Departure Restaurant & Lounge has an international menu described by owners Rory and Krystal Hirst as a “departure” from typical dining, writes Ed Williams for Main Line Today.
The restaurant is in a former bank building on South Orange Street in Media across from the Delaware County Courthouse.
The interior, a unique design by Rory, resembles a mid- to late-century airport lounge with low-level lighting, plush velvet upholstered banquettes and high-backed chairs.
You’ll also find an airport flight board, large propellers, maps and metal sculptures of the continents.
The menu provides more traditional items and new creations from executive chef JJ Morgan.
Tapas small plates feature the world’s flavors, like the honey-hoisin stir-fry with pork ribeye, peppers and onions that partnered well with the shrimp fried rice.
There were Tandoon chicken skewers and tender lamb lollipops over a peppy chili-mint sauce and goat cheese hummus.
For a decadent cocktail, try the Black Sea Rittenhouse Rye with orange and chocolate bitters. There’s also the Sake to Me Sake, with elderflower lychee and plum.
The restaurant has an international beer list that includes German, Lebanese and Indian brands.
Find out more about the atmosphere and food of Departure Restaurant and Lounge in Main Line Today.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on DELCO Today in January 2025.
