Elvis Tribute Artist Eddie O'Rourke presents A Tribute to The King

I’m NOT an Elvis impersonator and I remind folks of that fact all the time. I AM an Elvis Tribute Artist and I’m also a food and wine enthusiast…also a fact! My life as an entertainer has afforded me the opportunity to explore many restaurants in many locations. From time to time I will impart some of my eatery experiences ’cause I love sharing good food almost as much as I love sharing music.

I’ve already mentioned that Philadelphia is a favorite city for me. Scores of  exceptional spots for dining. A list of those Philly spots I would give high marks to would certainly include: Fork, Tangerine, Cuba Libra, Patou, Farmacia, Estia, Paradigm, Friday-Saturday-Sunday, Astral Plane, Striped Bass, Mission Grill, Davio’s, Tria, Roy’s, City Tavern, Panorama, Meritage, XIX, City Harvest, Le Bec Fin, La Croix and Susanna Foo.

There are a few Philadelphia locations that stand out in my mind for a myriad of reasons. Estia has wonderful Greek food with authentic atmosphere and live music to boot. Cuba Libra has a young, neo-latin vibe and is a happening place…especially on weekends. Roy’s boasts Hawaiian-fusion cuisine. Hawaiian seafood delicacies, meats, sushi and shellfish prepared with European flavors and exotic Asian spices. Add to that an award winning wine list for the perfect combination. For a real taste of colonial life…City Tavern is a must for the total  Old Philadelphia experience.  A faithful recreation of the tavern which stood  on the very same spot, where the founding fathers hung out while establishing the new nation. You can sample brews made from the original 18th Century recipes and all the staff is dressed in period garb. A total step back in time! Panorama features traditional northern Italian food with wonderful faux painting and murals that add to the ambience.  But, the topper for a wine enthusiast like me…the bar offers one hundred forty labels by the glass by way of their “cuvinet system.” And, for an absolutely elegant dining experience, no holes barred, my choice is Davio’s. Located on the second floor of the historic Provident Bank Building, a short run from trendy Rittenhouse Square. A spacious dining area with high ceilings, large windows and ornate plaster decoration typical of the period. The Bar area is appointed with over-stuffed chairs and sofas and offers a five star wine list. They feature a contemporary northern Italian menu, exquisite presentation and meticulous service. And, if steak is your delight, Davio’s is second to none. The entire staff always goes the extra mile to make me feel like royalty….Like “The King.”

Here I am with, my good friend and fan, Lisa Whiddett of Davio's.

As in the title of that great Johnny Cash tune…”I’ve Been Everywhere” and dined at some of the finest establishments across the country. From the simplest to the most extravagant dishes. This time it was Philadelphia, PA…STAY TUNED  to this “Tribute Artist” for the next installment as we explore food across America.