Hailing from the Main Line in Haverford Square, many a suburbanite will recognize this newcomer to the Philly scene from the partnership group headed by restaurateur, Martin Grims (of the Moshulu and White Dog Cafe fame). Du Jour has occupied its Symphony House location for a relatively short time, but this modern-clad marvel has quickly become a hot spot for those sober enough to awake for a weekend brunch. After one fluffy bite of a made-to-order omelet, or a sip from one of their house-mixed, $5 Bloody Mary’s, you’ll quickly realize why.
We stumbled upon Du Jour one groggy Saturday mid-morning while conducting our weekly attempt to find a good, if not just decent, brunch place that doesn’t require a wait as long as most open heart surgeries. Du Jour was not to disappoint. In fact, Du Jour was such a success that we returned the following morning with some out-of-town guests. The over-stuffed omelets, perfectly toasted array of breads, and grilled-to-perfection breakfast potatoes make this an instant Philly gem. The brunch menu also offers flatbread pizzas and other sandwich items for those in the mood for something of the lunch persuasion. For those of you too hurried to actually sit down for a meal, feel free to order from their extensive to-go menu.
Though reminiscent of an upscale deli, Du Jour also offers dinners, complete with a full liquor license. Upon returning, we were surprised to find the bright and sunny brunch spot transformed into a dimly-lit dining room. Chef Michael Selser did not disappoint with his consistently satisfying meals. The Ahi tuna tacos were perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection; a nice start to our meal. Selser’s wasabi crusted salmon was equally satisfying, with wasabi providing just enough kick to the meal. As a Maryland transplant, I was pleasantly surprised to find the crab cakes not loaded with an overwhelming amount of what those from the Bay area call “filler.” As an added bonus in an attempt to promote the dinner menu, the restaurant often offers deals, such as a free bottle of wine. Check the website or call the number provided below for details.
Du Jour has certainly filled a void in the Philadelphia dining scene: reasonably priced, tasty, and consistently good food. Grims is planning a second City location in Two Commerce Square. Hopefully the expansion won’t stop there as Philadelphians will surely come to love this suburban transplant.
Know before you go:
The restaurant does not take reservations. This has yet to be a problem, however the crowds seem to increase with each visit.
Recommended dishes:
Any of the made-to-order omelets, home fries and toast
Coconut-crusted french toast topped with bananas, strawberries and pineapple
Wild mushroom, goat cheese and carmalized onion flatbread
The Verdict:
Good food, Amazing prices, Good atmosphere, Amazing service
The perfect companions:
Out with the crew: ****
Out with the date: **
Out with the clients: *
Out with the parents: ****
The info:
Du Jour Cafe and Market
440 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
P: 215-735-8010
http://www.dujourmarket.com/
Madam Philly's Dining Dish 