Location
424 S. Bethlehem Pike
Fort Washington (Montgomery County)
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General Description
Alison Barshak — the culinary mind behind Alison at Blue Bell — has long been one of the Philadelphia region's greatest dining treasures.
So with the understanding that two is always better than one, she's opened Alison Two, an intimate restaurant boasting a blend of elegant dining rooms and a cozy lounge.
And, as is Alison's way, every dish — from the tandoor monkfish to the chocolate mousse — is a taste of her elaborate creativity.
Cuisine
Alison Two's menu focuses on American cuisine with ethnic twists and an emphasis on seafood.
As a reflection of Barshak's interest in travel, each dish presents a complete anthropological experience of its country of origin.
Highlights include: seared skate wing with cauliflower puree; Painted Hills Farm rib eye with blue cheese fritters; and sea scallops with gnocchi and shiitake mushrooms.
Though the menu changes daily, select dishes — including favorites from Alison at Blue Bell — will make repeat appearances.
Barshak didn't forget your sweet tooth: Pastry Chef Amelia Dietrich prepares ice cream, sorbets and other desserts daily. Select favorites include Granny Smith apple tartes, cinnamon ice cream and pistachio macaroons with raspberries.
Atmosphere
Alison Two's setting is a 120-seat restaurant with two private dining rooms, a full bar (featuring its own menu) and a cozy “living room" with a fireplace.
Upon arriving, dining guests are greeted by the open pastry kitchen, allowing the sights and aromas of homemade breads and confections to introduce a sweet and welcoming dining experience.
Much like Barshak’s cuisine, the décor has its own creative zest. The 150-year-old stone building has been transformed into a warm and lush contemporary space. Custom-designed metalwork sconces and fixtures enrobed in blue stained glass and rope lights shining on tiny iridescent blue tiles set the restaurant aglow.
Large mirrors that once hung in New York City's Plaza Hotel add stateliness to the space, while transparent metal garden gates — rescued from an architectural salvage yard — add a touch of vintage artistry to both the bar and the dining room.