Prices are modest. Last week's menu, based on what's in the market - had a vegetarian dish and a pasta at $12 and the top price was $18 for lamb chops. Two flatbread pizzas were on, too, for $5 and $6. They also sell mixers - "nothing fancy," says Matteo - to those who bring stronger stuff. It's open for dinner only Thursdays through Sundays.
What's coming
Blackfish, the Conshohocken BYOB, is preparing a Jersey Shore seasonal branch, dinner only, in the space that last was Scoogi's at 2109 Dune Dr. in Avalon. Opening is on target for June 4.
Chris Hora, who boasts a globetrotting culinary resume (including the Coyote Crossings), is creating a BYO called Root at 1033 Spring Garden St., in the spot on the edge of Center City that was Palate. Hora says Slow Food and sustainable agriculture will be reflected in his lunch and dinner menus. He's hoping to open next month.
Change of hands
Murray's Deli, the matzo-ball mainstay on Montgomery Avenue in Bala Cynwyd, was sold last week by Bill Teti and his sons to the Wakim brothers, who own Al Dar next door and Evivva in Narberth. Joseph and George Wakim didn't return calls seeking info on their plans for the deli, which has been loxed in a long-running battle with Hymie's across the street. (Might they be planning to expand Al Dar?) The Tetis - son Bob and Bob's wife, Gayle - still have the Murray's operation in Berwyn. It's a walk-in deli on one side, and a BYOB called
bistro M on the other.
Briefly noted
It's now also dinnertime at
Cafe Estelle, the months-old, industrial-looking breakfast-luncher owned by Meritage ex-chef Marshall Green and Kristin Mulvenna in the Lofts at 444, at 444 N. Fourth St. (215-925-5080). This week, they've added BYOB dinner Wednesdays through Saturdays; on this week's menu are duck breast ($22), vegan barley risotto ($17), lamb chops ($23), pan-seared black bass ($21) and braised brisket angnolotti ($24).
