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Talula's Table
Categories: Restaurants Canadian (New) Food Specialty Food Cheese Shops Canadian (New), Cheese Shops [Edit]
102 W State StKennett Square, PA 19348
(610) 444-8255
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 7 am - 7 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
34 reviews for Talula's Table
Review Highlights
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"Farm lamb with wildflower honey french lentils." In 9 reviews -
"Although each course was perfectly prepared." In 4 reviews -
"It might be the best baguette in Chester County." In 3 reviews
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34 reviews in English
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Review from Debbie G.
2/12/2012
I had read the rave reviews and heard the satisfied stories of the amazing dining experience this was, but I was not prepared for the multiple food'gasms that I was going to have with each course I tasted - 8 to be exact, no actually 12 if you count the additional small bites that they served aside from the menu.
Some key things to know about this dining experience:
-have to make a reservation 1 year in advance.
-need minimum 8 people and no more than 12 to hold the 'Farm Table' reservation
-it is a 8-12 course pre-fixed menu which changes seasonally
-it is $132 per person (this includes tax)
-it is BYO and they usually pair a different wine with each course
-it is no less than a 3-hour activity
-totally worth the wait!!
All that said, It pays to stalk a restaurant online, because if I had not noticed their Facebook post on a cancellation they had on a Sunday reservation, I would continue the year-long and then some wait I had been doing. I jumped at the chance to grab the res, but I needed to round up at least 7 more folks to hold for the 'Farm Table' dinner. Asking everyone I possibly knew in the area, I was only able to put together a group of 6 to commit. Luckily, the restaurant was gracious in taking us at the last minute.
The shop turn evening restaurant is adorable and inviting. The Farm Table gives much the feel of sitting down to a home-cooked meal, a fancy gourmet meal that is. I loved the intimate concept to be able to dine with your own group and have the two servers only attend to you. The table was beautifully set, each course being brought out on different decorated plateware.
They sent us the Winter menu and suggestions for BYO wine pairings for each course beforehand. Our group of 6 arrived with 5 bottles of wine among us. The one thing I wish I had brought was a bottle of bubbly as the servers had lined champagne glasses on the table to start off the meal. Even though we were not able to get all the wine selections they had suggested, they knew exactly how to couple each wine with each course.
We started with about 2-3 small bites that were complementary courses not on the menu. Our main menu courses included everything from smoked roe, snails and cod croquettes to sweetbreads, lamb sausage and smoked ribeye. Each course was its own food adventure. One of my favorites was the 'Quinault Steelhead tartare topped with soft eggs and smoked roe with Creme Fraiche and Potato Wafers. I do not know how they manage to bring ingredients together that fit so perfectly in one dish, but it is very impressive. The meal ended with a hearty pecan sticky bun and salty maple ice cream which was pure heaven. We even got chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies for the road.
They also have a 'Kitchen Table' dinner which seats you right in their kitchen with the chef - usually this is by invite only once you have been for a Farm Table dinner. Only a 2-3 months wait for that. I look forward to another night of pure dining decadence very soon! -
Review from Tina N.
1/25/2012
After waiting a year for this dinner and telling everyone about the one year wait, the number 1 question is "was it worth the wait?" Well.... The hype on this place is because of the wait and the wait is because there's one table.
Let me be clear on this. The food is very good, but I've had equally good for a shorter wait. Like say at Talula's Garden. However, you're not reeallyy waiting for a year right? You make you reservation, life goes on for a year and you show up. It's not the same as waiting in a line for 2 + hours (which I wouldn't do for anything).'
The single table in a closed shop was a cool experience, and our servers were great. They basically brought/explained food. Poured our wines and let us be. At one point though, we tired of the small pours and asked that all the bottles be left on the table. I know we looked like non-pairing drunks but that's ok.
About the food: creative and fantastic. I can't recall everything, but the cauliflower soup stands out, and the escargot. I also bought this raspberry white chocolate bread pudding from their bakery to take home. O-M-G. -
Review from G.B. M.
Encinitas, CA
3/18/2012
Had a great latte and piece of quiche. Everything looked so tasty. Very sweet, somewhat quaint spot, with bright and comfortable ambiance.
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Review from Marqus R.
A fellow Yelper was kind enough to advise me of the following of which I was not aware. It may well be that their "chef's tasting" for those having reservations after general closing is unique and special. I can't comment on that as I didn't experience it and was never made aware of that fact when I visited the restaurant. Hence, with respect to typical hours without holding special chef tasting reservations, remains three stars, A-OK, but nothing that would convince me to be a fan of the place.
Here is what I was advised with regards to why the restaurant closes at 7:00pm, which does clear up my confusion over such odd hours and the high ratings for what appeared to me to be just an OK type of place.
For your review of: Talula's Table
EMAILED TO ME BY A FELLOW YELPER WITH REGARDS TO MY INITIAL REVIEW:
Not sure if this helps but Talulas closes at 7pm for their farm to table dinners. They allow groups of 8-12 for a 7 course chefs tasting this is the best way to sample Talulas1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/1/2011
Frankly, all the fuss and five stars for Talula's has me baffled. The place sort of reminds me of an… Read more »
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Review from Charles W.
Pottstown, PA
2/12/2012
My dining partner picked Talula's to celebrate her 40th birthday. She had been eagerly waiting to experience what she heard so many stories about. The staff was fantastic. The food was brought out at the perfect times. After the meal was complete with 8 courses and several offerings in between, I was stuffed. With the good company, the 3 1/2 hours flew bye. I enjoyed everything but the ice cream. Way too salty for me.
It is a pricey experience and having a year to wait and needing a minimum of 8 participants, this is not a place you can go to on short notice or on a frequent basis. And I will admit the food did take a backseat to seeing my partner so happy. -
Review from Matt M.
9/27/2011
This review is for the bakery, cheesmonger, all things wonderful part of the shop and not the "Table" expereince.
This is the place to gather the essentials (the list of what I consider essetntial is below) for a day of touring the wilds of Chester County in search of wine....
1) Cheese: If you cannot find some things you like here then go buy Velveeta and begone with you. Seriously this is what Amy does and she is very good at it. She brings in local and beyond to make for a wonderful case. She and her staff are knowledgable and friendly and if you give them a direction they can help. As a side note they have a small basket that are small "baby" size cheeses of alot of things in the case that max out at about $4. Best bargain in the place.
2) Salamis: great choices for all your salty cured meat needs
3) Bread: metropolitan....nuff said
4) Chocolate and accessories: marcona Almonds, fig jam, honey etc etc
Now take your basket/hamper/stuff and get back on the wine trail man! -
Review from Mario D.
Philadelphia, PA
9/2/2011
Disclosure: I didn't have to wait a year for this place.
If I had waited a year, this would have gotten 2 stars. The setting is very cool and intimate. It's a BYO, so you only have yourself to blame if the drinks suck. We found the food either very tasty, or way too busy. I think they batted about .600 for the meal, pretty good for MLB; but not so great if you told 11 other people that they had to wait a year for this joint (oh, and bring your own booze along for the 50 minute drive). It was a fun experience I won't be having again anytime soon. -
Review from Lisa Q.
West Chester, PA
2/23/2011 ROTD 2/7/2012
Insouciant noodling around in the backwoods where West Chester & Kennett Square rub elbows can instantly turn serious: If I venture into a 5 mile radius of Talula's Table, an odd sensation comes over me....my taste buds begin to prick and dance, a rumble burgeons in the shadowy depths of my belly....and that odd sensation swiftly escalates into a burning, inexorable desire to consume a baked good from Talula's and wash it down with a steaming cuppa one of their specialty coffee drinks.
Talula's scones are like manna from heaven; their croissants, flakin' fantastic. In fact, they're probably the best I've had outside of France. Every other morsel I've ever tasted from this bastion of culinary excellence is just as toothsome as the next, and I've yet to even experience the famed farmhouse table dinner (Don't know if I'll ever be sufficiently well coined for THAT indulgence. Brekkie alone leaves my pockets a lil' lighter than I would like).
The coffee counter is manned mostly by uncouth youths, tousled gamins whose very presence threatens to curdle all the farm-fresh milk in the place. I don't like them; they don't like anybody. However, the girls who work there are genial creatures, especially the one smiling cherub whose name I never seem to catch, but at least everyone knows how to make a top-notch beverage. Although I rarely stray from my boring ol' cafe au lait (which is more delicious here than at most cafes), the specialty coffee drinks they serve up are difficult to resist. The latest seasonal entry I've fallen in love with is the 'Vermonter', a latte with a shot of maple syrup, which doesn't taste at all taste like diabetes.
I highly recommend Talula's for a cosy, exceedingly scrumptious breakfast-and-coffee stop, and some day hope to be able to sing the praises of the bounty laid on the Table.Listed in: Getta Cuppa
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Review from Dan K.
Wilmington, DE
3/15/2012
You cannot do better than this particularly if you like BYO's and have a designated or two. The food and service are superlative; the setting is quite comfortable. With the menu in advance, we were able to do wine pairing for each course which worked out well. Our group cant wait to go back again.
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Review from Angela J.
9/19/2010
My tastebuds are still singing......
12 people around one big beautiful farm table, 33 bottles of wine, 8 courses of exquisite cuisine.....
Yes, I have a small headache today....and no, we didn't quite finish all the wine, but we wanted to be sure we wouldn't run out :)
Not only was the food amazing and beautifully presented, but the ambiance, the service, the table setting, and the great music in the background made for a perfect evening with a wonderful group of friends.Listed in: Three Cheers for FIve…
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Review from Catherine L.
Philadelphia, PA
7/19/2010
If Talula's pop up restaurant series venture with Stephen Starr was any indication of what is served up at their nightly farmhouse table, then I'm packing my bags and moving to Kennett Square so I can be closer to this restaurant that serves the most magnificent, elegant and eye-pleasing food I've had in recent memory.
This meal was a delectable investment, both in time and coinage, but let me tell you, it's worth the wait and the benjamins, baby.
I don't doubt Craig Laban when he says that this place is 'the most coveted dinner experience in America' - he's right. (he also mentions that this restaurant was recently named to Saveur's Top 100 list - hoo ha!)
The dinner started off mighty well with a pickled martini served with Talula's homemade pickles. It progressed onto a light gougère, then to perhaps the best mushroom soup I've ever had (topped with a delicious crispy bone marrow fritter that oozed into the soup once forked into - drool).
Second course served up a smoked scallop ravioli with a light as air and refreshing sweet pea sauce - and finally a creamy risotto with beef cheeks and cave-aged cheddar. The meal was finished off with a lovely cheese plate, then Talula's mini cupcakes and French-pressed coffee. Culinary nirvana.
Quick shout out to the collaboration that made the evening stellar which included the crème de la crème staff from Stephen Starr's restaurants who worked seamlessly together, to the fantastic sommelier whose recommendations brought the meal to an entirely other level.Listed in: Yummy in my Tummy
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Review from Dave H.
6/10/2010 22 photos
This is an intimate dining spot for foodies and chowhounds alike. In the middle of the store is their centerpiece, a simple farmhouse table that lends a homey, familial spirit to the place.
Their tasting menu typically changes every six weeks but it's always a stupendous, multiple course marathon; everything tastes as good as it looks, and all is described in loving detail. Highlights include their tender seared scallop with a dusting of hickory-smoked bacon, Anson Mills heirloom polenta, and lettuce sauce, and the pouisson with fingerlings, fiddleheads, and verjus. Between courses, sample brioches and popovers from their bread basket.
Don't forget to bring wine[1]. Before dinner, staff can chill any bottles, and serve them - plus fantastic canapes - while everyone mingles. Wines are matched to every course, and staff will share recommendations or ask for preferences if needed. From arrival until dessert, glasses are kept topped off.
This was one of the top dinners I've had in the last twenty years. The mix of setting, staff, ceremony, and food made for a convivial experience, one best shared with warm company. Don't expect to leave for a few hours.
[1] Recommended wine pairings are listed online. Two friends brought a myriad of wine: between them, they packed five bottles, including a lovely Sauterne older than me! -
Review from Stephen S.
Newark, DE
10/2/2010
What I leave from Talula'a was not just an amazing meal. Although each course was perfectly prepared. The thing i recall best about each course was the meat in each course was cooked perfectly. The chicken was served just on the rare side of medium rare, and it was perfect. The second would be the foamy flavorful sabyon sauce that accompanied two of the dishes. This was typical of each of the courses. Lobster, chicken, mushroom ravioli, rib eye steak, each perfectly seasoned and perfectly cooked accompanied by the perfect sauce, with the wonderful accompaniments.
I didn't leave Talula's thinking of the most intimately prepared meal that I've had outside someone's home. This single table in a boutique atmosphere was charming, cozy, and warm. it provided eye candy for the investigative, and it gave comfort to the conversationalists.
What I left with was the best wine dinner I've ever had. Every one of us bought or pulled from our cellars the very best bottle of wine that we had.
Talula's is a night for fantastic food, paired with your best wine, enjoyed with your best friends. This is what dining should be. -
Review from Dan S.
Mechanicsburg, PA
10/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
It was well worth the year wait. Amazing night with old and new friends.
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Review from Percy N.
10/10/2008 14 photos
Last week the gastronomic Gods were smiling upon me once again as a co-worker extended an invitation to Talula's table.
The evening started with some Prosecco and before long we were seated for a dinner which featured local-ish seasonal ingredients.
Eastern Shore Scallop in Shell, Scallop Coral Emmulsion and Caviar
I have had fresh shucked scallops before but the intense scallop flavor from the coral (scallop roe) and slight sweetness balanced perfectly with the saltiness of the paddlefish caviar while the baby enoki mushrooms added a textural component.
Summersweet Corn and Crab Soufflé
What more can I saw about this dish other than it was a perfectly executed airy soufflé sweetened by corn and crab while the Cherokee tomato puree lent a bit of tartness to the dish. During the soufflé course, we were presented with gougeres which were fresh out of the oven and so flaky that they melted in your mouth. Around this time they also brought out a bread basket containing some amazing mini brioche buns which did not need any butter, but how can you pass up on some amazing local butter sprinkled with Hawaiian sea salt
Handmade Orecchiette, Birchrun Hills Veal Meatballs, Roasted Cauliflower, Veal Glazed Sweetbread
The orechiette and sweetbreads were so luscious and tender that it just melted on your tongue. The bite sized veal meatballs packed quite a bit of flavor and amazingly the cauliflower brought the flavors together without overpowering any of the ingredients. I really loved this dish and made a variation with ravioli and Birchrun Hills veal this weekend.
Roasted Halibut, Swiss Chard Tart, Braised Smoked Bacon, Red Pepper Essence
This was one of the most juicy pieces of Halibut I have ever had and what can I say about the braised bacon twice smoked on premises...except that I could have eaten a big slab of it. This almost reminded me of Benton's bacon.
Tender Guinea Hen, Dr Martin Lima Bean Terrine, Natural Hen Sauce
I think the Guinea Hen was prepared sous vide. And these Lima beans were not the ones you momma probably fed you. The sauce had a deep flavor but was a tad bit salty for my taste.
Chester County Lamb finished Three Ways
Perfectly cooked lamb. There was the obvious roasted loin and I remember the vegetables being stuffed with ground lamb, but I can't recall what the third preparation was.
Little Stinkers (Cheese Plate)
Can't remember all the cheese names, but I think there was a washed rind sheeps milk cheese and my favorite of the lot was the second from the right - an award winning cheese called Grace.
Chocolate Torte, Cashew Butter, Roasted Apricots, Salted Cashew
The chocolate and cashew butter combination were wonderful, especially when combined with the apricots. I guess the sorbet on top added a bit of textural and temperature contrast, but in my opinion not necessary.
As for wines, I was not taking notes and there were too numerous to remember - everything from a Louis Lator Chassagne Montrachet, to a Hermitage, to some excellent Bordeaux contributed by our dining partners. We just brought a bunch of bottles and let them do the pairing (except for a few courses when we wanted specific wines paired). -
Review from Jean R.
West Chester, PA
11/13/2010
All I can say is, "Oh my God!" I've been lucky enough to dine at Talula's twice and both times, I've left thinking about the next time I can get in (yes, that would be a year later).
Dining at the chef's table with 11 of my friends was amazing. Each dish is carefully thought out and absolutely delicious! The combinations they put together are interesting (things you wouldn't normally think to put together that work so well!)
I tell everyone I can about Talula's. If you aren't lucky enough to get in for dinner at the farm/chef's table, you need to check it out for lunch and for the market. So many delicious, fresh and local items, that it's hard to pick out what to buy!
If I could give Talula's 10 stars, I would. It's one (well, two) of the best meals I've ever had in my life! -
Review from Brian C.
Philadelphia, PA
12/10/2009
Holy holy holy crap... If I could give Talula's Table 6 stars, I would... I was fortunate enough to experience the Farm Table Dinner last night, and it was truly a night to remember. Yes, you do have to make a reservation one year in advance on the date you wish to dine. I was lucky enough to have a friend put this reservation together, so I didn't have to worry about calling every morning at 7am trying to beat the mad rush of phone calls they get everyday. Once you get past that little rub, you have a year to get ready for one of the best meals you will ever have in your life.
The single table in the middle of the restaurant is a modest farm table, enough to sit 10 people comfortably. It's not stuffy , rather warm and inviting, and sets the perfect intimate dining scenario for a small group. The menu, which changes semi-seasonally, has been thoughtfully selected and paired - and all ingredients are fresh, and organic - very high quality. Each of the 8 courses are introduced thoroughly by the attentive and knowledgeable wait staff.
Some of my favorites of the evening were the handmade bowtie pasta w/ poached calamari, clams, braised leeks, and truffle... and the wild boar w/ cranberry mostarda, and the assortment of blue cheeses! To be honest, everything was equally delicious... and the wines we brought from Moore Brothers were like the icing on the cake (recommended by the restaurant). This was one the best executed dinners I have ever experienced. -
Review from Michael F.
West Grove, PA
5/27/2009
I've had the pleaure now of having a Farm Table dinner, and just recently, a dinner at the Chef's table. Both experiences were absolutely incredible. The menu changes about every 2 months now, so I won't bother to detail each course, but highlight my two personal favorites. At the Farm Table, there was a suvee shrimp that just "blew my mind". At the Chef's Table last weekend, surprisingly, the goat cheese gnocchi caught me offguard as my favorite.
Talula's hits all the marks, amazing food, French Countryside atmosphere (I've never been to France), and over the top friendly and expert service.
Is it a splurge? Of course...so deal with it.
One of my favorite items, when it comes down to it, is the incredible baguette offered daily. It might be the best baguette in Chester County. -
Review from Brianne C.
Arlington, VA
11/10/2009
3.35 stars.
This is a review for the Talula's Table store. It is nicely stocked with foodie snacks, crackers, preserves, and breads, including a delicious soft pretzel finished with butter, sea salt, and fennel. The cheese selection is also diverse, with local goat cheeses, offerings from Cowgirl Creamery and Rogue River, and a number of French purveyors. The housemade salamis are flavorful, but I found the amount of marbling unfortunate, as each bite oozed with knobs of fat that seemed excessive. But, Talula's nutella spread shone with the flavor of hazelnuts, its Callebaut and cream base perfectly thick and rich.
However, there is little in the store that can't be found elsewhere, and most everything is dramatically overpriced. Each item I considered purchasing had a couple of extra dollars tacked on, so that I left the shop with two soft pretzels, a jar of Talula's nutella, and a half pound of local Shellback goat cheese for $35. Perhaps I am spoiled by other shops that do not have the additional costs of a small store in a rural setting, but marking up Cabot Clothbound cheddar to $30 per pound is absurd. Please rethink your ways, Talula. -
Review from Zoe P.
8/18/2008
The one problem of ridiculously good word of mouth is the fact that high expectations can work against an establishment.
Such was the case with Talula's Table. I went with my boyfriend and his parents after his mom had heard so many rave reviews of the place, particularly the dinner tasting menu that you must book a year in advance (they have ONE table that seats 12 people....yeah, a one year wait makes sense). The owner's are the former ones of Django in Philadelphia, so they definitely know what they're doing in the kitchen.
However, we weren't about to wait a year to try their food - appetites make people impatient - so instead we went for their take-out lunch. Talula is not only this exclusive restaurant for dinner, but during the day its a gourmet market offering local gourmet products (jams, cheeses, oils, etc.) as well as their own baked items and a few prepared foods.
Unfortunately, they have a very small selection of prepared foods; we were disappointed that there weren't more choices, but it did make it easier to choose lunch. They do have tables and chairs for you to sit at (including THE dinner table), and they will heat up your food and bring it to you while you sit and wait, or you can take it out for a picnic somewhere. We opted to sit inside and eat with silverware despite the glorious weather.
Between the four of us, we tried the halibut enchiladas with creme fraiche (one of the servers recommended it, so three of us got them), their gazpacho, a roasted beet and peach salad, and I had a crab cake that was basically ENTIRELY crab and no breadcrumbs! The prepared food was really good, but like any premade food it wasn't nearly as good as if it came fresh from the oven.
For dessert, we had more luck with their baked items, such as the shortbread peanut butter creme sandwich cookie, the chocolate french macaroon, the fruit tart, the cream puff, and the carrot cupcake. They were all scrumptious, especially the macaroon which was both crunchy and chewy with a light almond flavor complemented by the chocolate buttercream filling. Yum! The cupcake was good, but a little dry, however the icing was PERFECT.
In the end, our expectations were too high so we were let down by the fact that we didn't have spectacular food. However, Talula's Table does offer wonderful gourmet prepared foods to eat either there or take home for later. I can only imagine that their dinner menu is spectacular and shows off the full culinary talents of the chefs with their seasonal produce. -
Review from Ned C.
Bucks, PA
8/20/2010
I was lucky enough to eat at the Chef's Table with some friends last weekend, and I am still mentally savoring the meal. Every element of it was fantastic. Most impressive was the ocnsistency across courses. I have had many, many tasting menus at some fantastic restaurants, and NEVER have I had one where one course wasn't a stinker, or mediocre, until Talula's Table. Every course was amazing. I will dream of dying in a vat of the sweet corn chowder with bacon--that is now my prefer ed way to go.
The service was outstanding, as well. They send a list of recommended wines for pairings, but in our case they sent us a list of local beers to pair with each course, and it was FANTASTIC. Am I yelling too much? I am usually more reserved, but this place has me going. 100% worth the travel. -
Review from Danan R.
8/28/2011
One of the best tasting menus around. Your palate will just explode with flavor and your eyes will marvel at the presentation. Highlights were the handmade spaghetti with crab, Pork loin, and fluke cooked in this amazingly flavorful broth. The ricotta dumplings were fantastic as well. Everything was topped off with a slice of hazelnut and white chocolate cake complemented by a refreshing peach sorbet. In between the courses, the fresh bread basket will keep you occupied. This is a BYOB so be sure to call them ahead of time to ask for recommendations for pairings. Service was impeccable. Only downside is the seemingly interminable wait.
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Review from Matt L.
6/28/2010
At the risk of alienating some friends who don't even know that I was able to score a rezzie, I have to relay what I think may have been my all around best dining experience...ever. In fact, I'm going to put this as my number 3 meal of all time, behind only Le Bernardin and the omakase at Oishii in Chestnut Hill MA. Six friends joined me at the kitchen table to enjoy an evening of food and wine that can only be described as lovely.
Our first car arrived at the restaurant and we were greeted by owner Aimee, who introduced herself, asked our names, and then sat us at the couches in the front, where 7 champagne flutes were waiting for us.
The canapes then came out (note, I don't really do pork or shellfish, and they made awesome exceptions for me): Pulled pork on biscuit, which everyone enjoyed, was followed with house smoked salmon on a tater tot and a vegetarian sope with local corn. If this was the start of the meal, we were in for a real treat.
One of the waiters then invited us to relocate to the table in the kitchen. Two prep tables are placed together to form a square with 8 chairs around them. We were ready to go:
Butter Poached Maine Lobster, Soft Scramble Farm Eggs, Favas, Crispy Potatoes:
As I said, no pork or shellfish -- my tablemates LOVED this dish. For me, I got a beer battered squash blossom. I actually didn't love this dish -- it was the only one that missed to me. The beer batter completely overpowered the squash blossom.
At this point, they brought out an egg bread that we all devoured within 30 seconds.
Local Lamb Carpaccio, Socca Chips, Chickpeas, Cucumber Yogurt: A great dish. The lamb was so flavorful, and the chickpeas and yogurt really added texture and richness to the dish. The lamb is raised especially for Talula's Table
After this course, they brought out a HUGE bread basket with brioche, pretzel rolls, french bread, multi grain, and a delicious vermont butter.
Sous-Vide Salmon, Hudson Valley Foie Gras, Crispy Maitake Mushrooms: A favorite -- the Sous-Vide salmon is so confusing, as the look deceives its taste. That said, it remains tender and complements well the rich meat butter. The maitakes are a nice touch but didn't really stand out to me.
Smoked Scallop, Pea and Prosciutto Ravioli, Ricotta Salata, Sweet Pea Sauce: Again, mine was sans scallop and prosciutto, but the dish was so fresh and clean tasting, with such a light pasta. A great middle course.
Red Lake Nation Walleye, Toasty Polenta, and Pipian Verde: This was my favorite course. The walleye was so buttery, and yet the skin was crisped. The polenta wasn't so toasty, but rich -- it really brought together the fish and the tomatillos in the pipian verde. For years, they had stopped fishing Walleye -- now only the Red Lake Nation is allowed to fish it, and only in small quantities, so you likely won't find this on a larger restaurant's menu. So good, my friend quipped (hopefully jokingly) "I'd eat this Walleye to extinction..."
Tender Veal Loin, Crispy Asparagus, Potato Sauce, Spring Saute, Veal Jus: A perfect meat course. The veal was cooked medium rare and was just the sweetest morsel of meat. The fried Asparagus made me wonder why I've never seen this on a menu before.
Cheese course was among the best I've ever had. Dessert was a cake (they labeled it a cobbler), which was surprisingly weak. Little shortbread cookies and delicious buttermilk ice cream saved the dish. They also served us some fantastic chocolate truffles at the end.
Our checks came with raisin scones to take home. Mmm.
What a great meal! I cannot wait to go back. -
Review from Nat P.
Philadelphia, PA
7/1/2008
Talula's Table's chef's tasting is by for the best 1 year in advance reserved meal I have ever had. Well take that back, it's the only one.
Yeah that's right. This magnificent 8 course chef's tasting at Talula's, needs to be reserved about 1 year in advance. And trust me this is true and well worth it!
From the former owners of Django in the city, Talula's was an experience that I can still remember because it was so damn good, even though it was a couple months ago.
Location-wise it's a hike from CC, but it's well worth it. The concept is basically of a gourmet market. They have lots of local products, they make their own pastries, breads, etc. They have cooking classes, cater events, and have a private chef's tasting dinner.
My family was lucky enough to snag a reservation in the spring. Our meal consisted of:
1. Egg custard with maine jonah crab, cardamom scented parsnip, crispy shallots
2. Country pork, with caramelized fennel bacon
3. Mushroom risotto with balsamic pinenuts and greens
4. Farm lamb with wildflower honey french lentils
5. Hand rolled rigatoni, farci aged asiago burgundy snails, with toasted garlic parsley emulsion
6. Raisin chutney semolina breadtwist
7. Pompano roasted on the bone with mango saffron broth
8. Bavarian cream dark chocolate cake with a blood orange glaze
If that isn't enough to make your mouth water, nothing will. The meal was divine. I liked every bit of it. And with good company it was even better.
We were the only ones there so obviously service was excellent. They explained all the dishes to us. And before we came, wine suggestions were given to us, since this is a BYOB.
A bit pricey, but for that menu and the mastery demonstrated in the kitchen; it's well worth it. Everyone left happy, full but not uncomfortable. I will definitely try and get another reservation. For next year of course.
Go see what the wait's all about! -
Review from Ruth Y.
Philadelphia, PA
8/2/2009
A friend of mine emailed me of an irresistible opportunity to join him and some others at a highly acclaimed restaurant in Kennett Square. The restaurant, Talula's Table, offers a tasting menu for the somewhat reasonable price (yes, in these circles) of $90. The hurdle one must surmount, however, is the 1 year waiting list. Yes, you can rub your eyes all you want, I did say $90 and I did say 1 full year, 365 and 1/4 days. After much debate, because I am an incredible tightwad I am, I decided to go for this opportunity. After all, the restaurant is relatively close to me, and I had not seen these friends for a long while.
The restaurant is a charming little market/neighborhood hang out. They sell many of their ingredients or pre-made foods (think jams, cheeses, pastries, etc.) and you can buy/order the food and eat at communal tables with others. However, at night, I sat at the communal table with 9 others enjoying the candles and fresh flowers.
We had appetizers that were delicious and brought around by our waitress. This was followed by 8 courses. One thing that was helpful in my enjoyment of the dinner was that with each course came an explanation of the ingredients, where they came from, etc. Many people also graciously brought wine to share with everyone. I vaguely had the notion to get a bottle, but due to poor planning ran out of time. Also, I am not a big drinker, so was afraid there would be too much left over for me to handle. Just in case you missed that, BYOB.
All 8 courses were delicious except for course number 4. The Pouisson (baby chicken) was especially tender and memorable as was the trio of lamb. I love lamb, so... hehehe. I also really enjoyed the cheese platter because I love cheeses and trying different ones. I think I was the only one who really liked it, and since it was the 2nd to last course, many people gave me the ones they couldn't finish. More for me!!!
On a more pleasant note, I took all the leftover bread home and the check came with a cookie to take home. The cookie was delicious too! -
Review from Piper W.
Burbank, CA
8/22/2008
Happened to venture into this place while visiting family in PA. All the locals were raving..so my mom and I thought we'd check it out.
The place was very homey, with one long community table. I had a turkey sandwich and potato salad. I think it was the best potato salad I have ever had.
I wish I didn't live across the country from this place. =( -
Review from Evann G.
Philadelphia, PA
8/10/2011
I've never had the pleasure of dining at Talula's Table, but their prepared foods are DELICIOUS and the grocery section is dazzling, I always lose myself browsing even though it's a relatively small store. Great iced tea too. And try the crack pie - now. Do it.
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Review from Tom P.
Kennett Square, PA
3/27/2010
Talula's is a truly unique experience. The farm table is incredible. It's like having the best meal of your life made by good friends who are world class chefs. The chef 's wife helps serve and narrate the courses, the chef comes out and visits with the diners, they give you doggy bags. While the price is not low, it's a steal when you look at what you get for your money.
The cafe during the day is also fabulous. Amazing scones, coffee, cheese, soup, pre-made sandwiches and salads. Go her now! -
Review from Brad W.
Wilmington, DE
2/9/2011
I was taken here for my 30 birthday, and we sat at the Farmers Table. I was very impressed with the cuisine, and the service. I have since reserved the table for late 2011, and I am excited to go back. Worth every penny!
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Review from Katie F.
Arlington, VA
8/17/2009
This super cute little shop have anything gourmet you would need for a nice picnic at Longwood Gardens. Cheeses, scones, milk, crackers, etc. I would love to be able to go to one of the Farm Table dinners here in the future. Either way it is a cute place to get a cup of coffee in the morning.
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Review from Brian M.
Glenmoore, PA
5/28/2009
Imagine that, my friend above me wrote the most recent review, and I happened to be the lucky SOB that he invited to take the other 2 seats at the chef's table!
People have told me that I could fall into a pile of kaka and still come out smelling like a rose, well this was one of those days, Friday of Memorial day weekend and I am stuck in a meeting in Reston, VA and the meeting goes past the 3:00 PM scheduled end time. I have to drive essentially in the worse possible rush hour day during the worse possible hour because every employer between Reston, VA, Washington DC, and Baltimore, MD has decided to let their employees out early. Honestly none of it mattered any more as it just bubbled away as soon as I arrived for dinner just like the bottle of Crémant that was chilled and popped as soon as I arrived. For me the regional lamb 3 different ways was spectacular as was smoked rockfish. Actually I loved every dish and it truely was a treat with service, hospitality, and atmosphere. Truely felt like we were just guests in their house watching Chef and Sous Chef do what they do and learning all the way. -
Review from Tom H.
Kennett Square, PA
Updated - 4/13/2011
Talula's as a coffee shop: excellent, very helpful staff, fine coffee and yummiest baked goods ever. The decor and ambience are top-notch. Amy goes well above and beyond by being a good neighbor and donating to help needy children in the community. The only factor keeps this place from being superb as a coffee shop is the crowds and the lack of enough comfy seating at some times of day or on weekends. In spite of Amy starting a new restaurant in Philly, Talula's continues its tradition of excellence. Well worth many visits!!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/21/2009
As a coffee shop or place to get some fritatta or special salad or soup, it is excellent. Seating… Read more »
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Review from City G.
Bridgeport, CT
4/11/2009
I live in New York City, and am from The Kennett Square area. I come home to visit often and always drag my Mom to Talula's Table for breakfast or lunch.
For breakfast the coffee and pastries are incredible. I had a lemon cookie that was one of the best cookies I have ever had.
For lunch the salads, breads, and sandwhiches are also incredible. Great, fresh, good quality ingredients, and wonderfully prepared.
I looooove the food, ingredients and ambience. My only criticism is that the teenage staff has a little bit of an attitude. There is one very sweet, kind, and down to earth young woman who works there who is very nice. The older staff members, chefs seem great.
My Mom recently visited for dinner as a guest of someone's party and had a wonderful experience. -
Review from Mark H.
Philadelphia, PA
8/25/2010
It saddens me to be the one who goes negative of Talula's Table. I understand that not every single menu can be as spectacular as what is presented to top restaurant critics, movie stars, etc., but I feel that the experience failed at a deeper level than mere apathy. Aimee Olexy came out, but I had zero interaction with her, she did not even make eye contact.. At one point Gruyere was described as "A nutty French Cheese". Sorry, I am not impressed. Certainly the experience was not hindered by a lack of good wine, as the selections brought by the guests were indeed exceptional, carefully considered accompaniments to an anticipated "Elite" dining experience. I will not discuss the menu itself, but rather my own impression - there were only two 'bites' (each dish was scarcely more than a bite) throughout the night that seemed to match the quality of an appetizer at a top restaurant. That's it, 4 hours of your time, $130 cash, $100+ in wine and you get two bites that are as good as a Vetri or Morimoto appetizer. That's my word.
