So many go through life with a longtime dream to do something beyond their regular occupational path. There is often talk of leaving a desk job and opening a cafe, bakery, bar or restaurant but, for most, just as quickly as these dreams come to conversation, they are pushed to the side and forgotten. I’ve always admired those who make the leap. In 30 Main’s case, I’m also extremely grateful because if the DiDomenico family didn’t feel the need to fill a void along the Main Line and act upon those feelings, I might not have enjoyed such a superb menu tasting in early July.
New Chef on the Block
The evening was filled with tremendous anticipation as 30 Main’s new executive chef, Stephen Zurla, took to the stage with much media in attendance, as well as close DiDomenico friends and family. However, if chef Zurla was even slightly nervous, he must have turned that fear into passion and poured it into every dish during our six-course dinner. From the moment it began with a comforting bowl of crab and tomato bisque to the final bites of each mini dessert sampler, all made in-house, the attention to detail was certainly apparent. The flavors within each dish were perfectly balanced, almost as if every ingredient took turns speaking up to the diner, elegantly announcing its presence and purpose.
The red snapper with Meyer lemon aioli and chile-rubbed grilled hanger steak were two dishes that personally stood out to me from the evening’s offerings. The former of the two particularly shined bright as a not-so-common cuisine that made itself right at home the moment it passed my lips, nearly melting within my mouth. The aioli pulled flavors from the snapper while it dissolved and dispersed those flavors to each begging tastebud. With sides of creamed sweet corn and asparagus-tomato confit, the plate was a delicious, gourmet twist on seasonal, southern-esque cuisine. As for the steak, who isn’t a sucker for well-seasoned meat with a little kick and a light, refreshing side of jicama slaw in the summertime? With talent like that and plans to change the menu seasonally, we can only expect continued excellence from 30 Main’s newest addition.
But if not for the fantastic cuisine and fancy new chef, then why else should one check out this family-owned Berwyn eatery?
Beer, Wine and Cocktails, Oh My!
Some restaurants claim to have the best beer list, others focus on fine wine and there are craft cocktail spots that pour creative concoctions with fresh herbs and infused alcohol. While I love to explore each and every corner of the drink scene, it’s very refreshing to find a place that’s well rounded in all departments and 30 Main is just that. No matter what your preference or the preference of your party, the bar program will satisfy!
Here, Chair, Seats Everywhere
It’s not uncommon for hardcore “foodies” or even the average family dining out to choose their restaurant of choice for its particular atmosphere. If going through a process of elimination by mentally noting your “must haves,” you might always find 30 Main in the final pool. There’s comfortable family dining with booths, classic but comfortable tabletop dining, a roomy bar, chic lounge and they can even accommodate private parties. And, how could we forget, there’s an outdoor beer garden.
The Door’s Always Open (Not Literally)
The DiDomenicos are not shy about sharing their family-owned story and treating you just like one of the family while they’re at it. You’ll feel right at home when visiting and recognize the kind customer service as soon as you’re greeted with a smile at the door.
Mr. Rogers Has Nothing on 30 Main!
As longtime residents and business owners of the Main Line, the DiDomenico team made it their mission from the get-go to support the community that always supported their ventures. They’re doing just that with unique and successful opportunities for local organizations like Sunday FUNDday and other special events. They also view local restaurants as partners, not competitors, and reach out to see how they can work together, with the hope that all restaurants involved reach their goals in the end.
BONUS: The Booty-Shaking Kind
Entertainment is around every corner at this comfortable and classy, city style restaurant. It’s always lively but, thanks to the almost endless seating options, it never interferes with your intimacy. The collection of musical guests is also very dynamic, like most of 30 Main, so there’s a great chance you’ll find a preferred genre to check out sooner rather than later.
When you do find that special act (or acts), be sure to pair your listening with gourmet eating and drinking because there is too much culinary greatness going on at 30 Main that should not be missed. Learn more about new chef Zurla here, visit 30 Main’s website, check out PA Eats’s “first taste” of 30 Main, and follow 30 Main on Facebook for regular updates.
30 Main is located at 660 Lancaster Avenue in Berwyn, PA.
Chef and steak photos credited to Angela Corrado; remaining images credited to 30 Main.
