Business partners Josh McCullough and Craig Russell debuted their hip, industrial vintage restaurant, Slow Hand, to West Chester in April. Located in a converted historic firehouse, which formerly housed Restaurant 51 Tap and Spirit, it’s a veritable time traveling experience thanks to its retro aesthetic.
Inside, where there were once wall-to-wall TVs and bar-top tables, the space now boasts cushy mid-1970s green swivel bar stools, a plush leather sofa, vintage accent chairs and hammered metal tables topped with succulents, giving it a casual speakeasy vibe.
From the kitchen, executive chef Russell (whose resume includes Will BYOB, Marigold Kitchen and TALK in Philadelphia, plus The Red Store in Cape May Point, N.J.) orchestrates a locally procured menu, sourcing ingredients from Green Meadow Farm, Kennett Square Specialties, Hill Creek Farms and Castle Valley Mill. Seasonal tapas include spicy brisket chili, kale salad, charred carrots and sliders that he calls belly bombers.
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Entrees are equally flavorful, with options like flounder and clams, roast pork, peppered beef and lemon chicken, plus the occasional nightly special. “I see the food evolving in the next few months in a way that will take us away from the bar food and focus more on crafted dishes,” says Russell. “I’m currently working on getting some bread made in-house to go with a few summer dishes, as well.”
At the bar, diners can imbibe on creative craft cocktails including the ruby colored gin-laced Lady in the Red Dress or a kicky tequila and jalapeno Dos Besitos. A focused list of red, white and rosé wines and 24 taps that pour a wide range of the most popular brews round out the libations.
Currently open only for dinner, Slow Hand will begin to offer lunch in mid-June, as well as special events with local breweries, wine merchants and farmers.
30 N. Church St., West Chester, (484) 999-8638.
