Valley Green Inn Reviews

We had a 4:30 pm reservation for Thanksgiving; 3 adults and 2 children. We arrived a few minutes early and waited and waited until 5:10 pm when they finally had a table for us. While we were patiently waiting the rude host kept telling us to be patient and understanding, that the 2:30 reservation people were very LATE so we will now be seated LATE. We were brought to the backyard, outdoors where they had a vinyl, plastic tarp tent enclosing an approximate 25' x 35' room. The walls did not go down to the ground (6" from ground) so the frigid air was coming in under the walls, no decor on the walls, and the room was so cold that 75% of all guests in the tent room were wearing their winter coats while trying to enjoy their Thanksgiving dinner. A prior post mentioned how the food was "COLD" which is true because the buffet was set up in the tent room which was so cold the food was COLD. Our server was flustered and also complained about how dark the room was and that is why she gave me the wrong bill 2 times. She could not read it in the dark tent room which only had a few Christmas style lights. She had to go to the kitchen where there was light to read it. After 45 minutes of eating with our winter coats and being cold, uncomfortable, no music, no decor, we decided to count our losses and drive home. When we left there were 3 employees/mangers around the hostess stand and none of them said "Thank You for dining with us", " was everything ok" etc.. Very rude, poor service, cold food.

We were visiting our son and his girlfriend, and had picked this for Thanksgiving dinner on line, what a great setting! We did have a hiccup at first with the first table we were seated at, two people in our party could not get out without disrupting the table next to us, they were trapped. My husband attenpted to correct this and was told "only table or sit outside", he said, "no, get the manager", the manager arrived, we showed him our dilemma, we were moved, and received free wine with our meal. Once we got reseated, I can't say enough nice things, the food was fanatasic and it was a buffet. There was plenty of food, lots of choices, nothing ever ran out, the servers were friendly, and the setting was very pretty. It was a good recovery and I will come back when I return to the area.

Was visiting the area with friends who highly recommended the Valley Green Inn. We did a short walking tour of the park which was very pretty with a light dusting of snow along the river. Then had a scrumptious lunch in the glow of a warm fire! Perfect setting!! Our server was Andy who took very good care of us (and kept our coffee cups full). Two of us had a crab cake sandwich and I had the winter kale salad with salmon. All meals were so fresh, tasty and well prepared - no fillers in the crab and just the perfect balance of veggies/fruit/salad dressing for the salad. Really tasty. And we finished up with a creme brulee and cheese cake. Seriously, this establishment is excellent from atmosphere to food quality to service!

We visited for a family celebration dinner. Service was attentive and the food was good, but not particularly memorable. To that end, I cannot even recall what I had to eat for entree two days ago! The setting is nice in the park, but the place just lacks atmosphere for that special occasion.

We went on Christmas Eve looking the comfort and coziness of one of the two front rooms with a Christmas tree and fireplace. Unfortunately, they stuck our party of six in a back room with loud music and really bright lighting. It was like being in a cafeteria. WE asked to have the lighting dimmed and music turned down, which made it tolerable but it was not the experience we were hoping for. Plus the menu was more limited and quite pricey. If you go to this restaurant, request the room with the fireplace.

We frequently walk and sometimes hike in Valley Green. It is a beautiful place along the Wissahickon Creek and has many buildings and remains of buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the buildings along the trail is the historic Valley Green Inn. It houses a wonderful restaurant and has facilities for private parties, functions and weddings. The setting is very picturesque and the Inn is part of history. We have eaten there for lunch as well as dinner. We usually park in a lot nearby, walk or hike for an hour or so and then come back to the Inn for lunch or dinner. The menu is varied and offers something for everyone. There are many salads and sandwiches for lunch and the dinner menu offers both full dinners as well as lighter fare. We have found all of the choices we have made over the years to have been delicious. Last Sunday afternoon we met friends for a walk along the trail and came back for our 5:30 reservation. We chose to dine inside. When we left, the outside patio was filled with customers. We had two racks of Lamb, a shared salad, a shared soup, a homemade veggie burger and gnocchi entrees. The platters were full with the accompaniment to the entree. Besides water, we had a couple of glasses wine and a homemade lemonade. Everyone said their meal was delicious. It is unusual to get great food in a great setting in an old historic Inn. The bill was $140.00 but the setting is priceless.

The Valley Green Inn is a wonderful throwback to an earlier era of inns and time-gone-by. Tucked away in the shade of the Wissahickon gorge, right next to the creek, the Inn serves a nice blend of casual-American cuisine. After hiking from Chestnut Hill College on the Orange trail, my group of five stopped for lunch on the outside porch/patio. We all tried different sandwich combinations. The crab cake sandwich on a fresh brioche bun was delicious, as was the portabello mushroom sandwich. Everyone left satisfied and ready for the rest of the hike. The service was just right, with plenty of drinks being refreshed for the tired hikers. When hiking through the park, make a stop at this wonderful restaurant.

My friend and I celebrated our birthdays with lunch at valley green inn. We had planned to walk the park trails after lunch but it was sweltering hot. So we enjoyed a great lunch in the pleasant, wonderfully air conditioned inn. Will definitely go back in the fall.

This great restaurant on the Wissahickon trail is as rare as a five-tool baseball player. First, it is set in the midst of a a large and great hiking area. Fairmont Park is no ordinary park and for being in the heart of a big city, some of the trails and creeks rival wild places in far more remote areas. It is not really easy to drive there, but it can be mastered if one is not directionally challenged. Secondly, the building itself evokes history. With a little imagination, you can see the Lenape Indian tribes, the deep gorges and the stage coaches. And even with less imagination, the wooden Indian statue and other sculptures and paintings that adorn the place will take you back. The service was flawless and skilled and went beyond just good. The table was very slightly wobby (We didn't even notice it and had not complained) when one of the staff appeared out of nowhere to steady it. Now that is anticipation. The pacing of our meal was nearly perfect. The food was splendid. Some of us had brunch, some of us, lunch, and it was all good. The cream of Asparagus soup allowed the asparagus to flavor, but not overwhelm the soup and it was not salty. The meatloaf was high quality with a just-right gravy, fresh (Not garlic-laced) mashed potatoes and thin, elegant asparagus. The pecan stuffed waffle was served with a warm maple syrup. The fruit berry waffle was laced with whipped cream and a fruit compote. The salads were fine and the fruit salad was fresh and generous. The breads were excellent, including tiny perfect muffins and scones that would make Scrooge McDuck's mouth water like it did in the comic book where he had scones he had not sampled since his boyhood in Scotland. There were other tempting food offerings, but how much can 3 little people eat? I guess we'll have to come back. As to ambiance, imagine all of this history, comfort and service in a place where you can stare out the windows at cliffs, greenery, hikers, bikers, dogs and soaring geese. All topped (or really started) by Mimosas, Bailey's Irish Cream and coffee and/or a fine glass of Pinot Grigio at prices that were really no higher than other good restaurants in the city.

A friend and I had lunch today at the Valley Green Inn. Idyllic location, an 1850-built roadhouse located in the middle of a huge, natural forest, city park. You'd think you were in the middle of the wilderness instead of in the middle of Philadelphia. For appetizer we shared the "Sesame Seared Tuna," hands down one of the best tasting, prepared and presented I've had in the world! The serving was large, I could have ordered another appetizer and had enough food. If this was all I had ordered I'd have rated this restaurant 'excellent.' We each ordered an entree and split them. My Grilled Cheese sandwich was a disappointment. It looked delicious, which is why I ordered it. The ingredients were double cream brie cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, caramelized onion, and a tomato on brioche. When I picked up the sandwich the bread was very greasy and started to crack. The only taste I could make out were the caramelized onions and one slice of cold tomato. The cheese was an aftertaste and I only tasted brie, no cheddar; the bacon was cold and had a tough rind. After one bite of bacon, the rest of the bacon came out in one piece. Could not even cut the bacon or the rind, it was so hard. The sandwich should have been served with a green salad but I was served wimpy fries instead. My friend ordered the Thai Shrimp Salad, the flavor was also disappointing. It was mild and we had to look for the flavor. We asked the waiter to please bring some of the sauce that was served on the Tuna appetizer. This added some life to the flavor, but still not too tasty. The six large shrimp were OK but tasteless, I personally thought the Thai noodles were a bit overcooked and at the verge of becoming a little gummy. All in all I'd go back because of the location and seared tuna. Maybe all I'd order a second time is the seared tuna!

I had thought that the Valley Green Inn had improved the quality of their food and service in recent years. But I was deeply disappointed by their catering of my friend's wedding reception on site. The appetizers tasted as if they had been heated in a microwave. The salad was on par with what you'd get at McDonald's and the main course - salmon with veggies - was so over-cooked it had no flavor whatsoever. As for the service, the staff were all "dazed and confused." Appetizers came out of the kitchen only AFTER all the guests had grabbed up the meager celery, red pepper and carrot sticks place by the bar, along with drab trays of cheese and crackers. I have seen better at PTA meetings! While I would still recommend Valley Green Inn for Brunch, Lunch and even Diner, I warn all brides and grooms to go elsewhere for your reception. Clearly, this restaurant has NO IDEA how to serve a special event. The staff is nothing but kids with no adults in charge!

Relatives were spending a day in Philadelphia and asked us for a lunch venue where we could spend time over a leisurely lunch. We selected Valley Green Inn and we're so happy that we did. When we arrived on a very nice Fall afternoon, we discovered that the Inn had set a table for the six of us both inside and outside, so we could choose where we wanted to sit. After much discussion, we chose to eat inside, and we were seated in the room with a fireplace, which provided a very nice ambience. Everyone was quite happy with their food selections....the French onion soup was quite good, as was the grilled Salmon club sandwich, goat cheese and spinach salad, and burgers. The one exception was the crab and shrimp rolls which folks thought were just OK. An additional positive was the service ( Scott was our waiter ) which was excellent. After lunch, we sat outside the Inn by the creek, and greatly enjoyed the Fall afternoon.....all in all, an afternoon to remember !!

My husband and I recently took a walk in Fairmount Park on a sunny day, with the Valley Green Inn being our ultimate destination where we wanted to have lunch. It was on a week day so reservations weren't necessary but I would recommend them for dinner and on the weekend. The restaurant was pretty crowded. We both had the French Onion soup which was delicious. I had the crab cake and my husband had a burger and both were very good. The service was very good and they were very friendly. Great atmosphere with authentic period pieces and a great fireplace. I would definitely recommend.

We made reservations for Easter Brunch, as we have done several previous times. This time did not turn out well at all. Apparently, there was a new chef, and the kitchen experienced a catastrophic failure. Entrees were served at least 1 ½ hours after the order was taken, and this was true throughout the dining room. In addition, upon final arrival, the food was mediocre and cold. Kudos to our heroic server who apologized, soothed, provided extra drinks and had the manager adjust the tab. She deserves a medal. Hopefully, Valley Green will recover quickly.

We visited The Valley Green Inn today for Mother's Day brunch. The whole experience was lovely. The brunch was served buffet style while was nice as we could sample all the delicious offerings. The omelet of the day (goat cheese with broccoli rabe and short rib) was very good as was the Belgian waffle with fruit compote. The service was excellent today as well - servers were very attentive and helpful. And the Inn is just charming - this was the first time we sat inside in one of the colonial dining rooms.

I can't recommend their Sunday brunch highly enough. This restaurant is truly a gem. Once again, we're into the year-end holidays, so check out their Christmas Eve/Day and New Year's Eve/Day brunch offerings. In our case, I booked for the 10:00 AM opening on New Year's Day 2016, which may sound crazy, but turned out to be a great way to start the new year. (This was not a Sunday, but on this holiday, they serve the Sunday brunch menu - something that I'm not sure is clear from their web site.) If you want to do brunch (or even lunch) I recommend that you don't drive in and park in the lot at the Inn; instead, park at one of the more distant lots (the Kitchens Lane lot for example), then take a walk along the Wissahickon on Forbidden Drive. (On the way back, take the trail on the other side of the creek - there's a great view of the restaurant from across the creek, especially in winter when the trees are bare - plus you get to walk through the Finger Bridge.) There's something really special about taking the time to walk, and then arrive at this restaurant, which is so evocative of the pre-automobile era. During our New Year's visit, the Inn was decorated for the holidays, which was charming, and with the wood fireplace actually providing the heat for the dining room. (I wouldn't sit too close.) Our server, despite having worked the New Year's Eve dinner the night before, was great. She was so enthusiastic about the menu, and rightfully so. She made us feel really welcome and appreciated. (This was probably the earliest time of day that I've consumed an alcoholic beverage - the hot buttered spiced rum was quite a treat.) The brunch is a $30 prix fixe two-course menu - a truly excellent value. Their house salad was excellent, and the lobster frittata was as well. But I don't think you could go wrong with anything on the menu.

While it has had its ups and downs over the years, the Valley Green Inn will always have a special place in this native Philadelphian's heart. The bonus is that it is enjoying an "up" time at present, with an excellent chef and professional and attentive servers. I particularly enjoy taking visitors for Sunday Brunch at the Inn, followed by a long walk along the Wissahickon.

This is like a historic place in park Wissahickon; the place is very cozy and has a great menu with fair prices. Service was good. Food was also pretty good.

When I lived in Philadelphia over 40 years ago, and we loved going to Valley Green Inn. Living in Roxborough, it was easy to get to. We'd take a leisurely walk along the Wissahickon and end up having lunch at the inn. Whenever friends or relatives came to visit from out of state, I'd bring them to Valley Green to show them this wonderful old restaurant in the middle of the woods, but still in the city. I had not been back in such a long time, I wasn't even sure it was still there. Not only was it still there, it looked almost the same, with the exception of an addition added to the back. It was just like it always was - like stepping back in time - small rooms, beamed ceilings and a fireplace; quaint and charming! We stopped there on a rather chilly, dismal day, so it was nice to come in and enjoy the warmth of the fireplace. The menu is a bit more upscale and trendy than it used to be, but there's something on the menu for just about anyone. Service was friendly. It's worth the drive if you're in the city. Be sure to allow extra time to take a walk along the creek and enjoy the scenery.

visited this past sunday for brunch and hadn't a reservation. very helpful staff sorted a table and we were off. great quality and good service. would recommend this gem to any one who is looking for a reasonably priced brunch that is not interested in doing the normal buffet/feed-bag approach at most places. this is a bit more traditional and refined. only bone to pick is the rush to clear plates at table and to do so by stacking and reaching. to the valley green: please train staff a bit better. they should know to never ask to remove a plate from a diner when others are eating. they should not reach to remove a plate before asking. they should not reach across one diner to pick up another plate. they should not stack plates at the table when removing. they should also dress more appropriately for the ambiance of the inn. otherwise really good.

What a beautiful setting to enjoy a relaxing brunch! Valley Green Inn is located in Wissahickon Park in Philadelphia, although it hardly feels like Philly. It is so quiet and remote, even the drive there builds anticipation. The Inn itself is pretty; a large, white house with a front porch overlooking the trees and water. You'll see runners and bikers and people on horseback here, too. Once inside in Inn, it's quaint and could use a little livening up but it's comfortable and the service was friendly. We ordered from the brunch menu which came with a pureed butternut squash soup garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds, a variety of warm breads and butter, and finally crab cake eggs benedict topped with caviar and served with roasted potatoes. The meal ended with hot apple cider with rum. The meal was delicious, service was attentive and calm and I would definitely go back.

It is indeed the last remaining roadhouse in Philadelphia - the Valley Green Inn is a very worthwhile place to explore! It is located in the most beautiful setting on the banks of Wissahickon creek, surrounded by hills and mysterious geological formations. The food is good and so is the service. The place offers both outdoor and indoor setting for you meal and seems to also skillfully accommodate weddings, birthday parties and other events. No second thoughts. You should go there! Enjoy!

My family and I go here a couple times a year and we love it! The food is great, the service is fast, beautiful atmosphere, and a great location. We always have a great time hear and have so much fun. Can't wait to return! Highly recommend!

Great brunch, nice secluded spot

The setting is beautiful and the food sounded nice from the menu, but we never got to eat it. We made a reservtion to eat on the porch but when we arrived the hostess told me it was too busy. I had to explain to her twice that if it's so busy and they gave me a reservation they should not be seating walkins and telling me to eat inside! Finally we sat down and ordered. We waited over an hour and a half for the brunch to arrive, then asked the manager what was going on, and he finally admitted he had "no idea" when our food would come. We left without eating. Any restaurant that allows the staff to be so rude and imcompetent does not deserve your money. You can bring a picnic and enjoy the view from the benches along the creek.

Philadelphia boasts as having the largest city park in the world....Valley Green is right in the middle in a bucolic setting along the Wissahickon. Ducks swimming by, people jogging, families out with kids and dogs and there you sit outside on a lovely day enjoying a lovely lunch. Dinner is great too, in or out depending on the weather.

Great setting in a 166 year old venue set aside the Wissahickon Creek. We went for brunch and it was thoroughly enjoyable. We sat at a quaint corner table and enjoyed the large choice on the brunch menu. I will tell you that it was the best Salmon Benedict I have ever eaten, extremely fresh and tasteful. My husband equally enjoyed the omelette of the day. There are just 2 small reasons I can't rate this as a 5 star experience. First was we felt a little rushed and second was we did not enjoy the bloody mary's. There was too many chunks of horseradish, not making it too spicy, but instead just a little too "chunky" too swallow. We did however decide to give this place a shot for dinner, where I'm guessing it will be a a nice romantic setting.

We were very disappointed in our visit for dinner at Valley Green help was not very friendly menu was very limited food was awfully over priced for the amount of food you get. We got the scallops only four of them priced at $29.00 a platter! Didn't even offer a piece of cake for the Birthday Girl... asked us if we wanted desert instead! Needless to say we were very disappointed in our visit and have have no desire to return again!

Enjoyed a fabulous lunch with hubby on the porch. Sandwiched between 2 weddings, our service was still excellent. Possibly the best grilled cheese sandwich ever! Beautiful views. We will definitely return for some hiking and libations!

From what we were told by a friend who lives nearby, a new chef has upgraded the food. It now is interesting - even exciting! Blackened catfish, salmon and chicken dishes were excellent. The service was responsive and enjoyable. Vegetables nicely complemented the proteins. The mac & cheese that came with my catfish was a marvel! The wine list is short, but had many interesting and reasonably priced selections. The setting, on a bank of the Wissahickon, is beautiful. In warm weather, we would recommend eating outside. The building has an interesting history that we didn't have the time to explore. Only a minor gripe: the table settings are modest - paper napkins and light-weight stainless utensils. In all, our Sunday evening meal exceeded the expectations of our friend, who lives nearby, and impressed us. We certainly would return, if the Valley Green Inn were located near where we live (Boston).

We were delighted when our friends who live in the city suggested Valley Green Inn for dinner. We have not been there for many years. The setting is lovely during all seasons and of course it is very historic. The dining room where we were seated was cozy but not crowded; there was a nice fire in the fireplace on a very cold evening. The service was efficient, helpful and not obtrusive; we did not feel rushed at any time. The four of us shared two appetizers - the baked brie and the PEI mussels. Both were very good. The mussels were accented with chorizo sausage and a lovely bread crouton; we could have used some additional bread to enjoy more of the broth. The entrees were mixed; the special venison steak, the duck and the diver scallops were all delicious with very nice presentation and sides (many whole grains). The crab cakes were disappointing, however; there was a lot of filler. (We sail on the Chesapeake Bay, so I have made it a mission to find the best crab cakes on the East Coast!) They were just 'okay'. Our friends have attended a wedding here and said that it was terrific; there is a separate space for larger events with lovely views. I would return, especially for a special occasion.

The first time I ate here was to do a food tasting with my (now) husband and in-laws. The next time, we were married here outside on a lovely day in May 2012. The Inn is full of character and I love the fact that it is part of Fairmont Park and open to everyone, which made our wedding even more interesting as people ate on the front porch of the Inn and enjoyed the day with us. The staff was friendly and helpful and has been each time we have visited for brunch, lunch or dinner. Speaking of food...it is always great, no matter what I have ordered I am never disappointed. I'm thrilled I can visit the place I got married any time I want, stroll through the grounds, gaze at the Wissahickon River or hike the trails surrounding the Inn. A little piece of history you should experience for yourself.

Very quaint inn at park entrance. Food and service were excellent. Rustic. Parking is limited. Brunch was $20 a person.

Went to the Valley Green for Easter dinner. I have know about and gone there for over 30 years. It is located in a beautiful area of Philadelphia and has tons of history. Going there is like going back in time. Unfortunately, the current management and service is extremely poor. The food was good but waiting for our dinner to come for two hours is unacceptable. The waitress kept making excuses for the chef stating that he was new. The restaurant was not crowded and the hostess kept turning people away. Which is also not good for business. The owner/manager needs to rethink his hiring skills and look for more competent staff.

We were here for my brother-in-laws wedding and reception. The only thing I can say is that everything was perfect. It is always a challenge trying to serve so many people at one time, and to have everything ready at the same time and served at the proper temperature. They did an excellent job. The servers and bartenders were very personable and great to deal with. The food was excellent.

So we went to Valley Green Inn for dinner. First you should know I ha e been dining here for nearly 30 years — my parents loved it. But the meal we had, to be blunt, was the type that looked great on the menu, equally so on the plate but oh so mediocre in execution and flavor. Special pumpkin bisque; too savory. Too much apple cider (we asked) and in the end a few spoonfuls and left to the side. The Caesar salad was average but good — only problem was it was piled like a mound and filled the plate to its edges; we didn’t come to graze. Too much. Entrees? The chicken was quite good and not just your typical breasts. It offered nice array of pieces. But let’s face it, it’s chicken blowing that is like not being able to change a lightbulb. The lamb chop, always a favorite, was cooked then sliced in strips. While the sweet potato mash beneath was tasty why slice the meat? It only dried it out and took away the natural juices. Growing up, this was always good solid food, never great but always good. And the old Inn with its decor, low ceilings, creaky wood floors and time aged mantles on fireplaces, make it a wonderful atmosphere. So visit in the summer, have a light (safe) lunch on the delightful porch that looks out on the peaceful Wissahickon river and move on. Dinner? Never again. Chestnut Hill has way too many dining gems to waste time here. Kind of sad. So eats the OutspokenTraveler.

Though it was hard to find a spot to park because of the nice weather it made the outdoor seating very pleasant. The tomato bisque were delicious were a little bite to it, the salad was small but had a variety of greens. The burger and the roll it was on were both burnt but our server took them off the bill and did not charge for the bisque since this replaced that meal. The restrooms inside the restaurant were very clean. The server did not come back to our table until we complained about our meal to someone else, but when she was there she was very helpful. I sat outside with my daughter and then she could run around while we waited for the food, which was a pretty good amount of time.

I have gone here for dinner and brunch - brunch on the porch was better by far. Dinner was ok but pork chops were way overcooked and tasted like sawdust.

After a bike ride along Forbidden Drive we enjoyed the food and ambience of our lunch today. The smoked salmon salad was delicious. The salmon was flavorful and the dressing a perfect complement. We decided to share a side of sweet potato chips made in house. A large basket of chips arrived. I was sure that we would need a doggy bag. But the thin, sweet, crispy chips were so perfect, that we ate them all. The interior of the Inn is tasteful and interestingly decorated with historic items and paintings. We appreciated attentive service. And last but not least is the perfect setting along a shaded trail and rocky stream.

We've lived nearby for some time and we can't believe we never tried Valley Green Inn until now. The food was delicious and service was terrific. I hear the brunch is great, and we'll be back. If you're a tourist exploring Fairmount Park and the natural beauty of Philadelphia, make this a stop for a relaxing meal.

Had brunch there on a Sunday and on a nice day. Parking and traffic in and out was horrendous. There is a place for restaurant parking, once you wait in the traffic, with a valet who just directed you to an open spot if there was one. Because of the popularity of the paths along the creek and the limited access, getting there and parking almost made us give up before we got to the restaurant. Sitting on the porch is pleasant in terms of the view of the creek and the people watching. The food was ok but nothing i would come specifically for. The tables and benches were pretty well worn. While the place may be a couple hundred years old, i'm not sure it's had much upkeep since i used to hike by it 50+ years ago when i grew up in the area. The table next to us a had a dog on a leash sitting on the floor - not something i want to see at a restaurant. It was not a guide dog. Overall disappointed.

My sister and grew up in West Mt Airy. We had been going to Valley Green since we were kids over 60 years ago. We both with our spouses have not lived in Philadelphia for over 40 years. We came back this weekend for a memorial brunch for our mother. We would have liked to have it at VGI, but they can only seat 30 in a private room and we are much larger party. So after a short hike from Bells Mill Road to the Covered Bridge and back pushing my wife's wheelchair, we drove to VGI for dinner. Really good handicapped access! And nice menu. A lot better than 40 years ago. But then Philadelphia's restaurant choices are fabulous compared to 40 years ago. Everybody's meal was quite good. My wife's arugula pesto stuffed gnocchi was especially good. My lamb ragout with paperdella was tasty, disappointed there was not much lamb. Thought is was not worth price of the meal. Basically it was pasta with a very good gravy. About 2.5 times too much money. And bread pudding dessert also very tasty but some of the bottom was burnt. Service was great. Overall would come back again. Every restaurant has off days.

I've gone for drinks, dinner, and brunch. Brunch was quite impressive. They had an array of breads and muffins, velvety carrot soup, and hearty portions.I wish the tea selection was better though. I was somewhat less impressed by the dinner experience, but I would try it again. The inn is quaint and it offers picturesque views of the park. During the holidays it's decorated very beautifully.

Thoroughly enjoyed our meal here. Had the summer berry salad and crab-crusted salmon! My taste buds went crazy. It may a bit hard to find and glad I went with family who knew where it was. It is tucked away in a very pretty area with a running river near it. You do have to park a short walking distance away from the restaurant, but the tree-lined paved area for patrons is pretty.

A very nice day, nice people, nice view, and good food!! This place is set right in the middle of Fairmont Park, beautiful scenery. After eating one can walk the trails or go bike riding. Greeted by a waitress named, "Rebecca". Very nice and patient. One can dine inside or out on the large porch. The food looks very nice and filling. I had the Portabella Sandwich and the Simple Inn Salad. The salad is served with Pesto, but due to allergies switched the dressing to a balsamic vinaigrette. The meal was delicious and filling. Other party members had Angus Burger, Cod Fish Sandwich, and.a Caesar Salad with Chicken, Shrimp, or a Crab Cake. Everyone enjoyed their meals and the hospitality of all of the workers.

My husband and I had a post-elopement party out on the Wissahickon patio and could not be more pleased with the beauty of the site, the service, the food, and the preparation and care put into our event by staff (Catie and Amber in particular). Catie was our contact person and was so helpful throughout the process, letting us know our options and following our wishes to a tee. We wanted to relaxed event that felt more like a summer garden party than a wedding reception, and Catie organized a lovely low-key event that still managed to be elegant and memorable. From the time we arrived (they reserved the closest parking lot for our party!), the patio looked stunning with white tablecloths and lavender napkins, candles on every table, and the gorgeous backdrop of Valley Green and the surrounding foliage all around us. Everyone congregated at the bar where we had a Mimosa and Bloody Mary station with everything from fresh fruit to olives and even bacon, plus local beers on tap. The buffet lunch was delicious with standouts being the sage ravioli and sesame salmon--people also raved over the French fries! The setting was so idyllic, and Amber (on-site coordinator that day) was so professional and catered to our every need. The day was so seamless and magical; I would highly recommend the Valley Green Inn for special events, especially if the weather allows you to be outside on the patio. It is a stunningly beautiful yet simple and rustic locale that suited our personalities perfectly. Highly recommend!

We attended a wedding party here on a cool wet October evening. 28 of us fit comfortably into a single room, but there were additional rooms for regular diners. The menu doesn't change often and features dishes in the $20-30 range. I enjoyed giant scallops on a bed of mashed potatoes. My wife had prime rib. Both were large servings. Full service bar. Great service for our group. Beautiful location along the creek. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

We visited the Valley Green Inn for lunch and once again we were not disappointed. The food was excellent. I had the grilled cheese on challah bread and my husband had the turkey sandwich. The breads were homemade and they roast their own turkey. The service was also great and the place was crowded. The Fairmount Park setting in Autumn made it a totally enjoyable day.

This historical roadhouse is the only place in the state park for food & drink. It may the only place where one gets some type of signal (inn wifi) for a connection. We were there for a wedding and everybody had different providers and we all had no service except for the Inn's wifi. The Inn is situated opposite a creek and site is very romantic, serene. Usually wedding food is so-so but the salad and filet mignon were top-notch.

My family treated me to a relaxing birthday dinner party. We had an excellent experience at the restaurant. The service was impeccable. The food was perfectly done and served with generous portions. The ambience was festive and rustic with a blazing fireplace at one end of the room and a lighted Christmas tree at the other. We enjoyed watching cyclists ride by through the fog as we dined. Great location and friendly service.

Several weeks ago, we had lousy strip steaks at Valley Green. I wrote about it here. The owner contacted me. He refunded two full dinners (not just the cost of the steaks) AND sent a gift certificate. We were told there had been a mix up - the w got were meant for lunch. They were so nice I felt guilty about the review I had given and was anxious to get back and try again. Our waitress was professional, not overly friendly. We shared the Charred Asparagus Salad, it was fantastic!!! First rate. We split some Local Calamari. Said it came with Smoked Tomato aioli but the aioli served to us was green and tangy - maybe wasabi. However, it was outstanding - so fresh! My husband had Organic Roast Chicken Breast with Rosemary Sweet Potatoes, Sauteed Kale, Natural Jus. Portion was small , white potatoes (not sweet) puree, couldn't taste the rosemary. Still, very good. I ordered the strip steak. I was disappointed. First steak I received was overdone. Wasn't much thicker than the half inch one I had complained about a few weeks back. A steak that is under an inch thick, it is nearly impossible to cook to a medium rare temperature. By the time you have the steak seared on one side it's done. If you sear the other side - it's medium. I sent it back. The next one was MUCH better! About 5/8 inch thick, not well trimmed, lots of fat and gristle. The description was Angus New York Strip Steak Pommes Puree, Charred Green Onions, Herb Butter. What I got was steak fries, sauteed kale and topped with a huge amount of green herb mash. Not very appetizing smothered with an herb blend that was too strong. The flavor overwhelmed the steak even after I scraped it off. I'll go back but only for lunch, outside on a beautiful day. For $32, I expect a top quality steak. Other restaurants in the area offer two inch strip steaks or filet for the same price. Valley Green should stick with a lower price menu offering burgers and sandwiches. They will need to up their game to be a high end place.

Took my niece, from out of town, to her father's favorite Haunt as a kid. Valley Green Inn has been a "go-to" for decades because of it's location, ambiance and (maybe not great but) good food. Not this time. Shared the Caesar Salad, which was large and tasty. The lettuce was huge, barely cut up. Two of us ordered the "Strip Steak". It really takes some nerve to call what we got a Strip Steak. It was less than half an inch thick. Almost had to wonder if they only had one steak left and divided it, to have two portions. Ordered them Medium rare but how do you cook a steak this thin to any given temperature? One was over done the other well done at one end and rare at the other. $32 for this steak that looked like something that should have been made into cheese steak! Wish I had the nerve to tell them to take it back. My husband ordered Sea Scallops - which was a better choice but still pretty bad. Received 5 scallops all different sizes, all smaller than a half dollar. All over cooked. Our waitress was a gem!

My husband & I dined here for brunch on our one year anniversary. We arrived at our 11am reservation time and were promptly seated outside. Our waitress came over quite quickly after we were seated. I ordered a coffee and a mimosa, and my hubby got a beer & coffee. Coffee was nice & hot, and the mimosa was filled to the top, with plenty of champagne. The meals have 2 set prices, depending on what you get. They all come with your choice of soup, house salad, Caesar salad, or fruit salad. They also bring you out a basket of baked goods, like muffins, scones, sweet breads, etc. I tried a banana bread muffin and some sort of spiced sweet bread. They were both good. Hubby chose house salad and pecan waffles. Most entrees came with sides of potatoes & sausage. He ate every bite. I had potato leek soup & filet benedict. Soup was nice & hot & had a great flavor. Filet benedict was delicous--steak cooked perfectly, hollandaise sauce was light & not too lemony like it can be sometimes. Food was delicious, ambiance is nice--right in Wissahickon Creek Park. You can people watch if you sit outside. I will be coming back!

This Inn, which used to be on the horse and buggy road between Trenton and Philadelphia is in the middle of a forest. Lovely place to hike or picnic OR you can rent it for a wedding. Ceremony was outside under the trees, cocktails and dinner were on the porch and inside the Inn. Lovely setting but a bit difficult to find and limited cell phone reception. Bring a sweater ladies. It's cool among all those trees.

Kids were considering this venue for a wedding. Hubby & I decided to go for Sunday brunch. We had an enjoyable meal. Mentioned to our waiter the reason for our visit. He had the wedding coordinator stop by! We returned for the wedding . The staff was most friendly & kind. Cocktail hour went great. Appetizers chosen were delicious! This was followed by a sit down lunch. Everyone was pleased with their meal: choice of chicken, steak or vegetarian. I heard no complaints about the food. They contract with Bredenbecks for the cake, say no more. Food and service were spot on! Contrary to prior reviews by others , I would consider stopping here. It’s in a peaceful setting to boot!

The chill of autumn was in the air - a good time to visit a landmark inn in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park on the Wissahickon Creek. The setting is remarkable and we chose to enjoy the inn's Sunday Brunch which offers two menus, one w/breakfast entrees ($19.95) and the other w/ a range of entrees from special burgers to fried chicken and waffles $5 more. Service was excellent; food nicely prepared, an old inn feeling and a good value. Brunch includes appetizer, soup or salad; bread basket; entree and beverage. Desserts available.

The location and the restaurant are beautiful. Unfortunately our food wasn't worth the price and was just ok. It took along time and when it came out it was cold. There was a wedding going on so that could be why it took so long. I would like to try it one more time to see if it was just an off day. The butternut squash soup was delicious, and the location was spectacular.

Our family was getting group photos in the very beautiful Wissahickon Valley Park, and thought it would be a nice end to the evening to have a special dinner at the Valley Green Inn. Our photos ended unexpectedly early, so we thought we would see if we could get in ahead of our reservation, as otherwise we would have an hour to wait. We were able to be seated, so sat and ordered some wine, and then were told that although we could be seated early, we would have to wait to order our dinners until our scheduled reservation time, although the restaurant did not seem to be exceedingly busy. We were able to put in an order for the baked brie appetizer, which we later had to clarify, as the staff did not seem to realize it was on the menu. Our server was informal and inattentive. We were finally able to order an hour after being seated, and the food was excellent, but the poor service cast a pall over the evening. The scenery is beautiful and the location is historic, but I would recommend visiting to see the area, and going elsewhere for a nice dinner. It is disappointing that all of the pieces of a great restaurant haven't come together here.

My family (party of 12) was excited to come to the Valley Green Inn for Easter Brunch. The setting was beautiful, our table was out in the enclosed patio area. Our server was friendly. The food, however, was beyond disappointing. The waffles were rock hard and impossible to saw through even with a steak knife. The scrambled eggs were cold, the french toast was in huge pieces and also rock hard. The eggs benedict had practically hard cooked eggs on the english muffin. The only decent item was the ham from the carving station. The desserts were the type you buy in bulk frozen at Sam's Club. The fruit tray was bare and not replenished while we were there. For $35 a person I expected much more. Also, the brunch menu printed and placed on each table stated "omelettes, made to order". What that really meant was that if you ordered the omelette of the day they would make it for you when ordered. The omelette of the day was short rib with goat cheese and tomatoes. That was the ONLY version you could have. To me the menu should have stated the omelette of the day is ___ and is included. Omelette prepared to order, to me, means the omelette of your choice is prepared how you order it. I have had better brunches at a Hampton Inn. Such a disappointment for such a beautiful and highly rated establishment. $600 (including the 20% gratuitiy they added) was a complete rip off for the quality of food that was served. We will not be back, ever.

My advice...get there! It's an amazing restaurant. Great food, perfect service, best setting in the city.

We went for Sunday brunch for my daughter's 36th birthday. The food was not so good, the soup and potatoes were lukewarm, took a long time to order, water was not refilled, nor was the coffee. They seemed busy but we felt ignored. The food itself was very average. There are not a lot of vegetarian entrees for brunch, my daughter and I are vegetarians and we told them, but they still put sausage on her plate, then wiped it off when she reminded them we said NO sausage. Will not go back. Unfortunately because it is so cute and along the creek. Then they got a parking ticket! Because ALL the lots were full.

Hidden away in Chestnut Hill, one has to go out of the way to find the Valley Green Inn. It's worth the twists and turns of the roads to get there. This beautiful old Inn has been decorated and restored to bring modern comfort while maintaining the historic feeling of Colonial USA. The small room where about 15 tables sit is cozy and quiet, and on the night I visited the fireplace was aglow to stave off the chill. Romantic while being perfect for family or even business, it was cozy but not close. The menu was a delight. That night, the stand out was the Sweet Potato Bisque...excellent. Served at the right temperature. My steak was cooked the way I asked, and the short ribs with mac and cheese were another A+ dish. No room for desert. Definitely worth hunting down and finding. I would not have been surprised to have seen George Washington sweep in with his blue cape...escaping the cold and looking for a good meal.

Super atmosphere for a holiday. Request to sit in the room with the fireplace. We were seated immediately . Our server Scott was right on it. He was efficient ,professional and welcoming. The hot cider with rum was yummy.Salads were perfect. The buffet had normal TG foods with a flair. The craving selections were very tasty and hot. The side dishes were excellent ,but COLD. Desserts appeared lovely and the display was beautiful. They looked better than tasted. Coffee was hot and fresh. We sat in the dining room without the fireplace...needed some music in the background so you didn't hear private conversations next to you. Overall we enjoyed the day.

I grew up within walking distance of Valley Green, so whenever I'm back in town, I love taking my father out to dinner here. But I think the setting and the price I'm paying for the food keeps making me think that the food is better than it actually is. The complimentary bread was excellent as always, but it went downhill from there. My French onion soup was hearty, the calamari appetizer was OK, and while my Jumbo Lump Crabcakes were tasty, the black rice and baby bok choy did not pair well at all. I consider myself an adventuresome eater, but I got nothing from this side dish. My father enjoyed his catfish, so that's good. Beware that if you have mobility issues, this restaurant can be more challenging to get to than normal. The closest parking can only be accessed by those traveling in from the east, and even that parking area is 30 yards from the front door, across an uneven dirt road.

My partner and I went here for dinner after a long walk on Forbidden Drive. He loved his meal, although it seems a little crazy to pay $18 for a burger and fries. My food was simply good; it could have used more seasoning and was not worth the price. However, the beautiful surroundings on a nice day outside seem to make up for all that.

We returned to Valley Green Inn after several years. Had lunch on the porch on a beautiful day. We ordered the grilled cheese sandwich (a great take on an old classic), and the Thai shrimp soba salad (very good). Great views, great atmosphere, and dog friendly on the porch. The diverse menu will certainly bring us back. Highly recommend it, for all occasions.

We dined here for the first time last weekend. Having heard so much about it, our expectations could have been too high. I think the surroundings must be lovely in spring & summer, which would add to the experience. I get the charm of antiques and all that, but the interior seemed a little drab & dowdy. The food was good and we had an excellent server, so we will give it another try, but not till the spring.

This place is fantastic! Nice, secluded location, with a rustic feel. The food was memorable and reasonably priced. Our waitress was great, and she was helpful with suggestions. I had an epic grilled cheese sandwich and the rest of my party were pleased with their meals (highlights included a delicious crab cake, and french onion soup that oozed with flavor). They had hot cider on a very cold day and their fireplace was adequately stoked. You should really go here.

Had a lovely brunch here with family (including a 6 year old) and we all loved it. The setting is scenic, service was great and the food delicious. I had the BBQ short ribs which are served off the bone over corn bread with BBQ sauce, broccoli rabe, sun dried tomatoes, and topped with sunny side up eggs - think eggs Benedict with southwestern twist - outstanding taste mixture. Others had classic Eggs Benedict, Heuvos Rancheros, and the little one loved his oatmeal and scrambled eggs. We hiked there along the trails and hiked back out to our car.

Enjoyed excellent post-hike beers and lunch. Menu is kind of a cross between upscale bar food and foodie stuff ... and everything was delicious. Service was extremely responsive and friendly. And you can't beat the view.

Enjoyed a late lunch on the patio on Friday afternoon after biking. Irene was great; we enjoyed chatting with her before we ordered. The grilled cheese was as good as it sounds on the menu and the fries were tasty, perfectly cooked. Lovely place to sit outside and enjoy the view. While we were there, a couple's car was broken into in the far parking lot. Be careful in that area!

Who would have thought about having breakfast in the woods in Philadelphia. Our friends did and so yesterday we had a great brunch in wonderful setting. It was cool and cloudy day and so we walked into the Inn with a crackling fire. The breakfast buffet was wonderful and the service was very nice. There was plenty of parking and reservations seem to be a very good idea. We then took a walk along the path- good way to work off a large breakfast and get some exercise in a great setting. Definitely would like to return.

Great for outdoor dining on the porch. Beautiful location and food is good. We enjoyed all aspects of the luncheon.

The setting is magnificent. You are in a secluded area....away from the rush and noise of the city.....in an 1800 Inn. Wonderful menu!!! An enjoyable evening with friends.

I always go running along the forbidden drive and decided to meet up with a friend for lunch one day. The outdoor seating is just beautiful, the scenery romantic, quiet. I love the location. However, food was average. We tried the baked brie and 2 burgers. The brie was tasty - even though the inside of the brie wasn't melted fully. The burgers were mediocre.

My wife and I went with our daughter & son-in-law for Sunday Brunch. We had reservations but got there early (about 10:30) and they took us right in. The atmosphere was cozy with an open view of the creek. The food was excellent as was the service. We each had a different entree and all were well prepared. It was a wonderful start to a great day of hiking along the Wissahickon Creek. The one negative aspect was the parking situation. We got there early and got a spot but it was very difficult getting out as others tried to get in.

We dined at the Valley Green Inn on Christmas Eve, as we have done for the past 3 or 4 years. Last year, despite having made a reservation, our party of 3 had to wait 15 minutes while a larger party was seated. This year, we again made a reservation and arrived to find that we were in what I would call "over-flow" seating in the bar area. We were on folding chairs. Again, we could see that larger parties were seated in the dining rooms. Our service was very good as was the food, and they did buy us a round of drinks as an "apology." But to be treated poorly two years in a row means we will not be back.

We went for our anniversary dinner. The food exceeded our expectations. Crab cake was so good, and both our mains (catfish etouffe and salmon) were also delicious. Good service and outdoor seating by river was lovely. Although food was fancy, the location is casual with walkers also dining outside and the waiter said you can sit with your dog on the patio!

I enjoyed this place. Very cute spot with a nice menu and service. I would definitely return. We enjoyed sitting outside on the porch.

I recently had lunch with friends and then Sunday brunch with family at Valley Green. The food was delicious on both occasions and the service attentive. The brunch menu was prix fix and the lunch menu was varied and delicious. They have a liquor license. It's such a lovely place to go to as your anticipation mounts as you drive through the city, then through the woods to this old inn. We strolled down the lane in the late fall with the smell of the fireplace in the air. This restaurant is lovely for all seasons. My Philadelphia friends couldn't believe they were in the city. Wonderful for couples, too.

This is a truly unique place to experience very fine and inventive cooking. The atmosphere is romantic, candlelit rooms with fireplaces and low beams. The inn has been on this spot since the early 1700s and has a great deal of history lining the walls and contributing to the dining experience. The menu is extensive, you can go for a multi-course meal or order excellent soups and salads. There are usually a number of fish entrees that are just so well done (don't pass up the mussels!) Outside, you are in the midst of Wissahickon Woods, with creek and towering pines just feet away. You should experience this place!

We have had dinner at Valley Green Inn a number of times over the years. It's always been charming (it dates from 1850 and is in a superb location on Wissahickon Creek), but the food has always been ordinary. We went again last weekend and to our surprise, the food was excellent. Perhaps they have a new chef. The only possible negative is that the bar offering are less extensive than would be expected in a restaurant of this high quality. The prices were medium, and a good value for the quality of food, drink, service and ambience.

Yesterday (Oct.27th) was such a gorgeous day my husband and I decided to walk Forbidden Drive in Fairmount Park. We had not been in 15 years even though it's not far from home. Since it was lunch time, the idea of parking and eating at the Valley Green Inn gave us our starting location. We requested a table on the porch to enjoy the ambiance of the wooded hillside still dressed in its Fall finery. The sun was shining brightly with only blue sky everywhere but there was a chill in the air when seated...so glad I could run back to the car for my down jacket before the soup arrived! We each had the butternut squash soup which was great! My husband had a turkey sandwich with bacon and I had the spinach salad with pear and goat cheese...both were yummy (I tried his!). Our waiter was friendly and attentive with excellent service so I know we'll be back sooner rather than later!! Walking in this magnificent park after lunch was delightful...what a great way to spend a Fall day!

The place is haunted. It's old. Very cozy circa 1700's decor. It's beside a stream. They serve hot buttered rum cider with cinnamon stick and clove in tall glass mugs . The waitress is entertaining and full of stories. Service excellent. Menu is varied. I had chicken salad on fresh, thick , toasted whole grain bread. Hubby had an open face Reubin. Forgot what daughter and son in law had. We all chose their home made sweet potato fry chips as our side. It was all good, excellent quality in fact. Next time we are in area, we will definitely go back. What a pleasant surprise !!!!

Enjoyed a late lunch here at this lovely old historic inn. Atmosphere was quaint and cozy. Service was excellent. They have an all day menu with appetizers, entrees and sandwiches so some of us had burgers and others had entrees, which was nice. Food was quite tasty and portions were large. I highly recommend the Filet Mignon Egg Roll appetizer and the Short Ribs entree. There was both indoor and outdoor seating with views of the Wissahickon Creek. Looking forward to going back again!

My boyfriend took me here after an afternoon of walking around outside of the art museum. We arrived around 4:30 and were told they were finishing up the lunch crowd and weren't seating for dinner until 5pm. I was starving but not much you can do about that so we sat by the creek and people watched. For dinner we were seated at one of the tables on the front porch and there was a wedding so we had some entertainment while we ate. I got the meatloaf, which was WONDERFUL and my bf had the catfish and he said it was good. I also had the hot cider with rum and complete with cinnamon stick and all. This was also tasty and since it was a bit chilly out it kept me warm. The portion size was large so no room for dessert. I would definitely go here again. The food was good and atmosphere was very pretty and relaxing.

Quaint setting in a historic building in Philadelphia. Very nice food, and attentive service. All round good experience, and would recommend.

I discovered the Wissahickon walking path a few months ago and have returned time and time again to take photos as the leaves changed from the lush green of summer to the brilliant colors of autumn. On this last hike rather than walking past the Valley Green Inn, a friend and I spontaneously decided to stop in for supper. It was 4pm and we were the first ones to arrive. To our delight, we got a table right next to the fireplace. It was so pretty...and warm after our long walk in the crisp air! :) Sitting by the fireplace sipping a hot apple cider warmed us to the bone. It was wonderful. I ordered the crab cakes and my friend got the sea scallops. Both were delicious. Having said that, I would like to add that I can't eat anything hot/spicy so asked for the coconut curry on the side, which they did, but unfortunately the chef covered the accompanying bok choy with a hot pepper of some sort so I had to have it redone without any pepper. The whole grain breads they served with dinner were delicious. I would have preferred that the accompanying butter would have been softer to the touch. As it was spreading the ice cold butter on the bread tore the bread into bits. The desserts looked wonderful but we were really too full to have anything else. So we'll save them for next time. The only critique I could offer would be for them to reconsider their choice in background music. It was very ...jolting....without rhythm or any gentleness. By the time we left there was a classical piece playing which was much nicer. I appreciated that it was a very nice restaurant yet we were made to feel very comfortable even though we were bundled up in jeans and sweaters for the walk. Overall it was a wonderful experience and I look forward to returning.

After walking Forbidden Drive, along the picturesque Wissahickon Creek, for a few hours, Valley Green Inn is a welcome respite. Decent enough food and a small, but acceptable wine list make stopping here for lunch a nice break.

Honestly, I never knew that places like this still existed in major metropolitan cities. We enjoy taking our dogs nearly everywhere we can. After walking the Wissahickon, we stumbled across the Valley Green where we were decided to enjoy lunch. Our dogs were welcomed outside and we enjoyed a very nice lunch. Service and food were very good. We'll definitely be back when we visit that area of the city again.

The place has a great historic vibe which in conjunction with it's location makes it very quaint. No complaints in regards to the food it was definitely a solid meal. The menu is fairly basic and I found myself wishing for at least one or two items that showed a flash of creativity. Though what is on the menu is done well. My only complaint about the food (and this is nitpicking) the mussels appetizer came in a great orange tarragon broth. Which unfortunately was served with this heavily multi grained bread that in my opinion fought with the broth. A nice baguette would have served the dish better. The wait staff was friendly and adequate but could use some polish. We plan to head back in the fall for lunch when the leaves are changing and there's a chill in the air. During that time of year I am figuring the fireplace will be burning and add to the charm. On the particularly warm summer day we visited the still strong smell of the dormant fireplace seemed to detract from the experience.

You will drive into a valley and over a creek to a location you may not think would be part of a major city. Spend time walking along the water before or after you enjoy the restaurant. Quality and preparation of menu items are very good. Staff is friendly, helpful, and accommodating. Atmosphere inside is traditional, elegant, quaint, and relaxed. Seating outside is more relaxed and great as long as it is not too cold or too hot/humid (it is a wooded area and small flying insects can be an annoyance in spring or summer). I don’t think there is a children’s menu but they seem to happily accommodate children with high quality items such as chicken fingers and other options. For the quality and portion size, prices are reasonable. Seating seems somewhat limited so making reservations may be a good idea.

My family and I had the most amazing time celebrating my sister's 50th birthday at the Valley Green Inn...the staff was superb with handling guests with COVID requirements..service was out of this world and personable...I highly recommend the experience of working with the event planner Amber....she is angel, truly heaven sent... Safe yourself the hassle of looking any further...this is a quiet gem...affordable, unique in various ways..accommodating and all around super...I am looking for any reason to celebrate there again

Valley Green Inn restaurant offers a gateway to historic Philadelphia set the backdrop of pristine Valley Green section of Wissahickon Park. Delicious food, assortment of classic American cuisines and artisan cocktails makes this a favorite respite for escaping the hectic pace of the city. Scenic walking trails and the nearby Wissahickon Creeks leans a peaceful setting for wildlife and nature lovers. Definitely visit for it outdoor patio dining or experience the quaint in door historic homestead ambiance. Great place for gathering with friends, family, soli or a date. If photography is you niche, bring your camera and be prepared to capture the preserved wonders of the Wiisahickon.

You can tell a lot about a restaurant by how happy the staff are to work there. This place has very happy staff. Food, service, drinks, deserts (cheesecake from Brooklyn) all first rate. Pricing for the quality is reasonable. We will be back!

This historic buildings in Fairmont Park was originally a roadhouse for travellers. It is next to Wissihickon Creek and lots of walking trails. Lunch was plentiful and delicious. We ate outside because of the beautiful weather. Will visit again.

We went with 6 adults and 2 18 month olds and everything went great. Huge brunch menu selection and large portions. Service was friendly and efficient and the cost was a good value. It was a beautiful fall day to enjoy the scenery in the park including the ducks in the creek in front of the inn.

As you stroll, run, bike or ride a horse on this pathway along the tranquil Wissahickon Creek, under cover of mature trees shading you from summer's heat, you can actually visualize the "Continental Army" marching from Philadelphia to Valley Forge. It here that city dwelling, multi cultural kids and adults come together in this beautiful pastural oasis to enjoy the outdoors. Adding to this enjoyment is arriving at The Valley Green Inn for a well earned respite. Built in 1685 on land purchased from William Penn, it has been a carriage/pedestrian stop for the hungry, thirsty & sleepy. Open 7 days a week serving lunch & dinner. There is a delicious prixe fixe brunch on Sundays. With a full service bar offering quality wines, spirits & beer for starters, the menu has an assortment of delightful American fare to choose from. The lunch menu has a nice selection of hot & cold appetizers, soup and sandwiches. Dinner offers shellfish, poultry, seafood & meat entrees that will satisfy the most finicky diner. Sunday Brunch offers many of your favorite items along with some surprises. Our lunch was served on the delightful porch overlooking both the pathway and creek. A perfect spot to enjoy the food and the passing international humanity. The service is provided by knowledgeable, polite and professional staff. Food arrives in a timely manner, creatively plated and cooked to order. So, if your in the mood, join the "Ghosts of Colonial America" for some well-made drinks and food to match.

Beautiful setting, very good service and excellent food. There are not a lot of options but the food was well prepared and presented well. I had the grilled swordfish that sat on top of a quinoa salad. It was incredibly delicious. Well seasoned, balance of flavors and contrast in texture. I would highly recommend.

This original roadhouse has been feeding those who visit Fairmount Park's Wissahickon Valley for generations. It is situated on a former carriage trail now known as Forbidden Drive as the trail is closed to automobiles. Thus, one can take a pleasant hike to Valley Green Inn on Forbidden Drive, or drive to the Inn, approaching it from Chestnut Hill or Roxborough. If you are unfamiliar with the area, best to call the Inn for directions, as GPS does not always provide adequate directions. The Inn is open 365 days a year. In the warm weather, one can opt to dine on the generous front porch. In cold weather, the Inn's two dining rooms provide a cozy atmosphere, particularly the one with the working fireplace. I particularly like eating lunch here, after a 4 or 5 mile hike on scenic Forbidden Drive, though I have had dinner here as well. The well prepared food generally offers conservative flavors, nothing exotic or trend du jour. If you wish for an easy walk after your meal, consider walking to the Thomas Mill covered bridge and back, 40 minutes roundtrip. The bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in a major US city. If you are facing the Inn, walk to your right. The Valley Green Inn is especially suited for visitors to Philadelphia who wish to experience something other than downtown.

Particularly crowded since there was both a wedding outside and the regular diners inside. Since our family had a wedding there, I can't really complain about that! Lots of choices for brunch. We liked the egg dishes, omelettes and chilaquiles. The grandkids had burger and fries. My wife's omelette was made to her specifications which was nice. Service was friendly but overburdened. Brunch is a good value for quality and quantity. Setting is lovely but finding parking can be an issue when it is both restaurant and wedding traffic. Be sure to make reservations in advance.

We selected the Valley Green Inn because it is noted for its historic ambiance. We were staying nearby and found it on Google Maps. It is located all by itself down in the valley on the Wissahickon Creek. It was built in 1850 and has maintained its originality. The interior was romantic featuring fireplaces and spindle Federal Style chairs. The service was very proper, and the food was great and reasonably priced. This was a great place to go for a special occasion and a nice place to visit for a walk along the creek. They also serve breakfast and brunches. The Christmas Spirit was still alive as their decorations were beautiful.

Three of us had lunch today st Valley Green Inn. I had not been here in a while. What a great lunch. The lunch menu was varied and the food delicious. The vegetarian burger (with side of fries) was delicious and ample. The Inn salad fresh, and flatbread very satisfying. The berry sorbet so favorable. Add to this a wonderful table on the outside porch and the panorama of the Wissahickon Creek in Fairmount Park.

Nestled on the Wissohicken Creek in Fairmont Park, the Calley Green Inn is just charming. This 18th Century building has seating indoors, as well as, outdoors. There was a benefit taking place the evening we visited and most of the people were outside. Our small geoup of six had the entire dining room to ourselves. Menu selection provides something for everyone, from apps, salads, entrees to burgers. Limited selecrion of Wine and beer is available, and BYOB is permitted. Food was good and presented nicely, but portions were a bit inconsistent. The meatloaf platter had a nice portion;however, the salmon entree was a bit skimpy. The piece of salmon was one inch wide, and I am not exaggerating. Those of us who ordered the salmon were left a bit hungry! I cook salmon often and this salmon was also a yad overdone. The side salad was also beey small.

fireplace with crackling fire and smell. dim lights. can be difficult to find initially but our gps was older at the time. we love going in the winter but really any time of year is wonderful. enjoy

This used to be a great place to go, and the location is still lovely, but the food and service have gone way down hill. Slow, incompetent service, and the food was dreadful. Fruit salad made with unripe fruit. Grapefruit juice served warm. Sausage salted to death. Bad stomach upset after eating there.

This is my first visit to this place and I enjoyed my lunch very much. I Had the veggie burger and my boyfriend had the portobello mushroom sandwich which with both enjoyed. It took a while for our lunch to come and the room we were in was small and very noisy. I think it would have been better it was a little more quieter. We enjoyed walking thru the park as the weather was beautiful. I would go back in the fall to see the leaves change color. If you go make sure you make reservations as it's a small inn.

This remains a unique experience in one of the great historical restaurants in Philadelphia. In no other cafe can you experience the wonderful views of the Wissahickon Creek and the wilds of the Wissahickon trail above. A stream of hikers and dog-walkers add to the unique, patoral scene. The Inn property began as a Penn land grant in 1685. It has had many incarnations since then, including absentee ownership and it's present state as a fine restaurant was assured by "Friends of the Wissahickon and Fairmount Park Commission. Five years ago, when I last reviewed the place, service was impeccable and the food...glorious. This time around food was still great, but service was a little stiff and formal (though competent), table was a bit wobbly and seating at the banquettes uncomfortable no matter how you arranged the pillows at your back. It was comfortably warming, though, on a chilly night to be seated near the fire place. As mentioned, food was really good. The soup of the day was chicken vegetable with mushrooms and artichokes. Excellent. The country pate was confit chicken, crushed pistacchio, port reduction, caper berries and grilled sourdough wedges. Too often a pate is heavy, but the lightness of this dish helped make the other dishes more manageable and enjoyable. Main courses: A really fine New Orleans style Catfish Etouffe encrusted in corn meal with andouille sausage, red peppers, rice pilaf and creole seasoning. The bacon wrapped Meatloaf turned out to be "better than it looked" according to my wife and great dinner companion, Barbara. On this appearance thing, we differed as I thought the presentation (like all the appetizers and entrees here) was well thought out. We were unanimous on the great taste of the meatloaf, though, with garlic mash, Brussels Sprouts, roasted mushrooms, demi-glace and crispy onions. There is a full bar.They turned out an excellent Gin and tonic and wines by the glass ($7 per glass) were reasonable and well paired with the meal. I'd call this fine dining, but the prices were pretty reasonable for such a singular experience. We didn't try dessert, but we'll be back.

My father brought me here for hot chocolate after our rides back in the 60's. Always a beautiful relaxing spot on the river.In 1988 the Valley Green Inn hosted our wedding reception. They perfectly executed my recipes for the brunch and treated our guests as family. We were there for lunch a perfect day in July 2015. The only thing that has changed in all these years is they have added a canvas auxiliary room off to the south side and I think have taken down half the stone wall. You will enjoy whatever they prepare for you, especially the grilled cheese with carmelized onions!

Historical Valley Green Inn is kept much like it was 100's of years ago. The food is good, too. Nice, well priced lunches are basic but tasty sandwiches and soups. Dinner is higher end with exquisite beef or fish filets. Wonderful setting!!!

I have eaten at the Valley Green Inn several times in the past and always had a great time. This evening my husband took me there for dinner for my birthday. The waitress was great! The bread was stale, the salad took 30 minutes to arrive and then my dinner took an hour. I understand that duck is not as tender as chicken however I don't believe it needs to be wrestled into submission so therefore I only had a few bites. The string beans still had the end and stem on it! The mashed potatoes I don't think were supposed to be reminiscent of salt and vinegar chips (with extra salt) and my husbands steak was not medium rare it was raw! When I had the gall to look unhappy about my food taking an hour I was told by the women I believe was the maitre de that "It is cooked to order you know". Well, I don't know whose order it was but they must not like food! After that attitude why bother complaining about the food when it finally arrived. Especially, as we had to leave quickly to pick up our children and would not have time or desire for something else. In sum, the waitress was great however, I will not be eating there again!

My husband and I dined at valley Green Inn on the recommendation of another lawyer from the Philadelphia area. We thoroughly anjoyed our meal in the quite old property overlooking a creek. The food was very good and service fine. We would like to return there another time and eat on the lovely porch.

Located along the lovely Forbidden Trail and Wissahickon River, this historic inn is a great place for a meal or drink before or after walking the miles-long trail. We came in-between meals, but they offered us what they had which was drinks, salads, and a really tasty tomato bisque soup with wonderful bread basket. We ate on the outside porch and enjoyed the lovely views. Service was good.

Idyllic setting along with he Wissahickon Creek. Th menu had something to satisfy every palate. The historic building has been well maintained. The service was very friendly and the servings were well sized.

The Valley Green Inn is a historic restaurant in a beautiful wooded setting. It's set along the Wissahickon creek along wooded trails just down the hill from the Chestnut Hill neighborhood. When you're there you can forget you're in the middle of the city. We had a party of 19. The group menu was limited to four dishes, calamari, a hamburger, a battered fish sandwich, and portobello sandwich. The calamari was a tempura preparation with zucchini and root vegetables. There was a nice sauce. I'm not really a fan of fried food and couldn't finish it. I liked the setting more than the food. Parking was difficult on this nice fall afternoon due to the number of hikers and bikers.

This little gem is tucked away in the woods, the beautiful Wissahickon River flowing by. An historic building, beautifully rustic and charming. The food was sooo sooo good! We all cleared our plates! I intend on going back to this place again and again. If you are a scallop lover, do yourself a favor and get the diver scallops, simply the best I've tasted! Great service too!

We went to a wedding here this past weekend. As we were driving down the long and steep driveway/road, I couldn't help but wonder where the heck are we going??? Once we got there, it really was beautiful! The creek was filled with geese and ducks and it was so nice and shady. The reception was also here, and the food was great. It was so nice. The only problem was that I noticed was that elderly or wheelchair bound people would have some difficulty...

Quiet restaurant near the creek. Good food, but pricey. Nice to walk on the path and see the river after dinner

they charged us $5 for a bowl of soup that was a single ladle of what tasted like chunky soup from a can, and didn't even serve bread or crackers, tea didn't automatically come with cream...had to ask for that too. while the place was practically empty, staff were not readily available. It was a truly bad experience and gave my mother in law plenty to complain about for cost of the "bad food" and being made to wait so long for service.

This historic restaurant has outdoor porch seating as well as cozy small inside dining rooms. Lunch menu had standard selections (wonderful Angus burger with fries, $14) and a few surprises (sliced hanger steak, tender and perfectly cooked, $18). Food is well prepared but somewhat pricey. Service was attentive but food took at least 20 minutes to arrive since everything is individually prepared. Not good if you are in a rush, but perfect if you want to watch the baby geese splash in the creek 50 feet away, or watch the walkers, joggers and cyclists pass by. Lunch crowd thins out by 1:30 with your pick of tables. They also take reservations (good idea on weekends or if you want a porch table at peak times).

Great choices in seafood, steaks and chicken. I got my favorite for dinner, Sea Scallops. I recommend them highly.

Family came here for mothers day brunch in May. Followed it up with a hike. Everyone had the buffet and it was outstanding. The atmosphere is cozy. Waiters and waitresses were pleasant. The hike after was with our dog. The dog very much enjoyed the creek and the hiking trail. I would come to enjoy nature and a great meal.

Really nice and cozy restaurant on the river side which we dined in at the lunchtime on a cold and snowy day. Despite the nasty weather, we were most welcomed inside by the friendly lady and seated right near the fireplace, which was making the room a bit smoky at times, but along the view through the window it only added warmth into atmosphere. Food was brilliant, very well presented, the best part of mine was the pie stuffed with Brie cheese. Service was good as well. Will go back again when in Philly!

After a good hike along the trail that goes right by the Valley Green Inn, stop here for lunch. Atmosphere is calming, lovely, a nice "unwind" moment. The Grilled Cheese (Double Cream Brie, Aged Cheddar Cheese, Caramelized Onion, Tomato, Bacon, Brioche, Mixed Green Salad) is 1) MEMORABLE (And lately I've sampled a lot of grilled cheese sandwiches at various restaurants.); 2) Delicious; 3) Pricey ($14), but remember: memorable; 4) Will have you longing for more. PS: Also try the Inn Burger. It's a wow.

Recently I ate lunch at Valley Green Inn. This was my first time eating at the restaurant since the pandemic began. In prior years, my go to standard for lunch at Valley Green was the grilled cheese sandwich; it was consistently delicious. Unfortunately, that is no longer on the menu. From the options available on the current menu I narrowed it down to two choices: the cheese burger or the braised pork sandwich. I opted for the braised pork, because when I think of braised anything I think of tender, juicy, and loaded with flavor; this sandwich was anything but! The meat was unpleasantly tough, and flavor was completely absent. The sandwich had broccoli rabe on it that was so tough I had to take it off the sandwich to attempt to eat it (I like broccoli rabe when it is properly prepared.) In the end, the only thing I enjoyed on the plate was the pickle. Please bring back the original recipe, grilled cheese sandwich. It's unlikely I will return, but if I decide to do so I would try the cheese burger; I guess you can't go astray with that. Right? The waitress was fantastic, and the scenery beautiful, as always.

Great ambiance, good fund, mediocre service and limited parking. Did enjoy the brunch outside on the porch-beautiful setting. Brunch had a very nice selection of food--carving stations for ham and beef, fruit, eggs, waffles, bacon, sausage, frittatas and a nice selection of deserts. Service for drinks was very slow--they may have been overwhelmed because it was Easter. Also, parking was very limited -- had to wait nearly 45.minutes to find spot. Park Police were ticketing anyone who parked on road.

My husband and I went to the Easter Brunch with our 2 year old grandson. First the parking available was awful, no spots by the restaurant. We were seated in a corner table where we felt cramped when placing the high chair at the table. (One of those instances where you have to remove everything from the table if not using) The food was marginal. For a 11:00 reservation, they should have had items replenished and kept up with the sterno under the chafing dishes. Not worth the price!

While visiting family in the area, my wife and I decided to walk the main trail (Forbidden Road - no vehicles allowed) in Wissahickon Valley Park starting at the W. Northwestern Ave. entrance. It was our first visit and as we read the story board at the beginning of the trail, the restaurant caught my attention. After a delightful 3 mile walk we arrived at the Valley Green Inn, only to find we were 40 minutes early (opened at Noon). After reviewing the menu, we decided to wait and sat on a bench bordering the creek, enjoyed the burbling water, some ducks just upstream from us and various birds in the sycamore trees lining the creek bank. Then a lady in English riding attire arrived at the restaurant from the opposite direction on her horse and we struck up a conversation (my wife used to compete in hunter jumper events). She mentioned that the trail is very popular among equestrians since three stables were in close proximity to it and the trail is wide, has solid composition afoot and plenty of shade. By the time we parted, the restaurant was open and we were seated next to a window overlooking the creek. The service and our food were wonderful and the history of the Inn just made the experience that much more special. Next time we're in town (we live in St. Augustine, FL) we'll be sure to repeat the walk and meal. An added plus was the 3 mile return walk which provided the perfect "constitutional".

We came here for dinner and had a great experience, not just a great meal. They do not offer a designated gluten free menu, but the server was very helpful in checking what could and could not be gluten free options. The interior might stoke fears of being cramped at first (we sat in the room with the fireplace), but it was fine and not at all one of those experiences where the person behind you is constantly banging into your chair. They have a great drink selection, including some hard ciders. I loved the crab cake slider appetizer and my wife enjoyed the Brussel sprout starter. I can never pass up swordfish, so that was my entree. The fish was done very well. Sometimes you can get a piece of swordfish that is overly dry, but this was very tender. It came on top of a nice citrus salad. I recommend the side of garlic mashed potatoes (they are not overpowering with garlic flavor). She got the duck and really liked it. We were too full for any type of dessert. It is located right along the creek, so it was very nice to go for a short stroll after eating.

We had such a beautiful wedding for my daughter there and it was just absolutely amazing! Everyone had such a great time. Atmosphere is so quaint!

The atmosphere and setting are great. The food and service were not befitting this fine old inn. Scant apperances by the waiter, cool coffee, rubbery eggs, table setting lacking spoons or enough bread plates. Next year our kitchen will be back in order and we will. Not have to eat a holiday meal out.

My wife and I were at a small event there, honoring some doctors/colleagues. We were in a back room, which was basically an open room. We only had a pre set choice of 3 dishes. Our salads were made up of about 8 pieces of spinach and an orange slice. Very underwhelming. Several at our table got the steak/meat dish was the single most unappealing dish I've ever seen. It was an inexpensive and very thin cut of meat, with significanct amounts of fat along the edges. It was a greyish brown color and just draped over mashed potatoes. It really looked horrible. Four people at our table got that dish and four people cut into it and each steak was literally raw. Not rare, but raw, which amazed me since the steaks were only about 1/4 inch thick. I had the salmon which was ok, but served ice cold. Didn't even bother staying for dessert. On the way out I went to use the men's room. If I had seen that first, I wouldn't have eaten in the restaurant. A well known and highly respected chef (Georges Perrier) once said that the first thing he does in a restaurant was visit the bathroom. If it's dirty, he leaves the restaurant because he felt it reflects a dirty kitchen. Ironically, despite the four people at our table never touching their steaks, the waitress never once asked if there was a problem. Cross this place off your list. It's an uneasy feeling when you walk into a restaurant and it smells musty.

Fillet mignon eggrolls, honey bbq rings, crab crusted salmon, an 8 oz. angus burger--whatever you crave, Valley Green Inn can provide. Very good service. Wonderful ambiance. It is a bit of a drive, but when visiting the Valley Forge area, you should take the time and appreciate this historic inn/restaurant.