The Main Line’s annual culinary extravaganza has even loftier ambitions this year. And with the delicious deals at panoply of international eateries comes the chance to explore.
Already in swing, Ardmore Restaurant Week — which is really two weeks — runs through July 28 and includes a record number of participating restaurants, as well as new lunch options.
Curious foodies can visit Downtown Ardmore for two-course lunches ($10-$15) and three-course dinners ($15, $25 and $35) at more than 20 restaurants. Among the vast options, two eateries caught our eye — and, delightfully, our taste buds.
Bam Bam Seoul Kitchen, 31 E. Lancaster Ave., serves tantalizing Korean fare. The fixed-price menu features Korean fried wings, which are double-fried to perfect crispness, balancing the generously portioned sauce that’s offered in options ranging from sweet to pleasantly spicy.
For something more traditional but equally satisfying, try the Mung Bean Jeon, a savory fried pancake. Sides like the house-made kimchi and cheese-stuffed jalapeños add a welcome kick.
The surprising crunch of sweetness in Bam Bam’s cool, creamy macaroni salad? Diced apples. Another winner is the galbi jjim, a steaming crock of amazingly flavorful, fork-tender short ribs.
If you’re craving tortillas and fajitas, head to Buena Vista Mexican, 5 W. Lancaster Ave. This bright and colorful family-owned eatery specializes in authentic Michoacán cuisine.
Offerings include a satiating portion of mini-nachos, composed of handmade tortilla chips. Robustly seasoned, juicy chicken is the star of Buena Vista’s extraordinary fajitas, which also features sizzling, sautéed peppers and onions.
The cloud-like flan — airy, creamy and pleasantly sweet — is the perfect ending.
Ardmore Restaurant Week runs through July 28. For a detailed list of participating restaurants, menus and reservations, visit ArdmoreRestaurantWeek.com.