Chadds Ford

Just down the road from the Brandywine River Museum [1] and other sights of Chadds Ford [2], you’ll find upscale cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed setting at Brandywine Prime (Rtes. 1 and 100, 610/388-808, www.brandywineprime.com [3], Mon. 5–10 p.m., Tues.–Thurs. 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. and 4–9 p.m., bar open daily from 11:30 a.m.). Serving lunch, brunch, and dinner, the restaurant’s specialty is seafood and perfect cuts of meat, but don’t miss the fresh oyster bar, or the elaborate Sunday brunch buffet on weekends ($18.95 adult, $10.95 child).

If you’re looking for a more casual breakfast, lunch, or brunch spot, head to the classic greasy-spoon diner Hank’s Place (Rtes. 1 and 100, 610/388-7061, www.hanks-place.net [4], Mon. 6 a.m.–4 p.m., Tues.–Sat. 6 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.–3 p.m.) across the street. The near-constant line out the door speaks volumes about its popularity; some Philadelphians make the trip on a weekend for the packed omelettes, blueberry pancakes, and the Pennsylvania favorite, scrapple. While breakfast is the star, you can also get plenty of cheap, tasty soups, salads, and sandwiches.

For an elegant and traditional afternoon tea service, visit The SpecialTeas Tea Room and Gift Shop (100 Ridge Rd., Chadds Ford, 610/358-2320, www.specialteastearoom.com [5], Mon. noon–3 p.m., Tues.–Sat. 11 a.m.–4 p.m.). The shop is part of the Old Ridge Village Shoppes which include jewelry, crafts, quilts, and several restaurants.