I love a restaurant that invites me in, is non-pretentious and playfully reminds me of the neighborhood where I grew up. Julie Anne’s Place in Malvern is exactly that.
Half of a row home with red-brick sidewalks, a weathered-but-clean looking blue and white painted wrap-around porch, colorful potted flowers and even a slight squeak in the front door all made me feel as if I were home. The porch light was even left on.
Proprietor Laura Iezzi named this oh-so-quaint spot after her late sister four years ago and never looked back. A popular breakfast and lunch spot on South Warren Avenue directly opposite Burke Park (of Saturday morning Malvern Farmers Market fame), enthusiastic server (and cousin) Cathy explained, “We get many parents and students from the Malvern Prep School down the road, a lot of bank and local folks for lunch and, on Sunday, this place is packed from the churches in the area.” Fortunately, the locals don’t seem to mind the wait.
It’s easy to see (and taste) why. I had a stack of blueberry pancakes for breakfast that were loaded with large, juice-filled berries. Dusted with powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream, I felt as though summer would last forever here.
Everything is made to order in the tiniest half-visible kitchen where all conceivable space is efficiently arranged. The interior resembles a row home of yore and even has the original creaking wood staircase leading to the second floor. The sun-dappled hardwood-floored dining area is full of charm having a nostalgic “general-store” feel with its well-stocked counter and country decor.
The well-rounded breakfast menu includes an array of stepped-up omelettes like the Tuscan, Veggie or namesake Julie with roasted red peppers, tomatoes and feta cheese. A grilled sticky bun, oatmeal or creamed chip beef served over toast bring back memories of days gone by.
Lunch lists locals’ favorite, hand-picked white-meat chicken salad prepared fresh every day. Salads such as raspberry, chef or an amazing San Jose that includes sliced avocado can be ordered with the soup or quiche of the day. Classic sandwiches like a BLT, egg salad and corned beef are always just a bite away.
So expect to relax with a friend, or a good book, on the porch of Julie Anne’s Place with an old-fashioned root beer float and a delectable piece of house-made banana nut bread. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is one-of-a-kind. Welcome home.
Find Julie Anne’s Place at 22 South Warren Ave., Malvern; phone: (610) 640-1482. Hours of operation: Breakfast and lunch daily, 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m. except Sunday (7:30 a.m.–1 p.m.). Closed Monday. If you go, here’s a tip … there’s free four-hour municipal parking across the street as well as in the back.
Photos: Ed Williams
3 Comments