West Chester, PA BYOB

Greetings Phellow Phoodies!

OK, I'm getting a little carried away after the Eagles victory over the Jets and the Flyers 3-1 early in the season. I'm also about to get a little carried away regarding our latest BYOB excursion, Butterfish in West Chester.

We're told that the restaurant resides in a former milk processing house, presumably when the property was farmland and not a shopping center and home to a Chinese buffet and Happy Harry's. It is charming, comfortable and somewhat minimalistic.

Our friends Linda and Bob arrived shortly before us and had already relocated to a table away from the activity of the kitchen. Good call. They had brought along a young Australian Cab ('05) which they were already enjoying and we opened our old-school ('05) Napa Valley ZD Chardonnay. Our other selection was a '03 St. Emilion from Teyssyier which would have to wait another night to be poured. (Note: My Philly Foodie Guy is the wine snob who agonizes over his collection for 15 minutes before we go out in order to find the best selection for our destination. I tease him while he ponders his decision but certainly get turned on when he somehow manages to pick the right wine most every time.)

I had the signature Hawaiian Butterfish which was a knockout! It was flavored with ginger and a touch of fruit. I had to thank our friendly and knowledgeable server for that suggestion. I always appreciate suggestions. My hubby opted for the 8-ounce filet was equally outstanding. The cabernet sauce was the hit of the plate and really brought out the flavors of the filet and Yukon gold mashed. Our fellow foodie friends opted for the crab cake and rack of lamb, both of which were outstanding! In fact the lamb looked so good Hub almost regretted passing it up over the filet. (He loves a nice rack.) Our friend Bob reported that he was equally overwhelmed by the sauces that came with the rack.

We highly recommend Butterfish. The entrees were delicious, the salads were a generous portion and the stuffed scallop appetizer was a hit at our table. We also loved the flourless chocolate cake and the pear and mixed fruit cobbler with ice cream. Just a few misses - the restaurant was a little loud and a little cold. We were also seated by the door and close to a lot of activity. My official rating: three-and-a-half XOs out of 5!

It's located in front of the East Bradford Shops on PA Route 52, a.k.a. South Bradford Avenue in West Chester. Its just about 3 minutes from Downtown West Chester and the University Area.

Before I give you a hug and kiss goodbye, please let me say Happy Birthday to our dear friend and dining companion Linda, who soon celebrates the first anniversary of her 59th birthday. Hubby agrees that if I look as good as Linda does when I hit that milestone we'll both be happy! Happy Birthday, Linda!

XOXO,
The Philly Foodie Girl