By Leigh Chamberlain By Leigh Chamberlain | April 3, 2024 | Feature, The Main Line, Guide, Guides,
Find new ways to enjoy this Main Line hamlet, from decadent dinners to designer boutiques and more.Delight in Italian bites at Fiore Rosso.
While Philadelphians know and love Bryn Mawr for its acclaimed restaurants, lush parks and sumptuous shopping, the bustling town is more than meets the eye. Hidden gems and local favorites dot Lancaster Avenue, calling city dwellers to the suburbs for a dose of small-town charm and a sample of decadence. Explore our guide to Bryn Mawr’s most enticing spots—you just might find your new favorite haunts.
DUA RESTAURANT
Dua, meaning “I want, I love” in Albanian, is a fitting name for this local favorite. Trust us—you will want to book your table immediately after seeing the Mediterranean menu of local and organic ingredients. Chef Bledar Istrefi serves authentic and creative bites like braised Spanish octopus and slowly cooked Kosher lamb shank. 1000 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr,duarest.com
Fiore Rosso’s chef, Jesse Grossman
FIORE ROSSO
You don’t have to travel far to embark on a culinary journey through Italy. Fiore Rosso is your ticket to handmade pasta and a familial atmosphere driven by approachable elegance. This local bistro honors Italian cuisine through bites like their mouthwatering wagyu rib cap, tonnarelli cacio e pepe and decadent desserts—be sure to save room for the espresso pecan blondie. 915 Lancaster Ave. Bryn Mawr,fiorerossophl.com
OTTO BY POLPO
With every season comes a new divine menu at Otto By Polpo. Pastas, risottos, carnes, pesces—the options are endless and ever-changing, each made with fresh ingredients chosen daily. While the menu evolves, the end result remains–granting guests an intimate experience surrounded by good conversation and even better food. 52 N. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr,ottobypolpo.com
MERIDIAN MASSAGE
The oasis needed to soothe your stress awaits on Penn Street. Whether you choose a deep tissue massage for those pesky problem areas or a foot massage to keep you light on your feet, the licensed massage therapists cater to your every need. 893 Penn St., 1st Floor, Bryn Mawr,meridianmassage.wixsite.com
AVALON BISTRO
From a pre-dinner drink to a nightcap, the craft cocktails served at Avalon Bistro will hit the spot every time. Take a seat at the luxe bar and sip the Bourbon Smash or Ballsy Bubbles, made with Cointreau, honey syrup, Bulleit and prosecco. 818 Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr,avalonrestaurant.net
THE PULLMAN
Forget your run-of-the-mill bars. Elevate your next night out by taking your friends to the historic Bryn Mawr Train Station. The Pullman restaurant and bar gives it a whole new life by serving some of the best artisanal cocktails and local craft beers on the Maine Line. 39 Morris Ave., Bryn Mawr,thepullmanrestaurant.com
KINDRED COLLECTIVE
Serving as a fashion intersection between West Coast relaxation and East Coast sophistication, Kindred Collective has staple pieces for everyone. Selling a curated selection of denim, two-piece sets, swim and athleisure, along with glamorous accessories, home decor and children’s clothes, this mother-daughter-owned boutique will leave a lasting impression on you and your closet. 836 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr,kindredbrynmawr.com
KIRNA ZABETE
From writing about fashion to selling it, owner and previous fashion editor at New York Magazine, Beth Buccini, has always had an eye for style. By carrying brands like Bottega Veneta, Manolo Blahnik, Saint Laurent and more, Kirna Zabete houses all your designer dreams. 915 Lancaster Ave., Ste. 170, Bryn Mawr,kirnazabete.com
Treat yourself to a little retail therapy at Skirt.
SKIRT
Uplifting all customers through their clothes, Skirt aims to bring confidence and chicness to all who walk into their high-end store. The boutique carries exclusive brands from A-Z, starting at Alanui all the way to Zadig & Voltaire—your spring lookbook is ready to be purchased. 931 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr,shop-skirt.com
Enjoy your next movie night at The Bryn Mawr Film Institute.
BRYN MAWR FILM INSTITUTE
Screening films ranging from classics to rarities, The Bryn Mawr Film Institute is saving you a spot in front of the big screen. This April, movie junkies can look forward to watching The Tuba Thieves, La Strada and more unique films at the nonprofit movie theater and film education center. 824 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr,brynmawrfilm.org
Main Line Art Center puts on must-see exhibitions like Materiality: Art • Fashion • Craft.
MAIN LINE ART CENTER
Let your creative juices flow at the Main Line Art Center. Featuring the Members & Teaching Artist Exhibition, followed by an exhibition centered around the world-renowned ceramicist Roberto Lugo, the art center has plentiful upcoming events. This spring, sign up for classes, enjoy exhibitions and arts programming, or simply stroll through the center. 746 Panmure Road, Haverford,mainlineart.org
Photography by: COURTESY OF BRAND; PICASSO MIRO; RACHEL MCGINN; COURTESY OF BRAND; LISA VISCO GETZ