As a birthday gift, my husband made dinner reservations at Vetri Cucina. The Italian restaurant is a mainstay in Philadelphia’s culinary scene. The restaurant’s sole dining option is its four-course menu, with the option to select each course and add on additional dishes and wine pairings.
This was a first-time visit for both of us, and the meal felt like an event. We arrived at the restaurant on time for our reservation on a snowy Friday evening. We were greeted at the table with a seasonal spritz cocktail and, shortly after, an amuse bouche of cauliflower soup with polenta and caviar on the side. We both agreed it was a great start to the meal.
There was a selection of antipasti, pasta, secondi and dessert, and each course offered between four and six different dishes. While many of the options were tempting, we decided to each order different dishes so we could also sample each other’s meals. My husband suggested adding a dish from the stuzzichini add-on course: the prosciutto de parma with shaved fennel salad and pizze fritte. I applauded his choice, as this was one of my favorite dishes of the night. For my antipasti, I selected a seafood dish with pistachio cream, polenta and saffron chili crisp. The tender, light seafood balanced the bolder flavors of the dish’s accompaniments. I chose a chestnut fettucine with wild boar ragu as my pasta course. While the dish was nicely prepared, overall this was my least favorite course. My entrée was branzino with black truffle butter and Brussels sprouts. It was a perfect, cozy dish for the snowy evening. Finally, I selected a Meyer lemon meringue tart for dessert. It was sweet without being overpowering.
Our attentive waiter offered wine suggestions throughout our meal and checked in on us as we received each course. The atmosphere, service and cuisine show why the restaurant is a favorite and a frequent spot on the city’s best-of lists.
— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedAirlines
Nov 23, 2024Avelo Extends West Coast Schedule Through Spring 2025
Avelo Airlines extends its Western U.S. flight schedule through April 29, allowing travelers to book spring break travel to 14 popular West Coast destinations. One-way fares start at $57.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
Daily
Nov 22, 2024Choose Lompoc on California’s Central Coast for Outdoor-Focused Fun
If you’re in weather denial mode and resisting the urge to switch your closet over to sweaters and snow boots, keep summer going for a little longer in Lompoc, California.
Daily
Nov 22, 2024Try This New Sea-to-Table Experience at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita
Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, the oceanfront property on the pristine coast of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, just launched a new Sea to Table program in partnership with SpearMex, the region’s premier sea exploration experts. The new programming features a hands-on experience and ocean-to-table culinary journey combining sustainable fishing practices with personalized gastronomic techniques lead by Executive Chef Jorge González.
Sponsored Content
Remarkable Medellín
Visiting Medellín in Colombia: The Country of Beauty is like stepping into a fantastic story — literally, as the city in the Western Colombian Andes region inspired Disney’s Encanto. Here, valleys, the world’s tallest palms, vibrant communities, colorful houses, garden-like balconies and more prove reality is more picturesque than anything on film. And it’s especially more tempting following Medellín’s remarkable transformation, shedding its troubled past and reawakening as a city of innovation, art, cultural richness, modern infrastructure, thriving tourism and resiliency.
Daily
Nov 22, 2024Waldorf Astoria Residences New York Announces Partnership with Bang & Olufsen
Waldorf Astoria Residences New York recently announced a partnership with Bang & Olufsen. The contemporary residences sit atop the legendary hotel, currently nearing the end of its expansive restoration.
5 Can’t-Miss Black Friday, Cyber Monday Hotel Deals
Daily
Nov 21, 2024Daily
Nov 20, 2024Celebrate the Holidays at This Hotel on Italy’s Amalfi Coast
Spend the holiday season in Italy with a stay at Anantara Convento di Amalfi Hotel. The only 5-star hotel in the area hosts festive experiences from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
eFlyer Reviews
Nov 20, 2024Château des Fleurs Review
Just a short block from the Champs Elysées, flower-bedecked window boxes grace the corner and clearly identify Château des Fleurs. This 37-room boutique hotel is one of Vivre-LMB’s five small hotels in Paris owned by Olivier Bertrand and his sisters and affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
ShareThis