By Brenda Hillegas<\/p>\n
Across Philadelphia<\/a> and beyond, comfort foods are being reimagined with seasonal, yet unexpected ingredients and global influences. Below are just a few that have been getting the upgrade treatment from local chefs as they put their signature twists on some nostalgic favorites.\u00a0<\/p>\n Harp & Crown\u00a0<\/p>\n Pierogi \u2014 Caviar has proven to be a key ingredient in making comfort into luxury. At Harp & Crown, your pierogies will be topped with cr\u00e8me fra\u00eeche, caviar, and chive ($17), making for a great snack while you enjoy some bowling on site.\u00a0<\/p>\n 1525 Sansom St., harpcrown.com<\/a><\/p>\n Sampan\u00a0<\/p>\n Cheesesteak Bao Buns \u2014\u00a0Sampan brings comfort to the forefront by fusing a Philly favorite with global flavors. These bao buns are also stuffed with provolone and cherry pepper relish ($12).<\/p>\n 124 S 13th St., sampanphilly.com<\/a><\/p>\n SouthGate<\/p>\n Kimchi Fries \u2014\u00a0Loaded fries are taken to the next level at this gastro pub with Korean roots. They\u2019re topped with bacon, cheese, scallion, kimchi vinaigrette ($14).<\/p>\n 1801 Lombard Street, southgatephilly.com<\/a><\/p>\n Libertee Grounds\u00a0<\/p>\n Masala Nachos \u2014 Along with local craft beers and indoor mini-golf, Libertee Grounds offers Asian-inspired dishes and other comfort food-forward items. Nachos include pico de gallo, queso, garlic sour cream ($13). Add pickled fresno peppers, kadai chicken or lamb kheema for an additional fee.<\/p>\n 1600 W. Girard Ave., liberteegrounds.com<\/a><\/p>\n Rex at the Royal\u00a0<\/p>\n Crawfish Pot Pie \u2014 Rex at the Royal focuses on culinary traditions of the American South, influenced by coastal regions. Their crawfish pot pie also contains mushrooms, Rex\u2019s signature cheese blend, and tomato, and it’s perfect for sharing ($25).<\/p>\n