We can always use a little more sweetness in our daily lives, right? Let the historic charm of Kennett Square and surrounding area serve as host to a plethora of venues loaded with decadent pies, cakes and hand-crafted desserts—all waiting to be devoured voraciously.
We’ve created the sweetest list of charming bakeries, love-worthy restaurants and captivating speciality markets that are perfect for hanging out with family and friends while enjoying a meal or packing up your goodies in a bag to take on the road. Whether for the upcoming holidays or any time of year, Kennett and the surrounding area are a sure bet for satiating your sweet tooth.
The Brown Derby
Local rock star chef Ray Maxwell injected this legendary restaurant with an updated bar and a more approachable menu this past summer. A well-rounded selection of steaks, prime rib and seafood alone are worth the visit, but it’s the to-die-for creme brulee that has us salivating. We love hearing that distinctive crunch as our spoon delves further into soft creamy custard providing a mouthful of textured pleasure. Stop in and enjoy a blend of fine-linen dining in a casual welcome-home atmosphere with live music on weekends. 1470 Baltimore Pike, Toughkenamon, (610) 268-8252
Catherine’s BYOB
This historic (1871) general store is an alluring space that evokes candlelit charm. The new American eclectic menu offers up local and seasonal dishes that will please everyone in your group. Desserts are made on the premises and change weekly, but we like to go with a few of the brunch specialties like bananas foster, Belgian waffles and the brioche french toast, which are really desserts unto themselves. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 1701 W. Doe Run Rd., Unionville, (610) 347-2227
The Country Butcher
Dan and Dorothy Boxler are practically local celebrities at this Euro-inspired market and cafe that has goodies packed into every conceivable corner. Whether you’re searching for imported cheeses, flavored oils (including their own brand), balsamics, jams, chutneys or spices, The Country Butcher is where to find it. For delectable dessert selections, venture to the back of the store bakeshop and find handcrafted pies, pastries, cookies and candies. Just get monkeybread—don’t say you haven’t been warned. 145 S. Walnut St., Kennett Square, (610) 444-5980
Foxy Loxy
It’s always the right season for ice cream and good coffee, and if relaxing in warm, homelike surroundings to lick and sip is your idea of heaven—this is the place. Another winner in historic Unionville, this hidden gem is the perfect backdrop for grabbing a soup and sandwich combo, a sinful ice cream treat or a pick-me-up latte on a chilly day. Did we mention hot chocolate? 5 Cemetery Ln., Unionville, (610) 347-1129
Kennett Brewing Company
It’s been a hop-filled celebration since this pocket-sized brewery—from owners Mark and Jossy Osborn—opened up more than a year ago. Touting local crowds with a fun speakeasy neighborhood vibe, Kennett Brewing pours from all the right taps (10 of them) while doling out some AH-mazing grub including soups, bites, salads and some fine sandwich options. For housemade desserts we favor the signature bread pudding topped with wee wobbly sauce (their own Scotch ale). One size fits all (bellies that is). Music on weekends. 109 S. Broad St. Ste. 2, Kennett Square, (610) 444-0440
Nomadic Pies
We’ve had our eye (and forks) on owner Molly Johnston’s sweet and savory pies since she expanded her popular food truck business to this lovely brick and mortar in the center of the borough more than a year ago. Feel free to bite into a succulent slice with Baba’s Brew in the store itself—or better yet, take home a five- or nine-inch plum berry mint or raspberry pear pie to heat up for the family. Seasonal fruit and spices always complement Molly’s time-proven signature oh-so-flakey crusts, and we’d love to just box that energetic personality of hers to take home, too! Closed Monday and Tuesday. 132 W. State St., Kennett Square, (610) 857-7600
Portabellos of Kennett Square
Chef Brett Hulbert and partner Sandra continue to make this culinary oasis a warm and inviting BYOB experience. The upscale menu focuses on locality and includes some of the best mushroom dishes in the area with selections like exotic mushroom crepes, mushroom fries and a signature Steak Portabello with cognac-flamed mushrooms. Be wowed with our dessert pick—the delectable flourless chocolate torte with cointreau creme that is always served with a side of smiles. 115 W. State St., Kennett Square, (610) 925-4984
Sovana Bistro
Owner/chef Nick Farrell brings award-winning cuisine to the plate in this blended contemporary-rustic local favorite restaurant that’s home to an elegantly prepared list of beef, poultry, seafood, pasta and wood-fired artisan pizzas utilizing the freshest seasonal ingredients as well as an inclusive international wine list with few rivals. For dessert, we say indulge in the one-of-a-kind liquid center butterscotch cake that oozes warmth directly into the soul. Try the express lunch during the week, which is a great way to have a perfect sample of dessert without the guilt. Closed Mondays. 696 Unionville Rd., Unionville, (610) 444-5600
Talula’s Table
Gourmet market by day, farm-to-table restaurant by night, this adorable mainstay in downtown Kennett emphasizes local goods and seasonality. Feeling like a quaint yet upscale general store, the spot’s shelves are loaded with a various array of sauces, spices and sundries to fill anyone’s pantry. The award-winning cheese selection is dessert on its own, but we can’t seem to escape without a bag full of pastries, cookies, baby bundt and carrot cakes. Don’t miss the occasional appearance of bacon maple donuts. 102 W. State St., Kennett Square, (610) 444-8255
Yo’R So Sweet
A family-owned highlight within the Market at Liberty Place, this spot of deliciousness wraps a crepe around just about anything and makes it taste like heaven. Specializing in soups, salads, smoothies and pressed juices, Yo’R So Sweet also creates the most incredible signature crepe cakes that have to be seen (and eaten) to be believed, with 16–20 layers of the lightest crepes filled with an airy mousse. Flavors range from the classic chocolate mousse and the exotic green tea/cardamon mousse to a festive bourbon eggnog mousse for holiday soirees. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 148 W. State St., Kennett Square, (610) 925-0005
- Brown Derby, Country Butcher & Nomadic Pies photos: Ed Williams
- Remaining photos: credited to individual restaurants
