West Chester’s 5 Out-There Eats You Just Have to Try

West Chester has no shortage of great eats. From all-American fare to ethnic specialties, this town has it covered. But sometimes, I crave more. Going out to eat is about the excitement of venturing beyond your familiar culinary territory. Sometimes my palate cries out for an experience that is different, really different, maybe even weirdly different (in a good way).

The dishes below combine unexpected ingredients to create gustatory delights that may make you do a double-take and go “really?” Of course, the answer is “yes, really,” and your tastebuds will thank you.

When the same ol’ just won’t do, these unconventional gems will satisfy every time. Buck the trend and explore West Chester with a palate for the unknown! You might be surprised what you find (and love) that’s right in your backyard.

Original Sushi Burritos at Bon Bon Sushi

bon bon sushi

Half sushi-roll and half burrito, this original creation from the beloved downtown sushi spot defies definition. Instead, myriad flavors and fillings speak for themselves with a chorus of “yum” and “mmm.” A paper-thin tortilla and sushi rice enwrap clever combos that will have you wondering, “Where has this been all my life?” Ease into the game with the Bonzilla (spicy tuna, shrimp tempura, romaine lettuce, avocado, cucumber and wonton crunch with bon bon sauce and soy glaze) before moving up to the next level with treats like the Bon-Kok (chicken tempura, green apple, romaine lettuce, red cabbage, red onion, fried shallots and wonton crunch with a mild curry sauce). 22 N. Darlington St., (610) 696-3069

Barbacoa de Chivo con Consomme (Braised Goat Stew) at La Rancherita

Served only on weekends … sometimes. Call ahead to see if they have it. It’s almost like it doesn’t exist (but it does). Part of the weekend-only menu at this authentic Mexican eatery, the barbacoa de chivo is easily a feast for two. Meltingly tender strips of deeply flavorful goat are served with fresh tortillas, rice, beans, traditional condiments and a bring-you-back-from-the-dead broth on the side. Earthy, spicy and downright delicious, it’s clear to see that goat is seriously lacking on U.S. menus. If you like Boeuf Bourguignon or beef shortribs, this is a must try! 323 E. Gay St., Bldg. D1, (610) 918-6221

Parallel Bars at Éclat Chocolate

Eclat Parallel Bars

Mushrooms and thyme in a chocolate? Those in-the-know favor this boutique chocolatier for its award-winning truffles and other goodies. The parallel bars might be the most unique offering from this local shop. Unexpected flavors like porcini mushroom and thyme, green tea and roasted rice and coffee and cardamom are a pleasant surprise every time. Grab a bar of one of these boundary-pushing flavors for a mid-day refuel or a post-work treat! 24 S. High St., (610) 692-5206

Blackened Alligator at High Street Caffe

Alligators are scary, mean even … until they’re on a plate. Never tried gator? Why wait? The meat is reminiscent of catfish, chicken and pork. Although the exotic nature of this creature will make your imagination stir, the real magic happens when it’s fried up right with cajun spices. The chefs at High Street Caffe expertly blacken tender succulent tail meat N’awlins style and serve it up with creole mustard. 322 S. High St., (610) 696-7435

West Chester Bar Sundae at West Chester Coffee & Ice Cream Bar

West Chester Ice Cream Bar sundae

Coffee and ice cream area a match made in heaven, and that’s why this dessert is so special. An American mash-up that is part affogato and part sundae, this is an all-out, no-holds-barred indulgence. Maybe you had a bad day, or a great one. Does it matter? Nope. Either way you’ll be celebrating this combo of a freshly baked doughnut topped with ice cream, a shot of espresso, whipped cream, chocolate sauce and a cherry. Yes, please! 6 E. Gay St., (484) 983-3937

  • Bon Bon Sushi photo: Bon Bon Sushi
  • Éclat photo: Éclat Chocolate
  • West Chester Coffee & Ice Cream Bar sundae photo: West Chester Coffee & Ice Cream Bar

One Comment