Chef-Partner Tyler Akin has earned plenty of accolades from Wilmington diners and Delaware foodies at Le Cavalier. This month, the restaurateur opened the doors of a new concept: Bastia at Hotel Anna & Bel in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood—and it promises to be worth the trip.
Bastia—a leisurely cafe by day and coastal Mediterranean restaurant by night—celebrates Mediterranean cuisine, pulling inspiration from the shores of Corsica and Sardinia.
Akin is deeply immersed in French, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines and has spent plenty of time traveling throughout these regions. A recent trip in January throughout Corsica and Sardinia included strolling through the fish and bottarga vendors at the San Benedetto Market and delving into the art of sheep’s milk cheese-making. Akin drew on these experiences to develop an incredible Mediterranean menu just a short drive from Delaware.
“Our talented team is eager to explore some less-familiar corners of the Mediterranean and chart a course that feels fresh,” Akin says. “With food and drinks alike, we want to take our guests off the beaten path just a bit and dive into the bright, nuanced flavors of these rugged and beautiful islands.”
Signature dinner items include skate cheeks with corn and bonito beurre blanc, sea urchin butter tartine with stuffed squash blossom, grilled lobster algherese with legumes and more. The brunch menu includes breakfast sandwiches and green shakshuka with herbs, tomatillo, wilted greens and eggs.
View this post on Instagram
Beverage director Benjamin Kirk developed a cocktail menu brimming with breezy and playful riffs on classic cocktails. Along with a stunning cocktail menu, Bastia also serves house-made Italian sodas and coffee granita for nonalcoholic options, along with a coffee program powered by Rival Bros.
The atmosphere serves as a welcome retreat that transitions effortlessly from a serene cafe to a lively evening gathering place. With a stunning vaulted ceiling, subtle lighting and exposed beams, the interior feels light and airy with a fireplace and statement artwork serving as the heart of the space. Embracing Mediterranean influences, the design incorporates warm and natural materials and a light, earthy color palette.
To see (and taste) Bastia for yourself, make a reservation online.
Related: These Delaware Restaurants Focus on Spectacular Plating
