The holiday season is the perfect time to eat, drink and be merry. It’s also the ideal time to choose culinary gifts for friends, family members and coworkers to enjoy and to find restaurants and caterers to help you with your holiday party needs. We’ve rounded up some of the best dining establishments, catering companies and sweet treat vendors in one go-to list for holiday dining, party planning and culinary gift buying.
What will make your holiday season even brighter? Hitting endless holiday activities, events and well-trimmed towns. We have the full agenda of where to go and what you can’t miss, as well.
When perusing the list, feel free to spread the word this holiday season and let others know about these excellent culinary establishments. Eat, drink, share, repeat—and shop local. Happy holidays!
Must-Hit Holiday Dining & Catering
320 Market Cafe
Gift recipients who are artisan cheese lovers and craft beer aficionados will be thrilled with gifts purchased from 320 Market Cafe. Visit the Media and Swarthmore locations for fabulous local and regional cheese selections plus delicious seasonal fare and the Swarthmore location for its 700 craft beer options as well as 16 draft varieties for growler fills. Find 320 Market Cafe at 21 West State Street in Media; phone: (610) 565-8320 and 713 Chester Road in Swarthmore; phone: (610) 328-7211.
Amani’s BYOB
With farm-fresh, seasonal cuisine and a BYOB atmosphere where delicious mixers are provided, Amani’s BYOB is a favorite dining destination in Downingtown. Now, just in time for the holidays, when you purchase a $50 gift certificate, you’ll get a $10 gift certificate to use for yourself. Find Amani’s BYOB at 105 East Lancaster Avenue in Downingtown; phone: (484) 237-8179.
Appetites on Main
With an inclusive menu, award-winning wings and a craft beer selection built to please, Appetites on Main provides everything a diner could want in a culinary establishment. Add to this extensive on-site party options and catering offerings, and Appetites on Main truly has it all. Find Appetites on Main at 286 Main Street in Exton; phone: (610) 594-2030.
Avenue Kitchen
If you’re searching for a modern American dining experience in an industrial chic atmosphere with a city-like vibe, Avenue Kitchen is it. In addition to chef Greg Smith’s eclectic menu, Avenue Kitchen also offers special gathering options, such as happy hours and private parties in their new private party space. Looking for a gift idea? Avenue Kitchen offers gift cards! Find Avenue Kitchen at 789 East Lancaster Avenue in Villanova; phone: (610) 525-3950.
Avero Italiano
Avero Italiano can best be described as South Philly soul food, ranging from wood-fired pizza to Italian entree options sure to please. Avero is also your one-stop holiday gathering destination. From holiday happy hours to festive office parties, Avero Italiano will take your next special gathering to new heights. Learn about private event offerings and off-premise catering options here. Find Avero Italiano at 821 West Lancaster Avenue in Wayne; phone: (484) 580-6455.
Bangles Indian Cuisine
With its authentic fare and a welcoming atmosphere, Bangles Indian Cuisine is the perfect spot to start a new dining tradition this holiday season. In addition to their seated dining, Bangles is the ideal locale for holiday parties, special date nights and BYOB gatherings. Find Bangles Indian Cuisine at 889 East Lancaster Avenue in Downingtown; phone: (610) 269-9600.
Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery
Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery combines upscale comfort food and an extensive beverage list, including house-made brews, craft beers, wines and spirits. Barren Hill is perfect for anytime dining but especially during the holidays. Plan your holiday party at Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery and be prepared for a top-notch event from start to finish. Looking for great holiday gifts? Grab a gift card or growler for the beer lover on your list. Find Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery at 646 Germantown Pike in Lafayette Hill; phone: (484) 344-5438.
Beaver Creek Tavern
Beaver Creek Tavern is a culinary gem featuring an array of cuisine choices, all rolled into one lovely locale. From pub-style starters to fine dining entree options, Beaver Creek Tavern aims to please. The cuisine is hearty and comforting with a touch of elegance, offering those who dine at the Beaver Creek Tavern the best of both worlds. Plan your party or private event at Beaver Creek Tavern this holiday season and let them do the cooking for you. Find Beaver Creek Tavern at 1350 Bondsville Road in Downingtown; phone: (484) 593-0481.
Bistro on Bridge
With the new dining room open and ready for your next holiday party, it’s simply a wise choice to choose Bistro on Bridge for your holiday gathering. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere while having your pick of a wealth of culinary options. The extensive craft beer list and creative cocktails will impress all of your party guests. Throwing a party at home? Grab some growlers to go and easily offer a wide array of beverage choices to friends and family members. Find Bistro on Bridge at 210 Bridge Street in Phoenixville; phone: (610) 935-7141.
Black Powder Tavern
If enjoying craft American fare in a historic building sounds like a warm and inviting idea, then plan your next meal or holiday party at Black Powder Tavern in Wayne. Their on-site catering team will ensure that your event is spectacular, start to finish. Whether looking for light bites or a full catered meal, Black Powder Tavern has the answer. The bar options are quite plentiful as well, which means that your guests will have their beverage of choice, no matter what it may be. Find Black Powder Tavern at 1164 Valley Forge Road in Wayne; phone: (610) 293-9333.
Bucktown Grille
The holidays are the perfect time to open up your home to friends and loved ones or to host an office party. Bucktown Grille in Pottstown can help. Let Bucktown Grille do the cooking for you with its professional catering team and wide array of menu offerings. Whether you want a variety of appetizers and light bites, party trays or food for every course of the meal, Bucktown Grille can provide this catering service for you. Pick it up or have it delivered right to you…the choice is yours! Find Bucktown Grille at 2088 Pottstown Pike in Pottstown; phone: (610) 469-2757.
Camphill Village Kimberton Hills
After finishing your shopping at Camphill Village Kimberton Hills, enjoy a holiday lunch at the Camphill Cafe, where soups, sandwiches, vegetarian entrees and delectable desserts await. The cafe features home-cooked menu items, made with organic and biodynamic ingredients, and supports local businesses and growers, such as Sweet Water Baking Company and Sankanac CSA. The cafe is open Wednesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. and also offers catering services. Find Camphill Village Kimberton Hills Camphill Cafe at 1601 Pughtown Road in Kimberton; phone: (610) 935-3599.
Chefanti
Holiday parties are made easier with the help of Chefanti’s catering services. Chefanti will prepare your holiday party fare for you and let you enjoy mingling with your guests without having to spend the entire time in the kitchen. Chefanti can cater office parties with a wide array of culinary choices, and private parties are also available at the Chefanti location. In addition, Chefanti offers a great gift solution: a regular meal subscription for the food lover on your gift list. Find out more by emailing [email protected]. Find Chefanti at 211 East Market Street in West Chester; phone: (610) 429-0467.
Couch Tomato Cafe
The Couch Tomato Cafe offers a menu filled with delicious and healthy items with an organic focus. Refreshing salads, a wide array of pizza offerings and sandwiches to suit every taste and diet are just a few of the many inviting aspects of The Couch Tomato Cafe. This holiday season, make sure that Couch Tomato gift cards are on your gift-giving list. Friends, family members and coworkers will love receiving these culinary gift cards. Find The Couch Tomato Cafe at 102 Rector Street in Manayunk; phone: (215) 483-2233.
Dave Magrogan Restaurants: Barra Rossa Ristorante, Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House, Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar, Kildare’s Irish Pub and Red Star Craft House
The Dave Magrogan Group has you covered this holiday season in the way of culinary varieties to please all palates. From the spectacular seafood menu of Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House to the authentic Irish fare of Kildare’s Irish Pub and so much more, Dave Magrogan Restaurants provide the perfect holiday meeting place for family, friends and coworkers to enjoy. Learn more about each dining destination here and start planning your next holiday meal or get-together.
The Desmond
The Desmond offers fine dining to please the most discriminating of tastes. Choose from three distinct dining locations on site, including the Hunt Room, Fox & Hounds Pub and Sunset Grille, a summertime dining destination. Looking for an exquisite culinary gift? Give the gift of quality dining this holiday season. Gift cards from The Desmond will suit your friends and loved ones perfectly. Now until December 30, buy $100 in gift cards (either one $100 card or two $50 cards) for just $79 online or at the front desk. There is a $250 limit for gift card usage toward groups/catered events per each booked event. Find The Desmond at 1 Liberty Boulevard in Malvern; phone: (800) 575-1776.
The Gables at Chadds Ford
The Gables at Chadds Ford offers a scenic dining location that will perfectly accommodate your upcoming holiday party, happy hour get-together or family meal. Extensive lunch, dinner and brunch menus make it easy to choose the ideal dining excursion, and the bar program is equally as excellent. Located just five minutes from Longwood Gardens, The Gables at Chadds Ford can accommodate any request, from a romantic dinner for two to a large group gathering, and will offer a menu to properly suit the occasion. Find The Gables at Chadds Ford at 423 Baltimore Pike in Chadds Ford; phone: (610) 388-7700.
Great American Pub & Hotel Phoenixville
The Great American Pub & Hotel Phoenixville offers expansive dining options in a welcoming, historic location. This family-owned and family-operated restaurant is ready to host your next holiday party. From office parties to ones where all of your family and friends are invited, Great American Pub & Hotel Phoenixville has you covered this holiday season. Contact banquet manager Debbie Hemcher at the restaurant (number below) or via email at [email protected] for more information. Looking for holiday gifts? Gift cards are the perfect culinary gift for everyone on your list. Find Great American Pub & Hotel Phoenixville at 148 Bridge Street in Phoenixville; phone: (610) 917-3333.
Jimmy’s BBQ
Planning your holiday party and looking for a caterer to do the cooking for you? Jimmy’s BBQ in Malvern is here to make your job easier. Provide your guests with unforgettable Memphis-style BBQ, ranging from delectable spare ribs to perfectly seasoned brisket, along with all of must-have sides. Jimmy’s BBQ offers drop-off catering services or will stay the entire length of your holiday party to cater from start to finish. Find Jimmy’s BBQ at 309 Lancaster Avenue in Malvern; phone: (610) 879-8805.
John Serock Catering
John Serock Catering is ready to make your holiday party prep and execution easy as can be. This West Chester-based catering company will take your next holiday party to new heights and offers many options to provide you with the party results you desire. Choose from the catering menu or select a la carte items to fit your needs perfectly. Let John Serock Catering produce the festive holiday soiree, office party or post-holiday gathering that you’ve always imagined. Find John Serock Catering at 835 Lincoln Avenue, A-2, in West Chester; phone: (610) 640-2836.
The Market at Liberty Place
The Market at Liberty Place is the only location you have to visit for all of your holiday party needs. Let Chef-a-Topia do all the cooking by stocking up on his gourmet meals and sides to-go, or grab all your Italian favorites from State Street Pizza & Grill. Don’t forget the wine necessities at Paradocx Vineyard. While you’re at it, cross dessert off your list after you check out at Yo’R So Sweet, whose sweet and savory crepes are sure to be a huge hit with your guests. Build your entire spread with just one stop at the market. Find The Market at Liberty Place at 148 West State Street in Kennett Square; phone: (610) 925-3411.
Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls
Switch up your holiday routine and think Maine this year. Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls offers fantastic catering options that will definitely wow your guests. Party trays include their signature lobster rolls, house made soups, Cape Cod chips, Maine Root soda and Maine-inspired whoopie pies. Take the guess work out of your holiday menu and let Quincy’s work their magic. Find Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls at 414 W. Swedesford Road in Berwyn; phone: (484) 328-3905.
Rino’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
Whether you’re looking for an authentic Italian meal to please the whole family or searching for a genius craft beer to complement that holiday spread, Rino’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria has you covered. This family-owned establishment, located in the heart of Exton, is looking forward to providing a hearty and delicious homemade dinner, from their family to yours. Find Rino’s at 327 E. Lancaster Avenue in Exton; phone: (610) 363-0515.
Ron’s Original Bar & Grille
It’s your turn to host the annual family holiday party this year. Pick your jaw up off of the floor and head to Ron’s Original Bar & Grille. Whether you’re looking to host the gathering there or bring the party back to your house, Ron’s is ready to provide a fantastic display of food and craft beer for your guests. The staff at Ron’s would also love to lend a hand in the planning department. They’ll help you figure out quantities appropriate to your group’s size and provide a quote on the spot. Ron’s has all the answers to your holiday planning questions. Find Ron’s Original Bar & Grille at 74 E. Uwchlan Avenue in Exton; phone: (610) 594-9900. Or call Ron’s HOTLINE at (610) 594-9911. You can also email Ron at [email protected].
Roots Cafe
Give the gift of fresh to your friends and family this year. With their ever-evolving and rotating menu, Roots Cafe proves time and time again why they’re a staple in the West Chester food and drink scene. Roots Cafe provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic holiday dinner or an intimate setting for that group of friends from out of town you only see once a year. While you’re there, inquire about a Sprout Music Collective membership for the music lover on your holiday shopping list. Find Roots Cafe at 133 East Gay Street in West Chester; phone: (610) 455-0100.
Rose Tree Restaurant
Rose Tree Restaurant in Media is home to a quaint, private room set apart from its main dining room that would certainly be the perfect setting for any holiday gathering. Your guests can warm up by the fire while basking in the holiday spread provided by the restaurant’s renowned kitchen staff. Is there a Rose Tree Restaurant fan on your holiday shopping list? Purchasing a gift card is as easy as entering some information online and customizing it to your liking. Let Rose Tree Restaurant take care of all of your holiday needs. Find Rose Tree Restaurant at 1243 North Providence Road in Media; phone: (610) 891-1205.
The Silverspoon
The Silverspoon in Wayne provides a welcoming space to host holiday gatherings as well as professional catering services. With a seasonal menu that focuses on offering a wide variety of dishes prepared with local products, Silverspoon would love to bring the party to your home. Their staff will prepare a customized menu for you and your guests that will be available for pick up or delivery to your home. Find The Silverspoon at 503 West Lancaster Avenue in Wayne; phone: (610) 688-7646.
Sips Bistro & Bar
Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and uniquely French menu provided by Sips Bistro & Bar in downtown Phoenixville this holiday season. Sips would also make great hosts for that holiday party you need to start planning. Don’t miss their Sips After Dark Lounge Event on Saturday, December 13, from 10 p.m.–1 a.m., where you can dance the night away with DJ Dave Blanko while sipping on plenty of craft beers and cocktails. Find Sips Bistro & Bar at 400 Bridge Street in Phoenixville; phone: (484) 924-9721.
Triple Fresh Catering
Let Triple Fresh be your holiday event and party solution. From now through January 1, Triple Fresh Catering is offering holiday dinners that include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, roasted carrots and corn, cranberry sauce, rolls and butter. Looking for something outside of the box? Consider a few of their catering trays and make it a party! Gift ideas? They’ve got them too! Send your loved ones the gift of a beautifully fresh fruit basket this year. Find Triple Fresh Catering at 801 Doe Run Road in East Fallowfield; phone: (610) 384-5037.
Vickers Restaurant
Vickers Restaurant in Exton could be your one-stop holiday destination this season. This Chester County staple has been serving locals for over 25 years and continues to wow customers time and time again. Whether you’re on the hunt for an office happy hour destination, looking for an intimate Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve dinner or just need that last-minute stocking stuffer gift certificate, Vickers Restaurant has it all! Find Vickers Restaurant at 192 East Welsh Pool Road in Exton; phone: (610) 363-7998.
Yanako/Chabaa Thai
This holiday, devour the culinary artistry of chef Moon Krapugthong and her renowned team at this extraordinary Japanese BYOB. From piping-hot bowls of udon soup and fine-tuned bento boxes to handmade gyoza dumplings and slow-cooked teriyaki options, this Manayunk hotspot offers the authentic experience of a lifetime. Even better is the talent that comes from behind the 18-foot sushi bar that features proficiency in sashimi platters and Zen-like maki rolls. A pop-up menu spotlighting Chabaa Thai’s cult dishes is also available this season. Gift cards and private party dining available. Find Yanako at 4255 Main Street in Manayunk; phone: (267) 297-8151.
Esteemed Sweet Endings
The Brunettes’ Bookshop Bakery
Chestnut Hill bakers Laura Belmonte and Claudia Stemler are ready to craft your ultimate sweet treat dreamscape. Their Brunettes’ Bookshop Bakery offers freshly baked goods made with all-natural ingredients—no dyes or shortening here! Visit the brown-haired creators at their bakeshop within the Market at the Fareway and order signature desserts like frosted cranberry cakes or warm gingerbread cupcakes. Pop in and pick up refined Christmas cookies, straight-out-the-oven baked pies and an endless array of holiday sweets. Be sure to also take a moment to scout out the bakery’s gently used book collection to find to a new-to-you page-turner for those chilly, snowy nights ahead. Orders may be placed via email or by phone. Find Brunettes’ Bookshop Bakery at 8229 Germantown Avenue in Chestnut Hill; phone: (267) 300-2340.
Dia Doce
Elevate your holiday dessert table with award-winning cupcakes from Cupcake Wars’ winner Dia Doce. Acclaimed baker Thais Da Silva crafts truly indulgent cupcakes in an ever-changing range of flavors—from red velvet candy cane to champagne, gingerbread, dulce de leche, key lime pie and so many more. Full menu here. Take your holiday soiree to celebrity status by renting the lime-green cupcake truck for your personal or business events. Gluten-free, vegan and custom creations available. Orders may be placed via email or phone. Find Dia Doce at 100 S. High Street in West Chester; phone: (610) 476-5684.
Iced by Betsy
Cupcakes are the perfect addition to your holiday festivities. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, are you left feeling frazzled with everything you have to do? Let Iced by Betsy take care of the baking for you. (They won’t tell if you don’t!) With eye-catching—and insanely delicious—Christmas and New Year’s collections available, your sweet endings have never been this spectacular. Explore baker Betsy Gibbons’ flavor lineup, which ranges from tiramisu and strawberry tall cakes to maple with sweet-and-salty bacon buttercream and Under the Mistletoe (peanut butter cake with Peanut Butter Kiss cookies on top). Consider giving the gift of sweetness, with gift cards and cupcakes wrapped with a bow also available. Place orders via email or by phone. Find Iced by Betsy at 145 Main Street in Royersford; phone: (610) 755-7062.
Night Kitchen Bakery
Owner and baker Amy Edelman is the region’s baking queen, creating life-changing, from-scratch desserts inspired by old-world recipes and artisanal methods. 100% butter, high-quality chocolate, local milk and cream and Dutch-process cocoa flood the sweets on the repeat at this Chestnut Hill bakery, with everything from pies, tarts and cookies to cupcakes and special-order cakes available for your choosing. Consider the ultra-indulgent puddings for your holiday dinner party, or opt for the breakfast treats (famous cinnamon buns, scones, etc.) for your seasonal brunch. Full dessert menu here and cake menu here. Orders may be placed by phone. Find Night Kitchen Bakery at 7725 Germantown Avenue in Chestnut Hill; phone: (215) 248-9235.
Holiday Events in a Town Near You
Chestnut Hill
Escape into Chestnut Hill’s winter wonderland through festive Stag & Doe Nights studded with carolers, Holiday House Tours inside elite area-wide homes and more. With 125 retailers and restaurants located in the eco-friendly, beautiful Northwest Philadelphia neighborhood, Chestnut Hill is certainly worthy of your holiday shopping junket. Favorite boutiques include El Quetzal, Penzey’s Spices and Hipster Home. Be sure to hit Night Kitchen Bakery for a sugary shopping break or Chestnut Hill Coffee Co. for one excellent cup of java. More details here.
Historic Kennett Square
The Mushroom Capital of the World transforms into a holiday wonderland this season through a series of must-attend events like the Holiday Light Parade, Ladies Shopping Night Out, Kennett Symphony’s Hometown Christmas Show, Candlelight Holiday Home Tour, carriage rides and other must-attend events. Hit downtown’s State Street for an incredible range of shops, too—from unique clothing stores and jewelers to home decor, art galleries, flower boutiques and so much more, there will be nothing dull about this shopping trip! Full retail lineup here. Grab holiday dinner at local restaurants, too! More details on upcoming holiday events here.
Manayunk
This season, head to Main Street! With holiday fun unfolding all December long, from pictures with Santa and the Philly Runner Randolph Run to the Solstice Fire and more, you’ll want to get to know Manayunk. Better yet, shop small and shop local at a unique blend of 50+ independently owned retailers, from high-end fashion and consignment stores, jewelry and gift boutiques and hair salons and spas to home furnishing and home décor shops, art galleries and music stores. You’re bound to find something special for everyone on your list. Full shop lineup here. Be sure to hit Petit Gourmand—a favorite! What makes your shopping trip even better? Restaurants—and lots of them. With over 30+ dining options (full list here), you’ll want to become a repeat visitor of Main Street Manayunk. More shopping, dining and map details here.
West Chester
Nestled in the heart of the Brandywine Valley, downtown West Chester reflects the small-town charm and cosmopolitan tastes that prompted The Philadelphia Inquirer to call it “one of the world’s most perfect small towns.” With exclusive holiday events like the Mars Old Fashioned Christmas Parade and corresponding events, the Brandywine Ballet’s The Nutcracker, a Holiday Home Tour and Santa’s Express on the West Chester Railroad, you may think you’ve been transported to the North Pole. Downtown is also a shopper’s paradise, with more than 75 retail shops and boutiques offering a diverse and unique shopping experience. The food scene is thriving, too, with more than 65 eateries available for your choosing. More holiday, shopping and dining details here.
Looking for even more holiday gift-giving ideas? Explore PA Eats’s Gift-Giving Guide, which features ultimate picks for food and drink lovers, one-of-a-kind experiences of a lifetime and so much more.
