Vegetable. All Dinner entrees come with soup or salad, rolls and butter.

For dinner we decided on Veal Marsala sautéed with Mushrooms and Tomato in a Marsala Wine Cream Sauce with Spaghetti for $16.95 and Seafood Baltimore, a delightful combination of Shrimp, Flounder and Scallops with Vegetable and Cole Slaw priced at $17.95.

My companion’s Seafood Baltimore was presented beautifully and accompanied by his choice of fresh asparagus and spinach served with just a hint of garlic. The main course had three large pieces of shrimp topping lots of chunky crabmeat.

The Veal Marsala was served over a heaping plate of pasta and boasted large, tender pieces of Veal. The sauce was just right - not too heavy and loaded with flavor. My portion was so big I couldn’t finish more than half the plate.

Although we barely had room for it, we couldn’t pass up a chance at the wonderful desserts. We decided on Cheese Cake and Oreo Mousse. The cheesecake was scrumptious and the Oreo Mousse was so well blended that it felt and tasted lighter than air.

The leftovers I brought home and had for lunch the next day cemented my decision to definitely return to this wonderful restaurant as soon as possible. For a relaxed, affordable dining experience that you will remember for a long time to come, visit DeMarco’s restaurant and tell them you saw their review in Delaware County Magazine.

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March 2008
Llanerch Diner
Review by Margaret McCarthy

When thinking of where to take your family for a dinner out, the Llanerch Diner probably does not come first to your mind- but it should. The Llanerch diner sits at the intersection of Township Line and West Chester Pike in Upper Darby with a traditional diner facade and family friendly dining and cuisine. The new owners have transformed a sliding diner into Upper Darby’s finest.

The new ownership, Mark Klein and Mike Mihos, has transformed a once greasy slump into a more refined locale to have your family for dinner. Although, since it is open twenty-four hours, college students still pile in for cigarettes and coffee shortly after midnight. Smoking is only after 10pm but the bottomless cups of coffee never end. Other amenities include; on site parking, handicapped accessibility and booth, table or counter seating. Sunday mornings, and any morning for that matter, are popular for the Llanerch because of the various breakfast platters for reasonable prices. Church-goers and the like can be found on Sunday mornings enjoying their breakfast and socializing with the newer, friendlier staff. The Llanerch offers everything from cereal for the little ones to omelets and pancakes for the hungry.

The wide variety of lunch and dinner selections brings in a variety of customers from all over Delaware County. Selections range from a cheeseburger and fries for $5.50 to Prime Rib with soup and salad and two sides for $16.95! One dinner special has enough portions enough to feed two people due to the soup and salad, as opposed to soup or salad and the choice of two side dishes. The menu holds a wide variety of options fit for everyone from young children to senior citizens. The desserts are also delectable! The Llanerch’s resident baker Timmy prepares everything from cupcakes to pie and cake.

On my trip to the Llanerch diner I ordered the stuffed shells (which does not have a side order option, but comes with garlic bread) and the French onion soup with Russian dressing on my salad. My guest chose the roast turkey with mashed potatoes and broccoli, the red snapper soup and ranch dressing on their salad. Our waiter took drink orders promptly and made sure to take our order at just the right time. The food was prepared quickly and served hot and fully cooked. The stuffed shells were smothered in a delicious marinara sauce with crunchy garlic bread. The roast turkey came with stuffing and a mound of mashed potatoes and steamy broccoli. Other daily dinner specials include; corned beef & cabbage, chicken cacciatore, lasagna, stuffed shrimp, baked crab cakes, tilapia, chicken pot pie and many, many more! Choices of side dishes include; mashed potatoes, french-fries, baked potato, cabbage, and more.

The diner offers great, plentiful food for a reasonable cost at all hours of the day, every day of the week. The clean, friendly environment doesn’t hurt, either. If you haven’t been to the Llanerch diner since the new ownership has taken over you might want to make it a point to visit and try some of the wonderful food while experiencing the awesome service.

The Llanerch Diner is located at 95 Township Line Road in Upper Darby, PA. You can reach them at (610) 789-6057. You can also check out their website at www.llanerchdiner.com. Breakfast is served 24/7 and they are open 24-hours a day and are ready to satisfy your busy schedule with a great meal! Try the Llanerch Diner today!

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February 2008
Valentino’s Ristorante Italiano
Review by Dan Tocci

I am about to reveal Broomall’s secret treasure…Valentino’s Ristorante Italiano at 2902 West Chester Pike in the Broomall Shopping Center across from Pacifico Marple Ford Lincoln Mercury Suzuki. The owner, Arfan Eldabbas bought the establishment 15 years ago when he was 23 years old. He started in the Restaurant business at 16 years old as a busboy, and eventually became a Bartender. 8 Years ago, Arfan decided that the restaurant was doing so well that Valentino’s needed to expand the restaurant to include additional seating and banquet room facilities, so he expanded into the space next door. In the process he also expanded the kitchen. There is ample parking in front and additional parking in the rear.

Arfan is the Master Chef, and has created all the signature entrees and desserts. His Demi-glaze and Tiramisu are truly unique. Most of their menu is created from “scratch” on site with Arfan buying and shopping for the finest ingredients. With a grueling work schedule and 4 boys, (16yrs, 9yrs and twins!) his life is busy and full. A pleasing smile filled his face with pride as he spoke of his wife and his family.

The atmosphere is truly Ristorante Italiano with Italian instrumentals and Sinatra playing in the background as you enter the comfortable vestibule waiting area. The staff greets you and escorts you to your table and your culinary adventure begins. Looking around this pleasing atmosphere you will notice the lighting and meticulous attention to detail. No wonder 99% of his customers are returning local patronage! Soon you are presented with your menus, a basket of fresh hot breads (including garlic bread) and your drink order is taken. Valentino’s is a BYOB establishment due to Broomall’s “Dry Township” ordinances, so if you want to bring your favorite wine or spirits, their courteous staff is happy to “chill and serve” at your request. Your expert servers are available for every need.

Our feast began with a sampler appetizer with Crab, Sausage and Shrimp on a bed of hot spinach, broccoli rabe and peppers in a savory garlic wine sauce. My wife decided on the 10oz. Filet Mignon topped with mushrooms in a bodelaise sauce and a baked potato. My 21 yr old son had the Lobster ravioli topped with shrimp in a rose sauce and enjoyed a House Specialty cannoli. My 15 yr old son had the “Tour of Italy” entrée which consisted of cheese ravioli, spaghetti and gnocchi with sausage and a meatball in marinara sauce, then finished with a chocolate mousse. I had a Caesar salad and the Filet Sinatra entrée which is a 10oz filet topped with jumbo lump crabmeat in a light garlic cream sauce with a side of spinach.

Valentino’s menu and reasonable prices vary from $6.99 to $12.99 for Antipasto, $1.99 to $3.99 for Zuppe, $2.49 to $4.99 for Side orders, $4.99 to $9.99 for Insalata. Main Entrees vary with Pastas, Specialty Pastas and Ravioli from $9.99 to $18.99, Pesce from $14.99 to $26.99, Pollo, Vitello and Manzo from $15.99 to $29.99, and last but certainly not least, the House Specialty Entrees from $19.99 to $$24.99. Diet friendly, low fat and low carb entrees are scattered throughout the menu. Lunch (including delicious Panini Sandwiches) is served from 11:30AM to 2:30PM. There is a 10 & under Children’s menu served with a free scoop of ice cream throughout the day. Splurge on a variety of Desserts from $3.99 to $4.99, which includes Homemade Tiramisu and House Specialties such as Gelato and Cannoli.

Valentino’s Ristorante Italiano is open Tuesday thru Friday, 11:30AM to 10PM, Saturday, 4PM to 10PM, and Sunday, 4PM to 9PM. Sorry, they’re closed on Mondays. Call for lunch, dinner and “call ahead seating” reservations at 610-353-1111. Fax your “take-out” orders to 610-353-6405. They accept most major credit cards. Check out their website at www.valentinosbroomall.com. Catering is available for all occasions. Call Arafan and discuss holding your special event in their full-service banquet facility.

Make sure you tell him you saw their review in Delaware County Magazine and Clip & save $$ with the coupons in their ad. Discover Broomall’s secret treasure, and enjoy family-style dining at it’s best.

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January 2008
THE WESTGATE PUB
Review by Dan Tocci

The Westgate, as most of the regular customers call it, at 1019-21 West Chester Pike, is “Havertown’s Neighborhood Restaurant and Pub” conveniently tucked away between the CVS Pharmacy and Manoa Road on “the Pike” near the LLanarch Country Club. Check out their web site (www.westgatepub.com) for a “buy one lunch or dinner entrée, get one half price” coupon, more pictures, a downloadable menu and directions. You can also subscribe to their mailing list. They’re open 7 days a week, offering a full bar and take out menu with more than 90 kinds of bottled beer, wines, mixed drinks, shots and shooters, specialty bar drinks and beer on tap with frosted mugs, along with delicious restaurant foods, using bakery breads, hand-picked garden fresh vegetables and juicy, delicious meats.

With more than 30 years experience in Country Clubs, other Fine Restaurants and Culinary School training, Elias (the owner), his Father, and the kitchen staff create each meal on their menu to perfection, while the rest of their trained, caring service staff is dedicated to making your experience a fun, relaxing, cozy, inviting and pleasurable one, and all at very reasonable “neighborhood” prices!

I have to admit, I expected the typical “bar food”…you know, fried this and that. When I saw their menu and heard the specials, I could not believe my eyes and ears. Elias and his Father have created an experience rarely found in today’s “franchised” world. Of course they have the typical nibblers, finger foods, pizza, hoagies and sandwiches that most neighborhood establishments have, but Soups, Baked Clams, and mouth-watering Entrees such as Chicken and Penne Pasta in a Pesto Sauce, Veal Marsala, Steak, and Gnocchi with Meatballs and Fine Desserts are not expected! This is a family owned, neighborhood pub, take-out, and fine restaurant all wrapped up in a cozy atmosphere with great service and an attention to detail to make you feel like you’re at home and welcomed.

While I could not resist the special for the day (Chicken and Penne Pasta in a Pesto Sauce), my wife indulged in the Veal Marsala and my son had his favorite, Gnocchi and Meatballs. I also had the Caesar Salad. The meal was prepared and presented very tastefully, and the portions were more than satisfying. We all went home with lunch for the next day! Served with a nice frosted mug of my favorite beer on tap, I was feeling at home in this very comfortable local establishment. The bar is accessible to the dining area, so my son and I were able to watch some television at the same time. Service was fast and friendly, and the food was served fresh and hot. What more could we ask for? How about reasonable pricing? Our dinner with drinks was less than $25.00 per person. We were very impressed by the value. My family will certainly become regular customers.

The Westgate has very convenient hours Monday through Thursday 11:00AM to 11:00PM, Friday and Saturday 11:00AM to 12:00AM and Sunday from 2:00PM to 11:00PM. You can Phone (610-446-3030) or fax (610-789-7356) your take-out orders so you can have your order ready when you arrive. For restaurant seating, they recommend making reservations for larger groups, but reservations are not typically needed. They accept most major credit cards, and offer Gift Certificates for very thoughtful Holiday gift giving.

Whether you bring your family in for quality time together or gather with your friends and/or co-workers for a drink, the Westgate is the perfect place to kick back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Keep an eye open for their clip & save coupons and ads, and don’t forget to mention you read their review in Delaware County Magazine!

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November 07
Mama Maria Ristorante Italiano
Review by Dan Tocci

Located in the heart of South Philly at 1637 E. Passyunk Avenue (a few blocks east of Broad at Morris St.), Mamma Maria Ristorante Italiano is no more than 20 minutes from anywhere in Delaware County, parking is right across the street and the experience is well worth the trip. As Mamma’s web site states (www.mammamaria.info.com), she was born and raised in Abruzzi, Italy and 15 years ago came to America and opened this fabulous “Old World” style Ristorante in 1992. In celebration of her 15-year anniversary, she has opened her doors to all offering a fantastic Seven-Course Abruzzese Feast for the unbelievable price of $50.00 per person!

Since Mamma and her staff prepare their meals from fresh ingredients, reservations are required. Your seven-course feast consists of Antipasto, Zuppa, Pasta Trio Sampler, Entrata served with Vegetables and Potato of the day and Mixed Italian Salad, Dolce, and Café. Complimentary white and red wine is served throughout your meal and after dinner cordials including Mamma’s homemade liqueurs are served with your coffee, espresso, cappuccino or tea.

We arrived on time, and were greeted by our Host and Hostess, Ryan and Kate. They escorted us to our table in a very tastefully done “Old World” style Dining room complete with all the atmosphere and wonderfully appropriate Italian background music. Ryan and Kate were very informative and made it very easy to enjoy our meal. Service was impeccable and each course was presented with a full explanation of what you were eating and questions were answered gracefully.

While most of the feast is choreographed by Mamma, each guest chooses their Entrata (Entrée) from 3 meat and 3 fish choices for each day. Our meat choices of the day consisted of Chicken Parmesan, Veal ala Mamma (veal medallions sautéed in a delicate creamy vodka sauce topped with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh garlic), and Stuffed Pork (pork sautéed in a little bit of white wine, then stuffed with broccoli rabe, mozzarella cheese and roasted peppers) served with a side of pizzaola sauce. The fish choices were Tillopia Abbruzze (tillopia cooked in a white wine sauce and onions, then topped with sweet peppers and sautéed onions), Swordfish sauteed with White Wine and Lemon, topped with Lump Crabmeat, and finally Salmon ala Livernase (Salmon cooked in a marinara sauce with a little bit of brandy and topped with black olives and onions). They all sounded delicious and while the choices made it hard to decide, I had to try the Stuffed Pork and my Wife and Son chose the Chicken Parmesan.

We started with a Vegetable Antipasto (onions, sweet peppers, eggplant, zucchini and chick peas). The Soup of the day was a vegetable soup with potatoes, carrots, and peas in a wonderfully slow simmered broth. The Pasta Trio consisted of 3 different pastas in 3 different sauces; Rose’, Marinara and Alfredo. Throughout the meal, there was plenty of fresh breads and wine to cleanse the palate. The main courses were presented next. Every entrée was perfectly portioned and delicious. Mamma blended just the right amount of each ingredient to surround our taste buds and make them stand up and take notice. Her mouth-watering signature dishes please the eye, fill the stomach and warm the soul.

But we’re not finished yet. A wonderful selection of Mamma’s homemade desserts was next. I had the Italian Rum Cake and my wife and Son had the Chocolate Walnut Cake while we all enjoyed Coffee and Cappuccino, and Mamma’s homemade after dinner cordials and liqueurs (you must try her homemade Limoncello) help to complete the culinary experience.

Mamma visited us for a few minutes to make sure our meal was to our satisfaction. While we discussed the fantastic meal we had just enjoyed, we also discussed the town she came from in Italy, and of course her TV show on WYBE Public Television, “Cooking with Mamma” airing on Sunday afternoons at 1PM. Her spunky charismatic personality really does make you feel special, and her “Old School” values are apparent. Because of this, she is loved and respected by all.

Don’t miss your chance to take advantage of Mamma’s hospitality at such a reasonable price. Join her for Lunch or Dinner, or spoil your guests by having your Private Parties and Affairs catered by Mamma and her expert staff. Cooking Lessons are also offered! For more information visit www.mammamaria.info.com. For reservations call 215-463-6884 and tell them you read their review in Delaware County Magazine. Come enjoy a taste of “Old World” Italy at Mamma Maria’s Ristorante Italiano in the heart of South Philly!

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October 07
Giampino’s Cucina Italiana
Review by Dan Tocci

I will start this review with the Giampino Family’s opening menu statement, because it clearly states what Joe, his Family and Staff successfully accomplish:
“Welcome to Giampino’s Cucina Italiana where delectable food, exceptional service and captivating atmosphere await you! Our creative menu offers a variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts from the different regions of Italy sure to satisfy your appetite.
Each dish is made to order using only the freshest ingredients. Your patience is greatly appreciated as we prepare your meal to your utmost satisfaction. We truly hope you enjoy your dining experience here at Giampino’s and look forward to dining with you again!”

Grazie,
The Giampino Family



Upon arriving, my wife, my son and I were cheerfully greeted by Joe Giampino and his staff, and escorted to our table. I have to mention, as we walked into the restaurant, a customer was conversing with Joe. The customer suddenly turned to me and said, “This guy is the best”. He’s so personable. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.” With that said, she took her take-out meal and left. Her statement rang true, as we were to find out. Joe is a very likeable, “Hands-on” owner operator. He gets to know all of his customers and is there to make your experience at Giampino’s enjoyable. Joe’s history is truly an interesting one. It seems Joe started working at 15 as a busboy in this very location, then known as Porto Rosa. He worked his way to manager and then left for a shot at the good life in Las Vegas. While he was there through a stroke of strategy and some luck, he landed a position as a butler to the wealthy and famous when they visited the Venetian Hotel & Casino. He has had experiences with such notables as Jack Nicholson, Brad Pitt, Pamela Anderson and many other celebrities. Joe left Las Vegas and came back to Delaware County to purchase the Restaurant and make a go of it. Joe really seems to enjoy his work. I guess he better, since he is always there!

My wife and son enjoyed the Fried Lobster Ravioli appetizer along with a bowl of Escarole soup (Italian Wedding soup) and the Shrimp and Crabmeat Florentine entree. I was almost jealous when they presented this wonderful mixture of Sauteed Shrimp, Crabmeat, Spinach, Garlic and Cream over Angel Hair Pasta. The aroma filled the air. Then my entrée arrived which was equally as delectable. I had ordered a very tasty Caesar Salad with the Veal, Shrimp and Crabmeat entrée. Just imagine Veal Medallions topped with Shrimp and Crabmeat finished in a White Wine Garlic Sauce. We thoroughly enjoyed every morsel and still had enough to take home for a left over dinner made for royalty! Since we had no room for dessert, I cannot review the deserts, however, we did see some of the desserts and they looked sinfully delicious. Remember to bring your own favorite Wines with you, since it is a BYOB establishment. They are happy to chill and serve at your request.

Their menu prices vary from $3-4.00 for Zuppa (Soups) to $5-11.50 for Antipasti (Appetizers), $5.50-10.50 for Insalata Fresca (Salads) and from $9.50-23.50 for a variety of entrees including Pasta, Baked Dishes, Risotto, Pollo, Vitello, Carne, Pesce, and a Children’s Menu. If you’re planning a Party, you can order Party Trays, full and half pans, or Giampino’s will cater your affair. It is possible to reserve the restaurant on Saturdays & Sundays from 12:00PM to 4:00PM for Private Parties, Buffet or Sit-down events. Call for details and reservations. Keep an eye open for their ads in Delaware County Magazine as they run special nights such as “An Evening in Italy” and “Frank Sinatra Night” from time to time.

Giampino’s Cucina Italiana is located at 1254 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA 19083 (next to Starbucks) and is open Monday thru Friday, 11AM to 10PM, Saturday, 4PM to 10PM, and Sunday, 4PM to 9PM. Call for reservations at 610-853-9330. They accept most major credit cards. Tell them you saw their review in Delaware County Magazine and don’t forget to clip & save money with the coupons in their ad!

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August 07
Cajun Kate’s
Review by Scott Neely

Booth’s Corner Farmers Market has been around for as long as I have it seems. I used to take trips to it every other Friday with my mother when I was growing up.

Cajun Kate’s is relatively new to the area though this August will mark their one-year anniversary. Many frequent shoppers know that a lot of businesses at Booth’s Corner have been there for over 20 years or more, so any new business generally gets noticed pretty quick. My many art projects and involvement with Hollywood Hal & Rhinestone Al has been taking me down south to Louisiana more and more of late and I’ve always been a fan of Cajun cuisine and all things spicy. There’s nothing like the real thing so I eat all I can before I return home. I walked past Cajun Kate’s many months ago and I stopped and tried it out not knowing that what I was eating was in fact real, authentic Cajun cuisine. There is a real lack of it up here in the Philly area it seems, so it was a real treat to see this eatery be so close to my area. I first noticed the authentic nature of the eatery when I saw Zapp’s Potato Chips for sale, which are normally for sale in Louisiana.

Chef Don Applebaum is the owner of Cajun Kate's and he and his wife had lived in New Orleans for seven years while he worked at Emeril's NOLA Restaurant. It was there that Don had learned all the secrets of real Cajun cooking and Creole cuisine. Chef Don had also studied at the Restaurant School in Philadelphia before moving to New Orleans so he’s a local person who has family in the surrounding area as well. He returned to the suburbs of Philly last year and brought a taste of the south with him!

He has a specialty menu that is small compared to a major restaurant chain but he makes it up in quality as opposed to quantity. I’ve eaten here many a weekend since Booth’s Corner is only open on Friday and Saturdays. I can heartily recommend the Gator on a stick, which is a real taste of the south and it’s like eating a sausage but it has a lot more bite to it. It also comes with a Creole Honey Mustard dip, but I’ve rarely used it since Gator is so good just by itself. The only other place to get this item served like this was down at the Philadelphia Jam on the River festival, which is at Penn’s Landing every year (though it’s changed and the Cajun flavor is now gone and replaced with the boring aspect of hot dogs and burgers).

My favorite item though is Don’s Jambalaya, which is made fresh every week with Chicken, Shrimp and Smoked Sausage. I’ve had Jambalaya at quite a few places and Don’s is probably the best in my mind. The only other place that I think rivals his is down in Baton Rouge, Louisiana so if you want great Jambalaya, you’ll have to go to Chef Don. I usually also get a quart of Jambalaya to take home with me as well to have for dinner.

Another of my favorite items is the Catfish Fingers that come with a Creole Tartar Sauce. You get a nice-sized meal and they are quite filling. The outside texture is crispy and the seasoning is what makes it taste so much better than the normal Chicken Finger.

He has a great “Gumbo of the Day,” and a superb Muffaletta Sandwich with Mortadella, Cappicola Ham, Genoa Salami, Provolone Cheese and Olive Salad which is a meal in itself. Cajun Kate’s also has a great New Orleans Po-Boy with Shrimp or Catfish, Lettuce, Tomatoes and Pickles.

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July 07
Lotsa Pasta & Pub
Review by Dan Tocci

Just south of Baltimore Pike on Providence Road, before the Clifton Heights train station you’ll find an Italian Bar and Restaurant called Lotsa Pasta & Pub. There’s plenty of parking and as the name implies, Lotsa Pasta! But don’t let the name fool you, because their menu and full service Pub boasts much more.

Cindy, their hostess will take your reservations by phone and seat you when you arrive. “Shady” the bartender, will make you any drink you desire. Once you have relaxed in their dining room or at the bar with your favorite before dinner cocktail, it’s time to decide on your meal. Start with Zuppa (Soup) such as Pasta Fagioli or Escarole or try their Soup DeJour. A Caesar Salad (with or without Grilled Chicken) or a Signature House salad in their Signature Vinaigrette dressing is next to prepare your palate for the rest of your dining experience.

It was hard to decide on an appetizer, since they have 15 to choose from. My wife and youngest son (14) had Shrimp Cocktail. My oldest Son (20) had Mozzarella & Tomato in Balsamic Vinaigrette. I had the Crab Cocktail. Mr. Malatesta, Sr. (Owner) introduced himself and offered a Sharp Provolone laced with marinated hot peppers appetizer for us to sample. It was, like everything served to us that night, delicious. Warm homemade bread and a very tasty homemade Garlic bread also made its’ way to our table.

Their extensive menu gives you every option for your entree. All the Homemade pasta dishes come in your choice of sauces. 5 Veal dishes (all milk fed), 8 Chicken dishes, 3 Certified Angus Beef Steak dishes and 2 Pork chop dishes can satisfy any meat lover. 9 Seafood entrees in an assortment of sauces and served alone or over pasta or rice pilaf will have your taste buds singing an Italian opera. I had one of the Daily Dinner Specials called the “Triple Play”. Shrimp, Mussels & Scallops in a White Sauce over Linguine. The seafood was tender and the white sauce was perfection. My wife had the Lobster Ravioli topped with Crab in an Alfredo sauce. My 20 year old tried the “Chicken Kimberly”. Sautéed Chicken Breast with lump Crabmeat, mushrooms, & asparagus in a white cream sauce over penne pasta. My youngest had his usual, Ravioli in marinara sauce. Not only was there Lotsa Pasta, there was lotsa left over! Our compliments to “Chef Stosh”. Although we did not have room for desserts, they want you to ask about their delicious assortment!

Their menu prices vary from $6-9.00 for appetizers ($14.00 for Clams Imperial) and from $12-19.00 for entrees ($23.00 for Steak Theresa & Seafood Giuseppe Chioppino). It also includes Sandwiches, a Children’s Menu and Side Orders. They have Party Trays for all your Special Occasions and they handle private parties in the Pub Room. The Senior Citizen Special is 10% off dinner from 4-6pm.

Lotsa Pasta & Pub is closed on Mondays, but the Restaurant is open Tuesday thru Thursday, 11am to 10pm, Friday & Saturday, 11am to 12pm, and Sunday 11am to 9pm. The bar is open Tuesday thru Sunday. Try Lotsa Pasta & Pub at 410 S. Providence Road, Clifton Heights, PA 19018. Call to make reservations (610-259-1772) or just walk in and enjoy their excellent service and friendly hospitality. Tell them Delaware County Magazine sent you. They’ll offer you a meal you won’t refuse!

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June 07
Caroline’s, Secane
Review by Dan Tocci

It is becoming more and more difficult in today’s world of large corporate chain – type restaurants to find an Independent, Family Owned Restaurant & Banquet Facility in Delaware County. Just southwest of Oak Avenue on Providence Road in Secane, we have found such a rare commodity. This month’s review is all about a comfortable, quality dining experience. Caroline’s Restaurant & Banquet Facility at 925 Providence Road has all the Hometown feel and service you want in a convenient location with plenty of parking.

Steve & Tom (Owners) take an obviously active part in the every day management of this fine dining establishment. Their staff is friendly, personable and ready to satisfy your every need. Check out their web site, www.carolinesrestaurant.com for a quick overview of the menu and some pictures of the unique layout & versatile floor plan. From the stylish Bar area to the Dining area that is full of atmosphere (it has been designed so the space can be opened-up to the Bar area to create a stage for live entertainment and a night club scene), to the Billiard room, the Banquet Facilities for 20-200 guests (they boast “Elegant Affairs at Affordable Prices”), and the outdoor seating area, Steve & Tom have really thought through their business plan to create an establishment that can accommodate just about any event.

Their menu is just as varied as their physical environment! Although it is highlighted with many Mediterranean dishes, their Appetizers, Soups, Salads, Entrees and Deserts span the globe to give their patrons a variety of culinary options. Get there for the Early Bird Specials and you can eat like a King starting at $8.95 (includes Soup or Salad, Entree, Ice Cream or Rice Pudding, Coffee or Tea). My Wife, Son (14 yr. old) and myself had a tough time deciding where to start. My wife tried the Seafood Bisque and the Chicken Marsala. My Son started his feast with a very tasty Spinach & Crab Dip Nachos Appetizer and Ravioli with Meatballs. I had the Coconut Shrimp Appetizer, a Broiled Scallops Entrée (Large, tender and too many to finish!)and topped off an excellent meal with a delicious Brownie crusted pie with Peanut Butter Mousse filling…wow! We all went home with a doggie bag.

This review would not be complete without discussing the service. From the Hostess, to the Waitress, the Chef, the Bartender, the bus persons, and the Owners, we never wanted for anything. There is always someone who can help you with whatever you need. See if this happens in one of those Corporate Restaurant chains!

As an added bonus to our readers, I can heartily recommend their Banquet Facilities from a personal standpoint. A very good friend of mine had his daughter’s Wedding Banquet at Caroline’s last year. The Owners were available for any comments, concerns or needs during the entire event. The service, food and atmosphere made for a perfect day. My good friend told me that the price was very affordable and that Steve, Tom and their expert staff helped to reduce the stress of the whole event.

In conclusion, try Caroline’s Restaurant & Banquet Facility at 925 Providence Road, Secane, PA 19018. Call to make reservations (610-284-7000) or just walk in and enjoy their uniquely hometown atmosphere. Come taste and feel the difference at Caroline’s!

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April 07
Five Guys Burgers and Fries
Review by Dan Tocci

It is an understatement to say that Five Guys has exploded onto the fast food in 1987 and already having opened locations all over the east coast ranging from New York and Connecticut, and as far south as Florida, the family-owned chain recently opened a store in Clifton Heights. The original location opened in Northern Virginia by Jerry Murrell and his four sons and by word of mouth and endless positive reviews from the critics and the general population, the restaurant has spread all over the eastern seaboard.

With roots in the Northern Virginia area, Five Guys has developed a reputation as a welcome retreat from the international burger giants. Offering a more traditional menu rather than the modern mass produced fast food, the chain has made a name for itself by serving fresh food, free of preservatives and never frozen (much like the local Nifty Fifties chain).

The restaurant’s simple white and red decoration places all the emphasis on the food, but don’t let the menu fool you. Although they are small by today’s fast-food standards, the food is customizable with over a dozen free toppings. Whether you want the standard tomato and onion burger, or one covered in Barbeque sauce and mushrooms, you can get what you want, and for no additional cost.

There are four burger choices including a regular hamburger, a cheeseburger, a bacon burger and a bacon cheeseburger. The fresh bacon is cooked until it is crispy and not the fatty strips that you see at most places. you can order a “little” version of each burger as well, which includes only one patty to the standard two patties. The toppings are matched in freshness only by the ground beef which is never frozen.

In addition to burgers, the restaurant serves up a variety of hot dogs including Kosher Dog, a Cheese or Bacon Dog, and if you want both, a Bacon Cheese Dog. If you are not in the mood for meat, they offer a Vegetable Sandwich or a Grilled Cheese.

Five Guys is not just about the burgers and hot dogs, they place a great deal of time and effort into their fries. Made from fresh potatoes, they are cooked with their skin on and in peanut oil, covered in salt and served boardwalk style either in plain Five Guys Style or with Cajun seasoning. The potatoes come from locations all over the United States and advertised on a chalkboard in the store listing the city of origin of that day’s potatoes shipment.

With every hamburger costing fewer than five dollars, Five Guys continues it's reign in fast food affordability. Orders can be placed by phone or at the store for both dining in and take out. And while you wait your food, the store offers its signature buckets of peanuts to snack on. For a fast food experience with a much more personal feel, Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries is a perfect place to grab a fresh, traditional burger on the go, or to stop by which the family for a dinner out. No matter which you choose, you’ll experience a restaurant that tries, and succeeds in a different way from its fast food counterparts.

Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries is located at 500 West Baltimore Pike in Clifton Heights. You can call them for more at 610-622-5489 or fax them your order at 610-622-2455.

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