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Carman's Country Kitchen
Category: Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Breakfast & Brunch [Edit]
1301 S 11th StPhiladelphia, PA 19147
(215) 339-9613
- Hours:
Mon, Fri-Sun 8 am - 2 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Breakfast
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Dive-y
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
128 reviews for Carman's Country Kitchen
Review Highlights
"loved the challah french toast, so satisfying."
(in 18 reviews)
"The recommendation to call ahead is important."
(in 21 reviews)
"...sausage and the applewood smoked bacon make an excellent..."
(in 4 reviews)
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128 reviews in English
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Review from Brian C.
Philadelphia, PA
1/31/2012
Let me preface this review:
First, if you are easily offended by penises, breasts, or other human anatomy this may not be your joint (and don't being your mother who is).
Second, if you have tons of dietary restrictions, likes and dislikes, and in general are really picky with what you will eat, this probably isn't your place to go either.
If you are a culinary adventurer, you like to be surprised, and you enjoy spontaneity, I think you've found your place.
Call ahead to reserve a time, unless you're dining by yourself, then chances are you'll be sitting at the counter. The place is very small. But that's part of it's charm. The servers ask you your first name and the place is packed full of "the regulars".
Really, I don't see the point in telling you what I ate, there are always 4-5 options on the blackboard, whatever Carman is cooking up that day, 4-5 meat sides that pair with the entree, and you choose one off the list. Everything I've had there was tasty.
Here are a few of the things I had throughout the years just to give you an idea.
- Pink Lemonade pancakes - Really good!
- Mako shark filet - I know, totally random. But again good!
- Soft shell crab - for brunch!
- Hungarian sausage - Often from local vendors at Martin's in Reading Terminal. Delicious.
Carman herself often comes out to greet the diners, and when it's warm you can always sit in the back of her truck and enjoy your meal. Definitely try this place and you're in for some excitement. -
Review from Adriana R.
New Brunswick, NJ
1/15/2012
this place ROCKS! I had the absolute pancakes here today, and am hoping they make a comeback sometime because that was just bliss. Mixed into the batter was fresh grilled corn, apples, dates, and crushed walnuts. ABSOLUTE BLISS.
Other specials we tried were lamb stew with middle eastern spices and a kale omelette with chicken & garlic sausage and yukon potatoes. Everything was AMAZING, down to the homemade jam served with the toast. Specials were around $14 plus $2 for adding a side of meat, but portions were BIG.
Service was very friendly, and though you have to wait for a table kind of in the middle of the place since its so small (read: 8 seats at the bar plus maybe 4 tables), we were served coffee while we were waiting and genuinely enjoyed just hanging out and taking the place.
the icing on the cake was seeing Carman herself cooking the food through the service window, which is right below a massive painting of her from back in the day, and of course framed with two huge crowns. Carman is definitely a badass mama, and she is the queen of homestyle cooking. -
Review from Chelsea c.
Philadelphia, PA
i mean this in the nicest way possible, but carman's is like the dirty frank's of the philly brunch scene. it is epically awesome in its dive-i-ness...and the food is worth the hype.
after an unacceptably long hiatus, my boyfriend and i made it back here for brunch this past weekend. we called ahead for an 11:30 reservation and then called 15 minutes later to push it back to 11:35. (my boyfriend told carman it was because i was taking too long with my hair. incorrect. other way around, thank you.)
we arrived at 11:34 and were seated at the counter. our server brought us coffee and then read off the specials to us (as well as to the table behind us). the menu is written on a dry-erase board behind the counter. it contains four options with always changing and deliciously inventive ingredients:
- pancakes/waffles
- challah french toast
- omelette (with yukon gold potatoes and choice of toast)
- seasonal special (i.e. the delectable corned beef i ordered around st. patrick's day last year.)
at this particular dining experience, my boyfriend went with the waffles, which were made with a delicious oatmeal batter. i had to go with the omelette, stuffed to the gills with pork, homemade sauerkraut and swiss cheese. it was a tough choice as the challah french toast that day was accompanied by mocha bananas and topped with tiramisu gelato. oh, why did i have to get stuffed on french toast at sabrina's the day before? in any event, everything was, as always, amazing.
despite my 5-star rating and endorsement for carman's culinary expertise, this still isn't a place i recommend to everyone. it's very small, highly quirky and the menu is not at all accommodating to everyone's needs. the negative reviews here are, in some ways, understandable. but i highly doubt carman cares about them and, to that end, neither do i.Listed in: something lies between…
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Review from Albert L.
Philadelphia, PA
1/21/2012
Appearances are truly deceiving. When I was first asked to stop by for brunch one Sunday, who knew what to expect? But when you see a sign that says Carman puts the "Cu**" in Country, you know it's worth going in. The place is small but comfy. During warmer weather, you can actually sit in a back of a pickup truck! They do take reservations but our party was late. In any case, we were briefed on the menu. Specials were all $12 or more and meat is not included. It was fairly good but my rating of four stars can be mainly contributed to the atmosphere inside. It's not often you are served juice in a cup with a penis on it.. Yep. It wasn't the handle or anything but it was certainly dangling... Every cup inside was mismatched and the decor is a photographer's dream. (Especially for Facebook !) i know i'll make a return soon. It's too fun not to!
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Review from Lindsay D.
Philadelphia, PA
9/6/2011
3 Stars on this one is tricky. Here's why:
-Carmen was rude and unaccommodating (although the place wasn't busy)
-It's dirty inside
-She has 5 daily menu choices, don't go there if you have something in mind.
-She won't mix and match her 5 meals, they come as they are written
Here's they it's 3 stars and not 1:
Her Ginger Snap and Apricot Waffles with warmed syrup were incredible albeit to much apricot, but very delicious offset by the savory maple country sausage.
My friend came along for coffee a something light. She asked if she could have an order of the Buffalo Chicken Sausage. Carmen told her if she wasn't ordering a meal she couldn't order anything (Weird).
After Carmen was in the kitchen I said, are you sure you can't just tack the sausage on to my meal then, we really want to try it. She rolled her eyes and said fine, but only gave us half a link.
The whole time she had what appeared to be a tampon up her nose.
It was a bizarre experience overall. Not worth going back.
However...if I felt so inclined I would definitely call before hand to see what she has on order (although I'm not sure she'd even answer the phone). -
Review from Caroline S.
Philadelphia, PA
1/14/2012
Came to Carman's with a friend for brunch. Small space, a few tables and barstools, and strange decor - there were quite a few penis and breast decorations. I ordered the butter milk pancakes (sweet summer corn, apples, dates, and crushed walnuts in the batter) and my friend ordered the lamb stew I believe. Prior to coming, we were driving around looking for a quick but satisfying meal and my friend assured me that Carman's specialized in quick yet satisfying brunch foods so off we went. However we weren't served so quickly in fact a couple who entered a good 10 minutes after us were served first. But when our food came so did a complimentary kale omelet for our wait. The pancakes were above average but nothing to write home about, my friend seemed to thoroughly enjoy his meal and I just couldn't get over how delicious the kale omelet was. It was a tad pricey for breakfast at about $20 (with tip) a person but if you go for brunch ( having this meal take the place of two) then it's worth it. Though there seem to be quite a few people who have made Carman's a regular breakfast spot of theirs, I'm not sure if I'll return.
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Review from Matt C.
Philadelphia, PA
9/25/2011
Extremely creative eats. Had never seen nor thought of the breakfast combinations she pulled together but they blended together perfectly. One of the most delicious and most unique breakfast experiences I've ever had, 100% you HAVE to go at least once.
As many have suggested, call ahead first. Can't stress this enough, this place is TINY. -
Review from Bob A.
Philadelphia, PA
1/29/2012
My wife and I are Philly foodies for sure and we were looking forward to Carman's based on some of the reviews. Some of our favorite brunch spot's are Sabrina's, Standard Tap, N. Third, and Honey's just so you know our taste's. We called ahead and had our 4 year old daughter with us. They should have explained on the phone that this place is not appropiate for children as there were penis' and a creamer shaped as a breast along with other sexual objects.... Staff was nice enough but only a handful of selections. We ordered a pancake for my 4 year old and when she bit into it, she began crying because Carman added spicy nuts to it!! i mean c'mon, the waiter knew this was for my 4 year old, don't you think we should have been told there were spicy nuts in the pancake!! Needless to say she did not eat it.. To top that off there were tons of Aunt Jemima pankcake boxes in the back....r u kidding me??? How hard is it to make pancake batter!!!! My wife order the omlet which had tomatoes, TONS of artichokes and everything but the kitchen sink. Way over the top and awful. Breakfast potatoes were flavorless and undercooked for my taste. (I prefer them crispy) Mine was just ok, tuna sandwich with eggs on the side. Nothing earth shattering. Our bill was $50 which really capped off the experience!! We were very disapointed with the entire experience and parents, do not bring your children!! Dirty looking place....not going back EVER!!!
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Review from Scott R.
Philadelphia, PA
7/23/2011
We've eaten at Carman's twice now and decided that it is the best breakfast we've had in Philadelphia.
The space itself is quirky and a little bit of everything in terms of decor. But don't judge a book by its cover--the food is simply amazing and well thought out.
Carman features 4 menu options--all specials and built around what is fresh and available to her from what I've seen--and each time we've been there she's offered a pancake or waffle, french toast, omelet and another savory option. The pancakes are light and fluffy, the waffle is just right with incredible toppings like fresh blueberries and bananas.
The highlight for me so far has been the Challah French Toast--it is the very best French toast EVER. Today it was served with figs, raspberries and goat cheese. It sounded a little odd at first but wow, it really came together nicely. She recommended the applewood smoked bacon for a side and that was perfectly cooked, nice and crunchy.
One recommendation: go early. I've read in several review sites that the place gets super busy, long lines, etc. and the server mentioned they get really busy by 10 AM. Both Saturday mornings we've arrived early--around 8:30--with a handful of regulars, so it has been easy to get a table. I think the place works best for couples--there are around 4 tables that seat 2 each, and then some counter seats--maybe 6-8 seats. There is an outdoor table--on a truck bed!--that seats 6-8 and I imagine you need reservations for that.
The cost is a little high for breakfast but we walk away feeling like it was money well spent. The servers are friendly and on top of everything--our coffee cups were never empty.
Oh, and about Carman, we've found her to be lovely and engaging. She's very Sophia Loren-esque too, in terms of appearance. From what we've seen she does all of the cooking herself and once they get busy, I'm sure she still runs a tight ship. A definite must go. It is our favorite weekend breakfast spot. -
Review from Chris K.
Durham, NC
7/12/2011 1 photo
This is a funky place that I was excited to visit. Unfortunately it didn't meet my expectation.
It's funky enough alright, with limited seating inside and outdoor seating in the back of a pick up truck (never saw that before!). I didn't care for the fact that there were two large dogs (Chows) in the front seat of the truck barking at us when we first get on the truck bed. It was also a bit concerning to have traffic whizzing by with the truck parked right at the intersection, not to mention the stench coming out of the nearby sewer while we were eating.
The food was so-so, overpriced and choices were limited. Coffee was very good and our waiter couldn't have been nicer or more attentive and kind. He was probably the highlight of it all.
What can I say, I experienced it, but I probably wouldn't return. -
Review from Brendan O.
Philadelphia, PA
3/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
The noted "shortcomings" of Carman's (less than stellar cleanliness, high prices, odd and sometimes irascible service, the eccentric and potentially off-putting decor) are, IMHO, a necessary part of the place's overall mystique. Without these qualities Carman's is just another breakfast spot. WITH them, it is a unique and never-to-be-duplicated Philly institution.
Oh... and the food is out of this world! Creative to the point of craziness at times, but that's the point! My advice?: Let go and let Carman!
Frankly, you don't know Philly fully until you venture here at least once. Don't go changin', Carman!Listed in: Best (and Worst!) Philly…
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Review from Chloe J.
Philadelphia, PA
3/4/2011
I went to Carman's after reading all the reviews on Yelp. I 'm glad that I went and got this out of the way on a weekday morning because if I had to wait 40 minutes to get a seat in this place I would be pissed.
It is filthy in this place. Filthy as in dirty with dirt and filthy as in dirty, like sexually dirty. I don't really want to see penises and nipples while eating. Well I wouldn't actually mind so much if it wasn't crappy chipped yard sale junk.
You have only 4 options, which I was aware of and thats fine... But when two of the options are basically the same thing; pancakes stuffed with fat or waffles smothered in fat that doesn't leave you many options, if you don't feel like having a lead belly full of waffle/pancake batter.
You can't have waffles and pancakes and count them as two separate things. They essentially are the same damn thing.
I had an omelet it was a huge sloppy mess, runny in the middle and luke warm. The potatoes were completely over cooked, I literally mashed them. My toast was burnt and the bacon had a layer of congealed fat on it.
There were 2 tables in this place besides myself. I can't imagine how the food would have been if this place was slammed.
I will never return and I will never recommend that anyone goes here.
The only positive was the super nice and friendly man who waited on me.
Oh did I mention it is completely over priced. I will spend money on good food but this was not worth it. Trust me. -
Review from Marina N.
Updated - 3/19/2011
Although there's not always something on the menu that I'm thrilled to order `cause it sounds super weird (like jelly bean french toast), I always find something that sounds challenging but is actually delicious. It's also just a fun, cheery, and cheeky place that helps you get into a good weekend mood.
The ideal party here is 1-2 people though you can get a table for 4 (it's just a looong wait), but I'd go elsewhere for a party larger than 4. Don't bring anyone that's easily offended by nudity due to the wide array of penis mugs, mardi gras beads with boobs, and so forth.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/1/2009
they always have bizarre things on the menu and 6 choices at the most. the decor is pretty bizarre… Read more »
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Review from Claudia C.
Philadelphia, PA
10/19/2011
This place is the dive bar of brunch. I'm glad I finally went. If you like unusual things, this is definitely the place to go. Staff is very friendly; decor is awesome. They have only 4 items on the menu and they call them "specials," which I thought was hilarious. It is definitely on the pricey side ($17 for pancakes and coffee) but worth it for the experience. I had waffles with blueberry and almond paste: they were yummy but not exceptional. Anyhow, I can't wait until I go back.
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Review from Matthew K.
Brooklyn, NY
5/31/2011
The best brunch in Philly ten years running. Carman's weekly creations never fail to tantalize, the bottomless coffee always hits the spot, and the ambiance is unbeatable. Being able to walk it off in the Italian market down the street is a bonus.
Make sure to call in advance to secure a table. While it's tough to squeeze a large party inside, if you're adventurous you can fit up to eight skinny adults in Carman's pickup truck. It's by far the raddest table in the city. -
Review from Kemi A.
4/23/2011
The French toast I had was soo delicious. there were 4 items on the menu and there was 4 diners in my party SO we just got one of each item.
The least favorite was the Jelly Bean pancake- Not a hit.
Hits were the Challah french toast (with the delicious sausage). Also the omelet was great. I would say the Salmon dish was number 3.
The place is quite small so don't show up unexpected with your party of 15.
It's quite far from where I live so I won't be dropping by randomly anytime soon. But I would add this to my list of places I like to eat. -
Review from Andrea t.
12/4/2010
In a dream sequence Carman and I do a little burlesque number which involves breakfast foods. Maybe like Dita von Teese's martini glass dance, but instead we are in a coffee cup? A vat of maple syrup? Home fries?
Carman's is not for the faint of heart of those without a sense of humour or neat freaks. Leave those folks at home and put on your walking shoes. Carman's is right near the hub-dub of Pats and Geno's and all that jazz. I get my hair did not too far away so Sara and I popped in today for a lovely breakfast.
Carman has all her Christmas finery out. It was cute and kitchsy in a good way (Says the nice Jewish girl) Our server came by and told us all about the yummy specials. Sara said it best, we need to come as a foursome and try all four specials and just swap. So she has two or three sweet breakfast's and two savories. Sara had the most yum omelet of exotic mushrooms, cheese, and tri-color chard with sausage from my beloved Martin's in Reading Terminal Market ( if you haven't been yet, go and get the chicken and white wine sausage.....it's zee best!) I had cranberry pancakes with an orange oat crumble topping. They were so good. One of the servers was like how are your pancakes? I had a Homer Simpson moment and even let the server try them!
We also were not rushed either! I mean sure it was one in the afternoon so it was not prime-time brunching, but it was nice not to be rushed! Our server also did not like hover or bug us, he was the perfect mix of refilling our tea and letting us chill.
Carman is a hoot and full of personality. As is her charming display of penises and kitsch.
Leave all pretenses behind and enjoy! -
Review from Steve S.
Philadelphia, PA
4/7/2011
Been trying to get here forever. Finally did and glad we did...but not likely to go back.
Most of the previous remarks (the good, the bad and the ugly) are right on. The food was very good, but 2 waffles for $14.00 (no eggs or fruit included) and the delicious pancetta bacon was 3 or 4 more dollars - come on that's just plain ugly.
We loved the cute, warm, dirty, dingy, weathered atmosphere of the place. Definitely has a ton of character - then add Carman to the picture and you've got one of Philly's truly unique food destinations.
We also had a delicious big omelet loaded with lots of veggies, toast and potatoes were included for $14.00, but I had to order sausage as an extra for another 3 or 4 dollars.
The coffee was above average. The service was delightful. A welcoming and pleasant guy asked our names when we entered, provided great, unobtrusive service, and remembered our names as we said goodbye.
Our total bill (for 2) w/ tax and 20% tip was $47.88. You'd think for that price, you were eating at a luxury hotel. -
Review from Michael E.
Collingswood, NJ
4/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Food is good.
Penises are fun (can't believe I get to use the word "penis" in my review!).
Prices are wayyyyy too high, but it's a really small place and I like what they're doin' there.
Cheers! -
Review from R W.
Narberth, PA
3/12/2011
I really wanted to like Carmen's. It embodies everything I find charming-comfort food, kitch, a neighborhoody vibe to it. After trying to go once on a Sunday and being told that you needed reservations I came back a second time with a friend. I ordered pancakes and being that this was brunch I was pretty hungry. My order came out-two pancakes, nothing on the side. The bill-$14.00. Wait I just paid $7.00 a pancake? Seriously? Food wasn't bad, certainly wasnt worth the price, having to make a reservation or sitting in cramped conditions.
If you can justify making a reservation in advance to sit in an uncomfortable booth and pay $14.00 for 2 pancakes more power to you, otherwise there's many more breakfast options to choose from. -
Review from Jose A.
Philadelphia, PA
2/24/2011
This is a super cool hipster spot, that foodies and serious food bloggers might not enjoy to much...It has some really great points: cozy, funny/adult decor, some pretty inventive and great tasting food, and other points that can turn a lot of people off: limited menu, limited seating, no changes can be made to ordered items, and it can be a bit pricy.
When I went a while ago I had an omlete of some sort with apple wood smoked bacon, it was fantastic, but as I stated above, it is very "hipster," and a bit of an insider crowd vibe, like a smaller trying to be cooler version of honey's.
Final verdict, if hipster's dont bug you, and money is no object then you should check this place out, because they come up with some pretty cool food creations. -
Review from Dan F.
8/8/2010
"Dirty Country"
Crusted meats: ok. Crusted cheeses: sure. Crusted placemats? Welcome to Carman's, where country and cleanliness are but two forks in a filthy wood.
Cream for your coffee? Let it flow briskly from a breast-shaped pitcher complete with mother's crusting 'round the nip.
Time to order? No need to commit to sweet or savory, because with lush fillings like goat cheese (or was it ricotta?) blended with cinnamon and red peppers, you get it all.
Visual diversions while you wait? So many to choose from! Say, for example, the bold ceramic penis cup broken at the base, then reglued for - perhaps - another round at the rodeo.
Or, the terrifying, tiny Venetian glitter mask, placed dead center on the main wall. In a horror movie its eye sockets would be threaded with fishing line, and like the blackest flesh-tearing raven, it would swoop toward you until your mouth wobbles open to a Sissy Spacek scream.
BUT DON'T LOOK DOWN. Because your food has just arrived, and that's the scariest thing of all. In an homage to a post-Katrina world, it's an overweight mass of thick, tomato-strewn egg, submerged in bilge water.
The extra water splashed up from the dish sink over the counter and onto your plate is entirely complementary.
Feeling ill? Perhaps you'd like a moment alone, say in the bathroom. Or perhaps you'd prefer the kitchen. Good news - no need to choose! Because sanitary sakes alive, they're more or less the same room.
Next time I want dirty country I'll skip Carman's and ... actually, I'm too much of a lady to tell. -
Review from Michael U.
Dublin, OH
Call me crazy - as much as I love fine dining breakfast kitsch will always hold a special place in my heart (and belly.) Having dined at some of America's greats - Dottie's True Blue, Griddle Café, Bongo Room, Miss Shirley's, and Pamela's to name few - I knew that Carman's Country Kitchen was a must on my visit to Philadelphia. With lunch and dinner plans starring Marc Vetri and still sated from Modo Mio the previous evening I knew daytime snacking would be light and a solid breakfast would hold me the six hours to lunch - per usual I woke early and hit the ground running, arriving at the Country Kitchen before they even opened the doors.
With the truck-table parked outside I took a seat on the hitch for only a moment before the front of house man would open the door and say "she ain't ready yet, but you can come in and take a seat and have some coffee or something." Making my way into the restaurant the server introduced himself by name and asked for mine - he'd call me Mike for the duration of my meal. Browsing around the small diner I have to admit the décor is not exactly G-Rated, but it certainly is hilarious - pigs and tea pots with enormous genitals, pictures from God knows where, and the famous "Put the C*nt back in Country" signage.
Sipping my coffee - dark and solid, a bit acidic but not "bad," I chatted with the server about what I was doing in town, the restaurant, and Philly in general - he had a lot of suggestions for interesting things to see and do. Around 8am Carman herself would come in through the back door with an enormous grocery bag full of ingredients that she picked up on her way to work - things to "experiment with for next week's menu." Browsing the big board I made my selection (remember, only 4 mains and 4 sides are available) and Carman introduced herself and conversed boisterously from the back kitchen while preparing my food.
Offered a selection of newspapers, magazines, and other assorted reading materials I browsed the sports section while we discussed the restaurant's history and other spots Carman recommended in the city. Never short on words or opinions Carman held up her end of the conversation admirably with lots of anecdote - for a solo diner who would spend the duration of his meal at Carman's as the only person in house it was actually very interesting. After 20 minutes and a couple cups of coffee my plate would arrive along with a dispenser of thick, rich, maple syrup.
Entitled Buttermilk Pancakes with White Figs, Dark Chocolate, Ginger, Ground Almonds, and Anise I tasted a bite solo and then added syrup. At $14 and cash only for an Aunt Jemima based cake I have to admit the price seemed a bit steep for the portion size, but what was lacking in size was more than made up for by flavor. Impressively well balanced I was shocked by the sweetness of the figs and the manner in which they were balanced by the bitter dark chocolate and aromatic spices of the fresh ginger and Anise. Well cooked and fluffy the pancakes were stellar examples as well - whatever Carman is doing to the base mix I need to figure out.
Finishing my pancakes and settling the tab I chatted with my hosts some more - parking cop lore, stories of the best places to go drinking in Philly, and her theory on why the Phillies were slumping all came to the table - I was also given a business card and told the menu would be changing the next day if I wanted to make a reservation because "it gets busy early on Saturdays." With food and service so impressive I have no doubt it should.Listed in: Best Breakfast/Brunch/What-hav…
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Review from Danan R.
7/17/2011
The challah French toast is delicious but prices are a bit steep and the wait can be long. The theme is not for the prudish among us but can be amusing for the rest of the population. A decent place to grab brunch - just show up early or be prepared to wait on weekends.
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Review from Sean R.
8/2/2010
We went to Carman's on a Sunday morning around 10am, after choosing it over Morning Glory Diner, and I am glad we did.
Service:
The service here was awesome. We didn't have a reservation, and the server said it would be a half an hour wait. He brought us some coffee, that we drank sitting on the front step, waiting for a table to open up. He came out an showed us the menu options on a chalk board while we waited, which was very helpful too.
Food:
We orderd the lamb chop special with potatoes, eggs, toast, and bacon. It was delicious, it was the first time I have had lambchops for breakfast, and I would certainly order it again. We also ordered the pancakes, that were made with zucchini and apples and served with plum sauce and turkey sausage, this dish was very good too, but seemed a bit pricey for pancakes ($14 + $2 for the sausage). The other two offerings were challah french toast and a greek omelet, which both looked amazing.
Atmosphere:
Inside Carman's is small and relaxed. There are plenty of kitschy trinkets to checkout out. There is a bar area with four seats, a few small tables, and single larger table that is outside in the bed of a pickup truck!
Hot Tip:
I was not aware, but you can call ahead for a reservation which I suggest doing, because the place is small.
I will definitely check out Carman's again. It is not a place for everyone due too the limited options (4 choices), and it is a bit pricey for breakfast ($50 for 2 after tip), but I really enjoyed the food, service and atmosphere.Listed in: Brunch Time
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Review from D R.
Portland, OR
12/19/2010
BEST.
i like the boob/nipple cup. i like that all of the cups are different. i like the way the waiter greeted us and told us his name and carman's name as soon as we got in the door. i like the whole (DIY-type) atmosphere, and the unusually tasty selections on the menu. i grew up in philadelphia, but have since moved. this is one place i aim to dine at, whenever i go back to philadelphia for a visit.
the place is a tad bit pricey, but this is one case where it's DEFINITELY worth it. who has leftover BREAKFAST? you do, when you go to carman's country kitchen.
be warned: this place closes early and their lines are LONNNG. -
Review from Monica Z.
Philadelphia, PA
8/19/2010
Carman's is like the dive bar of brunch - it's a tiny space crammed with colorful characters, vaguely shocking decor, a limited menu, and a very low opinion of what you think it should be doing differently. It's also the most scrumptious and off-center brunch around.
Everything is cooked by Carman herself - an outrageous woman in every possible way - which is particularly impressive since whatever you order is really a three to four person-sized amount of food. (I've got a shiny American quarter with your name on it if you actually managed to finish one of her plates.) It's also a crazy culinary adventure that you should absolutely NOT embark on if you require a turkey club on the menu to feel comfortable. Have they served turtle on their brunch menu? They have. (And it was smashingly good.) And it's often a borderline educational experience, too, as their omelets are almost always filled with cheeses and vegetables I didn't even know existed.
My only complaint about Carman herself is that she is her own best audience, and therefore really hard to shut up once she gets going. The first time she tells you about the nightclub she owned in North Philly or the fancy Upenn surgeon who owes her so many favors she can get you early entry into grad school is entertaining - the second or third time I wanted to tell her to shut up and let us have a private conversation.
The best time to try it: on a weekday around 1:15, when there's hardly ever a wait. (Though you're a sitting duck for the stories....so pick your battle.) -
Review from Jana V.
Philadelphia, PA
6/7/2010
This place is exactly what you will expect of the name. It is disappointing that people come here and expect haute cuise and five star accommodation when the draw of this place IS the "country" feeling.
1. The food was incredible. This weekend we ordered the stuffed French toast (with lime custard, champagne mangoes, and pineapple) and chocolate cherry pancakes. We also ordered the chicken sausage and chorizo. It was well prepared, delicious, and came out in a timely manner. The coffee was NOT bad at all.
2. Waitstaff: Carman's daughter was there and everyone introduced themselves. We were offered water and coffee as we waited for about 5 minutes for our table. (I called ahead of time) They asked for our names and were extremely polite and attentive. Loved it.
3. Carman: She was working in her kitchen and was very friendly, looked like a million bucks, and told all of us that we looked gorgeous. AWESOME! :-D
Price-wise, it came to about $45 for the three of us. High five Carman. Not bad at all. I was full for the rest of the day. -
Review from Casey B.
Brooklyn, NY
7/19/2011
The food choices were limited and everything was over-priced. I ordered an omelette with turtle in it and what I got was pretty much just scrambled eggs with one or two pieces of what could have been seafood of an indeterminate variety. To add insult to injury, the waiter who served us was really rude and initially wouldn't let us move from the bar where he originally seated us to a window table once it opened up. Carmen herself hung out in the kitchen and periodically yelled things out into the restaurant. I get that this place is themed and the whole point is that it cute and rustic and kind of a pain in the ass to get a table (which I guess appeals to some people), but it wasn't worth the time or the money we put into it. Maybe if they'd given us the table in the back of the pickup truck parked outside it would have been worth it, but I found it generally underwhelming.
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Review from Jayna F.
7/8/2010
Yes, I want a brown sugar glazed pork chop with eggs over easy for breakfast.
No I do not want to agonize over a menu with about 36 different types of french toast.
Yes I do want a lot to look at, to drink water out of mason jars, and coffee out of a mug with cartoon elephants subtly sucking/fuuhh.... ing each other on the side. I want to make friends with the other diners/staff
I want this all to be 5 blocks from my house, and as I gaze out the window sipping my promiscuous elephant coffee, watch my friends ride their bikes to work and finish my pork chop.
I can put up with the odd hours, but I don't really brunch on the weekend too often so I've only been here on a Monday/Fri late afternoon. Guess there's no use complainin though.Listed in: Breakfast & Brunch
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Review from Melissa W.
Philadelphia, PA
11/7/2010
Carman's is a cute little place with an old-school diner-type vibe. The atmosphere is homey and charming with slightly dirty hipster flair (e.g. all the silverware and dishes are deliberately eclectic and drinks are served in mason jars). I actually didn't notice the penis theme, I'll have to keep an eye out for it next time.
The artsy-looking servers are super friendly and efficient, and make an effort to remember your name. The wait can be long, but they'll offer you coffee while you wait, and you can call ahead (Carman will probably answer the phone, and she's very no-nonsense. I was a little scared when she demanded to know exactly what time we'd be there).
The food is delicious with interesting combinations of flavors and ingredients. Our only complaint was that the Cajun-style shrimp and grits were served cold (probably on purpose), but they would have been better hot. Also, it's a little pricey for brunch: with no beverages and including a 20-22% tip (which was well-deserved), we ended up spending about $45 between two people. -
Review from Mary S.
Philadelphia, PA
Updated - 5/25/2010 1 Check-in Here
Was just down to carman's again this weekend- and once again she made my tummy happy and her staff wowed me as they juggled more people than you can imagine in the tiny space of theirs. I loved my meal- baby spinach, butter leek and cheese with black mushroom omlette. the bf had french toast soaked in pink lemonade with rasberry's and mangoes soaked in champagne. Do I even need to tell you how fabulous it was? oh i do? well It was just GREAT.
As always remember small place = call ahead. but keep in mind just because you call does not guraentee you a spot- seriously, keep your cool and be nice and they will seat you as soon as humanly possible. I definitely think if you are seriously OCD about when and how you dine you probably should go other places with more stringent guidelines. (just sayin)Listed in: A great brunch in Philly? You…
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3/10/2010
Carmen never ceases to amaze and delight myself and whoever I bring to her small establishment. Her… Read more »
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Review from Hoa T.
6/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
One of my last meal in Philly, and it was awesome. Carman was a character and the place takes after her. Small and intimate with the intimate leaning toward lots of penis. The menu is always changing. Definitely on my list of places to go when I'm back in Philly.
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Review from Monica S.
6/18/2009
I have a friend who's been to every "cool/unique/off the beaten path" spot in Philly. So, while I can impress my less in-the-know friends with random urban discoveries, this one buddy keeps me on my toes. I finally one-upped her at Carman's. It was actually the first time I'd been there too.
We walked into this diminutive diner (there's bar seating for about 4-6 people -there's no liquor though- and a few tables) and were seated right away. Our server came over, asked for our names and proceeded to rattle off the specials. I can't remember exactly what they were, but I got the feeling that Carman's the type of woman who goes shopping the day before and buys whatever's fresh. Figuring out what to make with it seems like an afterthought. Somehow she manages to pair the most unlikely items together and keep it delicious.
There's subtle penis iconography strewn throughout the diner. It doesn't come off as tasteless though. While I was sitting at the table, I remember looking out the window and glancing over a little plush piggie. How darling! Upon closer inspection, his little bits were hanging out.
"Carman puts the C U N(ext) T(uesday) back into country." That's what the sign reads, folks.
Oh! You can call in advance and have your name put on the waiting list. There never seems to be too long of a wait though.Listed in: Best Neighborhood (ever), Unsung Heroes, Weird Philly, Best Brunch, Philly Breakfast
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Review from Michael F.
Philadelphia, PA
10/12/2009
A 1-star review flying in the face of all these 4s and 5s, what could possibly be my beef?
Well, it wasn't the food (that was decent) and it wasn't the waitstaff (they were friendly and accommodating). Carman, however, UNBELIEVABLY rude.
I recently went for my first outing, based on the recommendation of a friend. It was early Sunday afternoon, the place is tiny, & I hadn't called ahead, so I was okay with the 40 or so minute wait. Went for a stroll around the block and was seated soon after returning. The waiter introduced himself, asked for our names, and welcomed us once we sat down.
So far, so good, right?
The place is tiny, I mentioned that right? It's relevant because that meant that our table was literally within arm's reach of the kitchen. That becomes an issue in a moment.
While finishing our brunch, my companion & I both slowed down the rate at which we were eating but were by no means stopped & loitering. However, it seems we were not eating fast enough for Carman, as she actually leaned over and says to us...
"If you're not eating, leave, there are people waiting for that table."
Thinking back, I wish I'd had a retort ready to throw back but was awestruck by the sheer disrespect she was showing two paying customers.
I don't know what your problem is, Carman, maybe daddy didn't hug you enough growing up or you watched Seinfeld's "Soup Nazi" episode one too many times, but you don't have to worry about me occupying one of your precious tables ever again.
I'm never going back. And I'll be telling everyone I know the same. -
Review from Daniel G.
Philadelphia, PA
6/18/2009 ROTD 12/23/2009
I hadn't said a word, but I was handed a coffee as soon as I walked in. Heaven.
Best brunch in Philadelphia, hands down. Menu changes every saturday with bold and daring ingredient combinations that always pay off.
Be aware, Carman uses her kitchen to proudly display her collection of phallic kitsch. That's right - penises everywhere. -
Review from Jason C.
Philadelphia, PA
5/10/2010
Carman's is one of my favorite places to grab breakfast in South Philly. There are only a few items on the menu, and it changes daily, but so far everything I've had has been excellent. The challah french toast is not to be missed, the pancakes melt on your tongue, and the applewood smoked bacon tastes like a crisp, juicy campfire.
The space is small, crowded, and cluttered with kitschy art and arbitrary country-themed chotskies. The phallic imagery, the breast shaped cream jugs, and a "Carman Puts the c**t back in Country" sign all seem a little misguided and out of place, adding an unnecessary edginess to this otherwise quaint South Philly brunch spot.
A stone's throw from Pat's and Geno's, it's probably better to skip the 3am cheesesteak and opt for breakfast at Carman's instead. The coffee isn't noteworthy, but the food is good, and I've always had friendly service and coffee while I waited to sit. Make sure to call ahead and make reservations, and with only a handful of seats in this kitchen, you'll still wait for a table. -
Review from Felicia D.
Philadelphia, PA
2/2/2008
Other reviewers have hit all the pertinent details for Carman's. It's small, fun, penis-full, the food is amazing and not for the picky/wimpy/otherwise boring.
Go and eat what a really talented and creative chef wants to feed you. You'll be happy. And full. And jealous of Carman's legs and ability to cook all day in high-heeled mules. xo.Listed in: Emotional Rescue, Breakfast Bangers, I'm a Very Cheap Date, Hangover Cures
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Review from Andy S.
Blue Bell, PA
12/31/2008
Best breakfast spot in the city. There, I said it.
At first, I was hesitant to go...all the way to South Philly? For breakfast? But what the heck...lets do it. And it was SO worth it. For starters, as noted, the place is very, very small...three tables (I think) and a few spots at the counter. Thats it. One cook, one server. Somehow we lucked out and got there when the counter was empty (on a Sunday, no less) so we didn't have to wait. But, apparently, that can happen often. The server, Alexei (sp?), was incredibly warm and inviting, and we were seated with large mugs full of coffee/tea right away. No menu, save for what is on the board...4 choices, I believe. Somehow choosing from 4 dishes is harder than choosing from 40...not sure how that works.
Anyway, I went with the omelette. Stuffed with steamed broccoli, onions, goat cheese, and some other tasty tidbits I can't recall (oh yea, it was BIG), it was served alongside potatoes, toast, and lamb sausage. Fresh preserves, too. Simply divine all around. I ate every last bite, and didn't need to eat again for almost 12 hours. This is not a cheap breakfast place (the bill for 2 was slightly north of $30), but worth every penny.
Also, as previously noted, the decor is totally unique (and totally South Philly). Hard to describe, other than to say you need to see it for yourself. Won't find this in Center City (or any other city), that is for sure. I hope to return, soon, and dine in the pickup truck parked outside (yep...pickup truck). Lots of friendly conversation will be had (as everyone in the place is within normal talking distance), as well.
If you are a picky eater, and/or the sort who always has to tweak something, you might want to think twice about coming here...Carman don't take no guff. But I hope picky eaters don't read Yelp, so this warning will likely be unwarranted.
Finally, people, its CarmAn. Not CarmEn. And bring cash. -
Review from Elizabeth R.
Kennesaw, GA
7/15/2008
I feel deliciously enriched for having only experienced Carman's once. I promise myself that I'll be back for more, although I'm on a kick of my own to make the perfect frittata in my own tiny ass kitchen.
But Carman can whip you up something that you've most certainly never had before, like an omelet containing everything except the kitchen sink. And somehow, you can still appreciate all the individual flavors. The homefries are quite like my mom's which I'm sure doesn't coincide with everyone's review, but it was like being home on a Saturday morning...if my mom actually had penis shaped salt and pepper shakers at the kitchen table, that is. However, the food is hearty, flavorful, and served in large quantities. You get your money's worth!
Obviously there are rules embedded in your brain after even one visit to Carman's, i.e. Don't attempt to pet Carman's dog or you'll get your arm removed. Get there early or expect to wait, due to the small, yet charming, seating space. Cashola only, peeps. Other than that, sit back, relax, and listen to Carman as she talks to you and her staff about everything from foreign affairs to Jerry Springer. And she'll cook everything solo style...in heels, no less.
