Best Restaurants, Shops, and Things to Do in Media

Media, Pennsylvania, proudly calls itself "Everybody's Hometown" -- and for good reason. This vibrant Delaware County seat is one of the Philadelphia region's most walkable, livable communities, anchored by a bustling State Street that is packed with independently owned restaurants, boutiques, theaters, and gathering spots. Whether you are planning a weekend day trip or considering a move, this guide covers the best restaurants, shops, and attractions in Media.

Best Restaurants in Media

Media's dining scene is the crown jewel of Delaware County. State Street alone has more than 20 restaurants representing cuisines from around the globe, and nearly every one of them is locally owned.

American and Brewpubs

• Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant is a regional powerhouse. The Media location at 130 N State Street serves award-winning craft beers brewed on-site alongside a full menu of wood-fired pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and entrees. Their Vienna Red Lager and Pig Iron Porter are local favorites.
• Bittersweet Kitchen has become one of Media's most beloved brunch and lunch spots. Known for creative comfort food, house-baked goods, and a cozy atmosphere, this State Street gem draws lines on weekends. Try the crab cake benedict or the stuffed french toast.
• Brick & Brew at 26 W State Street is a craft beer bar and kitchen with 30 rotating taps and a menu of elevated pub fare. The beer cheese dip and brick-oven pretzels are legendary among Media regulars.
• Old State Tavern at 38 State Road has been a Media institution for decades, serving classic American fare in a historic building with a warm neighborhood vibe.

Italian and Mediterranean

• La Porta Ristorante & Wine Bar at 13 W State Street is Media's finest Italian dining experience. Housed in a beautifully restored bank building, La Porta serves handmade pasta, veal, seafood, and an extensive Italian wine list. The outdoor courtyard is a summer favorite.
• Fellini Cafe of Media at 9 W State Street offers classic Southern Italian dishes in an intimate, romantic setting. Fellini's has been a State Street staple for years, known for its veal saltimbocca and tiramisu.
• Spasso Italian Grill at 108 E State Street brings a modern Italian menu with wood-grilled specialties, craft cocktails, and a lively bar scene.

Global Cuisine

• Tom's Dim Sum at 13 E State Street serves authentic Chinese dim sum, dumplings, and noodle dishes in a modern setting. The soup dumplings and pork buns are can't-miss.
• Azie Asian Fusion offers a stylish Japanese and pan-Asian menu with sushi, robata grill items, and creative cocktails in an elegant atmosphere.
• Desert Rose Mediterranean at 305 W State Street is a family-owned BYOB serving flavorful falafel, shawarma, kebabs, and mezze platters. The hummus and lamb gyro are crowd-pleasers.
• Taquero brings authentic Mexican street food to Media with handmade tortillas, tacos al pastor, and an extensive tequila and mezcal selection.
• The Tattooed Pig is a gastropub known for inventive small plates, craft cocktails, and a moody, artistic interior that sets it apart on State Street.

Shopping in Media

Media's State Street shopping scene is a small-business paradise. Unlike the typical mall experience, almost every storefront on State Street is independently owned and operated.

Boutiques and Specialty Shops

• Three Potato Four is a beloved State Street institution offering unique gifts, art, jewelry, and home decor from local and independent artists. It is the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind present.
• Local Home & Gifts curates a collection of artisan-made home goods, stationery, and locally sourced products. Their "Made in Media" section is a highlight.
• Per Lei Boutique is a women's clothing boutique offering stylish, contemporary apparel and accessories with personalized service.
• Bookish Notions is an independent bookstore that hosts author events and book clubs. Their curated selection of new releases and local interest titles makes it a bibliophile's haven.
• Tancreed's Specialty Shop offers classic men's and women's apparel and accessories on State Street.
• Kuta is a women's boutique known for trendy, fashion-forward clothing and accessories.
• Magic Threads Consignment Boutique offers upscale consignment clothing and accessories for bargain hunters.
• Silver Moon Studio Antiques is a curated antique shop with unique vintage furniture, collectibles, and decor.

Things to Do in Media

Outdoor Recreation

• Ridley Creek State Park is a 2,606-acre gem just north of Media. It offers 12 miles of hiking trails, fishing in Ridley Creek, horse trails, picnic areas, and the historic Hunting Hill Mansion. The paved multi-use trail is perfect for cycling and rollerblading.
• Tyler Arboretum features 650 acres of historic gardens, woodland trails, and a butterfly house with 17 labeled tree species along the oldest paved trail in America, the Rocky Run Trail.
• Linvilla Orchards is a family destination with pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, hayrides, a farm market, mini-golf, and seasonal festivals including pumpkin picking in the fall and tree sales at Christmas.

Arts and Culture

• The Media Theatre is a professional performing arts venue hosting Broadway-caliber musicals, concerts, and children's theater in a historic State Street building.
• Hedgerow Theatre in nearby Rose Valley is America's oldest continuously operating repertory theatre, founded in 1923.
• Game On State is a retro arcade bar with classic video games, pinball machines, and craft beer. A perfect stop for a fun night out.
• Pennsylvania Veteran's Museum on State Street honors Delaware County's veterans with exhibits and educational programs.

Annual Events and Community Life

Dining Under the Stars is Media's signature summer event. On Wednesday evenings from June through August, State Street closes to traffic, and restaurants set up outdoor tables, transforming the street into one giant al fresco dining party with live music. It exemplifies why Media consistently ranks among the best small towns in Pennsylvania.

The Media Farmers Market runs every Friday from May through November at 301 N Jackson Street, offering fresh produce, artisan breads, flowers, and prepared foods. Media also hosts a holiday parade, First Friday art strolls, and a summer concert series in the borough parks.

Neighborhood Guide: Living in Media

Media is the county seat of Delaware County and one of its most desirable places to live. The borough is served by the Rose Tree Media School District (Penncrest High School) and offers SEPTA regional rail service on the Media/Elwyn Line with a 25-minute ride to Center City Philadelphia.

Homes in Media include charming Victorian rowhomes, historic single-family houses, and newer townhome developments. The walkable downtown means many residents can walk to restaurants, shops, the farmers market, and the train station. For more information, read our pros and cons of Media and our complete living guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Media Home Awaits

From the weekly Dining Under the Stars to the acclaimed restaurant scene, from independent bookshops to Ridley Creek's hiking trails, Media delivers a lifestyle that is hard to match anywhere in the Philadelphia region. If you are considering making Media your home, contact John Smart at Smarty Home Solutions for professional guidance. With deep Delaware County expertise, John can help you find the perfect home in Everybody's Hometown. Call 215-598-6848 or schedule a consultation today.