With the Jewish high holidays in full swing – Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, begins at sundown – it seems as good a time as any to talk kosher. So if you're looking for somewhere to break the fast tomorrow, or are just a fan of food prepared to strict standards, we suggest you consider these kosher spots from our recently released 2009 Philadelphia Restaurants guide:
8120 Old York Rd., Elkins Park; 215-885-2400
“Religious and secular” diners alike get their fill of “terrific” kosher Med and Eastern Euro fare and “friendly”, “old-fashioned” service at this “gourmet” spot in Elkins Park, where you can BYO as long as it’s Kashrut-compliant; while some may find the decor “cheesy”, fromage and other dairy are strictly treif here, and remember it’s closed for Sabbath; N.B. now open for lunch Mondays–Fridays.
135 N. Ninth St.; 215-627-4520
Admirers of this Chinese veggie specialist in Chinatown attest it “works magic” (“you’ll never know it’s not the real thing”) with its all-you-can-eat dim sum ($24 for two) that’s a “dream come true”; even meat eaters are in sync about “not missing the beef” when there’s this much “flavor” going around.
1006 Race St.; 215-922-3288
“You won’t miss the meat” given the “interesting menu” of kosher vegetarian fare say supporters of this Chinatown option; it’s not big on decor but prices are modest too and “very nice servers” add to the “calm, soothing atmosphere.”
128 S. 12th St.; 215-922-5922
Fans insist this “storefront” kosher Israeli in Center City “proves you don’t need too much ambiance” when you’re dishing out such “satisfying” eats at “such low prices”; still, others feel the “nondescript” digs could use a “makeover”; N.B. it’s closed for Sabbath (sundown Friday–sundown Saturday).
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