Owner/chef Andrew Patten has returned to the borough with a vengeance, offering a reincarnated update of his original Spence Cafe BYOB in a vibrant new location. Now that West Chester is a full-on destination, Patten says, “we’re excited to provide a culinary experience where people can gather before the theater, after a day of shopping or strolling the galleries, or for a business lunch.”
The locally sourced menu embodies innovation and healthy fare, with artisan breads, daily soup specials and crisp summer salads for lunch. We tackled a beautifully presented vegan hero ($10) loaded with soft roasted red peppers, beets, cashew cheese, pickled cucumber and arugula, all tucked inside a crunchy multigrain bâtard. We brought along a straw-colored Santa Margherita Prosecco. As an aperitif, we’re sold on its bubbly Italian personality, late-season peach and apple aromas, dry taste, and well-balanced acidity.
At the new Spence, the greenery, natural light and restful grays and blues make everyone look cheerful and attractive. Alfresco dining on the enclosed patio is quaint and quiet.
131 N. High St., West Chester, (610) 918-1272, www.spence.cafe.com.