West Chester Restaurants, Shops And Art Galleries We Love
by Victoria Rose
Lead photo by Main Line Tonight
West Chester is filled with restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, shops – and a lot of charm. From historical features to contemporary art, breakfast to late-night dessert, West Chester is bursting with possibilities. But locals know there is more to the town than picturesque streets and popular festivals. Planning to explore West Chester? Not sure where to start? Here are a few of our favorite places.
West Chester Restaurants, Bakeries And Bars
Restaurants line almost every street of the borough, along with bakeries, cafes, and shops full of goodies.
Slow Hand: The cocktail scene has exploded in in the borough, with fantastic options on every block. But Slow Hand has taken it a step further, accenting artisanal ingredients with smoke, flame, and modern techniques. Slow Hand also has a fantastic mocktail menu, so everyone can indulge. 30 N. Church Street, West Chester
Mayday Coffee & Shop: Everything about Mayday Coffee is bright and fresh, from the décor and drinks to the flowers and treats. It is the perfect spot for a relaxed catch-up with friends or study session, and you can grab a romantic bouquet on your way out for that special someone. 123 N. High Street, West Chester
Rose’s Little Donuts: If you are in the mood for a bite of something sweet, Rose’s Little Donuts is a perfect fix. Rose’s mini donuts are deliciously extravagant, with flavors like Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate, Peanut Butter Lovers, and vegan options including Coffee and Vanilla Oreo. Grab a box or two and share away. 22 N. Darlington Street, West Chester
Bookstore Bakery: Bibliophiles who have been dreaming of a local bookstore in West Chester finally have their wish granted at Bookstore Bakery. With a curated selection of bestsellers, Bookstore Bakery is a welcome addition, especially with its delicious bakery options, including some of the most delicious pastel de nata (Portuguese egg tarts) this side of the Atlantic. 145 W. Gay Street, West Chester
La Baguette Magique: For perfect artisan breads and French pastries, La Baguette Magique provides that authentic café Parisienne experience. For those not lucky enough to have a reservation at Andiario, the bakery carries a limited selection of items to create your own dining experience such as pate, smoked trout, soups, sauces, and more. 202 W. Market Street, West Chester
Bierhaul Townhouse: Bierhaul Townhouse has rave reviews and a delicious lineup of food and drinks. The upstairs Indoor Beer Garden is the perfect spot to bring the whole family, with long tables, casual vibes, and enough greenery to brighten the rainiest days. Keep an eye out for all the geeky references in the art! 15 N. Walnut Street, West Chester
Mae’s: With chorizo-Swiss cheese pancakes, chai spiced oatmeal and a variety of tasty egg sandwiches, Mae’s is our go-to brunch spot in the borough. Don’t miss the French fondue and be sure to ask about seasonal soups. Can’t make it there for brunch? Mae’s also serves delicious dinners. 39 W. Gay Street, West Chester
D’Ascenzo’s Gelato: Be transported to a hidden alley in Italy at D’Ascenzo’s Gelato, which has been delighting tastebuds for 20 years. D’Ascenzo’s flower-filled patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a cool treat, with fresh ingredients in flavors like stracciatella, chocolate raspberry Chambord, lemon basil, peanut butter blackout cupcake, and many more. 132 E. Gay Street, West Chester
Éclat Chocolate: There is just no better way to brighten someone’s day than with a decadent bite of Éclat. Led by Master Chocolatier Christopher Curtin, the shop brings exotic flavors together with local favorites. Single origin mendiants, filled mondiants, perfect caramels, and more are designed to be savored. 24 S. High Street, West Chester
West Chester Art Galleries, Exhibits And History
Chester County History Center: Exploring the extensive collections at the Chester County History Center can lead to revelations about not only the region, but about our connections to the past. Core exhibits explore the rich tradition of furniture craftsmanship, textile arts, science, and more. Its extensive archives are constantly being archived and made available to the public, satisfying even the most curious family historians. Book a walking tour to learn even more about the town and the people who have inhabited it for over two centuries. 225 N. High Street, West Chester
Randall Graham Studio: Looking to go on your own artistic journey? Randall Graham offers classes and workshops for painters of all levels in various mediums. A local painter known for his bright landscapes and en rain air pieces, Graham also offers private sessions and other events. 25 N. Walnut Street, West Chester
Corner Art Collective: Created by Joshua Ruggerio and Rob DiTeodoro, Corner Art Collective hosts unconventional, completely awesome exhibits that showcase artists in a wide variety of mediums. Check the gallery’s Instagram for details on CAC’s upcoming shows. 341 S. Matlack St., West Chester
The Art Trust: Taking advantage of the light-filled lobby of Meridian Bank, The Art Trust creates curated exhibitions for a good cause. Sales of artworks from each exhibition fund art scholarships and sponsorships in the community, supporting the next generation of Brandywine artists. 16 W. Market Street, West Chester
Gay Street Open Air Market: Started during the pandemic to allow for more outside dining, the Gay Street Open Air Market returns again this year by popular demand. From early May to late Sept., four blocks of Gay Street are closed to traffic Friday through Sunday, with al fresco dining, shopping, and strolling.
West Chester Shopping
Hop Fidelity: Spin and sip at Hop Fidelity, where vinyl lovers can browse hundreds of records while enjoying a craft beer. BYOV—bring your own vinyl—on Friday evenings to share your favorite tunes, and check out Hop Fidelity’s selection of artwork, books, and handmade album-cover journals. 121 W. Market Street, West Chester
Kerkula’s Jewelry: Luxury abounds in this store which is about so much more than diamonds—though they have plenty of those too. Kerkula’s specializes in custom, one-of-a-kind items, from engagement rings to permanent jewelry to grillz to family heirlooms. For high-end glamor with entirely unique designs, there is no brighter gem. 117 W. Gay Street, West Chester
Malena’s Vintage Boutique: Travel back in time with the fabulous finds at Malena’s Vintage Boutique. The curated vintage collection celebrates the best of each decade, rewarding browsers with open minds. For those in the industry, make a private appointment to explore Malena’s showroom full of treasures. 10 W. Gay Street, West Chester
Old Soul Design Studio: Looking to refresh your space? Old Soul Design Studio is more than happy to craft the ideal home for your life. Old Soul Design’s focus on form and function is inspired by natural elements and personal style. The team’s full-service designs are coveted up and down the Main Line. 113 N. High Street, West Chester
Pine + Quill: The personal touch is evident in every corner of Pine + Quill. The shop features local makers, from handmade jewelry to furniture to kitchen goods, as well as artisan crafts and artworks. Pine + Quill’s selection of travel goods is perfect for wanderlusters, and the shop has many items celebrating West Chester as well. 23 N. Walnut Street, West Chester
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