Sunday, April 2, 2017

Harp & Crown Brunch Review

Harp & Crown opened late last year to much fanfare. And for good reason. While the food is expectedly on point (we are talking about Michael Schulson of Sampan & Izakaya, after all), Harp & Crown is also one of the most gorgeous locations in Center City. What better way to indulge in Schulson's food than immersed in vintage luxury as designed by Rohe Creative. 


This past Saturday, Harp & Crown expanded service to weekend brunch. At only $28 pp from 10:30 to 2:30, you're able to indulge in carved meats, charcuterie & cheese, salads, mini-sandwiches, fresh-baked bread & bagels, fruit, pastries, and much more. An added bonus? For only $15 pp, you can pair your meal with up to 5 glasses of mimosas, bellinis, and champagne. 


Clockwise from Right: Sansom St. Breakfast, Before We Go, Mimosa

Speaking of drinks, the GF and I indulged in a few during brunch. My new favorite cocktail might just be the Before We Go, featuring rye, amaro, chocolate bitters and a coffee foam. The sweetness of the amaro balanced out the kick of the heat of the whiskey, with the chocolate bitters and coffee foam working together to bring some warm smoothness to each sip. For those that want to enjoy a sweeter side of bourbon, there's no better way than with the Sansom St. Breakfast, which marries my favorite brown liquor with dark rum and cereal milk. The GF was impressed by the quality of the mimosa, not overly sweet and plenty of dry effervescence. But on to the food! 


A veritable spread indeed. Quality prosciutto and salumi paired wonderfully with the pickled bite of cornichons, rich and creamy boucheron cheese, and the salty hit of manchego. Well-seasoned broccolini orzo and caesars salad were on hand to whet your apetite. Do look out for the goat cheese and tomato tart, with a wonderful balance of tang and acidity. 


If the tart doesn't speak to you, try the vegetable quiche. The GF and I were both amazed at the beauty of it - the quiche had a light and airy flan-like texture, studded with crisp veggies on top. Mini-sandwiches included capicola and butternut squash, eggplant, as well as a tuna and romesco sandwich that might've been one of the best I've had in recent memory. Of course, you could always opt for waffles, french toast, the omelette station, and perhaps a carved ham to be ladled with house-made gravy or horseradish cream.  


For those looking to satiate their sweeter side, Harp & Crown has got you covered. The GF and I were especially big fans of the chocolate croissants and the flaky sugar donuts (pro tip: drizzle the donuts with some honey and their lovely cranberry chutney). Strawberry scones, lemon poppy seed bundt cakes, blueberry muffins, fresh fruit, and bruleed grapefruit will end your brunch nicely. 


While considering the clear variety of Harp & Crown's brunch offerings, I was most impressed by the quality of the ingredients and the thoughtfulness behind the actual dishes. Capicola isn't simply slapped between two pieces of bread. It's paired with butternut squash, cheddar, and dijon between slices of fresh focaccia. The smoked salmon station was especially impressive. Beyond the luxurious fish, the individually portioned cream cheese medallions, the housemade pickles, and the freshly baked bagels made for the perfect brunch bite. 

So if you're looking for the next spot to plan your weekend brunch, look no further than Harp & Crown. Grand ambiance, great food, thoughtfully crafted cocktails, and impeccable service await. 

FTC Disclaimer: We were invited as guests of Harp & Crown and Bondfire Media. Regardless, my opinions are mine alone and, therefore, unbiased. 

Harp & Crown Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

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