You’ve probably seen the photos of the gold butterflies or the tree that looks like it belongs in a high-end fairytale. People talk about Autograph restaurant in Wayne PA—officially known as Autograph Brasserie—like it’s just a "vibe" or a place to take a selfie for Instagram. Honestly? That’s doing it a disservice. While the decor is, frankly, over the top in the best way possible, the place is a serious player in the Main Line dining scene for reasons that have nothing to do with your phone camera.
Located in the Eagle Village Shops, Autograph sits where Peppercorn and George’s used to be. It’s part of Marty Grims’ Fearless Restaurants group (the same folks behind White Dog Cafe), and it’s basically an obsessed fan’s dream of American pop culture. But if you think it's just a themed eatery with mediocre food, you’re wrong.
Why Autograph Restaurant in Wayne PA Isn't Your Average Brasserie
Walking into Autograph is a lot. There’s no other way to put it. You’re hit with over 1,000 celebrity autographs, album covers, and rare photos. It’s a literal tribute to the icons who shaped us. But the "wow" factor isn't just the memorabilia; it’s how they’ve carved the space into distinct "moods."
- The Boulevard: Private booths that feel like you’re tucked away in a secret corridor. Great for people-watching if you’re into that.
- The Sycamore Room: This is the one with the tree. It’s got these gold butterflies on the walls and feels surprisingly light and airy compared to the rest of the building.
- The Club Room: Deep, plush, and anchored by a fireplace. It’s where you go when you want to feel like a 1950s mogul.
The Food: Beyond the Glitz
Most people assume that "pretty" restaurants serve average food. Not here. The menu leans into Modern American with a heavy French brasserie influence. You aren't just getting a burger—though their burger is legit—you’re getting hand-made pastas and seriously high-end steaks.
The raw bar is a sleeper hit. People rave about the Yellowtail Crudo with its leche de tigre and hibiscus flower. It’s sharp, fresh, and actually interesting. If you’re there for dinner, the Braised Beef Short Ribs are a staple for a reason. They use a cabernet red wine sauce that’s so rich it’s almost distracting.
One thing that sorta surprised me? The Parker House Dinner Rolls. They come with whipped goat cheese and roasted tomatoes. It sounds simple, but they’re dangerous. You’ll want three orders.
What to Actually Order (The Expert Edit)
If you're heading to Autograph restaurant in Wayne PA for the first time, don't just wing it. The menu is big, and while it's hard to go wrong, some things just hit harder than others.
- The Scallops: For a long time, these were a special that people begged to have on the permanent menu. They’re usually served with something seasonal like a parsnip puree or a citrus reduction.
- Lobster Mac & Cheese: It’s pricey (around $19 as a side), but they don't skimp on the lobster. It’s decadent.
- Tuna Tartare: This comes with lemon aioli and chili oil. It’s a great way to start if you want something that isn't heavy before a steak.
- The Signature Sundae: Don’t skip dessert. It’s got vanilla and salted caramel ice cream, brownies, cookies, and fresh berries. It’s a mountain of sugar, and you need it.
The Logistics: Parking and Reservations
Let's talk about the annoying stuff. Wayne can be a nightmare for parking, but since Autograph is in Eagle Village, there’s actually a decent-sized lot. You won’t be circling the block for 20 minutes like you might on Lancaster Ave in the heart of town.
Reservations are not optional. Seriously. Especially for weekend brunch or Friday nights. The place gets packed with Main Line locals and people visiting from Philly. If you want a specific room—like the Sycamore Room for a birthday—you basically have to mention it when you book on OpenTable or call them. They’re usually pretty good about honoring requests if you give them enough lead time.
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Is it actually kid-friendly?
Kinda. It’s upscale, sure. You’ll see people in business casual or "Main Line chic" (think expensive sweaters and designer jeans). But during weekend brunch, you’ll see plenty of families. They have high chairs and the staff is used to it. Just maybe don't let your toddler try to grab the rare vinyl records off the walls.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Dress the Part: You don't need a tuxedo, but you’ll feel out of place in gym clothes. Aim for "smart casual."
- Brunch is the Secret Move: The Eggs Norwegian (smoked salmon and hollandaise on a croissant) is elite. Plus, the natural light in the Sycamore room is best during the day.
- Check the Bathrooms: This sounds weird, but do it. The music theme carries all the way in there. The attention to detail is wild.
- Happy Hour: They usually have solid deals at the wraparound bar. It’s a great way to experience the "instrument lighting" (the chandeliers made of trumpets and horns) without committing to a full $100+ dinner.
If you’re looking for a spot that feels like an "event" without being stuffy or pretentious, this is it. It’s loud, it’s visual, and the food actually backs up the hype. Stop by for the photos, but stay for the short rib.