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One of their delicious desserts! Mmm!

The cavernous halls and sweeping, decadent chambers that line Broad Street’s famed Avenue of the Arts have long been home to the haves… people living the good life. And true to their location, Sotto Varalli and its lofted predecessor, Upstares at Varalli, offer upscale American dining and a bulging wine list spread across two pages.

Time was, a man could eat Filet Mignon, sip a fine aged Cabernet and stare out over Broad Street like Donald Trump on a bender. But today’s economy makes images like these seem disconnected from reality. True, fine dining establishments are built on an upscale image, catering only to the best. But what to do when titans become tightwads? Two words: economic stimulus.

That’s why Varalli launched their “bailout” wine list and all-day, every day happy hour, as well as three new tasting menus to help you cope while not sacrificing upscale value. Take advantage of the $25 Three-Course “Early Recovery” Menu, the $35 Four-Course “Rebound” Menu or the $45 Five-Course “Stimulus” Tasting Menu.

If you can afford to do it, the Stimulus Tasting Menu gives you access to the pre-and-post-entrée options that really show off Varalli’s creativity. Their Mushroom Hazelnut soup is a creative, smoky concoction that is hearty enough to pass the bread test. And maybe it’s just the season, but the bright, springtime dishes like the Sotto Salad and the crab cake stood out above the rest.

Full of pears, tart cheeses and a honey mustard dressing, the Sotto Salad was a light, bouncy treat. And the crab cake, overflowing with full lump crab meat and served on a crisp, clean tomato salad, was perfect for welcoming the warm weather. By the time you get to the deserts, like Tiramisu and a rich chocolate-and-strawberry bread pudding, you will forget that the word Stimulus is anywhere near this feast.

Come in to Varalli and check out the new menu options, allowing you Restaurant Week prices at a more convenient time: whenever you want!

Sotto Varalli
231 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 546-6800
www.varalliusa.com