TASTE DAILY: Pucker Up
When it comes to dessert, people tend to settle into one of two camps: chocolate and not chocolate. While I appreciate a nice piece of 70 percent, I’m firmly in the non-chocolate camp. I belong to a renegade faction of dessert fans who pledge allegiance to the lemon. And I’m not talking about the kind of lemon pound cakes that have just a whiff of citrus. I like dishes that embrace the fruit’s tart personality and chefs who aren’t afraid to make diners pucker. Conveniently, these three desserts are all found in restaurants along the revitalized East Passyunk Ave. for an easy dessert-tasting tour.
Mancuso’s
Less sweet than most other ices, Mr. Mancuso’s homemade cup of lemon water ice has the bracing acidity of an actual fresh lemon.
Le Virtù
The airy lemon mouse here is the perfect balance of sweet and tart for citrus lovers. Served in a martini glass, the light dessert tastes like the foamy essence of the fruit.
Mr. Martino’s
This homey throwback may have quirky hours, but its menu is totally reliable. It always features one of my favorite desserts: a simple lemon tart with a creamy filling and the perfect buttery crust.
Image, photos.com