Located at 4306 Butler Street in Lawrenceville, The Vandal, owned by Joey Hilty and Emily Slagel, attracts copious amounts of attention. Here’s why:
1. They offer a rotating menu.
The restaurant changes items on the menu based on the produce of the season. This is a choice that supports both the environment and human health. Eating seasonally usually is entwined with eating locally, so less fossil fuels are burned transporting fruits and vegetables from one place to another, and less harmful preservatives are employed, which means more nutrients. For example, now, in the winter, The Vandal offers an amazing beet soup with cippollini cream and paprika oil created by chef Csilla Thackray. Then, of course, there are classics such as hamburgers and mac 'n’ cheese that you can almost always purchase regardless of the time of year. And don’t worry; the meat is purchased from a local butcher!
2. They have unique drink options.
Apart from the glass bottles of water ready on each marble-topped table, The Vandal offers coffee, purchased from local café Constellation Coffee, and lemonade. This lemonade is infused with distinct flavors such as vanilla or lavender and made right within the store. If you aren’t interested in any of these options, the restaurant is BYOB.
3. Brunch.
The Vandal is most famous for their brunch options (which can sell out quickly nowadays!). They offer a wide range of toasts such as apple with ricotta and lomo or squash with cipollini and kale. You can often catch some egg dishes, but The Vandal always finds a way to make them signature and noteworthy.
4. They host events.
Whether it is “Sad Santa,” an evening of sad holiday songs performed by local bands, or NYE 2016, an evening where The Vandal teams with local wine bar, Allegheny Wine Mixer, to host a seven course meal, The Vandal is always seeking to engage the community.
5. The atmosphere.
Not only are the many plants, marble tabletops, wooden floors, and white walls appealing, but there is always something good playing through the speakers.
6. They have a kind crew.
The workers at The Vandal not only treat one another like family, but the customers too. Everyone is very personable and generous. What better place to give your business than a locally owned, clean, and homey restaurant?
So, here are the hours!
Wednesday through Saturday: 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
