Chatting With Craig LaBan: Indian takeout, caterers, and butchers
Here is an excerpt from Craig LaBan's online chat: Reader: Where is the best Indian food in Philly? Any good options for regular takeout?
Here is an excerpt from Craig LaBan's online chat:
Reader: Where is the best Indian food in Philly? Any good options for regular takeout?
Craig LaBan: There are a couple more obvious options, like Indeblue and Tiffin. But I find the best authentic Indian food to be in the far western 'burbs, at places like Indian Hut, Bangles, Devi. Recently, though, I've also had good luck at a few spots in town. Try the stylish new Chaat & Chai in South Philly, a colorful small-plater dedicated to street foods, something different, with some modern presentations of South Indian cooking. I also loved the Punjabi flavors at Dana Mandi, a humble market in West Philly with a cafeteria-style dining room in back. The food there is so, so simple, but the flavors have that edge. Stick with the vegetarian dishes and stuffed paratha breads. Great for takeout. Also Malu Cafe, the very modest but tasty South Indian serving Kerala cuisine in Northeast Philly. A takeout-first option, because they hardly have any seats. But it's really excellent, authentic food.
Reader: Maybe a curveball. Give me a couple of the best wedding caterers in the Philadelphia area.
C.L.: Well, I haven't put on any weddings lately, but I've been to a few. Starr Catering just put on a beautiful spread for my friend Jen's nuptials. Recommendable. I know several people who've hired Garces Catering for their big events but haven't had the reports yet on how that went. Also, Finley Catering is outstanding, though it's tied to some specific venues. We hosted my son's bar mitzvah feast at Union Trust a year ago, and Finley did an exceptional job. It's also a beautiful space. There are many, many other worthy caterers in town, but . . . I guess I just need to get invited to more parties to give you a sound opinion.
Reader: What's your go-to butcher for primal cuts? Acquired a Green Egg recently and looking to put it through its paces over the next few months.
C.L.: Oh, lucky you! I bought a BGE several years ago, and it remains the best kitchen splurge ever. You're in for a new adventure. As for a butcher, I often go to Giunta's in the [Reading Terminal Market], which covers a lot of needs with good quality at the right price. But, also, the Italian Market butchers remain great destinations depending up on what you're looking for - Capucccio's is a particular favorite for really old-school things (liver sausage, etc.), Fiorella's for pork roasts and cutlets and fennel sausage, and D'Angelo's, too, for gamier things . . . though he's so expensive, I typically don't buy weighty things there. Also, Kensington Quarters is a great resource for sustainably raised, grass-fed meats. Also considerably more expensive than your typical market. But the quality's exceptional, and the service - thanks to butcher Heather and her crew - is pretty much unsurpassed in town. You can get some really unusual cuts there you won't find anywhere else.
Reader: Speaking of butchers, LaDivisa in [Reading Terminal Market] is my go-to. Great quality!
C.L.: Absolutely. Nick is one of the best artisan butchers in town right now, especially when it comes to charcuterie. His guanciale is one of my pantry staples for pasta all'amatriciana. Best patés in town. He also does some great primal-part butchery - especially pork and lamb and now goat . . .. Selection changes often, so go there with an open mind.
