Crunchik'n

For those in the know, Korean Fried Chicken wings are all the rage these days. Typically twice fried, these wings don't seep out grease at first touch, the meat stays incredibly juicy, and there are often a variety of glazes. Relative newcomer to the Jefferson East area is Crunchik'n and I'm here to tell you that they've got the bomb "KFCs."

What's the story behind co-owners Jon & Jen? Jon was a retiring theology professor and Jen had recently finished grad school. Jon convinced Jen to open up Crunchik'n and now they're providing that homemade touch, while executing to high-quality perfection on all fronts. I recently had the chance to meet up with Jen and try some of their menu offerings.

Clockwise from Top Right: Korean Fried Chicken Wings | Crunch Ball! | Oven Baked Galbi or Spicy Wings | Crunchik'n Spread

Do start with their wings and the whole or half chicken. The batter is light & crunchy and the meat is marinated for 24 hours. The glazes range from mild to spicy and are all tasty. They've even got an oven-baked version for those that are attempting to be health-conscious and thankfully, they're just as tasty. The galbi version of the oven-baked ring was sticky, sweet, and delicious - all thanks to Jen's dad's homemade marinade. Looking for a fried ball of goodness? Check out the Crunch Balls which have bits of veggie or beef. Top that jawn with some spicy mayo and you're set.

Co-Owner Jen of Crunchikn | Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl | Homemade Dumplings | Kimchi Cheese Fries

The ricebowls are beautifully presented with everything you could ever want. We loved the spicy tuna version, which came with a bed of rice, Korean japchae noodles (sweet potato glass noodles), a fried veggie dumpling, salsa, crisp veggie, and guac. Definitely filling and you'll probably have leftovers. Be sure to try some of the homemade veggie, meat, or kale & spinach dumplings, made by a family friend! Looking for that next level comfort food? The kimchi cheese fries provide that fusion-level goodness with the spicy funk of the kimchi and the cheese sauce all over the batter-fried fries.

Be sure to stop by and say hi! The staff is so warm, welcoming, and you can clearly get a sense of the pride and homemade touch to what they do. Most important, the food is delicious and clearly Crunchik'n has plans to be a mainstay in Philly.

Crunchik'n

212 S. 11th Street

Philadelphia, PA 19107

(267) 886-9373

www.crunchikn.com

Tavola Restaurant & Bar Review

This past week, we drove out to the burbs and enjoyed dinner at Tavola Restaurant & Bar. Located by the Springfield Country Club and golf course, the views are picturesque, yet the vibe is low-key and easily approachable. It was nice to be able to see the sun go down over the golf course while dining al fresco. 

Bread Service

Dinner started off with fresh-baked bread and an olive oil & garlic dip. 

French Onion Soup [$7]
Caramelized onions, beef broth, melted cheese, crostini

The french onion soup is a show stopper and sure to satisfy. All your cheese pull dreams will come true, with a broth that thankfully isn't overly seasoned and has plenty of caramelized onions. 

Crab Avocado Tower [$17]
Jumbo lump crab, avocado, salsa, shaved cucumber, radish 

Seeking a light starter? Look no further than the crab and avocado tower. A generous portion of jumbo lump crab provides the sweet and fresh flavors you're looking for, with the crisp cucumber and radish adding some texture to each bite. 

Crab Cake Sliders [$14]
Jumbo lump crab, Japanese mayo, corn salsa

Crab cake sliders are generously portioned, with sweet japanese mayo and corn salsa. Easily enjoyed with a side or two! 

Onion Rings [$7]

Sides you say? I'd definitely recommend the fresh-cut onion rings - deftly fried and abundant. A steal at $7! 

Burnt End Fried Rice [$25]
Plum BBQ brisket ends, carrots, edamame, snow peas, fried egg

We enjoyed the crisp texture on the rice, with sweet plum BBQ sauce and plenty of brisket interspersed throughout along with diced carrots, edamame, and snow peas. The perfectly fried egg will ooze on top, adding even more heft to each bite. 

So if you're in Springfield, PA or looking to enjoy brunch or dinner along with a round of golf, be sure to stop by Tavola. Pro-tip: check out Quizzo on Tuesdays and their live music as well! 

FTC Disclaimer: Thanks to Tavola Restaurant & Foodie Tribe for inviting us in. Regardless, my opinions are mine alone and, therefore, unbiased. 

Tavola Restaurant & Bar

400 W. Sproul Rd. 

Springfield, PA 19064

(610) 543-2100

https://tavolas.com

Bank and Bourbon: 4th Annual Bourbon Bash

Regular readers know I'm a huge fan of Bank and Bourbon's annual Bourbon Bash. In fact, I've made sure to stop by every year. Now in their fourth year celebrating great food and bourbon, they're continuing to support Donors Choose, with proceeds from this event benefiting education. 

Clockwise from Top Right: Making of a Manhattan | Charcuterie & Cheese | Steak Tartare | Manhattan

Bourbon sponsors abounded at this event, with Jim Beam small-batch bourbons on full display and on offer. Knob Creek single barrel and Basil Hayden were enjoyed neat, on the rocks, and in craft-made Manhattans or Mint Juleps. For those that opted to skip the whiskey, there was plenty of champagne and wine as well. Hors d'ouerves were passed around and included crabcakes and a stunning steak tartare on crispy potato skins. I could eat a whole tray of those! And of course, the charcuterie and cheese station was an eye-opening array of Benton's and Creminelli ham, local cheeses (including Birchrun Hills blue!), grilled bread, and fresh fruit.

Clockwise from Top Right: Ahi Tuna | East Coast Oysters | Hamachi Poke | Knob Creek all around! 

And from there, revelers were able to enjoy plenty of fresh seafood including ahi crudo, East Coast oysters, and a wonderful hamachi poke.

Clockwise from Top Right: Knob Creek Single Barrel | Duroc Pork & Seasonal Greens | Pastrami Short Rib | Salmon & Morels

For the more voracious eaters, Executive Chef Tom Harkins pulled out all the stops. Fresh whole-plank salmon and whole-roasted rock fish were plated to order with morels. A juicy Duroc pork chop was enjoyed along with fresh asparagus and spring peas. There were plenty of Cowboy ribeyes being carved, along with a gorgeous pastrami short rib that had horseradish and whole grain mustard to provide balance to the heft of the meat.

Clockwise from Top Right: Coconut Macaroons | Bourbon Glazed Donuts | Blueberry Trifle | Chef Amanda's Dessert Spread

Pastry Chef Amanda was not to be outdone and offered up an incredible display of sweet treats. The donuts are always a standout - crisp on the exterior and perfectly fluffy within. Adorned with a bourbon glaze and popcorn (!), the salty and sweet elements were easily enjoyed. Blueberry trifles, banana s'mores, and coconut macaroons were also enjoyed by the belly of this pig.

And I couldn't leave the event without enjoying the goat cheese cheesecake. Tart, tangy, and wonderfully smooth, this had better be on the regular menu at Bank & Bourbon! If you missed out on this year's Bourbon Bash, be sure to be on the look out for tix next year. You won't be sorry! And in the meantime, be sure to stop by the restaurant for great food and drink. 

Tucker's Tavern LBI Review

This is for a series of posts including Tucker's Tavern, Daddy O Rooftop Bar, and
Plantation Restaurant.

The GF and I were recently invited to check out a few hot spots on Long Beach Island, NJ. Naturally, we jumped at the chance to have a shore weekend before the end of the summer. Long Beach Island aka LBI is approximately 18 miles long and is a prime destination for the shore crowd. Six sleepy municipalities are home to great boutiques and small businesses. This makes for a quaint summer experience, especially when coupled with prime beaches and incredibly easy parking. 

We stopped by Tucker's Tavern before our first full beach day in LBI. Located right by the bay, we were amazed at the expanse of this popular gastropub. We are talking about the folks behind White Dog Cafe, Autograph Brasserie, Moshulu, and The Deck, so in typical Fearless Restaurants fashion, Tucker's is impeccably designed, with a gorgeous bar at the entrance to take in the crowds coming back from the day at the beach. Not to be outdone, the Outside Deck has lights strewn above to create a relaxed vintage vibe while you enjoy brunch.

Angry Sombrero [$11]
Patron Silver, Patron Citronage, Watermelon, fresh lime juice, jalapeno simple syrup

Angry Sombrero on the Left, Bloody Mary on the Right

And if you want to do brunch right, be sure to check out Tucker's bottomless brunch. No, it's not just bottomless Bloody's. Not just bottomless mimosas, sangria, or screwdrivers. For $15, it's all of the above! Ridiculous value and the GF's bloody had just the right amount of spice to wake you up! I opted for the angry sombrero, which had a nice foundation of tequila, with the fresh citrus offering up all the flavors of watermelon Jolly Rancher without the overt sweetness. I enjoyed the kick from the jalapeno and appreciated the fact that I could essentially adjust the spiciness! 

IPA Battered Wisconsin Cheddar [$10]
Horseradish dill aioli

Foodwise, we started off with the beer-battered cheddar. Crisp, with the faintest hint of hoppiness, the sharp cheddar was balanced nicely with the horseradish dill aioli. 

Fried Pickles [$9]
Panko, spicy mayo

I'm a sucker for fried pickles, especially when they're deftly fried like Tucker's iteration. Salty, crispy, sweet, savory - these hit the spot! 

Belgian Waffle Sandwich [$13]
Pork roll, fried eggs, pepper jam, American cheese, home fries

The GF's waffle sandwich housed a pork roll fried in white American cheese, It lent itself salty savory notes that were balanced by pepper jam and the sweetness of the waffles themselves. Fried eggs brought even more heft to each bite. The accompanying home fries were spot on - crisped on the outside and with plenty of grilled peppers and onions. 

Cheesesteak & Egg Gnocchi [$17]
Shredded short rib, crispy onions, mushrooms, Lancaster cheddar

I couldn't help but be intrigued enough to order the cheesesteak & egg gnocchi. And I'm glad I did! If you're concerned about your beach bod, take heed. We're talking about a generous portion of sweet potato gnocchi dressed with about a pound of shredded short rib and Lancaster cheddar. That's then topped with two runny eggs. 

The yolk from those eggs brings it over the top, but really it's the salty hit and texture from the crispy fried onions that really ties each bite together. Deliciously savory, it's a creative and fun dish that I recommend you try! 

So if you're looking for a proper LBI brunch spot before you stop by Beach Haven's beaches or boutiques, I'd head over to Tucker's! And if you're looking for a proper drink after your beach day, they've also got you covered. 

FTC Disclaimer: Thanks to the Fearless Restaurants team and Tucker's Tavern for hosting us. Regardless, my opinions are mine alone and, therefore, unbiased.

Hickory Lane American Bistro Review

Despite having lived in the area for the past four years, the GF and I haven't explored the North Fairmount area as much as I'd like. And after having recently visited Hickory Lane for a double date with Geo's Table (the Hickory Lane burger was ridiculously good!), I knew a return trip was in order! So when my folks were in town, we stopped by to enjoy brunch al fresco. 

Eggs Benedict [$12]

My dad went with a classic, cooked perfectly. The poached eggs oozed yolk all over the thick-cut Canadian bacon and toasted English muffin, with the acidic richness of the hollandaise bringing it over the top. Breakfast potatoes were spot on - hearty, well-seasoned, and interspersed with onions and peppers. 

Pork Belly Benedict [$13]

I'm only realizing this now, but why the heck would you not get the pork belly benedict when it's only a dollar more. Huge, hefty hunks were well crisped and yielded tender, unctuous pork within. Instead of English muffin, the poached eggs were atop brioche, which added a buttery richness to each bite, cut somewhat by the pickled red onion. Easily one of my favorite brunch dishes in the city. 

California Grilled Chicken Club [$15]

Smoked bacon, avocado salsa, honey dijon, greens, Heirloom tomato, Le Bus bread

My mom's tastes are simpler, but her grilled chicken club wasn't any less delicious. Juicy chicken had a good crisp and the avocado salsa and honey dijon worked really well to create a flavorful bite. She tends to eat healthy (how are we related?), so that just meant I got extra bacon with my meal. Accompanying fries were spot on - crisp, slightly greasy, and delicious.

Tex Mex Plato [$12]

Chilaquiles, spicy sausage, cilantro, salsa rojo, poached eggs, chipotle hollandaise, queso fresco

The kitchen's headed up by Chef Frank Martinez, who clearly executes New American well. The GF was able to enjoy some of his Latin American background with this perfect chilaquiles. The fried tortilla still had texture, but soaked up plenty of the salsa rojo, with bits of spicy sausage and queso studded throughout. And once the poached egg and hollandaise was dripping down the chilaquiles, I was completely sold. Hickory Lane has the perfect hangover cure. 

Stone Ground Bacon Grits [$7]

Likely mounted with an entire stick of butter, these cheddar grits were amazingly rich. And topped with crisp bacon, even the belly of this pig was satiated with the amount of bacon and pork consumed on this day.

So if you're looking for another brunch spot and definitely if you're in the Fairmount area, I'd head over to Hickory Lane. And in case you're interested in walking off the meal, it's right next to Eastern State Penitentiary! 

Roy Pitz Barrel House Philadelphia Media Event

With an emphasis on crafting great beer while supporting its local communities and arists, Roy Pitz has expanded to the Arts & Crafts Holdings space at 990 Spring Garden. "A space for optimists" is Arts & Crafts' vision and Roy Pitz is emblematic of that mantra. I'd expect an instant revitalization to the area, with a gorgeously designed space where everyone can come to enjoy Brewing Company's "liquid art" as well as their kitchen's creative takes on bar food.

 Roy Pitz started off in 2008 as a small brewery in an underground back alley tap room. Their Liquid Art concept is an expression of craftsmanship, whether it's with their interesting beers or local artists creating murals for the walls at Roy Pitz Philly or their original location in Chambersburg, PA. 

From Top Left: Stubborn Irish Prig Porter | Best Blonde Lager | Bourbon Barrel Aged Barleywine | Rye Ginger Old Fashioned

The GF and I stopped by for a media preview event and were impressed by the eclectic selection of brews. The GF enjoyed the light, crispness of the blonde lager while I couldn't help but kick back with the chocolatey prig porter. I was especially impressed with the bourbon barrel-aged barley wine which had an initial levity that lent itself to a smooth and intense bourbon-barrel mouthfeel. Their cocktails are on point too, with the whiskey old-fashioned rounding things out for me, with a subtle ginger kick.

From Top Left: Bavarian Soft Pretzel | Prig Porter BBQ Pulled Chicken Egg Roll | Roasted Carrot Hummus | Meat & Cheese Board | Shrimp Ceviche

Not to be outdone, the kitchen has plenty on offer, from small bites like carrot hummus to more substantial beer-infused chicken egg rolls.

From Top Left: Stuffed Eggplant | House Cut Fries | Buffalo & BBQ Wings | French Onion Soup

I can see the stuffed eggplant being a hit, with its veritable garden of mushrooms, peppers, onions, and tomatoes, along with pecorino and bread crumbs. And who can say no to wings, crisp fries, and french onion soup!

From Top Left: Barrel House Burger | Chickpea Salad Sandwich | Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich | Mojo Pork Panini | Prosciutto Panini

Their barrel house burger is a blend of short rib and brisket, topped with porter caramelized onions, sharp cheddar, and "Liquid Art" sauce. Pretty much a must order in my mind.

From Top Left: Mac & Cheese | Crispy Trout | Flat-Iron Steak | Roast Chicken

And when your mac and cheese is topped with bourbon barrel barleywine house-smoked brisket, you know folks are going to be happy.

So what are you waiting for? Head over to Roy Pitz on Spring Garden to check them out and support the local community. If you need more incentive, head over to my Instagram and enter to win a $15 gift card!

FTC Disclaimer: Thanks to Roy Pitz Barrel House and Gloss PR for inviting us to the preview. Regardless, my opinions are mine alone and, therefore, unbiased. 

Bank and Bourbon: 3rd Annual Bourbon Bash

One of Philly's standout food events has to be Bank and Bourbon's Annual Bourbon Bash. Now in it's third year, the Bourbon Bash always showcases amazing food and top notch bourbon. This is all while supporting a charitable cause, with proceeds benefiting education through Donors Choose.

Clockwise from Top Right: Chef Tom Harkins & Loews Management | Plenty of Wine passed around | Roland Bui holding court | Always enjoyable Secret Knock cocktail

In addition to specialty cocktails like Bank and Bourbon's Secret Knock and plenty wine and champagne being passed around, sponsors included a notable roster of Beam Suntory products. Think stiff pours of Basil Hayden's, Booker's Rye, Maker's Mark, 46, and Cask Strength! Mixologists were crafting spot-on Manhattans and in the spirit of the just-completed Derby, Mint Juleps were also on hand! 

And as expected, Chef Tom Harkins and his staff were executing at a high-level, keeping folks satiated, yet coming back for more. Hors d'oeuvres included cheesy gougeres and beef tartare, along with the always ridiculous charcuterie station.

Basically Bank and Bourbon's 'Taste of Ham' dish multiplied hundred-fold, this station featured mountains of Benton's ham and Creminelli prosciutto alongside foie-gras and chicken liver parfaits, local cheeses, and grilled sourdough bread.

There was also plenty of carving stations set throughout the Bank and Bourbon space, with servers ready to meticulously plate up your dish, to order. From Jerk suckling pig to Verlasso salmon and plenty of the always fabulous cowboy ribeye, it's clear that no one left hungry.

I started off with the fresh ahi tuna and some freshly shucked oysters. And from there it was a free-for-all. Roast leg of lamb was tender and paired with garbanzos. The cowboy steak cut like filet and ate like ribeye, dressed with a rich bordelaise and hen of the woods. The salmon was delicate and who could say no to the accompanying morels? And the brined Duroc pork was juicy, with a fresh salad of peas, asparagus and fava beans.

Chef Amanda Kaewvichien always provides a delectable dessert display! Berry handpies, peach cobbler, handmade vanilla doughnuts, key lime tarts, and bourbon chocolate truffles were just a few of the bites that made for a satisfyingly sweet end into the night.

But not without a final Manhattan and some draft lattes from La Colombe. Pro Tip: mark your calendars now so you can attend next year's Bash! Better yet, why wait? I'd definitely recommend stopping by Bank and Bourbon for dinner, drinks, and yes, some of those killer desserts.

FTC Disclaimer: I attended as a guest of the Loews Hotel and Bank & Bourbon. Regardless, my opinions are mine alone and, therefore, unbiased. 

Moshulu Brunch Review

As the world's oldest and largest floating square-rigged sailing vessel, the Moshulu has been a stalwart backdrop to the Delaware Waterfront. It's the only restaurant venue on a Tall ship and has been serving diners since 1975, though with a well-executed and modernized menu. Other claims to fame? After being confiscated by the U.S. Navy during WWI, Mrs. Woodrow Wilson herself re-named the ship, the Moshulu. And nearer and dearer to Philly's heart? It's featured during one of Rocky's workout sequences! 

Moshulu's well-known for its holiday brunches, where you'll find a myriad of options to satisfying any diner's cravings, from carving to omelette stations. And during the summer, the deck is where it's at. There's no better spot to enjoy a cocktail or a glass of champagne a la Andy Samberg because, yes you're on a boat.

Champagne 

Speaking of champagne, I stopped by with the GF to check out Executive Chef Anthony Bonett's new spring brunch menu and were greeted with a few flutes of bubbly. I've got to say that service is top notch here as I saw several tables celebrating special occasions, with the managers and servers similarly elevating their experience.

Bread Service

During brunch, expect a sweeter touch for bread service. The housemade coffee crumb cake is crumbly indeed, served with a pat of whipped butter. Butter + coffee cake. Who knew? The Moshulu did and I'm glad. Great texture and buttery, yet with a nice lightness from within.

Shrimp & Crab Bloody Mary Cocktail [$13]
Cucumber, avocado, tortilla chips 

The GF started off with the shrimp and crab cocktail, enhanced with a bit of kick from the Moshulu's Bloody Mary recipe. The sweetness of the crab and the snappy shrimp was contrasted nicely by the texture of the ripe avocado and the crispness of some shredded lettuce underneath. Easily enjoyed with some of their just-fried tortilla chips. 

Crab Mac n Cheese [$12]
Truffle bread crumbs

If mac n cheese is on the menu, you know I've got to order it. And I'm so glad I did. Moshulu's version was especially creamy, with the base of the cheese sauce coating the al dente cavatappi noodles. There were wonderfully sharp notes from the cheddar, along with an innate sweetness from the bits of crab studded throughout. Loved that Chef Bonett didn't inundate the actual mac with truffle oil and deftly accented it with truffled bread crumbs instead. Long story short? Get the crab mac. Hopefully it'll make an appearance on a Happy Hour deck menu! 

Bloody Mary [$10]

Brunch is always better with the punch of a good Bloody Mary. And Moshulu's got three iterations to cater to your inner lush. The GF went with the regular vodka Bloody, which showcased their house-made mix - clearly fresh and had a spicy kick that didn't uncomfortably linger. Definitely not the sugary tomato juice mix from the store. I enjoyed the sweet smoke that came from the bourbon in my Kentucky Bloody. And for fans of tequila, check out their Bloody Maria! 

Pro tip: For $14, the Moshulu offers bottomless Bloodies and mimosas. There aren't many places in Philly that can say that - or at that price! 

Charcuterie & Cheese 

Chef also sent out a gorgeous charcuterie plate, which included house-cured salumi - coppa, bresoala, and luxurious duck prosciutto that simply melted upon mastication. Adorned with pickled pearl onions and carrots, crostini, mustard, and pickles, the smorgasbord was paired with a half-wheel of baked brie with roasted golden raisins, honey, and Marcona almonds. I know I'll be baking my brie at home with golden raisins from here on out! 

Crab Cake Eggs Benedict [$24]
Creamed spinach, chive hollandaise, Canadian bacon, English muffin 

For my main, I went with the crab cake benedict. I'd highly recommend you do the same. A healthy portion of lump crab cake is without much, if any, filler. It sits atop a crisp English muffin and Canadian bacon, with the heft of the dish amplified by creamed spinach, perfectly poached eggs and a rich, creamy hollandaise. Served with Moshulu's tender hash potatoes and some acid provided by well-dressed greens, you can't go wrong with this dish if you're a fan of eggs bennies.

Multigrain Banana Pancakes [$16]
Peanut butter, toasted peanuts, chocolate chips, double cut bacon, maple syrup

The GF opted for a bit of sweet with their hearty multi-grain banana pancakes, which were studded with ripe banana slices, chocolate chips, and dusted with powdered sugar. It was also served with amazingly thick and crisp bacon to provide that perfect marriage between salty and sweet. The only way to enhance the bite? A healthy drizzle of maple syrup. 

Moshulu Hash Potato [$5]

 For you carb lovers out there, try their potato hash - lightly crisped on the griddle and creamy within, topped with chives. 

Chocolate Lux Layer Cake [$12]
Dark chocolate mousse, cherry vanilla chocolate chunk ice cream 

Don't neglect the dessert menu! If you're looking to end your meal with chocolaty decadence,  my money's on the luxe cake. Adorned with a disc of milk chocolate and gold leaf, the moist cake has a dark chocolate ganache and chocolate butter cream. The accompanying cherry vanilla ice cream had a great mouth-feel and broke up the richness of the cake. 

Along with the great food and execution by Chef Bonett's kitchen, the service was top notch. Unsurprising because this is a Marty Grims / Fearless Restaurants operation. So if you're looking for the perfect venue for a riverside brunch, look no further than the Moshulu. They recently renovated the deck, with plans to offer a la carte dining up top. There's even got a retractable roof for inclement weather. Be sure to be on the look out for their Happy Hours as well!   

FTC Disclaimer: Thanks to the Fearless Restaurants and Moshulu for hosting us. Regardless, my opinions are mine alone and, therefore, unbiased.