5 Must-Try Restaurants in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

A Taste of the Borough: 5 Must-Try Restaurants in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, is a charming and historic borough known for its beautiful, tree-lined streets and the prestigious Swarthmore College. Beyond its academic and residential appeal, this Delaware County town also boasts a delightful and diverse dining scene. From cozy cafes and classic pubs to authentic international cuisine, there are fantastic local spots to discover. Here is a guide to five must-try restaurants in Swarthmore.

1. Broad Table Tavern

• The Vibe: Located inside the historic Inn at Swarthmore, the Broad Table Tavern offers the town's most upscale yet comfortable dining experience. With a beautiful dining room, a cozy bar, and a lovely outdoor patio, it's perfect for a special occasion, a date night, or a refined meal.

  
  
  

• The Food: The menu features elevated, contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Expect expertly prepared dishes, from high-quality steaks and seafood to inventive pasta and vegetarian options, alongside a fantastic craft cocktail and wine list.

• Location: 10 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore, PA 19081

  
  
  

2. Vicky's Place

• The Vibe: A true Swarthmore institution, Vicky's Place is a classic, no-frills luncheonette that has been serving the community for decades. It's a beloved spot for Swarthmore College students and longtime residents alike.

• The Food: This is the go-to for classic, comforting breakfast and lunch fare. They are famous for their delicious omelets, pancakes, and, most notably, their incredible "Crumble" breakfast creation. It's a taste of nostalgia and a quintessential Swarthmore experience.

  
  
  

• Location: 5 Park Ave, Swarthmore, PA 19081

3. Aria Mediterranean Cuisine

• The Vibe: Aria brings the bright and fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to the heart of Swarthmore in a casual yet elegant setting. It's a popular and reliable choice for a healthy and flavorful meal.

• The Food: The menu features a wide array of classic Greek and Mediterranean dishes. Look for fantastic salads, flavorful kebabs, delicious dips like hummus and tzatziki, and classic entrees like moussaka and pastitsio.

• Location: 100 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore, PA 19081

4. Some Like It Hot

• The Vibe: A cozy and eclectic cafe, Some Like It Hot is a favorite local spot for breakfast, lunch, and a great cup of coffee. It has a warm, welcoming, and slightly quirky atmosphere.

• The Food: The menu is packed with creative and comforting dishes, with a focus on breakfast and lunch sandwiches, hearty soups, and fresh salads. They are also known for their wide selection of hot sauces for those who like a little kick.

• Location: 12 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore, PA 19081

5. Pizzaiolo

• The Vibe: Every great town needs a great pizza joint, and for Swarthmore, Pizzaiolo is a top contender. It's a casual and friendly spot, perfect for a family dinner or a reliable and delicious takeout meal.

• The Food: They serve up classic, hand-tossed pizzas with a variety of traditional and gourmet toppings. Beyond pizza, their menu also includes a full range of Italian-American favorites like pasta dishes, stromboli, and cheesesteaks.

• Location: 601 S Chester Rd, Swarthmore, PA 19081

From the upscale elegance of the Broad Table Tavern and the classic comfort of Vicky's Place to the global flavors at Aria, Swarthmore offers a surprisingly diverse and high-quality dining scene for a small town. These five establishments showcase the delicious local flavor and community spirit that make dining in the borough a truly enjoyable experience.

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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly