This small cafe in the western edge of South Philadelphia is often called Mexican Japanese fusion. Best to say the chef/owner's heritage makes it a mixed menu of Mexican dishes and Japanese dishes. Menu is heavier on the Mexican side with some stellar egg dishes and a sweet and spicy mole. Service is very personal, but on the slow side, so go prepared to relax and take your time. 2 forks (4/23/10)
Earth Bread Brewery, 7136 Germantown Ave., 215-242-6666.
Beer geeks have been flocking to this Mount Airy neighborhood brew pub. The former owner of Heavyweight Brewing in New Jersey brings his reputation and beverage to this friendly joint that lives up to its name. Four of the brews on the menu are made in-house as well as some "guest" offerings. The wood oven makes delicious "flatbreads"- aka pizza - but be warned that not much else is on the menu. Wine lovers will find a small, but reasonable list with some interesting options. 2 forks (1/23/09)
Hamifgash Restaurant, 811 Sansom St., 215-925-3550.
Formerly Maxim's in Cherry Hill, this new incarnation is much smaller. The scaled-down digs have a homey feel. Vegetarians and meat eaters will feel welcome at this Glatt Kosher eatery. The baked stuffed eggplant, Inman Bayildi, is sure to please as is the earthy hummus. Also garnering high marks is the Hamifgash lamb kebab. And, there is no better breakfast than the Shakshuka. 2.5 forks (5/1/09)
King of Tandoor, 1824 Callowhill St., 215-568-0750.
At King of Tandoor you get to sample dishes from Northern India, Goa on the west coast and the Bay of Bengal on the east coast. Layered flavors are developed in each dish. The grilled meats from the tandoor oven live up to the royal name. The breads also arrive piping hot from the tandoor. Lunch box to go also available. 2.5 forks (7/25/08)
