Best of the Best: Phoenixville

Morning: Nook & Kranny Kafe

847 Valley Forge Rd.
610-933-5393 / NookAndKrannyKafe.com

The Nook & Kranny Kafe was founded, with her father’s gentle push, by then-19-year-old Christina Rubeo (now Swartzentruber). Ultimately, the Kafe became a family business. A small and congenial spot, known for its fresh, homemade breakfasts and friendly atmosphere, serves up such dishes as omelets, eggs Benedict, French toast muffins and Monte Cristo sandwiches all day. Patrons describe the Kafe as a “hidden gem” with a “homey” ambiance in overwhelmingly positive reviews, with customers consistently praising the delicious homemade-style food and generous portions.

Noon: The Boardroom Restaurant

101 Bridge St.
610-235-0620 / TheBoardroomPXV.com

The building was once the superintendent’s office for the Phoenix Iron Company, but it now houses The Boardroom Restaurant & Bottle Shop, an upscale casual restaurant, focused on from-scratch cooking, with New American cuisine. For starters, it offers a selection of cheese and charcuterie along with other apps. For main dishes, try filet mignon, heritage pork or Chilean sea bass. Relatively new to Phoenixville, the eatery’s founders Pat and Kate Merriman sought to provide a fresh and exciting dining experience. They created The Boardroom as a tribute to their beloved town, where they were inspired by the local community.

Night: Black Lab Bistro

248 Bridge St.
610-935-5988 / BlackLabBistro.net

An intimate dining room, featuring classic woodwork, the Black Lab is snug, restful and romantic (although it can be lively on busy weekend nights). The menu is tempting, with popular choices being crispy calamari, spicy tuna tartare and lobster bisque. Mains include pan-roasted duck breast with scallops, jumbo lump crab cakes and sesame seared salmon. For dessert, try tiramisu, pumpkin cheesecake or cinnamon bun ice cream sandwiches. There’s outdoor seating in good weather for people watching, and it’s a perfect place to bring a date.

Night: Avlós Greek Cuisine

258 Bridge St.
610-455-4110 / AvlosGr.com

Helmed by two Skartistila sisters, Executive Chef Nikoleta and sister Katerina, who grew up near Mount Vesuvius, Avlós Greek Cuisine has an outstanding reputation for authenticity. Serving spanakopita, tzatziki, moussaka, souvlaki, grilled octopus and other Greek specialties, Nikoleta and her staff are committed to superior ingredients and generous portions. The atmosphere is informal and warm, lauded for its hospitality and friendly service. Avlós, known for its ambiance and occasional live Greek music nights, is a superb addition to Phoenixville’s dining scene.

Happy Hour: Bistro on Bridge

212 Bridge St.
610-935-7141 / BistroOnBridge.com

Looking for a good place for Happy Hour? Try Bistro on Bridge. With $5 craft beers, $9 cocktails, $9 appetizers plus oysters for a “buck a shuck,” you can’t go wrong. The craft beer list is long, including Allagash Brewing, Sly Fox and others. Appetizers include wings, risotto balls, Buffalo chicken dip and more. The vibe is relaxed and lively, with seating both indoors and out, a second floor with retro arcade games and fireplace flaming, as well as a rooftop beer garden — featuring a VW bus bar — for spring and summer views. There’s no reason at all to head home early!

Gem: Soko Bag

95 Nutt Rd.
855-765-6224 / SokoBag.com

A must visit in Phoenixville! Soko Bag is Korean inspired, specializing in fried chicken. But Colonel Sanders didn’t just buy a ticket to Seoul. Three varieties of fried chicken — bamboo salt, ghost cheddar BBQ and white cheddar snow — are offered, all very crispy. Plus a variety of dipping sauces. And don’t forget the yummy menu or the beer list, offering about nine beers, including blonde, hazy and West Coast IPAs, American and Korean lager, chocolate, vanilla or sour jawn. Enjoy them all while watching Philly sports on high def TVs. Cheers and cheers!