Alisha Miranda is a Philadelphia journalist, digital producer, and #LatinxIndustryNight event host. Her writing spans community-first reporting, restaurant recommendations, chef profiles, and dining guides. She is a regular contributor to Resy, Philadelphia magazine and The Philadelphia Inquirer, among others. 

Alisha Miranda

Alisha Miranda

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Articles (13)

The best boutique hotels in Philadelphia for a chic Philly stay

The best boutique hotels in Philadelphia for a chic Philly stay

Tourists and out-of-town visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation options in Philadelphia. But not all Philly hotels were created equal—and some, like the ones on this list—are more than a little bit special. From designer interiors that will inspire your next home renovation to curated perks and locally produced amenities, these are the best boutique hotels in Philadelphia to level up the luxe rating of your stay away from home. So whether you’re in town to see the city for just one night or need a treat-yo’self staycation, you sure won’t regret making a room reservation at any of these. RECOMMENDED: 🏨 See our full guide to the best hotels in Philadelphia🥪 Check out the best things to do while you're in Philly🛏 How about a stay in one of Philly's coolest Airbnbs? Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 
The 14 coolest Airbnbs in Philadelphia

The 14 coolest Airbnbs in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has no shortage of things to do with easy access to all the best Philadelphia attractions, the best restaurants in Philadelphia, and the best bars in Philadelphia. In 2023, the City of Brotherly Love welcomed over 40 million people, so needless to say, lodging is at the top of the list for visitors. These days, neighborhood properties on Airbnb are popular overnight accommodations that offer hotel-like luxury and home-y amenities for visitors to experience the city like a local for similar hotel pricing.  Below, we rounded up Philadelphia Airbnbs that put you at the heart of neighborhoods across the city and have enough space for individuals, families, groups, and even pets. Bonus: Several listings are run by “Superhosts” or “Guest favorites”—the most loved homes on Airbnb based on ratings, reviews, and reliability. Here are some tips for booking a short-term rental: Get familiar with local regulations, cross-check host listings and reviews for legitimacy, scope out the house rules and fees, and study up on the neighborhood. RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in PhiladelphiaThe best Airbnb cabins in PhiladelphiaThe best luxury hotels in Philadelphia Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The best restaurants in Philadelphia to book right now

The best restaurants in Philadelphia to book right now

There’s no doubt that Philadelphia is one of the most exciting dining destinations today. This city has always been scrappy and creative, and its buzzy energy extends to the countless restaurant openings that are eagerly welcomed. With Philadelphia’s continual ascension to national acclaim—it’s home to James Beard Award winners, Top Chef alumni, and StarChefs Rising Stars—there’s an endless choice of dining experiences for whatever your budget or vibe is. Not sure where to start? Here’s an updated look at the best restaurants to visit in Philly right now. This guide was updated by Philadelphia-based writer Alisha Miranda. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Philadelphia🍸 The best bars in Philadelphia🪩 The best clubs in Philadelphia🏨 The best hotels in Philadelphia🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Philadelphia💵 The best cheap hotels in Philadelphia 
The best bars in Philadelphia for cold beer, stiff drinks and fun times

The best bars in Philadelphia for cold beer, stiff drinks and fun times

Any city that has a drink special so ubiquitous that you could walk into any bar in town and ask for it by name must be a place that takes its drinking seriously. That’s the case in Philadelphia, where telling the bartender you want a “Citywide,” or just “The Special,” will make a can of cheap beer and a shot of well whiskey magically appear. But while we may be a shot and a beer town at heart, Philly’s bar scene offers so much more for drinkers; our diverse scene includes sophisticated cocktail bars, rooftop gems, neighborhood gastropubs, and corner dives. In recent years, there’s also been a wave of contemporary wine bars and non- and low-alcohol programs that make bar spaces more inviting and less intimidating for all. So pull up a seat, because you're in one of the best drinking cities in the country. Read on for the 37 best bars in Philadelphia for cold beer, stiff drinks, and fun times. RECOMMENDED: 🍲 The best restaurants in Philly💵 The best cheap hotels in Philadelphia  This guide was last updated by Philadelphia-based writer Alisha Miranda. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 
The best movie theaters in Philadelphia

The best movie theaters in Philadelphia

A night at the movies makes for a great option if you’re looking for things to do in Philadelphia with kids, during a crappy weather day, as a precursor to dinner or a live music performance. Philly has been the setting for so many iconic films and TV shows, including Rocky, Trading Places, The Sixth Sense, Silver Linings Playbook, How to Get Away With Murder, and more. The Greater Philadelphia Film Office was founded here to boost the region’s film and television industry and the Philadelphia Film Festival has produced year-round film programming for 33 years and counting. With Philadelphia as a hub for arts and culture, filmophiles are lucky to have plenty of movie-seeing options across the city. Below, we round up the 10 best movie theaters Philadelphia has to offer. RECOMMENDED: 12 hours in Philadelphia: the best non-touristy things to do
12 hours in Philadelphia: the best non-touristy things to do

12 hours in Philadelphia: the best non-touristy things to do

Like any other significant historical destination, Philly has its fair share of world-renowned attractions. But let’s face it: They draw too many crowds, are tourist traps, and some are worth skipping altogether. Fret not, though — it doesn’t take much effort to find gems that make the City of Brotherly Love magical. We’ve lived in the city long enough and we’re here to share all the good spots worth taking a long walk or SEPTA transit ride around the city. Only got 12 hours in town? Our plan here is to steer you toward stunning architecture wonders, great neighborhood bars and restaurants, and the most Instagrammable spots around town. Speaking of time, let's not waste any: go on and explore Philadelphia right this minute. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Philadelphia
Where to find the best pumpkin patches near Philadelphia

Where to find the best pumpkin patches near Philadelphia

Your local supermarket is likely packed with pumpkins this time of year, but choosing your jack o’lantern is so much more fun if you do it at a pumpkin patch in Philly. Every fall, farms begin to sprout with gourds and the quintessential fall displays—think haystacks, wagons and cornstalks, and everything else that comes with them. Experience the best of the season right here in Philly, in a local park or by taking a road trip with pals to any one of the rural wonderlands in our guide below. Heading to one of these Philadelphia pumpkin patches is also a no-brainer option when you’re looking for things to do with kids and an ideal complement to another favorite fall activity: apple picking near Philadelphia. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Philadelphia
The 18 best cozy bars in Philadelphia

The 18 best cozy bars in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a magical city in the colder months. The locals are back to their routine, scoping out the museums and checking out their favorite restaurants. And when the sun goes down and the temperatures continue to drop, you can also find the regulars back in Philadelphia's best cozy bars. These are the welcoming, dimly lit watering holes made even warmer by fireplaces and candle-lit tables. The best ones transport you outside the city to another world or another time in history. Whether you’re in the mood for a Hot Toddy, winter fruit-flavored cocktail, Irish coffee, or glass of red wine, these Philly bars are ready to serve up comfort in drink form all season long. Below, we rounded up the coziest bars in Philadelphia to settle in for sweater weather.
The most Instagrammable places in Philadelphia

The most Instagrammable places in Philadelphia

Philly is beautiful—but we don't need to tell you that. Between incredible hiking destinations, scenic parks, world-class museums, and restaurants serving outstandingly photogenic food and drink, the city is packed with picturesque spots. It makes choosing the most Instagrammable places in Philadelphia quite a challenge. For those looking to refresh their feeds with some insider flair, we've combed through Instagram feeds to find shots by locals who have managed to capture the moments that make Philly look so damn pretty and—boy oh boy— have we fallen in love with our city all over again. Get ready to swoon.
Where to find the best Philly cheesesteaks in Philadelphia

Where to find the best Philly cheesesteaks in Philadelphia

Those who come to Philadelphia usually arrive with a few specific goals in mind: the Liberty Bell, the Rocky Statue and losing their face in the best Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia. Want to eat like the locals? Here are a few tips: Know your order before arriving. “Wit or without” means with or without fried onions as a topping (“Whiz wit” and “Provolone wit” are popular choices). Have cash on hand. Don’t block sidewalks or streets when waiting in line. And while some spots excel in finely chopped meaty goodness like Jim’s, others are known for thinly sliced ribeye beef—try both and figure out your preference. Real ones know which is correct. Below, the restaurants serving the best cheesesteaks in Philly. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Philadelphia At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
The best things to do in Philadelphia with kids

The best things to do in Philadelphia with kids

The City of Brotherly Love is a playground for visitors of all ages, and the best things to do in Philadelphia with kids showcase why we’re such a family-friendly city. There’s never a dull moment here, and no matter the weather, there are lots of adventures to choose from. Get up close and personal with amazing animals at the zoo, join in high-energy fun at sports games and outdoor hikes or spend an afternoon at a museum. Once you’ve eaten your way through the kids’ menus and loaded up on cheesesteaks, burn it off at the best things to do in Philadelphia with kids. Here’s a family-friendly itinerary in Philly to kickstart your visit. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
Making Time Festival 2024: tickets, dates, lineup and everything you need to know

Making Time Festival 2024: tickets, dates, lineup and everything you need to know

The annual Making Time ∞ returns starting Friday, September 20. Every year for three days, Fort Mifflin, a historic 18th-century Revolutionary War fort on the banks of the Delaware River, transforms into a giant dance party with a rotating line-up of house, electronic, techno, and disco DJ sets, live performances, and bands from around the world. Consider Making Time Philly’s underground version of Coachella—a three-day musical festival with a good mix of artists and genres, including both big names and local artists, plus futuristic lighting projections and visuals by festival founder Dave P.’s longtime collaborators Klip Collective, a creative studio at Bok. Amenities include arranged transportation, refillable water and phone charging stations, seating options to relax and give your legs a break, hotel partners, plus food and drink on-site from Irwins, Two Persons Coffee, and Philadelphia Distilling.  RECOMMENDED: The best free things to do in Philadelphia When is the Making Time festival? Friday, September 20 through Sunday, September 22. Sets are from 1pm to 2am on Friday and Saturday, and 1pm to 11pm on Sunday. How do I get tickets to Making Time? You can buy 3-day and single-day passes online. You can skip service charges by buying three-day passes at Middle Child and Middle Child Clubhouse in Philadelphia and The Lot Radio in Brooklyn. Who is headlining? Check out the full lineup online, featuring 100+ acts over three days performing various genres like techno, tech

Listings and reviews (6)

The Vagabond Hotel

The Vagabond Hotel

4 out of 5 stars
Splashed in MiMo’s signature mid-century-style architecture, this charming two-floor hotel features retro teal and pink accents and was recently restored to show off its colorful glory days. The Vagabond opened in 1953 as an alleged hang of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, and remains a beloved property by locals and lovers of old Miami. Miami friends raved about The Vagabond's affordability and location.  In an era of contactless hospitality, it was refreshing to be checked in promptly by a hotel staff member who exuded warmth. She was eager to share her favorite parts of the hotel—like the old-school hotel keys (not those easily dysfunctional keycards)—and she also informed us of the 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, coffee, and water bottle perks. Days later, when we checked out, the staff kept our leftover food in the lobby fridge while we made the most of our last day in Miami.  Most rooms are moderately sized for two—we got upgraded to a King Suite packed with modern amenities that made for a comfortable stay. Beyond the typical TV and seating areas, we appreciated the LED desk lamps, the separate toilet and sizeable walk-in shower (though the water pressure was lacking), and the dresser for easy unpacking. We took full advantage of the waffle bathrobes and ready-to-use pool towels and rested easily at night thanks to the bedside diffusers and dehumidifiers.  It’s also a family-friendly spot that offers space for everyone. During our three-night stay, we joined people sunba
The Franklin Bar Lounge

The Franklin Bar Lounge

Get past the hotel greeters to meet bartenders whipping up esoteric ingredients in an extensive seasonal cocktail menu. This Rittenhouse speakeasy feels like the fanciest neighborhood bar and is known for its seriously inventive drinks. Mid-century tables and secluded rooms of themes make for a cozy atmosphere that’ll have you ordering another round. But be forewarned: These delicious cocktails are boozy AF.
Laurel

Laurel

One of East Passyunk’s iconic dining destinations for over a decade, executive chef Kevin McWilliams and chef-owner Nick Elmi champion Mid-Atlantic cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Guests can choose their own dining experience: tasting menu or a la carte, at the bar, or in the dining room — there’s no wrong way to enjoy this refined neighborhood restaurant.
A Mano

A Mano

5 out of 5 stars
What’s the vibe at A Mano? A Mano is an ideal restaurant to show off to your family visiting from out of town. It’s hip and vibrant and features familiar food prepared in unique ways, but it isn’t intimidating. What are the prices like at A Mano? A Mano is one of the best bargains in town. A three-course meal runs you $48 per person, while a four-course meal is $68 per person. What should I order at A Mano? Prosciutto and melon with plums, stracchino, and honey; burrata with heirloom tomatoes; ricotta cavatelli with broccoli rabe; mushroom lasagna; grilled branzino with fingerling potatoes and romesco sauce; and tiramisu with chocolate, espresso, and hazelnuts. What's worth visiting nearby? Head over to Libertee Grounds on Girard Avenue for a round of mini-golf. With an 18-hole course and a total square footage of 12,000 sq ft, it’s the largest indoor mini-golf course in Philadelphia. It’s been recently expanded with a golf simulator area, more bar seating, and mini-golf holes with animatronic features like a shot-blocking Gritty and a pole-climbing Eagles fan. Look for the Philly-centric murals on the second floor depicting FDR Skatepark and the El train.
Ambra

Ambra

One of the city’s most intimate tasting menu experiences is set in a candle-lit communal dining room on the corner of Fourth and Bainbridge Streets. Here, chef Chris D’Ambro and his team celebrate seasonal farm-to-table cooking that true food lovers will cherish. To make the evening more special, opt for the kitchen counter seating.
High Street

High Street

4 out of 5 stars
What’s the vibe at High Street? Casual and comfortable. This is a friendly neighborhood spot the entire family can enjoy. What are the prices like at High Street? Handmade pasta and pizzas with High Street’s distinctive sourdough crust anchor the dinner menu, which ranges from $8 to $38. Drinks (including zero-proof options) range from $13 to $16. You can also opt for the $75 “Leave It To Us” four-course prix fixe dinner menu served family-style. Drink pairings are not included. What should I order at High Street? High Street is open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, so there’s lots to choose from. The assorted pastries basket during brunch is a must-eat—you’ll understand why their bread program is still one of the best in the city. For lunch, the house Reuben with pastrami, melted Gruyere cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on toasted rye bread is a classic choice. The dinner menu has some crossover hits like the tahini Caesar salad with chicory and boquerones, lamb meatballs with celeriac tzatziki and ricotta whey, and the squash pizza with burrata, Calabrian chili oil and honey. What's worth visiting nearby? Catch a live show at City Winery, around the corner on Filbert Street, where comedians, musicians, and podcasters keep the night going. During the fall harvest season, you can also tour the in-house winery and learn about their wine collaborations with visiting performers.

News (26)

Beat the winter blues with Astra Lumina's immersive nighttime cosmic experience

Beat the winter blues with Astra Lumina's immersive nighttime cosmic experience

We know the sun setting earlier this time of year can be a real bummer, but there are some things to look forward to with longer nights. Hear us out: shorter days means more time for an enchanting after-hours walk to admire the cosmos, which might cheer you up. Enter: Astra Lumina, which opens November 21 in Philadelphia. How does a walk among the stars sound to beat the winter blues? RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend Astra Lumina uses lighting, visual projections, and sound to connect people to the skies through immersive nighttime walks. Astra Lumina's Enchanted Night Walk involves walking an illuminated pathway that marries nature and art; walks last up to one hour, and take place on a pre-set path along the landscaped grounds of Abington Art Center in Jenkintown.  The experience is multi-sensory, and lighting, music, and projections are meant to make visitors feel as if they're walking among the cosmos; imagine stars descending from the night sky. This "stargazing" experience will also feature starlight lanterns, a starlight archway, a star-filled trail, and an accompanying astral soundtrack to set the mood. While you're there, grab a snack or drink to fuel up for your journey through the stars. Take a look at what's in store here and below: “This journey is about fostering connections—between people, nature, and the stars—so we're excited to bring this enchanted experience to the Abington Art Center for a captivating new chapter,” Jonathan
American Airlines just launched an airport shuttle bus service to get to and from Philly—here's how to use it

American Airlines just launched an airport shuttle bus service to get to and from Philly—here's how to use it

Ever worried about missing a short connecting flight just to go up in the air and come right back down? Now travelers have another option to ease travel woes and expenses—American Airlines is partnering with The Landline Company to launch a motorcoach connection service that'll help passengers to and from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) from several local regional airports. RECOMMENDED: Philadelphia International Airport is ranked last in customer satisfaction, again Instead of driving to PHL, travelers will be able to relax and ride the motorcoaches—all while earning miles and accessing amenities they'd find on a flight. No need to brave the highway to make your connecting flight, no need to find parking at multiple airports and no need to go through security twice. The service is available to flyers traveling to/from Philadelphia via Wilmington Airport (ILG) in Wilmington, Del.; Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) in Atlantic City, N.J.; Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) serving Allentown/Bethlehem, Pa.; and Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport (AVP) serving Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pa. The coach can be used for both international and domestic flights. Here's how it works: book the coach at the same time you book a flight with American and pick one of the participating airports as your point of origin or final destination, for example, ILG in Wilmington (the cost of the coach is included in your flight purchase). Check in 24 hours before your tri
Levain Bakery brings its famously gooey cookies to Philly this week

Levain Bakery brings its famously gooey cookies to Philly this week

The wait is over, cookie fans: Levain Bakery, the New York bakery famous for its massive, gooey cookies, opens its first Philly location this Friday, October 11 in Rittenhouse Square. Drop by 1518 Walnut Street on Friday from 8am onward for the opening party, which will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony and Philly-branded totes filled with free bakery swag for the first 100 customers. Plus, you can feel good about stocking up on treats because all opening day proceeds will be donated to local anti-poverty nonprofit Broad Street Love. RECOMMENDED: Pop-up darling New June is opening a brick-and-mortar bakery in Brewerytown this fall The Rittenhouse bakery will be the Levain's 15th location; the bakery also operates stores in New York, Washington, D.C., Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles and Bethesda, Md. Levain's Rittenhouse location fits a pattern of national chains moving in alongside local bakeries in the city.  “With each new bakery, we aim to be a true neighbor and member of the community. We love Rittenhouse and we are delighted the bakery is in the heart of Philadelphia,” Levain cofounders Pam Weekes and Connie McDonald said in a news release. “Rittenhouse has no shortage of delicious bakeries; we couldn’t be more excited to break bread and cookies with our new neighbors.” Levain Rittenhouse, which will be a retail bakery and production space, inhabits a former bank and its exterior and interior honors the building's original architectural elements. Brooklyn-based architecture
This Philly hotel was just voted one of the best in the world

This Philly hotel was just voted one of the best in the world

Located around the corner from picturesque Rittenhouse Square, the 306-room Sofitel Philadelphia was recently named among the best hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, placing No. 34 on the top 50 list. This year, readers cast 575,048 votes in the hotel award survey. The Sofitel is known for offering French elegance in a neighborhood deeply rooted in Francophile history that extends to hospitality, architecture and cuisine—all of which contributed to the hotel’s favorable ranking.  Sofitel Philadelphia opened in 2000 and has undergone stunning renovations, including an upscale lobby redo, curated art gallery, Liberté Lounge and revamped Chez Colette restaurant menu and décor. This completes a multi-year overhaul of the entire four-star property.  “We are truly honored to be recognized as one of the Best Hotels in the World by the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards,” said  Pierre Jotterand, General Manager, Sofitel Philadelphia, in a press release. “At Sofitel Philadelphia, we are committed to creating moments of joy and elegance for every guest, and this award reinforces our mission to provide exceptional service with a genuine spirit of hospitality.” This Condé Nast award is just the latest in an impressive list of accolades for the Sofitel. Its Philadelphia property won a Condé Nast Readers' Choice award in 2017; holds a Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame award from Trip Advisor; acknowledged by US & World News as Best Hotel of 2017; a cove
DesignPhiladelphia festival celebrates 20 years of architecture and design

DesignPhiladelphia festival celebrates 20 years of architecture and design

Creatives and architecture buffs, mark your calendars: DesignPhiladelphia celebrates 20 years this October. The citywide festival, taking place from October 1 to 13, commemorates the city's past and present-day design and architecture—and is the oldest of its kind in America. The festival hosts educational talks, hands-on workshops, lively presentations, venue tours and open houses throughout the city, including at Cherry Street Pier and the Center for DesignPhiladelphia. Cherry Street Pier along the ever-evolving Delaware River Waterfront is an open-air building home to designer studios, rotating art and photography galleries, and seasonal food and craft vendors. The Center for DesignPhiladelphia, formerly known as The Center for Architecture and Design, is DesignPhiladelphia’s headquarters—with a mission to expand design access across all ages and various disciplines (“K through career”) with design associations and their annual fall festival.  Photograph: Deb CharmelusCADO Market “This year, we are sharing reflections from some of the founders and early-year participants about the importance of being the first design festival of its kind in the country and what the festival could and should become in the future,” said Rebecca Johnson, Executive Director of DesignPhiladelphia and AIA Philadelphia in a press release. The festival highlights local practicing architects, designers and creative professionals. Their works on display range from streetwear to student digital med
The Franklin Institute brings back its most popular exhibits to celebrate 200 years of science

The Franklin Institute brings back its most popular exhibits to celebrate 200 years of science

Franklin Institute is one of America’s most renowned science and technology museums, and is one of the major reasons Philadelphia has long been a hub for “Eds and Meds.” Starting November 23, the Franklin celebrates 200 years with a special unveiling of new and reimagined exhibits and galleries. The beloved Giant Heart will be the centerpiece of a new human body exhibit called “Body Odyssey,” and the historic Baldwin Locomotive will be featured in the new Hamilton Collections Gallery. The expansive "Body Odyssey spans 8,500 square feet and teaches visitors about the inner workings of the human body and how they affect both physical and mental health. It includes the famous Giant Heart too—a museum favorite since it was unveiled in 1953, even appearing in an episode of the hit Philly-based television show Abbott Elementary. In its new iteration, visitors can experience their own heartbeat pulsing from the Heart synchronized through movement, light, and sound.   Photograph: Courtesy Franklin InstituteFranklin Institute Hamilton Collections Gallery is a freshly curated two-story space that features the exhibition “200 Stories for 200 Years” with thousands of newly debuted artifacts from its vast collection. In addition, visitors can see the 60,000th steam 350-ton locomotive built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in Pennsylvania from a new overhead view. “As we celebrate The Franklin Institute's bicentennial year, unveiling these iconic exhibits marks an exciting chapter in our
Pop-up darling New June is opening a brick-and-mortar bakery in Brewerytown this fall

Pop-up darling New June is opening a brick-and-mortar bakery in Brewerytown this fall

Philadelphia’s Brewerytown neighborhood is becoming an exciting destination for small food businesses. This fall, New June bakery will open at 2623 W Girard Avenue, just a block away from Filipino spot Baby’s Kusina + Market and Eastern European brewpub Crime & Punishment Brewing Co. New June bakery founder Noelle Blizzard lives in Fairmount, located just below Brewerytown, and is the latest food pop-up opening their first brick-and-mortar shop in the area. This opening marks another successful non-traditional pathway to entrepreneurship that’s redefined Philly’s dining culture since the pandemic. And Noelle’s journey is one we’ve eagerly followed. She started “baking as therapy” during the pandemic and launched her micro-bakery in 2021 as an entirely self-taught professional baker. Her cakes are known to be colorful and whimsical. Think: classic sheet cakes with vintage cake designs and techniques like Lambeth piping. Photograph: Katie Jean PhotographyNew June Over the last few years, she’s brought her “nostalgia-inducing, seasonal flavors” to Philly's top restaurants, including My Loup and Bloomsday, to weddings and special occasions, and even the Philadelphia Museum of Art. She’s developed a cult following around the country, her cakes gracing the covers of Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly print issue and featured in New York Times’ T Style, Good Morning America and Architectural Digest. Today, New June is an all-woman business with a team of five bakers, designers
This modern Polish restaurant in East Kensington was just named one of the best in America

This modern Polish restaurant in East Kensington was just named one of the best in America

Philadelphia’s hospitality scene continues to rake in national accolades. This week, Little Walter’s, a newly-launched contemporary Polish-American restaurant and bar in East Kensington, was included in The New York Times’ Best Restaurants List: “50 Favorite Places in America Right Now.”  While northeast Philadelphia has a strong Polish history, especially in Fishtown up to Port Richmond, the city lacks formal dining options like Little Walter’s in East Kensington. Family-run pierogi shops, delis, and Kielbasa spots are what have defined Polish food in Philly for a long time, but Little Walter’s is ushering in a new era with owner/chef Michael Brenfleck’s fresh take on traditional Polish fare and drink. Times editor Nikita Richardson gets this appeal, highlighting dishes beyond pierogies like rustic sourdough served with dill butter and smalec (lard) and rotisserie pork with kapusta (stewed cabbage with onions and sauerkraut).  Brenfleck honors his family’s Polish and Philadelphian roots with a menu that emphasizes scratch cooking and regionally sourced ingredients in a 32-seat restaurant. Since its grand opening in June, Little Walter’s has expanded its hours of operation to six days a week, launched a daily happy hour service, and rotated dishes based on seasonality and accessibility to locally sourced produce and ingredients. Curious to try? Brenfleck will be hosting an eight-course pierogi dinner in honor of National Pierogi Day (Tuesday, October 8). Tickets are availabl
Fall Fest at Morgan's Pier returns for another season of autumn fun

Fall Fest at Morgan's Pier returns for another season of autumn fun

Like clockwork, the weather has suddenly dropped during this first week of fall. There’s a crisp chill in the air and Philadelphians are skipping no time to get those decorative gourds out on their front stoops. To kickstart autumnal activities, Fall Fest returns to Morgan’s Pier for its 13th season.  Morgan’s Pier, named after George C. Morgan, the first person to cross the Ben Franklin Bridge, has been a riverfront destination and “backyard beer garden” on Columbus Boulevard since 2011. This fall, the pier transforms into piles of haystacks surrounded by seasonal flowers of orange, brown, and green hues for five straight weeks of fall programming through October 26.  There will be fall activities for kids, adults and even pets! Daily pick-your-own pumpkins and pumpkin carving (carving kits provided) will be held at the Pier’s Pumpkin Patch starting at $5. On Sundays, expect live acoustic music and a DJ-spun soundtrack from Thursday through Saturday. A “Yappy Hour” for pets and their owners is on tap for Mondays from 4 to 8pm. Don't miss the final Yappy Hour on Sunday, October 20, featuring a puppy Halloween parade and costume contest. It’s all for a good cause, too: Tito’s Handmade Vodka will donate a portion of proceeds from the Yappy Hour menu to the Pennsylvania SPCA. Photograph: Courtesy FCM HospitalityMorgan's Pier Fall Fest Of course, warm beverages and comfort food will incorporate the flavors of the season. On the menu are crispy, spicy Brussels sprouts with bacon
London’s surreal House of Dreams artist is coming to Philly

London’s surreal House of Dreams artist is coming to Philly

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (PMG) is a massive display of Isaiah Zagar’s imagination on South Street. Visitors are immersed by a maze of brick and stone walls covered in mosaics with thousands of found objects throughout Philadelphia, from handmade tiles and bottles to bicycle wheels and mirrors that have become iconic international folk art and chronicle his life’s work. Beginning September 20, visitors can experience a new exhibition of similar origins at the Magic Gardens: "Walking Round My Head: Works by Stephen Wright." The exhibition features a collection of works by Stephen Wright, a London-based mixed-media artist, designer and creator most known for his art environment, the House of Dreams museum. Similar to Zagar, Wright transformed his home into a vast, immersive artwork, decorating the walls with thousands of personal items and repurposed objects found at flea markets. PMG visitors may also recognize other similarities between Zagar and Wright—Wright brings his visions to life with bright and colorful mixed-material portrait drawings, whimsical masks, intricate tapestries, and textile figures that combine elements from Wright’s traditional design background and the abstract art environment he created. "Walking Round My Head" will go on display in PMG’s two indoor galleries. PMG will host a pay-as-you-wish opening reception on Friday, September 20, 6 to 9pm with extended visiting hours and a guided tour, artist talk, and book signing will take place Tuesday, Septe
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at these Latino-owned businesses in Philly

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at these Latino-owned businesses in Philly

Philadelphia is a growing metropolis that is now home to the fastest-growing ethnic population not only in the city but also in the country, according to census data. Latinos now make up 16 percent of Philadelphia’s population with nearly 250,000 residents, most recently from Puerto Rico (Philadelphia has the second largest Puerto Rican population in the U.S.), the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and Mexico (giving South Philly’s “Puebladelphia” nickname). That means more culturally representative, multi-generational businesses, community centers, diverse neighborhoods, and a growing economy. All this makes this month’s Hispanic Heritage Month—September 15 through October 15—the perfect time to celebrate Hispanic and Latino culture. Below are 10 Philly Hispanic and Latino businesses to support. 1. Bolo James Beard's semifinalist chef Yun Fuentes’ Latin American restaurant, BOLO, in Rittenhouse is the first of its kind in the city. BOLO’s Rum Bar, located on the first floor, is led by PUNCH Drink’s ‘Best New Bartenders 2024’ Finalist Tony Jimenez and Mexican bartender Carlos Perez. On select Thursday evenings, live music from Cuban band Conjunto Philadelphia serenades diners. Upstairs is a formal dining room outfitted with Puerto Rican art. Nearly all BOLO staff are Hispanic and Latino, too. 2. Taller Puertorriqueño Known simply as Taller or the Cultural Heart of el Barrio, Taller Puertorriqueño has been a leading community arts and cultural organization since the seventies. It
Negroni Week returns to Philadelphia—here’s where to celebrate

Negroni Week returns to Philadelphia—here’s where to celebrate

Classic cocktail lovers, pull up a bar seat — this week marks the 12th annual Negroni Week. This year, the Campari Group, in partnership with Imbibe Magazine and Slow Food, hosts Negroni Week from September 16 to 22, where you can try both inventive and traditional takes on the bitter-sweet drink and vote for your favorite variations. Download a curated map or follow this list to see which of the best bars in Philadelphia are participating in cocktail competitions and offering one-week-only drink specials. In 2013, Imbibe Magazine launched Negroni Week as a celebration of one of the world’s best cocktails. In fact, the Negroni is the number one-selling cocktail in the world, according to Drinks International. Since then, Negroni Week has grown from about 120 participating venues to thousands around the world, including over 100 Philadelphia-area bars and restaurants. “Philadelphia hospitality has such a wonderful sense of community and so much talent—both aspects make this city a perfect Negroni Week host,” said Wendy Caperonis, Philadelphia District Manager of Campari America. “We see so much collaboration from neighborhood to neighborhood; the Negronis our participants offer reflect the flavors, spirits, and energy of their menus.” You can also enter to win a Campari prize pack by casting your vote for your favorite Negroni via the QR code on the map and sharing photos of it on social media by tagging @spritzandstir. One photo counts as one submission and the winner will be