After “slumming” it in the U.S. Virgin Islands for about 25 years, Larry Comroe and Wade Smith have returned to Philadelphia and launched their food truck, Far From Home Cafe, starting yesterday, February 17, 2011, at LOVE Park. Food truck-lovers from Center City, deprived of many good food truck options, have have swarmed to the truck, causing it to sell out of food on its opening day.
The big news on the Philly fine dining front today was that Vetri Ristorante, Marc Vetri’s phenomenal 36 seat restaurant, was transitioning from an a la carte menu on week days to the prix fixe tasting menu of $135. Previously, the tasting menu was only required on weekends. Vetri is one of the most exquisite dining experiences in the city and region, and it is easily the best Italian restaurant in the area. The transition goes into effect as of March 15, 2011.
Open Table reports no dinner openings at Vetri within 8 weeks, but savvy diners know to call the restaurant (215-732-3478) directly. As of 4 p.m. today, there were several openings available during week days in the next few weeks before you can kiss a la carte goodbye.
For the first food post here on this blog, there’s no better way to start than one of my favorite foods: pizza.
Let me tell you about Tacconelli’s Pizzeria in Port Richmond, Philadelphia. It’s a local neighborhood place, it’s quaint and it’s so damn good. In operation and breaking bread since about 1920, it’s been churning out extraordinary pizza since 1946.
The first thing you have to know is that you have to call ahead and reserve your “dough.” Tacconelli’s only prepares enough pies for each night. Then, on the menu, you have your choice of tomato pie, regular pie, white pie and “margerita” (the way they spell it) pie along with toppings. Because of the varieties Tacconelli’s has, it is essential to come here with a big group and order as many varieties as possible. Either that or order extra pies to take home.
Eat, Drink & Run Philly 