It was love at first sight- Effie and Gus Tzitzifas knew they wanted to purchase the historic old building when they first dined at Old Swedes Inn in 2006. Built in the 1700s and nestled in the heart of downtown Swedesboro, the gorgeous colonial was first founded as Rambo Tavern. Through the years it went on to fulfill a variety of purposes, from hosting a dry goods store to serving as a hotel for wary railroad travelers; at one point, the building even housed a car dealership, with a showroom filled with glittering automobiles taking front stage.
After admiring the Inn and the surrounding Borough for several years, the Tzitzifases ultimately purchased the property and began making significant updates to the building, all the while carefully ensuring preservation of charming historic architectural features such as sliding pocket doors and gorgeous banisters. After much anticipation and a serious labor of love, Tavro 13 was born. Under a partnership between the Tzitzifases and renowned Chef Terence Feury, the restaurant officially opened its doors in October of 2012, and has since been a hotspot for both seasoned foodies and casual diners alike.
The restaurant is decorated with sophisticated whimsy, and has fun features such as vibrant, colorful murals, and funky light sculptures created by famed Philly artist Warren Muller. Patrons can sip a cocktail (Effie recommends the refreshing, sweet-tart Jack Rose!) or enjoy one of several available microbrews at the striking 33-foot bar, and the restaurant’s lounge area hosts a stage for weekend entertainment such as live music and comedy. For those who wish to toast the evening under the stars, there’s a gorgeous outdoor fireplace to warm the bones while enjoying some fresh air. The main dining room also houses a huge, cozy fireplace sidled by poppy red banquettes, and hidden away upstairs are two airy, elegantly furnished private banquet rooms- the perfect setting for business meetings, corporate events, and private celebrations.
In keeping with the exciting atmosphere of the restaurant, Head Chef Feury maintains a menu of unique, delicious dishes such as lamb belly and braised quince, and everything in the restaurant is made only with fresh ingredients- never frozen. There are also some spectacular desserts to choose from if you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, such as the lemon olive oil cake with Meyer lemon curd and candied lemon, or the delectable vanilla pot du crème and shortbread cookie. Chef Feury sources his ingredients locally as often as possible, using fresh Jersey produce, and local seafood and meats.
Aside from lunch and dinner, Tavro 13 now offers an amazing and varied Sunday brunch menu as well, featuring items such as omelettes, sausage, French toast, and the especially popular pork belly sandwich. For those short on time but not on taste, the restaurant now offers an express lunch, and the entire lunch menu may be ordered to go. Happy hour happens weekly at Tavro 13, Monday through Friday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm- and to that note, keep an eye out for the upcoming extended bar menu.
Tavro 13 is located at 1301 Kings Highway in Swedesboro, and can be reached by telephone at (856) 467-8413. The restaurant dress code is casual chic (a nice shirt and a pair of slacks work perfectly), and reservations are accepted but not required. Please visit their website at www.tavro13.com to learn more about this fantastic new eatery and to review menus, business hours, and to book reservations online. You can also find them on Facebook at facebook.com/tavro13, on Twitter- @tavrothirteen, and on Instagram- @tavro13. Welcome to the neighborhood Tavro 13, we’re thrilled to have you here!