Sitting on a small corner in Bryn Mawr recently occupied by the Biga pizza restaurant that has since closed is Bodega, the latest creation from La Cabra brewer Dan Popernack. The first thing you realize even before you walk in is there will be barbecue--good barbecue. Thanks to a giant smoker that can handle 1,000 lbs of meat, Bodega is working to create the perfect grab and go meal.
Sitting on a ledge to your right as you enter are two small kiosks where you can place your order and grab it to go. The system is fairly intuitive and easy to use, but first timers will probably choose to walk up to the counter and speak to a live person to order. They do have plans to launch an app where customers can place their orders in advance. Not a new concept, but helpful.
That doesn’t mean you can’t or shouldn’t stay to eat. There’s a great selection of La Cabra beer that’s brewed locally in Berwyn and delivered to Bryn Mawr. Dan knows beer. He knows that there are a bunch of haze bros out there who just want cloudy NE IPAs that smell like bong water. However, if you are willing to widen your palate you won’t be disappointed. There’s a great selection of styles including a gose, kriek, porter, wit and yes….IPAs Don’t like beer? They also always have a cider on tap from Big Hill Ciderworks. I was also really pleased to see that they have growler and crowler fills available.
We didn’t get to sample the entire menu, but here’s what we can say. The smoker works! The burnt ends were delicious and cooked perfectly. The ribs you ask? Just look at that smoke ring! The hot chicken sandwich? Delicious. I have no idea why anyone would head to Chick Fil A or Popeyes when they could have this jawn instead and nearly just as fast if you grab and go. The chips and dip weren’t exciting until you realized that everything is made in house. They even have plans to make their own bagels onsite for the maple cured atlantic salmon! Now we’re talking.
Additional menu items that we didn’t get a chance to try, but would definitely make a second trip for, included rabbit leg, pastrami, and brisket.
Thank you Dan. So glad to have this new spot the neighborhood so desperately needed.
You should be aware before you go that parking is not ideal. There are a few spots on the side of the building and ample parking in the municipal lot across the street. It’s not ideal, but Bodega knew this going in and did a nice job of providing a map of the building and related parking areas on its website so you can plan in advance.
Rating: 4.7 Landaus
Check them out on Instagram and/or Twitter at @bodegabylacabra
Comments