"Soul food restaurant Tasties opens this week at 1212 N. 52nd Street in West Philly, replacing a pizza shop, Pappy’s Pizza. Chef-owner Barbara Devan started Tasties as a food truck and went on to open two casual eateries with a focus on takeout, at 5241 Germantown Avenue and at 1214 N. 52nd Street, right next to the new restaurant. But unlike the other two, the new Tasties is an upscale sit-down spot with a full bar. The restaurant spans two levels, with the dining room and the bar on the first floor and a lounge upstairs. The lounge isn’t quite ready yet; it should be open in May. When the restaurant starts serving this week, look for a menu of barbecue chicken, turkey wings, ribs, and fish, all served with sides like candied yams, collard greens, and baked mac and cheese. Devan is also making a few types of pasta, seafood like mussels and sautéed crabs, and fried rice dishes. The chef is also trying her hand at weekend brunch." - Rachel Vigoda
