It’s a lovely evening and you’d like to have dinner outdoors. Luckily for you, Media has dozens of alfresco dining and drinking options. You’ll find cuisine from around the world, whether you crave Asian flair, Old World Italian or mouthwatering Mexican. Let’s dig in!
Dining Under the Stars
Media just kicked off the 10th annual Dining Under the Stars season, which runs every Wednesday evening through the end of September. State Street is closed to traffic and dozens of restaurants create an outdoor dining experience “reminiscent of the open-air cafes on Paris’ Avenue de Champs Elyseé and in the piazzas of Rome & Venice,” according to the website. The popular event draws thousands of people craving delicious dinners, sweet treats, live entertainment and good ol’ family-friendly fun.
Rooftop Deck
If you’d like to be above all the action, Azie’s roof deck is a must-see. Tucked away off State Street, it’s the perfect place to dine alfresco in a quiet, but very hip, setting. This chic restaurant offers contemporary Asian fusion dishes and an extensive sushi menu as well as creative cocktails made with organic, fresh ingredients and the finest spirits. 217 W. State St., (610) 566-4750
On the Back Porch
Unless you’re a regular at Fellini, you might not know about the little hidden gem located in the way back. There’s a quaint dining space on the back porch, perfect for an outing with friends. The BYOB offers a wide selection of authentic Italian dishes, including homemade lobster ravioli, rich lasagna and tender veal and chicken specialities. 106 W. State St., (610) 892-7616
Open-Front Finds
Stroll along State Street, and you’ll find there are more open-front restaurants than ever. On a beautiful day, the open windows provide a cool breeze for guests and a perfect view of the fun and festivities happening in town.
320 Market Cafe in Media’s West End has open-front dining as well as outdoor bistro seating. 320 offers its signature soup, salad and sandwich menu. There’s also a full bar with 25 craft beers, wines and an extensive list of whiskeys, bourbons and single malt scotches. 211 W. State St., (610) 565-8320
Right across the street is Diego’s Cantina and Tequila Bar, where diners also enjoy an open front. The food and drink are sure to cure your south-of-the-border craving, especially the tacos. Diego’s Taqueria taco dinner includes three corn tortillas filled with your choice from nearly a dozen meat, seafood or vegetarian selections. Find your fiesta with more than 60 tequilas and freshly shaken margaritas. 214 W. State St., (484) 442-8741
Sligo Irish Pub is a traditional, authentic Irish pub featuring the perfect pint of Guinness, Irish specialties like bangers and mash, Irish tunes and a casual, friendly atmosphere. The most-coveted seats in the house are right up front in the open windows. There are also several tables set outside for lunch and dinner. 113 W. State St., (610) 566-5707.
Stephen’s on State has built a reputation as an elegant steak and seafood place with an extensive wine list. It’s also well known for live music almost every night and dancing on weekends. The sliding French doors are pulled back, allowing for alfresco dining and enjoying the live tunes. 105 W. State St., (610) 891-8900
Plum Street Mall
Brick & Brew also has open-front dining and boasts a rustic side deck as well. The lunch and dinner menus feature an enticing array of vibrant salads, American tapas and appetizer plates perfect for sharing. Round that out with rib-sticking burgers, creative sandwiches and brick oven pizza. Brick & Brew has more than 120 whiskey offerings; a stunning, sommelier-chosen wine list; and personally designed cocktails made from scratch, like the award-winning whiskey sour. 26 W. State St., (484) 443-8441
Jaco Juice & Taco Bar is a casual dining spot offering a wide variety of nutritious, delicious juices and smoothies; acai bowls; salads; tacos; and burritos. You don’t even have to go inside—there’s a walk-up window where you can order your meal. Feel free to sit at one of the many public tables or benches right on Plum St. Mall. 21 W. State St., (484) 444-2839
Seven Stones Café is a go-to coffee house for Media employees and residents alike. Seven Stones features the renowned La Colombe coffee and an eclectic menu of breakfast and lunch sandwiches, soups, salads, quiche and homemade baked goods. Customers can enjoy their latte, chai or other speciality drink out on the Plum St. Mall, where there is plenty of seating. On nicer days, you’re likely to find a solo musician entertaining the crowd. 24 S. Plum St., (610) 627-2077
Patios, Please
Iron Hill’s side patio is a little haven off State Street. Enjoy a fresh pint of beer brewed on-site, or select from the full bar menu. The enormous lunch and dinner menus include everything from soups, salads, burgers and light bites to modern meals with a twist. 30 E. State St., (610) 627-9000
Spasso Italian Grill has two outdoor dining areas. You may first notice the front deck raised off State Street. Delight in the outdoors dining there under an umbrella. Or try the patio, a comfortable little space nestled on the side, hidden from the hustle and bustle of State Street. Expect freshly crafted Italian food, an extensive wine list and signature cocktails. 1 W. State St., (610) 565-7803
- Photos: Lauren Avellino Turton
