Few things in this world are more satisfying than a bloody Mary-filled brunchfest after a night on the town. Several weekends ago, I awoke feeling like death and in dire need of reinforcements. A 14-block pilgrimage to the Royal was made in the name of brunching somewhere new-to-me. By the time we arrived, I was parched and starving. Fortunately, a table was available and we were plied with water straightaway.
Food decisions don’t come easily for me to begin with and after a night of boozin’, they are even harder. I eventually settled on a mimosa for my beverage. Moments after the drinks arrived, I knew I should have chosen salty over sweet. Seeing the cocktail envy in my eyes, my companion traded drinks with me and I happily sucked down one amazing bloody Mary, complete with a giant olive and deli pickle spear.
Next up was the food. I completely disregarded the Cuban omelet across the table. Delish as it looked, I had my own plate to conquer: grilled chicken and prosciutto on buttery toast, with arugula, thinly sliced pears, blue cheese and lavender-honey mustard. Alongside was a serving of skin-on fries, flecked with salt and served alongside malted vinegar mayo for dipping. The sandwich was out of control delicious, which only made me wonder why it took so damn long for me to check the place out to begin with. Service was great during our meal and water glasses were refreshed as quickly as I could drain them, a feat in itself.
Return visit?
ASAP, preferably without the hangover.
Royal Tavern
937 E Passyunk Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19147
royaltavern.com
