Philadelphia - December 17, 2008

The Real Deal

El Camino Real Restaurant Opens

We used to have only one reason to brave the insane drivers and general douchiness around Liberties Walk. That reason was Owen Kamihira’s Bar Ferdinand.

But tomorrow’s opening of his second restaurant, El Camino Real, gives us another one.

The Texas barbecue/Northern Mexican eatery has enough Aztec-print banquettes, flocked paintings, Madonnas, and rough-hewn tables to conjure up a cowboy bar on the border.

Flavors of El Paso, Texas, and Juarez, Mexico, inspire chef Jennifer Zavala’s menu. Try not-to-be-missed Wagyu brisket, beef back ribs, and out-of-this-world burritos. Wash it down with Southern sweet tea in a pint glass (be warned: It packs a punch) or a tequila shot served with a michelada.

More than enough reason to get on the road.

El Camino Real, 1040 North Second Street (215-925-1110).