Wedding Blog

True, we’re a couple of Philly fanatics. But with our rehearsal at the Villanova church, I thought a dinner location along the Main Line would make the most sense.

So, we made a list, and started visiting some tasty spots close to the University: 333 Belrose in Radnor, Blush in Bryn Mawr, Plate in Ardmore and Tango in Bryn Mawr.

But, a frustrating pattern emerged — “minimums” set high above the per-plate cost for a Friday night private party (meaning we’d have to add on a significant number of extras, driving up the overall price of the event). $2,500 for a 30-person event just isn’t in our budget (and would actually translate to higher food costs than the estimate from our wedding caterer!).

Venturing into the city seemed like the only way to find an affordable spot, so we looked at several Old City restaurants, located walking distance from the hotel where we’ll be staying (separately) the night before the wedding: Triumph Brewing Company, Spasso Italian Grill, and the spot we ultimately selected, Positano Coast. (All pictures courtesy of Positano Coast.)

Positano Coast is one of the restaurants in the locally-known Aldo Lamberti “family”, so we thought it would likely be perfect, and were excited to sample the menu. Along with Mama, Daddy and FMIL Bruschetta, Mr. Bruschetta and I visited Positano Coast for dinner a few weeks ago. We were impressed by their creative take on traditional Italian fare, and pleased to hear we would have our own space within the restaurant — two gauzy curtains will separate our group (to be seated at one loooong table) from other restaurant patrons.

Although I certainly didn’t plan this — all our Main Line choices serve up contemporary American cuisine! — I love that the rehearsal dinner will be a nod to my Italian heritage. And, the cerulean and white decor, and wall-sized photographs of the Amalfi Coast create an atmosphere that’s trendy (but not overly so) and relaxing.

Mr. Bruschetta handled the contract for the rehearsal dinner, and I couldn’t be happier with what he arranged. Dinner will begin at 7:30 with a first course of cheese and antipasto, served family style. Each subsequent course — salad, entree and dessert — will be individual portions. We selected chicken saltimbocca, braised short ribs (pictured below — the other shots aren’t our food offerings, but don’t they still look so yummy?!) and eggplant Napoleon as our entree options, and guests will be able to make their dinner choice at the table. We’ll finish on a sweet note with mini cannoli and tartufo.

I love that at the end of the evening, Mr. Bruschetta and I will be just a short walk from the hotel — because getting a good night’s sleep will be topping my list of priorities!

Is your rehearsal dinner location close to your ceremony location? Or did you opt (like us) for a spot a bit farther away (and what influenced your decision)?