Gone are the days of relying on food trucks to quench your thirst after the 8.4-mile jaunt along the Schuykill River. The Cosmic Cafe at Lloyd Hall is now a welcome oasis.
In 2011, Chef Peg Botto won a grant from the Sustainable Business Network (SBN). She opened the Cosmic Cafe that spring after many years at the Chestnut Hill Farmers Market. Along with long-time friend and business partner chef Harrison Mcinnis, chef Peg created a menu made not only for meat eaters, but for vegans as well. And importantly, the menu reflects the vision of the SBN, that “businesses and communities can coexist, collaborate, and create a more sustainable society.”
According to the friendly and amiable (might I add, funny?) Mcinnis, “We strive to create delicious food that is locally sourced as much as possible while embracing the ‘triple bottom line’ of supporting people, the planet and making a profit.” Mcinnis added, “We are an eco-friendly kind of cafe, and recycle and compost.” In season, the Cosmic Cafe even grows its own tomatoes and herbs on the patio.
If you are a hungry vegan, do not fret. There are a lot of choices on the extensive menu, including a delicious roasted vegetable wrap with whole wheat flatbread and rich hummus. If you’re lucky, you might be there on a day when you can grab some vegan brownies, cookies or muffins. The menu also includes a white bean and sage spread, edamame hummus, kale pesto, soups and more.
Or maybe you’d like an iced coffee or an Americano. Coffee is locally sourced from Philly Fair Trade Roasters, an established Philly roastery that was in the city long before the coffee craze in Philadelphia began. There is also an espresso machine that can make a delicious latte with nondairy milk.
One of the many nice things about Cosmic is that it can customize an order for you and “veganize” it. With a beautiful river view from the patio and free WiFi, this just might be the best way to reward yourself after a few hours in the sun: sitting on the patio, under an umbrella, sipping on an ice coffee. Does it get any better?
Eating at the Cosmic Cafe is always a treat. I love its values of sustainability, the delicious food and the friendly staff. And, I love places where all types of food preferences are welcomed.
Quick Cosmic Cafe Tips
- Closed Monday and Tuesday.
- Hours are 8 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, but are subject to change.
- Catering is available; check out www.cosmicfoods.com.
- A note about parking: it is limited to two-hour time slots and is monitored regularly by the parking authority. It is a meter-free zone.
Find the Cosmic Cafe in Lloyd Hall at 1 Boathouse Row, Philadelphia; phone: (215) 978-0900.
- Photos: Char Nolan
