Tasties Goes From Food Truck to Fine Dining

Soul food restaurant Tasties opens this week at 1212 N. 52nd Street in West Philly, replacing a pizza shop, Pappy’s Pizza. Chef-owner Barbara Devan started Tasties as a food truck and went on to open two casual eateries with a focus on takeout, at 5241 Germantown Avenue and at 1214 N. 52nd Street, right next to the new restaurant. But unlike the other two, the new Tasties is an upscale sit-down spot with a full bar. (Devan originally planned for an April 20 opening, but had to push it back.)

The restaurant spans two levels, with the dining room and the bar on the first floor and a lounge upstairs. The lounge isn’t quite ready yet; it should be open in May. “West Philadelphians no longer have to travel to Center City or South Philly for fine dining in a beautiful atmosphere,” Devan said in a release. “I’m bringing a luxurious, upscale dining experience to an underserved community.”

When the restaurant starts serving this week, look for a menu of barbecue chicken, turkey wings, ribs, and fish, all served with sides like candied yams, collard greens, and baked mac and cheese. Devan is also making a few types of pasta, seafood like mussels and sautéed crabs, and fried rice dishes. The chef is also trying her hand at weekend brunch.

Take a peek inside:

Tasties [official photo]

Tasties [official photo]

And check out one of Tasties’ over-the-top desserts:

Tasties [official photo]