The shockingly hip Brick and Mortar is replete with a dining space that is both refined and welcoming. The menu echos the warmth and contemporary feel of the expanse; approachable, solid, yet creatively flaired for the inspired urban adventurer. Chef Brian Ricci’s menu doesn’t otherwise upset the steady calm of the dining wake. Rather, Ricci keeps things tight.
The Loft District eatery offers a broader menu than most new openings, but does well to fill the niche of appealing to a wide base.
Craft cocktails. Plenty; many inspired by classics. Check out the Navy Grog and the Martinez.- Pan-roasted chickpeas. Yes, hummus is not the only dish that uses chickpeas. Ricci treats the peas to kale, lemon, chili and smoked paprika along with cucumber yogurt.
- Gnocchi Parisienne. These are not your grandma’s gnocchi. Light, butter-slicked and tossed with duck confit, these usually gut-busting dumplings are a fun approach and generously portioned to share.
- Rotisserie. A choice of chicken, lamb or pork belly make up the rotisserie menu. Brick and Mortar’s take on the slow-cooking technique is sweet on big flavor without the fuss of a sauteed entree. The sunchokes that rode along with the lamb played on the ubiquity of seasonal ingredients that are requisite of our contemporary culinary landscape.
- Rotating features. The chalkboard features oyster varietals, cured meats and the bar’s whimsy.
- Sticky toffee muffin. Bergamot ice cream. Enough said.
Brick and Mortar is the latest to pop up on the east-of-Broad scene, building the buzz with which the Loft District continues to wow.
Find Brick and Mortar at 315 N. 12th St. in Center City; phone: (215) 923-1596.
- Photos: Jim Berman
