Twin Bays Café opened for business in Phoenixville in November 2000, and takes its name from the 18th century farmhouse property established on the original four corners of Phoenixville. The lovely, quirky manor has comfortable seating for 120 in six unique dining rooms. Four of the dining rooms are on the carefully renovated second floor. The café, which once served as a stop on the underground railroad, serves excellent cuisine with special care in a cozy environment.

Twin Bay's menu is focused and well executed. The theme, if there is one, is nouveau American. The red onion soup, flavored with apples and apple cider, stands out as a house favorite starter. Main dishes include twin petite filets served over a shallot and Cabernet reduction; jumbo lump crab cakes accompanied by roasted pepper aioli and sauce remoulade; and sushi-grade Ahi tuna served medium rare and garnished with spicy mango salsa. Sauces are light and savory, designed to enhance, not overwhelm, the choice cuts of meat and seafood. No detail is missed, as side dishes - such as sweet potato mousse or Twin Bay's soon-to-be-famous red bliss mashed potatoes - are given equal attention. All ingredients are prepared fresh on the premises.

Rob and Helen Goss bring a high level of customer service and infectious enthusiasm to the venture, and their love for the business is obvious. Rob enjoys his role as chef and host, spending much of the evening out with guests, elaborating on the evening's specials, answering questions about the extensive menu, and garnering reactions. Helen manages the front of the house, seating guests and directing the staff with a dedication equal to Rob's. Together, they make a warm and welcoming proprietor couple.

The Goss's high level of service to each party hearkens back to another era, when diners enjoyed regular personal contact with the owner and chef. It's hard to find that pattern today outside of the most exclusive big city restaurants. And yet it might be Twin Bays' signature feature - the one that makes dining so enjoyable and memorable.