In the heart of South Philadelphia, a new breakfast and lunch café, Schmaltz, has emerged, captivating the local community with its unique offerings and a cozy atmosphere. Schmaltz, founded by Jeremy Asch and Abby Armstrong, is a testament to their shared passion for delicious food and a desire to bring something special to their neighborhood. The café's name, Schmaltz, is a nod to the rich culinary heritage of Asch and his partner, Sam Chertock, who grew up eating Ashkenazi and Eastern European dishes. But what sets Schmaltz apart is its focus on a tight menu of latkes, blintzes, and egg sandwiches, all served on house-baked English muffins.
What makes this establishment truly fascinating is the attention to detail and the personal touch. Asch, who initially had no plans to open a restaurant, left his career in clinical research to pursue his culinary dreams. His background in clinical research has given him a unique perspective on the operational aspects of running a business, which has been invaluable in navigating the challenges of opening a restaurant. Armstrong, on the other hand, brings a wealth of experience in investment and wealth management, as well as an MBA from the Wharton School. Together, they have created a space that is both inviting and well-run.
The signature sandwich at Schmaltz is a masterpiece in itself. It features an oniony potato pancake (latke) stacked on a slow-baked egg, with a Philadelphia-inspired hoagie spread made with seasoned mayo. The addition of gribenes (chicken-skin cracklings) and schmaltz (rendered chicken fat) on the English muffin takes the sandwich to another level. This attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients is what sets Schmaltz apart from other breakfast spots.
One thing that immediately stands out is the couple's decision to keep the menu small and focused. They believe that Jewish restaurants are often defined by their bagels, but they want Schmaltz to be more than that. By offering a variety of dishes, including cheese blintzes, roasted beet salad, and shawarma-spiced chicken salad sandwiches, they showcase the diversity of Ashkenazi and Eastern European cuisine. This approach allows them to highlight the richness of Jewish culinary traditions without being limited to a single dish.
Schmaltz is not just a breakfast spot; it's a community hub. The building, previously home to a DIY music venue, art gallery, and coffee shop, has a rich history that continues with Schmaltz. The wide-open room, with its espresso station, order counter, and seating areas, creates a welcoming atmosphere. The couple's intention to invest in the neighborhood and nourish its residents is evident in every aspect of the café's design and operation.
In my opinion, Schmaltz is a breath of fresh air in the culinary scene of South Philadelphia. It offers a unique dining experience that goes beyond the typical breakfast menu. The attention to detail, the high-quality ingredients, and the personal touch make it a must-visit for anyone in the area. What many people don't realize is that Schmaltz is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of culinary heritage and a testament to the power of community.
Looking ahead, Schmaltz has the potential to become a beloved fixture in the neighborhood. The couple's passion and dedication to their craft, combined with their understanding of the local community, will undoubtedly ensure its success. As they navigate the challenges of keeping up with the crowd outside, they are creating a space that nourishes both the body and the soul. Schmaltz is a shining example of how a small idea can become a big impact, and it's a place I highly recommend visiting for a truly memorable dining experience.
