New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu at TOWNSEND EPX

I’d been wanting to try this cozy Southern Philly French spot, known for its romantic vibe. Booked their New Year’s limited menu—7 courses + a drink for $100/person 🍞 Complimentary Bread – Crusty outside, soft and airy inside. Butter was rich and creamy 🧈. 🍸 Drinks – The popular Spicy Margarita Milk Punch was sold out, so we tried: 🥃 Duck a L’Orange – Strong orange aroma, bold flavor. 🍷 Children of the Grave – Lighter and smoother—my preference. Courses: 🥪 Canapés ⭐⭐⭐ – Three-bite starter: fried fish (a bit tough), beef tartare, and deviled egg (creamy and savory). 🦪 Raw Acadian Pearl Oysters ⭐⭐⭐ – Oysters with fruit bits, roe, and cream. Not my thing, but my friend enjoyed them. 🐚 Pan-Seared Scallops ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Can’t go wrong with seared scallops! 🍝 Cocoa Foie Gras Cavatelli ⭐ – Cocoa-flavored foie gras pasta with chicken skin and cranberries… unusual and hard to get into. 🧆 Sweetbreads Fricassee ⭐⭐ – Fried veal sweetbreads (first time trying!). Texture between foie gras and tender meat—rare ingredient but got heavy after a few bites. 🦌 Roasted Venison Loin ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Finally, something familiar! Thinly sliced, seared outside, tender inside—gamier than beef but delicious. 🍫 Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé ⭐⭐ – Served with vanilla cream sauce. More like dense chocolate mousse than soufflé—too sweet and rich for me. Ambiance: Small space—bar at the front, dining area further back. Dim lighting, candlelit 🕯️, very romantic for dates. Tables are close together, so it feels crowded when busy. Honestly, I originally wanted to try their steak 🥩 (saw it online!) but this special menu didn’t include it. Next time! #TownsendEPX #PhillyFrench #PhillyFood #NYEPhilly #FrenchCuisine #VibeDining #DateNight