What secret? This place is always packed. Even on a picturesque, late-morning Friday this summer, when I leisurely searched for a parking space … at the far end of the lot. Animated diners filled every outside table discussing the latest news, work challenge or gossip. Shaded by forest-colored canvas umbrellas and bordered with tangerine hibiscus-filled pots, Green Street Grill is authentically inviting with that small-town cafe ambience.
Inside, the high-ceiling, industrial-warehouse motif is whimsically decorated with bright, primary-colored, oversized pop art. Imagine dining with the likes of Uncle Sam, Humphrey Bogart. And Jesus. Anchored in the center of this charming eatery is a stainless-steel counter stacked with perfectly mismatched coffee cups, glassware and freshly vased tiger lilies. Oh, and hungry customers.
Above the kitchen, a huge, easy-to-read chalkboard lists the day’s specials, mimicking sister restaurant Market Street Grill in downtown West Chester, also owned and operated by Kerry Greco. “People come here hungry and happy. My job is to make sure they leave here happier,” stated Greco.
The aroma of brewing coffee and a waft of sizzling bacon are almost as welcoming as general manager Matt Rottman’s smile when he greets you at the door. Energized to keep things moving, but never too busy to stop and say hello, Matt is always making sure your meal is going smoothly.
Open since 2013 and recently voted Main Line Today’s Best of Downingtown for their saporous eggs benedict, their menu is always creative and the ingredients are always fresh.
That particular morning, I opted for the Belgian Waffle from the griddle with added fresh strawberries, blueberries and the largest blackberries I had ever seen. The touch of buttermilk and the soft crunch of the warm waffle made yet another satisfying breakfast.
Other meals to get the day started on the right foot include signature dishes (and another personal favorite) like the Bruno Burrito, which takes two fried eggs, hash browns, cheddar cheese, andouille sausage rolled up in a tight wrap that will literally make your tongue slap your brain. Or, try an homage to the southern end of the county with the Kennett Square omelette loaded with mushrooms, onions and spinach, all smothered in melted American cheese.
Rolling right into lunch, Shramm’s comprehensive menu includes soups de jour, salads and an ambitious 8-ounce Mexican turkey burger with avocado, pepper jack, salsa and cilantro sour cream on a soft bun. Philly cheesesteaks, a classic reuben, combos and wraps round out this diverse list of eats.
A welcome inclusion into Downingtown’s growing and inspired foodie scene, the Green Street Grill is definitely a hit with the local crowd. So, if you’re looking to share great food with friends, family or just a laptop, you need to hop in the car and find out exactly why this hotspot is a best-kept secret.
Frequent customer Karen Izzi, Ph.D., wellness practitioner and fellow foodie, summed it up perfectly by gushing, “Going to Green Street is like visiting family. This place is where I invite friends to hang out because the menu is fantastic and we are treated like Papa Greco’s cousins! Be sure to try the Izzy.”
Dish Vibe: Quirky, bright, clean, unpretentious, family-friendly, casual and reasonably priced with original and highly imaginative daily specials. Service is always pleasant and attentive.
Dish Scoop: General manager Matt Rottman is also the brainchild of locally famous Big Poppy’s Kettlecorn. Made of organic and non-GMO ingredients, Big Poppy’s is a sure-fire hit that can be found at area farm markets.
Green Street Grill is open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week from 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m., except Sunday brunch, which closes at 2 p.m. Catering available.
Find Green Street Grill at 150 E. Pennsylvania Ave. in Downingtown; phone: (610) 873-1700.
Photo credits: Ed Williams
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