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From left: Barbacoa barbecue chicken, photo by Laura Koster; crab cakes courtesy of Manny’s place; the line outside of Handel’s; Quincy’s original lobster roll, photo by Laura Koster.
From picnics and barbecues to dining alfresco, summer is in full swing and it sure tastes sweet. Staying around the Main Line? You’re in luck. There’s a bounty of quintessential summer eats to try. Here are five of our favorite classics:
BBQ Chicken – Barbacoa
Try the house specialty at Ardmore’s Barbacoa, the Peruvian BBQ chicken, pollo a la brasa, which is marinated for a dozen hours and then cooked over oak on a rotisserie. The result? Juicy chicken and a crispy, flavorful skin—perfect for dipping in the chimichurri and aji pepper sauces. Sides like creamed spinach with a hint of spice, comforting cornbread pudding and sweet slaw round out the meal.
Classic Burgers – Black Powder Tavern
Go ahead and order a traditional cheeseburger at this historic Wayne tavern, which was built in 1746, but we can’t help but covet two other spectacular burger options on the menu. The Steakhouse Prime melds together a half-pound prime patty with cambozola cheese and caramelized mushrooms and onions on a pretzel bun while the veal burger is topped with fried provolone, marinara, peppers and onions.
Lobster Roll – Quincy’s Original Lobster Roll
There’s no need to make the long trek to Maine this summer. Quincy’s Original in Berwyn serves up an ultra-authentic sandwich filled with tender Maine lobster meat, served on a griddle-toasted New England-style split-top bun. Add a few beads of mayo, lemon-butter drizzle and a dash of seasoning, and that craving for the ultimate lobster roll is satisfied.
Crab Cakes – Manny’s Place
Dine-in or take out some of the best crab cakes on the Main Line at this casual BYO in Bala Cynwyd. Manny’s long-standing reputation is well-deserved, because whether you order panko-coated or broiled, these ultimate cakes are made with savory jumbo lump crabmeat and a secret roux—no filler, mayo, mustard or soy.
Ice Cream – Handel’s
Hot summer nights bring long lines at this beloved local ice cream stop in Berwyn—but it’s worth the wait. Dozens of flavors of homemade ice creams are made daily on the premises and packed with nuts, creamy caramel, dark chocolate, fresh fruits and more. Specialty pops and sundaes are available, but we suggest you try the unique flavors, which range from peanut brittle and blueberry cobbler to ‘spouse like a house.’
