Carman's Country Kitchen

carmen's has the best hospitality in the city. my boyfriend have been lucky enough to be enjoying her crazy , unique and tasty specials for four years now. even though we've moved cross country two years ago, they still know us by name when we walk in the door. thanks for always having the best breakfast in town! Pros: unique specials, welcoming staff, the 1 & only carmen more

It began well, but ended badly. The atmosphere was kitch-y fun. Our server was nice, promptly filling our coffees. Then it got bad. First, there were only 4 menu choices, all of which were $12 or $13. Secondly, my order of 2 waffles took 40 minutes to make and were brought out one at a time because they only had one waffle maker. Waffle #1 was so hard that I could barely cut it with a knife. I got waffle #2 to go (I paid $6 for the damn thing), and was still sitting at the counter sipping coffee when our server politely asked us to leave our seats so the next party could sit. How very rude! Maybe I went there on a bad day, but I won't be going back to find out! Not even the possibility to dine in the back of Carman's pickup will tempt me. Pros: Fun atmosphere Cons: , Overcooked, Rushed out more

It's funky and fun, the food is pretty darn tasty and the portions are generous. A very limited menu - usually about 4 or 5 items - is positively offset by its creativity. But, judging by the prices you'd think you were eating at the Four Seasons. Sadly, Carman's is way overpriced. For instance, you'd expect the $12 pancakes would come with sausage or bacon. Sorry, but that's another few bucks. I'd love to be a regular patron but I'm just not going to spend $30+ (for two people) for what is ultimately a kitschy little South Philly luncheonette full of hipsters. more

Carman's is indeed unique/eccentric - a value it is not. Your choice of 4 - 5 menue items is the first indication that things are quite limited. The next indication is when you order Challah French Toast at $12.00 and find one thin slice of somewhat doughy toast on your plate. Granted it came with a sauce of clementine slices/coconut/in honey. Honey, $12.00 it was not. Another concern came from the stack of store bought bread in the window...is this a WaWa? My order of Roast Leg of Lamb with eggs was an interesting change...over done but tasty. Oh, the service was very attentive...the seating cramped or should I say ""intimate"". And believe it reservations are ""required"", give me a break. Pros: Service, Wierd Cons: Overpriced, Store bought breads, Cramped more

this restaurant is by far the best place in the city to eat breakfast. Although a little daring with the menu, there will always be one item that will grab you and take you to heaven. Jump on the truck and go for a ride. more

Three things you need to eat at this trendy and always packed little breakfast/brunch place: open mind, big stomach, and a smile. The waiters and waitresses are extremely friendly. I have converted many of my friends to eat at this place. Please be sure to call ahead to make a reservation as this place does get packed. more

Carman is an amazing woman and chef. Her unique combinations of ingredients are what make her entrees so special. Carman's is an old South Philly luncheonette with just a few seats and a few stools at the counter, so it's best to make reservations. A totally gastronomic experience! more

Yes, she's got a nifty truck, but Carman's ain't all that. There were four breakfast selections (if there was a ""regular"" menu we were not told about it) which were all REALLY overwrought (e.g. pancakes with acorn squash, something callled ""banana creme"" that tasted like instant pudding, whipped cream and pecans. A bit busy for my taste, and that was the simplest thing on the menu. Also, rather expensive (the above, with homemade sausage that was only OK, was $14). The service *was* lovely. The counter guys are friendly and attentive, but the food is simply not worth the price. A final beef: when I'm paying that much for breakfast, I don't expect to be given *margarine* instead of butter. This is particularly perplexing when you are served outstanding homemade preserves alongside. We were glad we went, as we'd heard many good things, but we won't be returning. Pros: funky/eclectic decor, good preserves, friendly service Cons: overpriced, limited selection, fussy food more

Carman's not only has great breakfast but a charming cook/ hostess in a small but charming corner store in South Philly. The French Toast is to die for made with challah bread and fresh fruit. more

Carmen is goddess's gift to Philadelphia! She is a striking Amazon of a woman with a flair for all things food. Don't miss her frog's legs, thanksgiving turkey, salmon, or of course, the infamous 'better than sex' french toast! more

I've been there half a dozen times and been treated with excellent service by everyone. It can be crowded, sure, but they'll bring you coffee while you wait and/or try to make room for you. The sausage is perfect and the combinations of fruits, cheeses and grains that go into the dishes are sure signs of a cook that loves to challenge food lovers. more