When it comes to brunch in Media, Bittersweet Kitchen is the new kid in town. The little-slice-of-heaven café located at 18 S. Orange St. opened just last month and is seeing immediate success. My husband and I checked out brunch there last Sunday and I can see why people are buzzing, and visiting often. The spot is hip and happening, outside and in; the creative comfort food and small-batch baked goods are uniquely delicious; and the owners are sweet as, well, pie!
The Owners
Jeremy Pflug and Michelle West, who’ve been married for seven years, have called Media home even longer, and started a family here. Now up to three children, including a boy younger than a year old, the couple now has one more “baby”: their own restaurant. In the culinary business for most of their careers, including multi-award-winning spots, Jeremy and Michelle felt it was time to call a place their own, and Bittersweet Kitchen was born. Michelle, with the baby in tow, greeted us and other guests with a huge smile and, throughout our stay, she worked hard ensuring everyone was seated, served quickly and pleased with their food. Meanwhile, Jeremy ran a tight kitchen. Our brunch came out fast and, despite the fact the restaurant was packed with a line out the door, he and his staff rose to the occasion creating dish after delicious dish. Note: arrive early or later to minimize your wait.
Chocolate Chip Buttermilk Pancakes
I don’t often eat pancakes, but when I do it’s a real treat. Bittersweet’s pancakes are buttery and filled with ooey gooey chocolate chips, sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with real maple syrup. I added a side of the Philly fave Habbersett bacon to round out my breakfast.
Chicken, Gravy & Waffles
Chicken. It’s what’s for breakfast? At Bittersweet it sure is. I don’t particularly care for dishes with creamy sauces, but I sampled my husband’s meal and I must say it was overall quite tasty. The fluffy, homemade waffles are topped with shredded chicken and home-style gravy. The breakfast potatoes are crispy and mildly seasoned and, if you’re into pungent herbs, the housemade rosemary and sage sausage adds a twist to a typical breakfast meat.
The Coffee
Not only is Bittersweet Kitchen’s coffee fresh, bold and piping hot, it’s also fair trade. So is the chocolate. That’s perfect for a restaurant in the heart of the country’s first fair-trade town.
$2 Sweet Treat
If your tummy’s too full for the regularly sized dessert, Jeremy bakes up a smaller version of his popular sweet treats each day. So, if you’re only in the mood for a taste, no problem!
It’s All in the Name
I asked Michelle how they came up with such a clever name and she said after a long time of brainstorming with family and friends, “Bittersweet Kitchen” was it. She said it fits the meaning of “bittersweet,” when something’s good but there’s something not-so-good about it. Their food isn’t always low-cal and low-fat, but boy is it scrumptious and savory. I suggest sampling their signature sweet, the bittersweet chocolate torte.
The Décor
As I looked around, I realized Bittersweet Kitchen reminds me of a brunch spot you’d find in Northern Liberties or Center City Philly. The décor is casually hip, plus it incorporates all things repurposed. The tables are built from reclaimed wood found at a Chester County farm. The eatery also features reclaimed and upholstered chairs; an original, restored hardwood floor; repurposed light fixtures; and an original tile ceiling.
Bittersweet Kitchen also serves gluten-free and vegan dishes—just ask.
Before we headed out, I hinted to Michelle about having a Bloody Mary bar and it seems sipping spirits at brunch is in the long-term plan. Cheers to that.
Bittersweet Kitchen is open every weekday for breakfast and lunch, and for brunch on weekends. Find Bittersweet Kitchen at 18 S. Orange St., Media, (610) 566-1660.
Photos: Lauren Avellino Turton
