Philadelphia Neighborhoods Discovery Guide

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Discovery Guide
Your Companion For Uncovering The City’s Most Happening ’Hoods

TABLe oF coNTeNTs
Get Your Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Get Around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 The Neighborhoods In Brief . . . . . . .4 Get To Know…
NORTH OF CENTER CITY
Sabrina’s Café, Bella Vista

Fishtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Northern Liberties . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Callowhill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Spring Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Fairmount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
SOUTH OF CENTER CITY

PHiLADeLPHiA NeiGHBorHooDs Discovery GuiDe
You’ve heard it before: Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods—big, diverse, beautiful neighborhoods—and lots of them. In this guide, we’ll give you the scoop on discovering 14 of them, all located within a 15-minute walk or drive of Center City. If you’re into storied streets, buzzed-about restaurants, craft beer-centric bars, emerging art galleries, indie shops, intimate music venues, plentiful parks and annual festivals, then the outrageously cool ’hoods featured in this guide are perfect for you. Peruse these pages. Hit up visitphilly.com/neighborhoods to plan a little more. Then, get ready to go one more block.
Cover photo: Singing Fountain on East Passyunk Avenue Photos by M. Fischetti, J. Fusco, C. Gabello, M. Kennedy and R. Kennedy for GPTMC

Queen Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Bella Vista. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Pennsport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 East Passyunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Graduate Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
WEST OF CENTER CITY:

University City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Powelton Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Spruce Hill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Cedar Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Get Touring Cheers To Beer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Please Don’t Stop The Music . . . . . 21 Build Your Art Collection. . . . . . . . .22 Pizza-rama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

GE T YO U R B E ARING S

GE T ARO U ND
Not only is Philly easy to get to, it’s really easy to get around. All of the neighborhoods featured in this guide are within a 15-minute walk or drive of Center City. If you’re staying in a Center City hotel, ask your concierge about the best way to get where you’re going. You can also check visitphilly.com/neighborhoods. Each neighborhood page has a Getting Around section. Recommendations include moving through town via SEPTA bus, train, subway or trolley. Two subway lines, the Market-Frankford line (east-west) and Broad Street line (north-south), cross the city. SEPTA’s day pass provides one day of unlimited riding on all city transit vehicles. Additional getting-around options include cabs—and your feet, of course.
SEPTA Trolley, University City

Johnny Brenda’s, Fishtown

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THe NeiGHBorHooDs iN BrieF
N O RT H OF CE N T E R C I T Y
FISHTOWN Like its hip neighbor Northern Liberties, Fishtown has quickly become one of the coolest sections of Philadelphia. It’s the only place in the city where, in the same evening, someone can buy a custom-made guitar, drink craft beer while playing Tetris, eat stellar Yugoslavian food and visit the world’s only pizza museum. NORTHERN LIBERTIES Once considered Philadelphia’s favorite up-and-coming neighborhood, Northern Liberties has officially arrived, evidenced by the international restaurants, respected gastropubs and trendy boutiques—all this while maintaining the artistic quality that made it so cool in the first place. The area enjoys a pleasant mix of older functional and modern design. CALLOWHILL The gritty but burgeoning former industrial neighborhood charms with large urban buildings, remnants of cobblestone streets, edgy rock clubs, emerging galleries and hidden gems that intrigue visitors and Philadelphians. SPRING GARDEN Wedged between the cultural powerhouses of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the better-known Fairmount neighborhood, Spring Garden distinguishes itself and complements both neighboring districts. Beautiful Victorian architecture, constructed for wealthy industrialists during the second half of the 19th century, mixes with a decidedly relaxed vibe to create Spring Garden’s distinct personality. FAIRMOUNT Often lumped in with the neighboring Spring Garden neighborhood and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway—with the general “Art Museum area” label—Fairmount easily stands on its own as a destination in Philadelphia. What is there to do in this sort of urban suburb? Eat, drink and tour the prison-turned-attraction.

Silk City, Northern Liberties

S O U T H O F CE NT E R CIT Y
QUEEN VILLAGE Originally a suburb, the riverside neighborhood of Queen Village is the oldest residential district in Philadelphia and now home to quality restaurants and shops. Action-packed South Street, its northern border, deviates from the generally tranquil ambiance of the area. BELLA VISTA Settled by Italian immigrants, Bella Vista translates to “beautiful view,” an especially true statement for those who believe there’s beauty in food. The area’s biggest draw is the Italian Market, now home to many Mexican and Asian eateries as well. PENNSPORT Steps east of the East Passyunk neighborhood is Pennsport. Home to Mummers’ clubhouses (note: be there on New Year’s Day) and historically blue-collar families, Pennsport is in the beginnings of its own awakening, thanks in part to a healthy lineup of new bars, coffee shops and restaurants. EAST PASSYUNK For years, insiders have frequented South Philadelphia’s East Passyunk Avenue for its restaurants, particularly its red-gravy Italian spots. People who stroll down the avenue (pronounced pashunk by those in the know) these days find eclectic boutiques, coffee shops, vintage clothing stores and gastropubs, as well as the amazing Italian eateries that first made this street famous. GRADUATE HOSPITAL Graduate Hospital goes by many names (Center City South, South of South, G-Ho), which is fitting for a neighborhood that draws its personality from the varied population that lives there. In recent years, the area south of the Rittenhouse neighborhood has accumulated a healthy dose of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and markets that reflect Graduate Hospital’s residential and cool character.

Queen Village

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W E ST OF CE N T E R C I T Y
UNIVERSITY CITY Located across the Schuylkill River in West Philadelphia, University City gets its name from its most distinguishing features: The University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University and the University of the Sciences call this section of the city home, as do thousands of students, professors and researchers. Green space, restaurants, bars, casual eateries, shops, museums and galleries make this education center feel like one big, culture-heavy town. POWELTON VILLAGE A northern offshoot of University City, Powelton Village sometimes is lumped in with the larger ’hood, but the stately Victorian houses along tree-lined streets give the district a look that distinguishes it from its neighbor. The area’s main thoroughfare, Lancaster Avenue, cuts through Powelton and is lined with shops, eateries and businesses. SPRUCE HILL West Philadelphia’s Spruce Hill was developed more than a century ago as one of the country’s first “streetcar suburbs.” Baltimore Avenue lends a funky flair to the area, and recent developments have boosted the number of restaurants, shops, markets and cafes along the strip. CEDAR PARK In Cedar Park, the boho sentiment reigns. Independent businesses, neighborhood initiatives and inclusive activities have defined the authentic community lifestyle here for years. The heart of Cedar Park sits at 50th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in the small yet well-appointed park that gives the neighborhood its name.

Milk & Honey Market, Spruce Hill

Dock Street Brewery, Cedar Park

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PLAY What do you get when you combine a sizable craft beer list with more than three dozen 25-cent arcade games? Barcade, a bar-arcade combo that offers up a generous menu and outdoor space—if you can tear yourself away from Donkey Kong. 1114 Frankford Avenue, barcadephiladelphia.com A statue of William Penn greets you at Penn Treaty Park, where you can picnic, walk the dog, relax or partake in special events in the warm-weather months. Delaware Avenue & Beach Street, penntreatypark.org LOOK & LISTEN Prefer to see your favorite artists in an intimate setting? Kung Fu Necktie, located right under the Market-Frankford El train, brings in local and touring indie, hardcore, punk, soul and hip-hop acts. 1250 N. Front Street, kungfunecktie.com Walking Fish Theatre embraces alternative regional theater and produces entertainment for your whole family. The proof: a sketch comedy troupe for adults, family shows for kids and alternative and original live theater performances. 2509 Frankford Avenue, walkingfishtheatre.com

EAT & DRINK At Stephen Starr’s Frankford Hall beer garden, you can choose from 12 beers on tap and 10 more in bottles. Authentic German foods, open-air seating, a campfire and ping-pong tables add to the fun. 1210 Frankford Avenue, frankfordhall.com Kraftwork pours 25 draught beers from around the world. Need a reason to come again soon? Pay attention to the soon-to-be-available beers listed on the menu. 541 E. Girard Avenue, kraftworkbar.com Mexican gastropub Loco Pez offers up 10 kinds of lowpriced tacos, so you can try as many varieties as you wish. Other stars include the monster helping of nachos, the bacon-wrapped Street Dog and 36 sipping tequilas. 2401 E. Norris Street, locopez.com An epic bottled beer list is just one highlight of the vegan-friendly Memphis Taproom, which also boasts 10 craft beers on tap and extensive lunch and dinner menus. In the warmer months, head out to the beer garden for a delicious dog and some canned beers from a stationary truck. 2331 E. Cumberland Street, memphistaproom.com SHOP You can nab gently used vintage clothes, housewares, toys, books and furniture at Circle Thrift, where quality reigns supreme. 2233 Frankford Avenue, circlethrift.com Nursery, market, community-supported agriculture (CSA) program, Greensgrow Farm is a star among localfood devotees. If you’re a resident, sign up for the CSA to get loads of fruits and veggies. And if you’re a visitor, head to the farm stand to pick and choose your produce. 2501 E. Cumberland Street, greensgrow.org

’HOOD HAPPENING Lining the cobblestone street with artists of all stripes and genres every May, the Trenton Avenue Arts Festival includes the storied Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby, a quirky competition for the most creative human-powered vehicles. trentonaveartsfest.org, kinetickensington.org

Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby

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GeT To KNoW NorTHerN LiBerTies

EAT & DRINK Dried roses, Picassoinspired paintings and a sherry wine list may inspire you to unleash your inner matador at the Spanish tapas favorite Bar Ferdinand. 1030 N. 2nd Street, barferdinand.com Savor the homestyle Southern-Jewish cuisine served up at Honey’s Sit ’N Eat, where latkes nestle grits and where challah French toast hugs drop biscuits with sausage gravy. 800 N. 4th Street, honeyssitneat.com Come to bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) Modo Mio and settle in for a culinary tour of Italy. On Sundays, $35 gets you an antipasto, a pasta, a meat, salad and dessert. 161 W. Girard Avenue, modomiorestaurant.com Part diner, part club and part beer garden, Silk City offers American fare with flair that’s been featured on the Food Network’s popular Diners, Drive-ins and Dives— reason enough for you to head to Flavortown. 435 Spring Garden Street, silkcityphilly.com SHOP For a collection of sustainable and eco-friendly designers, look no further than Arcadia, selling clothing, accessories and gifts. 819 N. 2nd Street, arcadiaboutique.com The owners of Art Star support craft artisans by selling their ceramics, jewelry, clothing and other wares; hosting gallery shows; and sponsoring the annual Art Star Craft Bazaar. 623 N. 2nd Street, artstarphilly.com PLAY Seventeen bowling lanes on two levels, an old-school photo booth and pool tables make North Bowl a perfect pick for noshing with your friends, family or date. Tater tots served nine different ways seal the deal. 909 N. 2nd Street, northbowlphilly.com

Liberties Walk

LOOK & LISTEN A small and unassuming venue with an eclectic lineup of music—rock, folk, country, indie rock, punk, hip-hop and anything else you might like—The Fire also houses a full-service recording studio. 412 W. Girard Avenue, iourecords.com/thefire DO IT ALL A tucked-away open-air market across from Standard Tap, Garden Variety features food trucks, concerts, art displays and flea markets. You might even happen upon a pop-up pool party. 2nd & Poplar Streets, gardenvarietyphiladelphia.com While strolling down Liberties Walk, pop into the independently owned stores and the various bars and restaurants in between people-watching. 1040 N. American Street Surrounded by artists’ studios, boutiques and restaurants, the open-air Piazza at Schmidts sits in the former plot of Schmidt’s Brewery. You can shop, dine, watch the Phils on the big screen or enjoy the many festivals and concerts that take place here. 2nd Street & Germantown Avenue, atthepiazza.com

’HOOD HAPPENING A block party sponsored by the businesses of Northern Liberties, the 2nd Street Festival showcases live music programmed by the Philadelphia Folksong Society, workshops, art, shopping and the very best local eats and drinks every August. 2ndstfestival.org

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The emphasis at Mio Culture housewares shop is on sustainable, green design. On your shopping list: custom cabinetry, paper wall coverings, recycled cardboard room dividers, wool felt lighting and more. 446 N. 12th Street, mioculture.com LOOK & LISTEN The Philadelphia Mausoleum of Contemporary Art (PhilaMOCA) is a gallery space and performance venue located in a former showroom for mausoleums and tombstones. You’ll quickly see that the curators’ sense of humor is apparent in their selection of film, music, performance and visual art events. 531 N. 12th Street, philamoca.org Drawing on the nascent arts community taking root in the neighborhood, architect Gary Reuben established Underground Arts for new ideas and concepts that come in the form of theatrical performances, poetry, dance, storytelling, video and regular concerts. 1200 Callowhill Street, undergroundarts.org

EAT & DRINK One of the earliest eateries to capitalize on Callowhill’s boom, Café Lift serves brunch and lunch in an airy post-industrial space. Just try to resist the Nutty Monkey Crespelle with bananas and Nutella. 428 N. 13th Street, cafelift.com A down-home corner taqueria with a bare-bones ambiance, Jose’s Tacos does a brisk lunchtime and pre-concert business. Don’t expect to spend much on the tostadas, tacos, tamales, carnitas platters and well-stuffed burritos. 469 N. 10th Street Venezuelan cuisine comes alive at Sazon, where you can bring your own wine or spirits to accompany your meal. With hearty platters of steak, rice and beans; grilled tofu; and arepas stuffed with cheese, dedicated fans include gluten-free eaters and vegetarians. 941 Spring Garden Street, sazonphilly.com An updated go-go bar under the Reading Railroad tracks, The Trestle Inn has an undeniable hipster appeal. During an evening there, expect to encounter classic soul and disco DJ nights, ’60s-inspired cocktails, old-school eats, whiskeys galore and yes, mod go-go dancers. 339 N. 11th Street, thetrestleinn.com SHOP Where once stood Hershey’s first candy store now lies a popular new hangout for city skaters. Armory East Skate Shop sells all of the major brands of gear and clothing, plus items by local makers such as Philadelphia Printworks and Meme War. 935 Spring Garden Street Tucked into a multi-gallery building on the 11th Street strip, Hiding Place specializes in the kind of offbeat vinyl and books that inspires artists. First Fridays are a great time to visit. Otherwise, it’s best to make an appointment. 319 N. 11th Street, 2nd floor, hidingplaceplace.com

The building at 319 N. 11th Street houses an assortment of collective spaces and galleries, and First Friday is a great time to visit them. Hit up Vox Populi, Grizzly Grizzly, Khmer Art Gallery, Marginal Utility, Napoleon, Practice and Tiger Strikes Asteroid to see fresh, contemporary works. 319 N. 11th Street

’HOOD HAPPENING A literary arts festival that goes beyond the book, the 215 Festival highlights authors and their words through live performance, music, film, book fairs, panel discussions and dance parties every October. 215festival.org

Prohibition Taproom

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Chef Townsend Wentz consistently puts forth exceptional cuisine, along with a few classic favorites, at McCrossen’s Tavern, where you’ll see that the progressive beverage program is matched by friendly and informative service. 529 N. 20th Street, mccrossens.com Family-owned and -operated, the greenhouse-inspired Rose Tattoo Café serves American cuisine in four romantic dining areas. Save room for dessert: The chocolate macadamia nut brownie is a mouth-watering must. 19th & Callowhill Streets, rosetattoocafe.com Route 6, Stephen Starr’s airy eatery, shucks and sears seafood from up and down the East Coast. Don’t miss the fried Ipswich clams or the Carolina trout, oven-roasted on a cedar plank. 600 N. Broad Street, route6restaurant.com South Philadelphia’s Italian Market darling for brunch boasts an outpost northwest of Center City. Head to Sabrina’s Café & Spencer’s Too for oversized portions of comfort food during brunch, lunch and dinner. 1804 Callowhill Street, sabrinascafe.com The owners of The Black Sheep and The Bishop’s Collar teamed up to open St. Stephen’s Green, where you’ll find an extensive beer list and the culinary creations of David Shuman. 1701 Green Street, saintstephensgreen.com A killer place to catch a Phillies game, West Tavern—or Westy’s, as it’s affectionately known—is where to go for thrifty drinking and tasty eating. 1440 Callowhill Street, westtavern.com PLAY Named for the legendary baseball player and humanitarian, Roberto Clemente Park & Playground hosts an annual Clemente Fest each spring, as well as a safe space for kids’ after-school activities. Between 18th & 19th Streets and Mt. Vernon & Wallace Streets, friendsofclemente.blogspot.com LOOK & LISTEN Built in 1927, Congregation Rodeph Shalom exemplifies the Byzantine style of architecture. Head inside the synagogue to tour the Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art, presenting contemporary art exhibits that illuminate the Jewish experience. 615 N. Broad Street, rodephshalom.org

EAT & DRINK Negronis on tap, rare Italian craft beers and innovative bar food done up in a way that only Marc Vetri can— think mortadella hot dogs and veal milanese hoagies— are just part of what you can expect from Alla Spina. 1410 Mt. Vernon Street, allaspinaphilly.com From the same people responsible for lauded beer bar Monk’s, The Belgian Cafe maintains a selection of cool and interesting beers on tap. Hint: You won’t want to miss the mussels either. 21st & Green Streets, thebelgiancafe.com Named for Ben Franklin’s famous experiment with electricity, Kite & Key has one cask, 16 taps, countless bottles and even some cans of local, domestic and foreign beers. Not a beer drinker? Not to worry: There’s a full bar and wine menu just for you. 1836 Callowhill Street, thekiteandkey.com

View from Spring Garden

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A favorite among the neighborhood runners, Fairmount Running Company is staffed by lifelong runners and coaches. Here you’ll find every major brand of running sneakers, apparel and accessories. 2023 Fairmount Avenue, runfairmount.com TOUR Once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, the massive Eastern State Penitentiary is open year-round for tours. During the Halloween season, Terror Behind the Walls frightens even the most daring souls—that means you. 2027 Fairmount Avenue, easternstate.org The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center, now a National Historic Landmark, was constructed in the early 1800s to provide clean drinking water to a growing city. Now you can go there to learn the story of the Schuylkill River and its human connection then and now. 640 Waterworks Drive, fairmountpark.org

EAT & DRINK Set in a 19th-century firehouse—the fireman’s pole is still standing— Jack’s Firehouse has been serving innovative American cuisine, along with impressive whiskey and scotch selections, for more than two decades. 2130 Fairmount Avenue, jacksfirehouse.com Sibling of Fort Washington’s Cantina Feliz, the highly praised and brightly colored La Calaca Feliz dishes out modern Mexican cuisine and pours a few dozen tequilas. Consider the carnitas tacos a must-taste. 2321 Fairmount Avenue, lacalacafeliz.com A newer addition to the neighborhood, Lemon Hill is named for the famous mansion nearby. At this low-key eatery, you can enjoy fresh takes on more traditional dishes and modern pub food. 747 N. 25th Street, lemonhillphilly.com A neighborhood staple since 1991, London Grill is one part pub, with local microbrews on tap and a classic cocktail menu, and one part white-tablecloth restaurant. Feel good knowing that you pretty much can’t go wrong no matter what your preference. 2301 Fairmount Avenue, londongrill.com SHOP Bookhaven packs its two floors with amazing finds, arranged in an organized fashion (by genre, then author) rather than in piles. Be sure to look out for the quintessential used bookstore cat. 2202 Fairmount Avenue The full-service Fairmount Bicycles sells new and refurbished bikes, as well as all the necessary accessories and safety equipment. You can also rent bikes for a half-day, full day or week. 2015 Fairmount Avenue, fairmountbicycles.com

’HOOD HAPPENING Every July, wigs are welcome at the Bastille Day celebration at Eastern State Penitentiary, where a reenactment of the French Revolution includes a Marie Antoinette re-enactor yelling “Let them eat Tastykakes,” followed by more festivities and French dinner specials at local restaurants. easternstate.org

Jack’s Firehouse

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GeT To KNoW QueeN viLLAGe

Brit-born Elena Brennan curates the shoe collections at Bus Stop Boutique, a fun and funky Fabric Row shop. Try on fab footwear created by familiar and not-so-familiar designers, and be prepared for each pump, sneaker, sandal or flat to be more irresistible than the last. 727 S. 4th Street, busstopboutique.com Mint-condition, estate sale-gleaned garments fill Fabric Row shop Decades Vintage. If you don’t see the retro pantsuit of your dreams, owner Lisa Miroslaw will gladly hunt it down for you. 739 S. 4th Street Textile shoppers have made pilgrimages to Fabric Row for more than a century. And while you can still shop for fabrics there today, the stretch is also welcoming a new generation of businesses. 4th Street between South & Catharine Streets If mom-and-pop bookshops are your thing, get yourself to Head House Books, a neat one-stop shop for best-sellers, classics, children’s reads and more. 619 S. 2nd Street, headhousebooks.com LOOK & LISTEN L’Etage, an elegant second-floor lounge (upstairs from restaurant Creperie Beau Monde), has a u-shaped bar, curtained booths and a petite dance floor that hosts both dancers and cabaret artists. Even more reasons for you to pay this spot a visit: DJs, improv companies and cross-dressing lounge acts. 624 S. 6th Street, creperie-beaumonde.com

EAT & DRINK Bistrot La Minette, a twinkling, just-like-Paris brasserie, is as authentically French as it gets in Philly. Feast on chef-owner Peter Woolsey’s duckleg confit, escargots and tarte tatin. 623 S. 6th Street, bistrotlaminette.com One of Queen Village’s very first BYOBs, Dmitri’s still packs them into its tiny dining room for grilled octopus, shrimp pil pil and baba ganoush. Know that the restaurant is first-come, first-served and cash-only. 795 S. 3rd Street, dmitrisrestaurant.com Chefs Chip Roman and Jason Cichonski preside over Ela, a rustic urban American restaurant. Be prepared to sample deliciously esoteric ingredients that change seasonally. 627 S. 3rd Street, elaphilly.com Go famished to Famous 4th Street Delicatessen, a classic Jewish deli serving up mammoth portions that come in the form of omelets, matzoh balls and black-and-white cookies. 700 S. 4th Street, famous4thstreetdelicatessen.com A burnished mahogany bar greets you at romantic neighborhood bistro Southwark. The couple-owned spot features refined seasonal fare, along with a curated wine list and some of the city’s best Manhattans. 701 S. 4th Street, southwarkrestaurant.com SHOP A former synagogue is the decades-old site of Antiquarian’s Delight, home to vintage and antique vendors. Among them, you can score great Bakelite jewelry, psychedelic fashions, retired furs and furniture from all eras. 615 S. 6th Street

’HOOD HAPPENING Held May through December at Headhouse Square, Headhouse Farmers’ Market boasts more than 25 farmers and producers, all displaying their fresh produce, baked goods and local meats, cheeses and wines. Sundays, 10:00 a.m.2:00 p.m. thefoodtrust.org

Headhouse Fountain

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SHOP Narrow and jam-packed, Di Bruno Bros. draws lines out the door for its unparalleled selection of international formaggio. Don’t know what to pair with your cheese? The shop’s knowledgeable clerks will happily guide you through the selection of cured meats and other gourmet groceries. 930 S. 9th Street, dibruno.com Fante’s Kitchen Shop is a multi-room storehouse of everything and anything for the home cook. Not only can you have your coffee beans ground here, you can snatch up cake-making tools, top-of-the-line Le Creuset and Henckels and loads of other glorious gadgets. 1006 S. 9th Street, fantes.com DO IT ALL Philadelphia’s 9th Street Italian Market officially spans Christian to Federal Streets, but has long ago spilled restaurants, bakeries and stores beyond its boundaries. One of the locations “Rocky” famously ran, the corridor— now boasting a mix of ethnic shops— is America’s oldest and largest outdoor market. italianmarketphilly.org

EAT & DRINK Charlotte and Pierre Calmels—she runs the dining room; he runs the kitchen— helm Bibou, an edgy French BYOB. Want in? You’ll need to make a reservation weeks in advance. 1009 S. 8th Street, biboubyob.com Feel like pigging out? Then head directly to Cochon, a one-room, open-kitchen BYOB known for its hearty offerings, with an emphasis on the pork. The menu changes, but some recurring must-tries include bacon mashed potatoes, grilled spare ribs and, from the Sunday brunch menu, deep-fried oysters with bacon mayo. 801 E. Passyunk Avenue, cochonbyob.com More than a century old, Isgro Pastries boasts a loyal following that swears by the pound cake and Italian cream and strawberry shortcakes. Of course, you can’t go wrong with the shop’s top seller: filled-to-order cannolis. 1009 Christian Street, bestcannoli.com Since 1945, John’s Water Ice has been transforming fruit, sugar and frozen water into water ice—known elsewhere as “Italian ice.” Your flavor options: lemon, chocolate, cherry or pineapple. 701 Christian Street, johnswaterice.com The neighborhood’s steadfast gastropub, Royal Tavern serves up award-winning burgers, piled-high nachos, vegan Sloppy Joes and meatloaf sandwiches to go along with its vast beer offerings. 937 E. Passyunk Avenue, royaltavern.com Bella Vista’s original brunch spot calls itself a “finer diner,” and you can believe that. The daytime-only Sam’s Morning Glory turns the average omelet into a delish skillet frittata and flips a heavenly flapjack, known as a “glory cake.” 735 S. 10th Street, themorningglorydiner.com With red brick tiles outside and murals of old Italy inside, Villa di Roma serves as a charming tribute to the Philadelphians who call their tomato sauce “gravy.” Feast on the classics—spaghetti and meatballs, clams casino, veal Marsala and baked ziti. 936 S. 9th Street 12
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’HOOD HAPPENING The nation’s oldest outdoor market and the alreadybustling heart of South Philadelphia welcomes the city every May for the Italian Market Festival, a foodie’s dream with flavors from its myriad restaurants and shops, along with the Annual Procession of Saints and plenty of activities for kids. italianmarketfestival.com

Di Bruno Bros. at the Italian Market Festival

GeT To KNoW PeNNsPorT

EAT & DRINK You must go to Federal Donuts for one thing: deep-fried joy. It comes in the form of Koreanstyle chicken, with a variety of rubs and glazes, and donuts in constantly changing flavors like cookies and cream, milk chocolate-peanut butter, French toast and blueberry muffin. 1219 S. 2nd Street, federaldonuts.com The name enough is reason to go: Gooey Looie’s. Or you could go for the seriously stuffed hoagies and cheesesteaks served up at this unassuming, no-frills shop within the gated Pennsport Mall. 231 McClellan Street It’s a who’s-who of restaurant staff at The Industry Bar, which offers a 20% discount to servers, bartenders and the like. Even if you’re a nine-to-fiver, you can get in on the 12 taps and adventurous menu. 1401 E. Moyamensing Avenue, theindustrybar.com Sometimes, nothing but a delicious steaming bowl of pho will do. Fortunately, there’s Pho Ha. Even if you’re new to the Vietnamese noodle soup craze, tips on the novice-friendly menu can guide you through the ordering process. 610 Washington Avenue FUEL UP Whether you’re in a rush or in the mood to sit and sip for hours, Benna’s delivers. Bring your own cup for discounted coffee. 1236 S. 8th Street, bennascafe.com Ever wished for an all-vegan, metal music-themed coffee house? Dreams come true at Grindcore House, which delivers fair-trade coffee and an extensive cafe menu, along with free Wi-Fi. 1515 S. 4th Street, grindcorehouse.com

Jefferson Square Park

PLAY In the warmer months, bring a picnic—easy, thanks to the availability of delicious food in the area—to Dickinson Square Park, which includes basketball courts, swing sets, a jungle gym and three acres of trees and green space. Between Moyamensing Avenue & 4th Street and Tasker & Morris Streets, dickinsonsquare.org When it was established, Jefferson Square Park sat outside of Philadelphia’s boundaries; later, the Union Army used it as an encampment site because of its proximity to ports and saloons. Today, you can take in the classic 19thcentury strolling park during movie screenings and concerts. Or just because. Between 3rd & 4th Streets and Washington Avenue & Federal Street, jeffersonsquarepark.org Hockey is a way of life for many at Rizzo Rink. Even if you’re a casual skater, you can don your blades and round the ice during public hours, Wednesday through Sunday from November to March. 1001 S. Front Street, rizzorink.com TOUR Philadelphia’s most iconic event takes place every New Year’s Day, but the sparkling, sequined fun comes to life all year long inside the Mummers Museum. Strut from costume to costume, and pick up a keepsake of the folk parade at the gift shop. 1100 S. 2nd Street, mummersmuseum.com

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As the name suggests, Stateside pours American-made craft beers, wines and spirits, with a focus on whiskeys and bourbons. The dinner menu features mainly small plates, so bring friends and share. 1536 E. Passyunk Avenue, statesidephilly.com At Will BYOB, you take care of the wine, and chef/owner Will Christopher Kearse whips up modern, French-inspired dishes. His meticulous and creative plate presentations look almost too good to eat. Almost. 1911 E. Passyunk Avenue, willbyob.com SHOP Tiny Green Aisle Grocery stocks its shelves with high-quality cooking must-haves, local produce and packaged signature eats from local restaurants. Be sure to pick up some of the shop’s own line of house-made products, including preserves, pickles and nut butters. They make great gifts. 1618 E. Passyunk Avenue, greenaislegrocery.com Is it a boutique? Is it a gallery? You decide as you browse the artist-made ceramics, jewelry, clothing, prints and accessories at Nice Things Handmade. 1731 E. Passyunk Avenue Even if you’re not in the market for balcony, roof or window plants, you should explore Urban Jungle. The rehabbed warehouse helps city dwellers turn cement-covered courtyards—and even walls—into mini oases. 1526-1530 E. Passyunk Avenue, urbanjunglephila.com

EAT & DRINK Much like its younger sibling, Cantina Dos Segundos in Northern Liberties, Cantina Los Caballitos cooks up modern twists on Mexican dishes, such as vegan fajitas and mahi mahi tacos. Wash them down with a tequila flight or specialty margarita. 1651 E. Passyunk Avenue, cantinaloscaballitos.com Yes, you must eat a cheesesteak when you’re in Philly. The rivalry continues between Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks, the two across-the-street sandwich icons open 24/7. When you go, order with two words only: your cheese selection (provolone, American or Whiz) and “wit” or “without” onions. 9th Street & E. Passyunk Avenue, genosteaks.com, patskingofsteaks.com Relax and indulge in New American cuisine at Fond, which focuses on inventive flavors and eye-catching presentation. Save some room, and you’ll be rewarded with decadent desserts and French press coffee. 1537 S. 11th Street, fondphilly.com Go for upscale sushi at Izumi, a richly appointed Japanese BYOB that looks out to the Singing Fountain. A highlight of the extensive menu, the inventive small-plate specialties please the more adventurous sushi eaters. 1601 E. Passyunk Avenue, izumiphilly.com In the mood for good wine and authentic Abruzzese cuisine? Get yourself to Le Virtù, where an intimate dining room and outdoor patio complete the warm and rustic atmosphere, and the seasonal menu melds local produce and meats with artisanal delicacies. 1927 E. Passyunk Avenue, levirtu.com The sign says Pub On Passyunk East, but do as the locals do and call it “the Pope.” Fourteen taps with a focus on microbrews, an 80-bottle beer list and a jukebox stuffed with early rock make this tavern a hipster haven. 1501 E. Passyunk Avenue, pubonpassyunkeast.com 14
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’HOOD HAPPENING It’s one of the hottest restaurant rows in the region, and East Passyunk toots its own gastronomic horn during Flavors of the Avenue, held each April. For a reasonable admission fee, you can sample food and drink from its myriad restaurants, bakeries and pubs. visiteastpassyunk.com

Urban Jungle

GeT To KNoW GrADuATe HosPiTAL

Jambalaya, crawfish pot pie, pan-fried grouper, fried chicken. Rex 1516 certainly draws inspiration from the South. Pair your mouthwatering meal with a craft beer or cocktail. 1516 South Street, rex1516.com The Sidecar Bar & Grille started the gastropub trend in this ’hood, and it’s still a Graduate Hospital destination. Choose from the large and constantly evolving beer list at night, and go for egg burritos and Bloody Marys during weekend brunch. 2201 Christian Street, thesidecarbar.com Sip for yourself why Ultimo ranked #1 on The Daily Meal’s list of “America’s Best Coffee Shops.” 2149 Catharine Street, ultimocoffee.com SHOP If bikes needed therapy, the staff at Bicycle Therapy would be serviceable shrinks. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or a casual pedaler, you’ll instantly understand why the shop maintains an impeccable rep. 2211 South Street, bicycletherapy.com Shop for custom-designed Moroccan pieces—clothing, bags, jewelry—at Mushmina, committed to selling fair-trade products. 1540 South Street, mushmina.com

EAT & DRINK The Philly Special—a shot of Jim Beam and a can of Pabst Blue Ribbon for $3.50—may have originated at Bob & Barbara’s Lounge, but it’s only a part of what makes the place so fun. Be there on Tuesdays for all-day ping-pong, Thursdays for the drag show, Friday and Saturday nights for jazz and Sundays for karaoke. 1509 South Street, bobandbarbaras.com Beer lovers rave about Grace Tavern, but if you don’t sample the food—fresh oyster po-boy, spinach and feta sausage sandwich, blackened green beans—you’re missing out. 2229 Grays Ferry Avenue, gracetavern.com The corner of 21st and South Streets draws a large, hungry crowd Saturdays and Sundays at brunch. Any day of the week, you can tote your own alcohol to diner-esque Honey’s Sit ’N Eat for a BYOB brunch, lunch or dinner. 2101 South Street, honeyssitneat.com Cool off at The Igloo. The sweet spot offers some seriously interesting (and healthy) takes on yogurts, sorbets and gelatos. What isn’t made in the U.S. comes straight from Italy, including the delectable salted caramel gelato. 2223 Grays Ferry Avenue, igloodesserts.com Meritage features a modern American menu dotted with signature dishes, small plates and gluten-free and vegan selections. Hit the intimate bar to hang with neighbors, and be sure to peruse the acclaimed wine list. 500 S. 20th Street, meritagephiladelphia.com For an unforgettable meal, make a reservation at Pumpkin. The very intimate space and the expertly crafted New American dishes make it a neighborhood gem. 1713 South Street, pumpkinphilly.com/restaurant You’ll go to Resurrection Ale House for its nationally known twice-fried chicken, but you’ll stay for the impressive selection of 13 beers on tap and a menu that focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients. 2425 Grays Ferry Avenue, resurrectionalehouse.com

’HOOD HAPPENING In October, craft breweries, neighborhood vendors, live music and food trucks come together on South Street for Bloktoberfest, an all-ages block party. Proceeds are donated to local charities and programs. bloktoberfestphilly.com

Grace Tavern

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GeT To KNoW uNiversiTy ciTy

Get all-natural women’s clothes at Piper Boutique, where the stock changes daily and the concept celebrates rustic style. 140 S. 34th Street, piperboutique.com LOOK & LISTEN Put Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on your cultural to-do list. Jazz, world music, contemporary dance, dramatic touring theater and local artists make it a place to explore “adventuresome perspectives on contemporary issues and timeless ideas.” 3680 Walnut Street, annenbergcenter.org Take part in the experience, interpretation and understanding of artworks at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Over its 50 years, this leader in the art world has hosted wildly controversial exhibitions by artists such as Andy Warhol and Robert Indiana. 118 S. 36th Street, icaphila.org Travel across the planet and back in time at the Penn Museum. A world-renowned collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Greco-Roman world, Asia, Africa and Central and North America fills a grand late19th-century building. 3260 South Street, penn.museum

EAT & DRINK Revisit your college days at Abner’s, serving cheesesteaks, gyros, pizza and other freshman 15-inducing items to hungry students until the wee hours of the morning. 3813 Chestnut Street, abnerscheesesteaks.com Choose your spice level (1-10) and get ready to taste some of the best Chinese food you’ve ever had at Han Dynasty. 3711 Market Street, handynasty.net Before you head to Penn Park, situated on the edge of University City along the Schuylkill River, grab some gourmet prepared foods to snack on at Picnic. 3131 Walnut Street, picniceats.com Get your sweets fill at local truck legend Sugar Philly. Choose from Asian-inspired treats such as meringue macaroons and crème brûlée. 38th & Walnut Streets, sugarphillytruck.com Delve into Philly history of a foodie variety at White Dog Cafe. Years ago, the restaurant started a Philadelphia trend: an unusual blend of acclaimed cuisine and social activism, including its focus on farm-fresh ingredients. 3420 Sansom Street, whitedog.com SHOP Maximize your running and walking performance with shoes, apparel and accessories from Philadelphia Runner, started by two hometown runners. 3621 Walnut Street, philadelphiarunner.com Functioning as an unofficial alternative to the University of Pennsylvania’s bookstore, Penn Book Center acts as a clearinghouse for new and used textbooks and scholarly and classic works. Catch a fiction, non-fiction or poetry reading here, or peruse what may be the largest poetry section in the city. 130 S. 34th Street, pennbookcenter.com 16
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PLAY Meander along the tree-lined Locust Walk on the University of Pennsylvania campus and take in the Gothic, ivy-covered red brick buildings and sculptures, such as Robert Indiana’s Love and the Split Button by Claes Oldenburg and his wife, Coosje van Bruggen. Along what would be Locust Street between 34th & 38th Streets

’HOOD HAPPENING Musicians, dancers, actors, jugglers, puppeteers and acrobats delight young audiences at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts during the annual Philadelphia International Children’s Festival, taking place each May. annenbergcenter.org

Locust Walk

GeT To KNoW PoWeLToN viLLAGe

EAT & DRINK Imaginative Thai dishes alongside creative drinks and a reasonably priced lunch define Lemon Grass Thai Restaurant. End your meal with fun ice cream flavors, including coconut, ginger, green tea and mango. 3626-30 Lancaster Avenue, lemongrassphila.com Fun nights take shape at New Angle Lounge, a triangular bar originally built in the 1800s. Stop in for happy hour specials, musical performances and a casual neighborhood vibe. 3901 Lancaster Avenue, nalounge.wordpress.com Bella Vista’s wildly popular Sabrina’s Café planted a flag in Powelton. Put it on your list for filling brunch and dinner specials. 34th Street & Powelton Avenue, sabrinascafe.com The name can be deceiving; Savas Brick Oven Pizza serves much more than just pizza. Try the buttermilk pancakes at breakfast or full salmon and pasta dinners in the evening. 3505 Lancaster Avenue, savaspizza.com In a burger mood? At Spencer ETA Burger, they come in beef, turkey and vegetarian form and plenty of flavor varieties, including the Tomahto Daddy (fried cornmeal-herb-panko encrusted tomato, bacon, American cheese, grilled red onions, homemade Big Mac sauce, shredded romaine, brioche bun). 227 N. 34th Street, spenceretaburger.com FUEL UP Try all three Green Line Cafe locations in West Philly for organic, fair trade-certified coffee and locally sourced sodas and food. Like the artwork on the walls? It’s for sale. Powelton, 3649 Lancaster Avenue; Spruce Hill, 4239 Baltimore Avenue, 4426 Locust Street, greenlinecafe.com Neighbors go to Reed’s Coffee and Tea House for fair-trade coffee, 20 different teas, homemade lemonade, sandwiches and baked goods. Kick back and enjoy the Wi-Fi, TV or alfresco seating. 3802 Lancaster Avenue, reedscoffeeandteahouse.com
Green Line Cafe

SHOP Three floors mean three different experiences at Wolf Cycle. Check out the first floor for all your biking needs; head up to the community room for music events, plays or movies; or take a peek at the third floor, currently operating as a workshop for repairing and building surf boards. 4311 Lancaster Avenue, firehousebicycles.com PLAY Join Powelton residents and Drexel students at Drexel Park, a 2.5-acre oasis with walking paths, benches and open green space, where picnics, Frisbee games, reading and sunbathing are the main activities. And get ready to Instagram—the view is a stunner. 32nd Street & Powelton Avenue, universitycity.org/drexel-park

’HOOD HAPPENING Cutting through Powelton, Lancaster Avenue is especially hopping on Second Fridays, when businesses stay open later and visitors enjoy special happenings like poetry readings and music.

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EAT & DRINK Jose Garces’ Distrito wows with funky décor, creative drinks and modern Mexican fare. Try the carnitas tacos for a true taste-bud fiesta. For the best seat in the house, call ahead to reserve the table in the VW Bug. 3945 Chestnut Street (entrance on 40th Street), distritorestaurant.com There’s no sign, no phone number and no website for beloved dive bar Fiume, and that’s exactly how people like it. Climb the stairs above Abyssinia to get into the hidden spot, and listen to the live bands as they shake the minuscule space. 229 S. 45th Street What started as a popular food truck evolved into a bricks-and-mortar casual eat-in cafe, Honest Tom’s Taco Shop. You’ll want to start your taco eating early—the breakfast tacos overflow with bacon, potatoes, tomatoes and fresh guacamole. 261 S. 44th Street Proper etiquette at Local 44: Pump quarters into a killer jukebox, eat savory bar food, drink craft beer. 4333 Spruce Street, local44beerbar.com When you’re deciding what bottle of wine to bring to Marigold Kitchen, consider the fare that the 70-plus-yearold neighborhood spot dishes out. Think upscale, artfully crafted American meals, served in four, five or six courses. 501 S. 45th Street, marigoldkitchenbyob.com Stock up on locally and sustainably produced foods for your Clark Park picnic at Milk & Honey Market, where convenience meets conscience. 4435 Baltimore Avenue, milkandhoneymarket.com SHOP While you’re skimming the used books (ranging from popular novels to out-of-print history books) at The Last Word Bookshop, keep an eye out for former stray cat Lester climbing the shelves. 220 S. 40th Street

Distrito

Test-walk kicks of all varieties at The Natural Shoe Store, home to brands such as Birkenstock, Earth, Uggs and Nike. 220 S. 40th Street LOOK & LISTEN Discover the story of pharmaceuticals dating back to Greco-Roman times at the Marvin Samson Center for the History of Pharmacy. Housed in the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, the center features changing exhibits and houses 10,000 pharmaceutical and medical objects from more than five centuries. Check website for hours. 600 S. 43rd Street, usciences.edu/museum Built as a house of worship in 1911, The Rotunda now hosts 300-plus events each year. Check the calendar for the diverse lineup, which can include a folk concert, a hip-hop showcase, a student film series and a neighborhood meeting all in one week. 4014 Walnut Street, therotunda.org PLAY Clark Park is Spruce Hill’s main recreation hub. Stop by for the playground, music festivals, farmers’ market, flea markets, Shakespeare performances and people watching. Between 43rd & 45th Streets and Baltimore & Woodland Avenues, friendsofclarkpark.org Don’t let the graves scare you. The Woodlands: Mansion, Cemetery and Landscape is also a beautiful arboretum and a great location for bird-watchers. 4000 Woodland Avenue, woodlandsphila.org

’HOOD HAPPENING People bring their blankets, chairs and picnics along for Shakespeare in Clark Park, when players put on a free Shakespeare play for a few days each summer. The warm weather, soliloquies, mistaken identities, deaths and weddings make for quite an evening. shakespeareinclarkpark.org

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Don’t let the funky look of Firehouse Bicycles fool you. The friendly staffers are experts in their field. 701 S. 50th Street, firehousebicycles.com The Marvelous fulfills all your record needs—rock, soul and jazz, as well as quality reissues. 4916 Baltimore Avenue Find souvenir alternatives at VIX Emporium. Some 150 local and national artisans design the jewelry, hand-printed stationery, hats, bags, scarves, belts, bath products, home accessories, ceramics and children’s items. 5009 Baltimore Avenue, vixemporium.com LOOK & LISTEN Expect high-quality theater at an affordable price at Curio Theatre Company. Productions range from traditional Shakespeare to modern adaptations of old classics. 4740 Baltimore Avenue, curiotheatre.org For art of a local variety, stop by Seeds Gallery to catch exhibitions by emerging and established artists of all media and styles. 5011 Baltimore Avenue, seedsgallery.com PLAY Visit the heart of the neighborhood, appropriately named Cedar Park. The small yet well-appointed park is the perfect spot to get to know the locals. 50th Street & Baltimore Avenue, cedarparkneighbors.org

EAT & DRINK Dive into authentic, family-style Ethiopian and Eritrean food at Dahlak, either inside or on the patio. 4708 Baltimore Avenue, dahlakrestaurant.com Fu Wah stocks its shelves with Vietnamese standards, healthy snacks and international ingredients, but you should come here for one thing: the takeout tofu hoagie. 810 S. 47th Street If it’s all-day breakfast you’re after, head to The Gold Standard Café. Soups, salads and sandwiches satisfy if you’re not feeling pancakes or eggs. 4800 Baltimore Avenue, thegoldstandardcafe.com Locals swear by the chaat—of which there are 34 variations—and the friendly service at the Indian restaurant Mood Café. Get a to-go shaved ice for your stroll along Baltimore Avenue. 4618 Baltimore Avenue, moodcafephilly.com Mix and mingle with bike messengers and local punk rockers over vegan kale smoothies, spicy black bean wraps and strong double espressos at the eclectic Satellite Café. 701 S. 50th Street A smaller version of Chinatown’s Vietnam Restaurant resides in West Philadelphia. While you’re waiting for a table at Vietnam Café, migrate to the glossy wooden bar to watch mixologists craft tropical-style cocktails. 814 S. 47th Street, eatatvietnam.com SHOP A-Space is…well, so West Philly. Visit the communityoriented “infoshop” for small music shows, film screenings, poetry readings, craft fairs and potluck dinners. Those books outside are for anyone to take. 4722 Baltimore Avenue, the-aspace.org

’HOOD HAPPENING A warm-weather Friday Night Jazz series at Cedar Park provides the perfect introduction to the neighborhood. And hearing amazing music is just another perk. cedarparkneighbors.org

Baltimore Avenue

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GeT TouriNG
There are plenty of options for touring Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. You can delve into each neighborhood one at a time, or you can pick something you like—beer, for instance—and follow it throughout the various enclaves. Here are four self-guided jaunts that celebrate beer, music, art and pizza.
C HE E RS TO B E E R
FISHTOWN You can tour Philadelphia Brewing Company—and enjoy a generous amount of beer samples—every Saturday from noon to 3:00 p.m. Best part? It’s free. 2440 Frankford Avenue, philadelphiabrewing.com Yards Brewing Company’s ESA helped ignite Philly’s craft beer revolution. You can tour the facility for free on weekends, and then hang out in the tasting room to sample what’s on tap. If you get hungry, step outside to see what the food truck of the week is dishing out. 901 N. Delaware Avenue, yardsbrewing.com NORTHERN LIBERTIES If you’re a discerning drinker, mix a six at The Foodery, which packs its refrigerators with more than 900 bottled craft beer varieties from around the world. 2nd & Poplar Streets, fooderybeer.com Anchoring the birth of Northern Liberties as a suds-centric neighborhood, Standard Tap sells only local brews on tap. Be there on Wednesdays, when bartenders tap a firkin at 6:00 p.m. as a complement to the beer-inspired food. 2nd & Poplar Streets, standardtap.com CALLOWHILL The mural-clad outdoor patio and huge menu of bottled microbrews at eclectic bistro Llama Tooth cater to the preclub crowds, while the unpretentious kitchen has an everyman appeal. 1033 Spring Garden Street, llamatooth.com The owners of Café Lift branched out into the gastropub scene with their rehabbed Prohibition Taproom, offering a solid tap list of domestic microbrews and hundreds of bottles for your tasting pleasure. 501 N. 13th Street, theprohibitiontaproom.com FAIRMOUNT Along with cans and bottles galore, Bridgid’s Bar & Restaurant boasts dedicated taps for Yards Philly Pale Ale and Chimay Cinq Cents, two gravity taps for Yards and Brooklyn beers served at cellar temperature, a nitrogen tap for a select rich and creamy beer and seven other taps for rotating brews. Take advantage of the later happy hour, offered nightly from 9:00 to 11:00 p.m. 726 N. 24th Street, bridgids.com QUEEN VILLAGE/BELLA VISTA The Bainbridge Street Barrel House credits craft beer with its existence. Hope you’re good at making decisions. There are 25 brews on tap and 180-plus bottled options. 625-627 S. 6th Street, bainbridgestreetbarrelhouse.com The offerings are aplenty at Hawthornes Biercafe, half beer boutique, half restaurant. How does 1,000 single bottles, 12 specialty growler fills and 11 rotating draughts sound? 738 S. 11th Street, hawthornecafe.com EAST PASSYUNK Warning: Jaws drop instantly upon entering The Bottle Shop, where more than 600 American and imported craft beers line the coolers. Monthly events include beer sampling, Quizzo and movie nights. 1837 E. Passyunk Avenue, bottleshopbeer.com SPRUCE HILL Attention craft-beer geeks: The Bottle Shop at Local 44 offers 18 draught beers, Orval Belgian pale by the bottle, two cask beers and one rotating gluten-free option. 4333 Spruce Street, local44beerbar.com/bottleshop CEDAR PARK Drink your unfiltered beer just steps from where it was brewed at Dock Street Brewery and Restaurant. Also notable, Dock Street carries select rotating taps and takeout specialty bottles. 701 S. 50th Street, dockstreetbeer.com
The Foodery, Northern Liberties

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PL EASE D O N ’ T STO P T H E MU S I C
FISHTOWN/NORTHERN LIBERTIES Hear the latest in rising local and touring indie music at The Barbary. A recent renovation brought a new sound system and no-nonsense air conditioning, so both bands and dancers can maintain their stamina long into the night. 951 Frankford Avenue, thebarbary.org You can take in great views on the balcony at Johnny Brenda’s, a 250-person venue that hosts touring indie music acts. The three bars pour all-draught, all-local beers, and the restaurant changes its menu daily depending on what’s available from local farmers. 1201 N. Frankford Avenue, johnnybrendas.com Short for The Manhattan Room, The M Room features its performance venue on one side and its bar/restaurant on the other. You can catch both local and touring acts, and order from a sizable list of bottled craft beers while you listen. 15 W. Girard Avenue, mroomphilly.com A former jazz-only haven, the revived Ortlieb’s Lounge stages live rock, soul, funk and jazz shows. Chow down on the Tex Mex and pub food, and sip a couple of $2 PBRs. 847 N. 3rd Street, ortliebslounge.com CALLOWHILL One of the larger venues in Philadelphia, the Electric Factory draws national acts that attract crowds in the low thousands. If you’re over 21, head upstairs to the balcony for an unbeatable view and a full bar. 421 N. 7th Street, electricfactory.info Another indie and underground favorite, the Starlight Ballroom offers lots of space, comfortable—but limited—seating, a bar and a big stage to see touring and local bands. Music to your ears? 460 N. 9th Street, r5productions.com

Union Transfer, the city’s newest major concert hall, distinguishes itself with excellent sound and light quality, along with a stellar selection of microbrews and tasty vegan fare. No matter your age, you can enjoy indie, hip-hop, punk and dance acts. 1026 Spring Garden Street, utphilly.com FAIRMOUNT Delicious comfort food, a fantastic microbrew selection, weekly Quizzo and live local and national music acts make North Star Bar & Grille a neighborhood favorite and a great reason for you to visit the area. 2639 Poplar Street, northstarbar.com UNIVERSITY CITY Sitting on the grounds of a former poorhouse and insane asylum, The Blockley in University City hosts an eclectic mix of live musical performers. 3801 Chestnut Street, theblockley.com It’s all about the music at World Cafe Live, where local and national acts perform. Keep it more intimate on the main level, which includes a 100-seat bar and restaurant with live music stage, or rock out downstairs at the 300-seat music venue with full kitchen and bar. 3025 Walnut Street, worldcafelive.com CEDAR PARK The vibe at Danger Danger Gallery is one of a house party, but these aren’t your typical college bands. Underground music, a hipster clientele and a definitively unfancy feel make it a classic West Philly haunt. Tip: Grab a growler from Dock Street Brewery before heading to the BYOB show. 5013 Baltimore Avenue, dangerdangergallery.com

The Blockley, University City

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BUI L D YO UR A R T CO L L E C T I O N
NORTHERN LIBERTIES Check out Art Star’s cheerful, witty exhibitions of limitededition art and handmade items. Once a year, typically in May, the owners host the two-day Art Star Craft Bazaar, where shoppers can find inexpensive works from artists and craftspeople around the country. 623 N. 2nd Street, artstarphilly.com Contemporary art flourishes at the Crane Arts building, housing a number of studios, galleries and arts organizations—many of which you can tour. 1400 N. American Street, cranearts.com FAIRMOUNT While you’re taking in the musical acts and open mic nights at Mugshots Coffeehouse, notice the décor. The shop features a different local artist each month. The opening night events provide the perfect opportunity to claim your favorite pieces early. 1925 Fairmount Avenue, mugshotscoffeehouse.com The owners of Neighborhood Potters aim to bring a little warmth and soul into your life with beautiful, useable, handmade pottery. Inspired? Ask about the regular pottery classes and create your own original design. 2034 Fairmount Avenue, sandiandneil.com QUEEN VILLAGE You’ll notice Eye’s Gallery because of the shiny, colorful mosaic on the outside. That’s the work of owner Julia Zagar’s husband, prolific mosaic muralist Isaiah. Inside, sterling-silver jewelry, hand-woven blankets, religious iconography and folk art fill the place from floor to ceiling. 402 South Street, eyesgallery.com

PENNSPORT Vegan coffee shop Grindcore House often spotlights artists with political or social messages. The exhibitions rotate six times a year, and opening night receptions often include live music. 1515 S. 4th Street, grindcorehouse.com EAST PASSYUNK AVENUE The bars, restaurants and shops along Passyunk Avenue in South Philly host openings and exhibits, as well as sales and specials, every Second Saturday of the month. It’s a good time to visit a handful of venues, talk with the artists and stock up. A couple for your list: Fringe Salon, which rotates its art every two months, and Nice Things Handmade, carrying art, ceramics, jewelry, clothing, prints and accessories from artists living across town and across the country. visiteastpassyunk.com GRADUATE HOSPITAL Want a meal while you shop for your next statement piece? L2 Restaurant & Bar is your spot. Menu items range from comfort food to grilled filet mignon and roasted crispy duck, and diners can purchase the local artworks that hang on the walls. 2201 South Street UNIVERSITY CITY Thinking globally takes on a whole new meaning at the Penn Museum shop, where visitors can bring home a treasure of the collections themselves. The main shop offers fair-trade crafts from Africa, Latin America, Asia, Australia and beyond. 3260 South Street, penn.museum SPRUCE HILL Browse and buy modern works by Philadelphia-area artists at Seeds Gallery. Exhibitions here feature emerging and established artists of all media and styles. The welcoming, community vibe will have you coming back for more. 5011 Baltimore Avenue, seedsgallery.com

Rocket Cat Café, Fishtown

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P I ZZ A- R A MA
FISHTOWN According to Guinness World Records, Brian Dwyer possesses the world’s largest collection of pizza memorabilia. Lucky for you, his Pizza Brain restaurant doubles as the world’s first pizza museum. And for dessert? Little Baby’s Ice Cream, of course. 2311-13 Frankford Avenue, pizzabrain.org, littlebabysicecream.com There’s no phone, no seats and just two high-top tables, but you should still put Pizzeria Beddia on your pie list. Owner Joe Beddia fires up a limited amount of the delicacy every Wednesday through Saturday, so get there early. 115 E. Girard Avenue, pizzeriabeddia.com CALLOWHILL Bring your own wine or beer to Bufad, the small eatery that slices up big-tasting pies. If there’s a wait, pass the time down the block at Prohibition Taproom. 1240 Spring Garden Street, bufadpizza.com SPRING GARDEN Taste what James Beard award-winning chef Marc Vetri can do with dough and a few ingredients at Osteria. The industrial chic outpost serves deliciously out-there wood-fired pizzas, such as the Polpo with octopus and the Lombarda with sausage and egg. 640 N. Broad Street, osteriaphilly.com QUEEN VILLAGE You won’t see many pizzas on the menu at Kennett, but the ones that are there rock it. They all come with a smoky hint thanks to the wood-fired oven. Try the Porchetta, topped with slow-roasted pork, farmer’s cheese and honey. 848 S. 2nd Street, kennettrestaurant.com South Street wouldn’t be complete without Lorenzo and Sons, a no-frills, cash-only pizza shop serving oversized pies, usually enjoyed by the (gigantic) slice. Come here after your night out for a pizza nightcap. 305 South Street, lorenzoandsons.com BELLA VISTA Born of a food truck, the simple, upscale Nomad Pizza puts its pies first. Prepare to fall for the shop’s airy Neapolitan-style pizzas, often preceded by crisp salads and washed down by craft beers and Italian wines. 611 S. 7th Street, nomadpizzaco.com Square, upside-down pizza is Santucci’s signature. (Trust us, you’ll love it.) You’ll also find stromboli, hot wings and garlic-bread cheesesteaks on the menu. 901 S. 10th Street, santuccispizza.com EAST PASSYUNK For something different, order the inventive pies at Birra (spaghetti and meatballs, mac and cheese and the rueben) until 1:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. 1700 E. Passyunk Avenue, birraphilly.com Marra’s Cucina Italiana specializes in red gravy and thincrust, brick-oven pizzas. The brick oven was designed and built by original owner Salvatore Marra himself with bricks from Mt. Vesuvius in Italy. That’s reason enough to try a pie. 1734 E. Passyunk Avenue, marrasone.com

CEDAR PARK The beer gets most of the attention at Dock Street Brewing Company, but don’t miss out on the pizzas. Flavors include the Parma (prosciutto bacon, crushed tomato, mozzarella, fontina, gruyere, crème fraiche, fresh herbs), A La Greek (sundried tomatoes, olives, toasted walnuts, roasted garlic, mozzarella, fresh herbs, feta, spring mix salad) and good ol’ Margherita. 701 S. 50th Street, dockstreetbeer.com

Marra’s Cucina Italiana, East Passyunk

Pizza Brain, Fishtown

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Go oNe More BLocK.
Discover more about Philadelphia’s neighborhoods at On the site: • Watch videos for an up-close look at the personality-packed districts. • Follow neighborhood and themed itineraries. • Get the inside track on neighborhood news and upcoming events. • See what other people are seeing through the Instagram photos. (And tag your own pictures with @VisitPhilly.) • Find out what’s nearby on the interactive map.

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