Food News / September 2017

You may have found Joe D’Andrea’s homemade, artisan pasta at local farmers markets and tasted it in area restaurants even before it became a Best of Philly hit. Now, after six years in the business, Vera Pasta has its very own retail storefront in West Chester! Shop for over 20 different types of organic, ancient grain and non-GMO pasta, plus seasonal specials and homemade sauce, all with ingredients sourced as naturally and locally as possible. 319 Westtown Rd., Suite K, West Chester. VeraPasta.com.

Noodles don’t need to be of the wheat variety to satisfy. In fact, zoodles—a.k.a. zucchini noodles—are more popular than ever. Gluten-free and color-full, this healthy pasta alternative can be enjoyed in many different ways, from salad toppings to shoestring fries or all on their own. Just pick up a spiralizer and go crazy! And don’t be afraid to get creative with other fruits and veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, apples and pears. More ideas at FoodNetwork.com.

What? Another brewery in Phoenixville? Yep. Just when you thought four was enough, Root Down Brewery opened its doors this summer, carving out its space as brewery #5. Located in an old root beer factory (no surprise) with endless walls of eye-catching graffiti, the massive space has plenty of seating for a crowd and a casual, fun atmosphere. Enjoy freshly smoked BBQ from the kitchen and a selection of expertly crafted brews. 1 N. Main St., Phoenixville. RootDownBrewing.com.

West Chester continues to raise the pizza bar with its newest addition, Rize Pizza, also in Broomall. What makes them stand out? Their Roman style, fluffy, square crust for one—which takes 2 to 3 hours to “rize”—plus sesame seeds on the bottom and lots of unique flavors. Try fan favorites like the Venus, Monte Carlo or Southern Bell with fried chicken. Watch for an expanded menu exclusive to West Chester, including pastas, appetizers and desserts. And it’s BYOB. 124 E. Market St., Building A, West Chester. RizePizza.com.