Aaron Matzkin cultivated a taste for top-shelf chicken while living in California. When he returned home to Philadelphia, he didn't find the premium rotisserie birds he liked out west, and decided to open his own restaurant.
He studied 15 different breeds before settling on one from Lancaster County farms...cage-free, hormone-free and antibiotic-free.
The chickens he buys are processed to his specifications and are a little larger than what you might buy retail. Then he goes through a two-day series of steps that make what you buy at Rotisseur, 2100 Chestnut Street in Center City.
Matzkin is a big believer in brining, the process of soaking poultry in a liquid including salt, sugar and other seasonings.
It's been known for decades that brining allows meat to hold more moisture, while imparting a subtle sweetness. He also treats each bird to his exclusive mixture of spices, so he's confident you won't find his flavor anywhere else in town.
Rotisseur catches the drippings from the roasting chickens and uses them in stock, sauces and soups. Chicken is available whole, halved or quartered.
There's a selection of house-made side dishes including macaroni baked with a blend of five natural cheeses. Platters are a popular choice. You can also get sandwiches and dessert items. Everything is available to dine in or to go.
Rotisseur is open weekdays from 12:00 Noon to about 9:30pm...they close when they run out of chicken.
On Saturdays, the shop is open from 2:00 to about 10:00pm. You may contact them at 215-496-9494, or via the web at Rotisseur. The shop is BYOB if you'd like to bring wine for your meal.
