An Unexpected Ice Cream Destination: Desi Chaat House
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 10, 2010
Since it opened earlier this year Desi Chaat House has been steadily gaining a reputation for serving the best Indian street food in Philadelphia (some would even say on this side of the world, but since it's the only chaat I've ever tried I'll abstain from weighing in on that). The lines, which sometimes stretch out the door, attest to the deliciousness and popularity of the chaat. But salty, tangy, spicy snacks aren't the only thing that people are lining up for anymore: now the little eatery is dishing out Indian ice cream, too.
When I first checked it out in the spring, the friendly owner told me to stay tuned because he was going to start whipping up special Indian ice creams for summertime. I regret that it took me so long to come back for the ice cream -- I could've been indulging all summer!
The ice cream case houses about ten rotating flavors, with standards like strawberry and chocolate (with big chunks of strawberries and chocolate in them, of course) that even timid kids will go for. The really special flavors, though, are the ones you won't find at Ben & Jerry's or even at Capogiro: the Indian flavors. Kulfi, saffron, and a special floral-scented flavor were all choices when I visited. If you have a tough time deciding you can always opt for "Crazy Ice Cream", which is a mishmash of all the previous day's leftover flavors. I detected bits of mango, strawberry, and kulfi all swirled together. For just $1.50 you can get one scoop of any flavor (a scoop is nothing to scoff at), which has to be the cheapest price the world has seen for ice cream since approximately 1975. Make sure to specify if you want only a scoop though -- if you just ask for ice cream you'll get whatever flavor you've selected piled high with rich caramel sauce, candied nuts, and sliced bananas. This veritable sundae clocks in at only $3.99, and oh boy is it delicious.
Stop in on the next hot afternoon for a real treat (weather update: yeah, that'll be everyday for at least the next month).
Desi Chaat House
501 S. 42nd Street (42nd and Baltimore)
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 386-1999
www.desichaathouse.com
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Related Category: Dining + Food
Atiya Ola’s: Raw Foods on Baltimore Avenue
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 2, 2010
The raw food revolution has been embraced by a lot of West Phillyites, but there’s a dearth of places in the neighborhood to find the uncooked, unprocessed, and organic fare. The popular Milk & Honey Market helped a bit when it opened last year, but there’s another place new to Baltimore Avenue in the past year that’s sure to be any raw foodie’s delight: Atiya Ola’s Spirit First Foods.
The little café offers up vegan and vegetarian dishes, along with a few meat dishes, in addition to its raw food specialties. It is most popular for breakfast and lunch – so much so that I didn’t even realize that it was also open for dinner until I was told so (the grill closes at 7). I decided to stop by for an early dinner on my way to Shakespeare in Clark Park this past weekend to give my body a blast of nutrients.
The menu consists of sandwiches and wraps, salads, and a selection of raw foods that changes daily, with a few mainstays. There are also vitamin-rich smoothies. The smoothies aren’t what you’ll find at Freshens or even Jamba Juice, though – these drinks consist of fruits blended up with all sorts of green things . . . think kale, moss, and detoxifying berries. My favorite raw food was the couscous, which is so popular that it’s always on the menu even while other selections rotate. What I liked even more, though, was the fresh Avocado Salad, which came with an entire perfectly ripe chunked avocado drizzled with an Asian-like dressing called “Magic Marinade.”
Be warned, though: much of the raw fare isn't for the uninitiated. My boyfriend almost gagged on the first sip of his "Peach Moss" smoothie, despite the healthy 92 minerals imparted by the sea moss. He pushed it away and munched happily on a salmon and goat cheese sandwich instead.
Atiya Ola’s Spirit First Foods
4505 Baltimore Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19143
(215) 939-3298
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Marrakesh Express: Authentic Moroccan Cuisine, Like You’ve Never Had Before
Posted by Samantha Lazar on July 21, 2010
Marrakesh Express has been open for less than a year, and in that time it’s already become West Philly’s go-to spot for authentic north African cuisine. There are several so-called Moroccan restaurants in the city, but Marrakesh Express is the only one that’s actually owned by Moroccans – and, lest you think the background and upbringing of the owners doesn’t matter much, it shines through in every tender, flavorful bite.
The citizenry agree: the tiny restaurant has a perfect 5 star rating on Urbanspoon and 4.5 stars on Yelp, in spite of the fact that Yelp has mysteriously decided to filter out 10 top-notch reviews. (Scroll down to the bottom of the Yelp page and click on the tiny “10 filtered” to see them – one woman has lived and traveled extensively in Morocco and swears this food is some of the best you’ll find anywhere.
The restaurant is in a diverse neighborhood and has the feel of a local joint, with a mix of actual Moroccans, students, and those in search of strictly halal food all stopping in and mingling. Brahim, the super-friendly owner, will be sure to explain each dish to you if you have any questions. But here’s some advice: try the daily special, and make sure to taste some hummus too. I stopped by for lunch on Friday, which means the couscous special had been simmering all morning (and would sell out in just a couple of hours). The restaurant is so small, with such a devotion to real, home-cooked food, that everything is made fresh and to order, which also means in small batches destined to go quickly.
The couscous was heaped with veggies and chicken so tender that the meat of the leg and thigh fell right off the bone. Lamb is big on the menu, and is perfectly spiced. The flavors are complex and pronounced, but not enough to overpower the outstanding taste of the tender meat. Oh, and remember that hummus I told you about? It’s divine. Simply the best I’ve ever had. Maybe that’s because it takes them three days to painstakingly make the fresh, slightly chunky dip, which is served up with an enticing pool of oil in the middle. Though I didn’t try one myself, I’ve heard that the tangine dishes are phenomenal as well. I washed my meal down with a pomegranate soda (exotic!).
Check this place out for lunch sometime soon. It’s affordable, delicious, and already a neighborhood gem.
Marrakesh Express
4407 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 222-9008
www.halalmarrakesh.com
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Dining Days are Upon Us!
Posted by Samantha Lazar on July 14, 2010
Every West Philadelphia foodie’s favorite time of year is just around the corner:University City Dining Days! This year’s event, the fifth annual, begins on Thursday and will run through July 29th. In case your math skills are lacking, that’s two full weeks, extended from what used to be just one.
Dining Days veterans know that restaurants are divided into three categories. Each restaurant offers a special prix fixe meal for either $15, $25, or $30. That’s an appetizer, main course, and dessert at some of the area’s hottest eateries for as little as $15! A whopping 29 restaurants will be participating this year, including some places that are relatively new to the area. If you haven’t heeded my advice and checked out City Tap House, Landmark Americana, or Sang Kee Noodle House yet, now’s a perfect time to get a taste of these new favorites.
Adding to the festive feel of these fabulous mid-summer weeks, some live entertainment will be on hand Thursday through Saturday (the 15th – 17th) and next Thursday and Friday (the 22nd and 23rd). The performances will feature jugglers and fire dancers in the vicinity of 40th and Walnut. Check out the official Dining Days page for the full deets on the entertainment and the list of participating restaurants along with their special menus.
Just like the Hess Truck, Dining Days is back and better than ever this year. So make your reservations quickly – prime spots fill up in a hurry!
Dining Days 2010
July 15th – 29th
Restaurants all over University City!
www.universitycity.org/diningdays
Related Category: Dining + Food
Summer Farmers’ Markets and Fresh Goods in University City – Farmers’ Market at the Radian every Friday in June and July!
Posted by Samantha Lazar on June 21, 2010
There's no shortage of organic, locally-grown produce in West Philly, and now that summer is here, we can bask in the glory of all those fresh fruits and veggies. The popular Clark Park Farmers Market has been a big draw of the area for years and always brings a large crowd and fun vibe to the park. After its winter hiatus the market is now back in full swing. Hit it up on Thursday afternoons for a quick re-stocking of fresh vegetables, or stop by on Saturday mornings for the full market experience, complete with a whole lot on top of the bounty of Pennsylvania’s fields: in addition to the vibrantly colored produce you’ll also find homemade honey, jam, fudge, and breads along with a veritable flea market offering jewelry, clothing, handmade goods of all sorts, and kids running amok.
When Milk and Honey Market opened this past year, it brought a dose of the farmers’ market to Baltimore Avenue, which was great for the winter months as well as freshness ...
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Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll Tomorrow!
Posted by Samantha Lazar on June 9, 2010
Baltimore Avenue is a mecca for diverse and eclectic energy in University City, be it in the form of food, drink, shopping, or entertainment. I’ve highlighted many of the street’s shops and cultural attractions on the blog before, but never before has there been such a perfect opportunity to check out so many of them in just one evening! Tonight is the first installment of the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll, which will take place on the second Thursday of each month throughout the summer (the next ones are July 8th and August 12th, if you want to mark your calendar). Fifteen businesses along the Avenue, between 43rd and 50th Streets, will be offering special wares for just a buck each. Who says a dollar can’t buy anything nowadays?
Start your stroll with a $1 cup of coffee or tea at the Green Line Café at 43rd and Baltimore, and then wend your way westward. Some highlights from the restaurants include $1 scoops of ice cream at Milk and Honey Market, $1 finger foods and salads at Dahlak, raw foods at Atiya Ola’s, tofu skewers at Vientiane Café, and sandwiches at The Gold Standard. There are several places to get your one dollar drink on, including Queen of Sheba, Elena’s Soul, and Dock Street (which is also offering $1 souvenir pint glasses!). For shopping you can check out Young Love’s or browse homemade gifts at VIX Emporium. If you’re feeling energetic swing by Studio 34, which is offering special yoga classes for just a dollar! Perhaps the most interesting offering of the evening is from Curio Theatre Company, which will be presenting previews of its upcoming performances for just one measly dollar.
The weather should be glorious and the neighborhood will certainly be hopping. Check out the full list of participating venues here, and make sure to come back next month too!
Baltimore Avenue, between 43rd St. and 50th St.
June 10th, July 8th, August 12th
5:30 – 8:30pm
Related Categories: Dining + Food, Family Fun, Coffee Shops, Retail, Culture
City Tap House: Great Food, Craft Brewed
Posted by Samantha Lazar on May 28, 2010
After anxiously awaiting its opening for months, I finally got to check out City Tap House, the sprawling new beer hall and gastropub on the balcony of The Radian at 39th and Walnut. The restaurant has been advertising itself as having the region’s largest selection of beers on tap as well as inventive high-quality food and a unique atmosphere.
The wait was worth it. The laid back vibe puts you at ease right away, and the seating choices are numerous. You can grab a stool at the bar, enjoy a meal in the vaulted 120-seat dining room, or lounge at a table outside. Even more exciting, there are five stone fire pits on the terrace which are great for sipping beers later in the evening.
Though there’s a nice wine list as well as other beverages, hops and barley come first here. The beer list is more like a beer book, containing a whopping sixty brews on tap, and handed to diners on a clipboard. My boyfriend nearly squealed with delight when he saw all of his favorite ...
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Related Destination: City Tap House »
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New Patio at Mikey’s American Grill & Sports Bar Welcomes Summer and Baseball
Posted by Samantha Lazar on May 25, 2010
If you live or work around Drexel and are a sports fan, your go-to spot for sports-watching revelry this summer should be Mikey’s American Grill & Sports Bar. The true blue sports bar at the corner of 32nd and Chestnut opened up a fabulous patio space this spring which is perfect for kicking back, watching the game, eating and imbibing. And it’s spacious enough (it’s the largest outdoor space I’ve seen at any restaurant in the city, in fact) to accommodate the hoards of rowdy cheering students and their beer towers as well as a quiet couple of friends sipping drinks in the corner.
When I stopped by on a balmy Friday evening to watch the Phillies crush the Red Sox, most of the lively clientele was outside, leaving plenty of space and optimal tv-watching seats available inside for anyone averse to the elements. Wherever you sit, and whether you’re interested in eating or just drinking, it’ll take you a good while to peruse the menus. There are both food and drink specials every day of the week, including half-price apps all night on Fridays. The tasty southwest chicken egg rolls are a great choice (even more so at half price!), and the portion is even big enough to be an entrée. There’s a nice list of draft and bottled beers, as well as frozen drinks and specialty cocktails. All of your favorites are on the beer list, along with Mikey’s American Amber Ale, a nice easy-drinking ale which Mikey’s has specially brewed just for them. The list of cocktails is a lot of fun with one inspired by each MLB team, and all priced at just $5 during games. Like any good Philadelphian, I sipped a sweet and fruity “Phanatic,” made with Absolut Razz, Malibu, and Sprite....
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Related Destination: Mikey's American Grill and Sports Bar »
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Bobby’s Burger Palace: Milkshakes Fit for a King
Posted by Samantha Lazar on May 11, 2010
With all the hype it's been getting, you probably already know about Bobby's Burger Palace. About famed Iron Chef Bobby Flay, about the lines that stretch down the block, about the array of burger options, about those fantabulous milkshakes. Mmmm, those milkshakes. The burgers are good (especially if you come by at an off-peak time and hit the line when it's not spilling into the street), but the shakes are what I'll come back for. Even if the line was stretching all the way to Franklin Field.
Part of BBP's appeal is the novelty and excitement of the place – with its bright colors, curving tables, and disco vibe, the design of the place seems to have crossed a 1970's club with a 1950's diner. The decor is pop-inspired with a psychedelic touch, all leading to a near sensory overload. It's definitely unlike anything else you'll find around town, and it's hopping whenever you go. The seating is fun and communal (though not so fun when it's packed and you can't find a seat), and the servers are unbelievably friendly and attentive.
The burgers themselves are creative and well-prepared, though you might not be a fan if you're on a low-sodium diet. They aren't oversized but they're sure to fill you up, especially if you pair them with sweet potato or regular shoestring fries. What will fill you up to bursting, though (and I think I mentioned this before...), is the milkshakes. ...
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Savas Brick Oven Pizza: Big Slices, Cheap Prices
Posted by Samantha Lazar on May 6, 2010
And it’s not just the slices that are big – all the portions are. And, fortunately, so is the taste. Savas Brick Oven Pizza opened up about a month ago at 35th and Lancaster, but it’s more than just another pizza joint in town. The gourmet brick oven pizzeria sneakily combines a takeout operation on one side with a full service classy restaurant on the other, serving three full meals a day, as well as a full bar. This place has everything!
If you’re looking for takeout you can sidle up to the counter, look at all the gorgeous, thin-crusted pies, and take your pick of the exotic slices. But if you’ve got a little more time to spare do yourself a favor and sit down for a meal in the sleek European-designed restaurant (or at the bar, if you really just want to tipple). Basically, this place has something for everyone, and there’s not a single type of person who wouldn’t feel comfortable here. When I checked it out for dinner on Saturday night there were tables of families with young kids, a group of 20-somethings celebrating a friend’s birthday, middle-aged couples sipping drinks at the outdoor tables, and a handful of students in dubious states of sobriety picking up slices to go. Everyone seemed equally at home and relaxed (a whopping 70 choices of bottled beer certainly helped on that front!)....
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Related Destination: Savas Brick Oven Pizza »
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Green Garden: Classic Chinese Food Done Right
Posted by Samantha Lazar on May 4, 2010
Green Garden Asian Cuisine, which opened a couple of months ago on the 4600 block of Baltimore, looks like your standard Chinese restaurant. And I’m not about to say it’s not – but it’s the best possible standard Chinese restaurant you can find. Take-out is quick and accurate (I can’t personally vouch for the delivery speed), the prices are right, the menu is vast, the portions are hearty, the website is comprehensive, and the food is delicious. Even the interior is nice: it’s spick and span, with no sticky tables to turn you off. In fact, there are table clothes and (gasp!) flowers. Eating-in is definitely more enjoyable here than at your average Chinese joint. Also, although it’s not advertised, the owner says to feel free to BYOB.
I decided to get take-out for lunch, and when I walked in to pick it up the owner’s three-year-old son was eating his lunch at a corner table. He waved at me and then quickly dashed behind a curtain, only to reappear a moment later with a big grin and an outstretched arm, proffering a fortune cookie. You can’t beat service like that! I was more impressed once I chowed down, though. They offer all of the well-known dishes along with some pan-Asian touches like pad-thai and miso soup. There’s also a long list of noodle soups, perfect for slurping. The thing that most intrigued me, though, was the Cheese Steak Egg Roll. For just $1.50 I had to give it a try. The roll was just what it sounds like – cheese steak filling inside an egg roll (only in Philly!), and was surprisingly delicious. It was also disturbingly good when dipped in duck sauce....
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Related Destination: Green Garden Asian Cuisine »
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Desi Chaat House: Indian Food with the Flavor Kicked Up a Notch and the Price Dialed Down
Posted by Samantha Lazar on April 13, 2010
I finally got a chance to check out Desi Chaat House after months of wondering what exactly was being served up inside that eye-catchingly garish orange and pink building on the corner of 42nd and Baltimore. I’m happy to report that the food is as vibrant as the store itself!
Chaat is Indian street food, and it’s bursting with flavor. It’s not stuff that you’ll find on the menu of a typical Indian restaurant (though the shop does offer up some classic fare as well, like biryani and samosas). Rather, chaat uses some different spices and is always flavored heavily, be it sweet, sour, hot, tangy, or salty. It comes in innumerable iterations, some well known in only certain parts of India and Pakistan, while others are favorites across the whole region. Tons of the dishes are vegetarian, but there’s some chicken and lamb on the menu as well. The Chaat House’s sign advertises the food as “mild to wild” – just tell them how hot you want it when placing your order. A word to the wise, though: don’t go for mild. The essence of this food is the power rather than the subtlety of the flavors....
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Related Destination: Desi Chaat House »
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Brunch at Distrito: Wake Up with a Bang
Posted by Samantha Lazar on March 24, 2010
I just can't stay away from this place. I think it's my favorite of all the Garces outposts. And while my wallet may not thank me, my taste buds certainly do. I suppose there are worse vices. I’ve sung the praises of Distrito’s dinner before, but they recently started offering a brunch menu and I knew I had to check it out. I’m pleased to report that brunch Garces-style is just as delicious as every other meal he creates.
Distrito’s vibrant atmosphere works well at the earlier hour, encouraging you to wake up, shake off the cobwebs, and get rolling on your weekend plans. If you fancy a drink they’ve got you covered with their excellent selection of classic and fruit-infused margs, and even offer the Sparkling Margarita, something of a cross between a margarita and ...
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Related Destination: Distrito »
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Landmark Americana Tap and Grill Open for Business
Posted by Samantha Lazar on March 23, 2010
Those of us who’ve been anxiously walking past the sleek exterior of Drexel’s new rec center on 33rd and Market can finally rejoice – Landmark Americana, the bar/restaurant taking up the building’s ground floor, has finally opened its doors. On a recent night I found a lively mix of students, professors and business types, hungrily chowing down, tipping back drinks, and watching basketball.
If your initial impression is that this is just another sports bar, look again – it’s much classier than that. The walls are indeed adorned with flat screens pointing every which way, and there are beer specials aimed at the rowdy crowd (like $25 Bud Light beer towers on Friday nights), but none of it is intrusive; you can enjoy an intimate dinner and sophisticated fare without being bothered – or, like the girl at the table next to me, bring along your laptop and get some work done. The menu will please both types of diners, with sandwiches and bar favorites (including a half-priced late-night menu) alongside well-executed and inventive entrees. Similarly, the long lists of drafts and bottled beers is complimented by a refined wine list (I think I’ve found a new favorite wine, by the way – try the Alamos malbec). ...
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Related Destination: Landmark Americana »
Related Categories: Dining + Food, Nightlife + Bars
Zocalo: Upscale Mexican Cuisine in a Cozy Authentic Atmosphere
Posted by Samantha Lazar on February 24, 2010
Mexican restaurant Zocalo has been sitting on the corner of 36th and Lancaster for over twenty years now. A couple years ago, though, it made the shift from “contemporary” Mexican food to more authentic dishes, under the new leadership of Mary and Greg Russell. Though you might not guess it from their name, the Russells’ experience with Mexican restaurants goes back decades, and they even met in Zocalo, serendipitously, when Greg was working in the kitchen under a different owner. They’ve redecorated the space, re-tooled the menu, and re-vamped the concept, and Zocalo now manages to be simultaneously bright (note the hand carved and vibrantly painted chairs), cozy, and traditional, while exuding the warmth of a family-run endeavor.
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Related Destination: Las Tarascas en Zocalo »
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Elena’s Soul: YOUCIE Karaoke in Baltimore Avenue’s Soul Food Mecca
Posted by Samantha Lazar on February 12, 2010
Elena’s Soul, described as a “showcase lounge and café” is a mix between a dark bar, a chill lounge, a hip café, a glowing den, and a raucous party – all with soul food thrown in. The place (for lack of a better term) is on 49th and Baltimore, and is filled with regulars seemingly every night of the week. One of the times it comes alive most, though, is Wednesday evenings when DJ Kev busts out the karaoke machine.
Karaoke at Elena’s Soul is a unique West Philly event, making it the perfect spot for the next YOUCIE event. YOUCIE is University City’s young friends group, and they regularly hold events throughout the year for young professionals and over-21 students to mix, mingle, and enjoy what the area has to offer. The event will be Wednesday evening, February 17th, and the bar will be running happy hour specials the whole time. But, even better, if you RSVP (address below), you’ll get your first drink free! ...
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Related Destination: Elena's Soul - Showcase, Lounge & Cafe »
Related Categories: Dining + Food, Entertainment, Nightlife + Bars
Welcome to Campus: The Northside Dining Terrace at Drexel
Posted by Samantha Lazar on February 8, 2010
After construction that lasted through the summer and fall, the Northside Dining Terrace is officially open at Drexel. The 5,000 square foot modern building is on Race St. between 33rd and 34th, right in the heart of the residential northern part of campus. It’s a welcome addition for students with late-night cravings (most of its retailers are open until 1 a.m.) or for those simply sick of cafeteria food.
The metal and glass structure was built with environmental sustainability in mind, and the interior feels sunny and open. Once warmer weather comes through you’ll also be able to take advantage of outdoor dining space. It houses franchises selected by a campus-wide vote. There’s the ever-popular Subway and Chik-fil-A, as well as a Currito (delicious burritos) and Southern Tsunami, which makes fresh sushi on site. There’s also a small market to pick up essentials like milk, cereal, and toilet paper. ...
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Related Destination: Northside Dining Terrace »
Related Categories: Dining + Food, Universities + Colleges
The Best House Pizzeria: the Answer to Late Night Cravings
Posted by Samantha Lazar on February 4, 2010
Back when it first opened in 1939, The Best House Pizzeria was called “Wurst House” and was known for serving German meats like bratwurst. By the time I first discovered it the shift had been made to pizza, but the name was the same. A few years ago it changed hands, though, and the new management cleverly switched the name to “Best House” (har har har).
It’s still the go-to pizza place for the eastern end of Baltimore Avenue, especially late at night – it’s open until 1 a.m. on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weekends. The pizza is your standard pie, with a thin crispy crust, and will hit the spot if you’re not looking for something fancy. There’s also a huge menu of steaks, sandwiches, pastas, sides, and even breakfast platters. Their new Asian-inspired menu is definitely worth trying, including their Chinese Pizzas which come slathered in your favorite Chinese food sauces, like General Tso’s, Sesame Garlic, and Orange Ginger. ...
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Related Destination: Best House Pizzeria »
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Sang Kee: Noodles in the House!
Posted by Samantha Lazar on January 22, 2010
Every campus needs a noodle house. Lucky for Penn, Sang Kee has taken up residence next to the Sheraton at 36th and Chestnut Streets. The noodle house is the newest Sang Kee endeavor – you might know about the famous Sang Kee Peking Duck House in Chinatown. The menu at the noodle house offers many of the tried-and-true favorite dishes from the Peking Duck House, but the real focus is on (surprise, surprise) noodles!
“Focus” is a bit of an understatement, though. Rather, Sang Kee raises the humble noodle to a true art form. And it definitely caters to the college crowd, with its affordable, heaping portions and laid-back vibe. Noodle soup seemed to be what most of the diners were chowing down on, and for good reason. Filled with slippery thick noodles, vegetables, tasty broth and all sorts of meat, the massive bowls of soup make a great meal. Try the Tender Rib Noodle Soup for a hearty, soothing bowlful. If you’re not in a soup mood, no worries. Tuck into a plate of the crowd-pleasing Beef Chow Fun, the unique Needle Noodle, or (my favorite) the Roasted Duck with Stir Fried Udon Noodles. It gets a subtle kick from its special XO sauce. There are also tons of choices for health fiends and vegetarians. A platter of Baby Bok Choy is to die for, with a garlicky sweetness and gentle crunch. Since they’re currently still waiting on their liquor license (oh, Pennsylvania!), wash it all down with a delicious fruit smoothie or bubble tea....
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Related Destination: Sang Kee »
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What’s All the Hubbub About? Delicious Coffee, That’s What.
Posted by Samantha Lazar on January 18, 2010
What’s big and red, rolls around, and serves up some of the best coffee in Philadelphia? If you live or work in University City, live a caffeinated lifestyle, and haven’t discovered it yet, you’re in for a treat. 26-year-old Penn grad Andrew Crockett first parked his big red HubBub Coffee truck on 38th Street in late October, and his brews have been steadily developing a loyal following.
Coffee from a truck may dredge up images of watered-down battery acid, but the stuff HubBub brings for sale is no ordinary cup o’ joe. The truck is outfitted with fancy coffeemakers and a La Marzocco espresso machine handmade in Italy. It gets its beans from the highly acclaimed Stumptown Coffee, and independent roaster based in Portland, Oregon. HubBub serves everything from your humble drip coffee to specialty fancy-pants drinks, as well as a few baked goodies (try the upscale rice crispy treats). ...
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Related Categories: Dining + Food, Coffee Shops
Taglio: A True Italian Pizza Experience
Posted by Samantha Lazar on December 15, 2009
We all know American pizza – that perfect midnight snack and college student staple that you can get at Allegro, New Style, College Pizza, and plenty of other places around Penn’s campus. What you may be less familiar with is real authentic Italian pizza – backed in a rectangular deep-dish pan, slathered with a smorgasbord of toppings, and sold by weight. Step into Taglio, and with a little imagination you’ll think Spruce Street was a small cobblestone alley in the heart of Rome or Naples.
“Al Taglio” means “by the cut,” which is how this kind of pizza is served in Italy. You simply decide what kind (or kinds) or pizza you want and how big a slice you can handle. It’ll then be cut right in front of you with a pair of sheers and tossed into the 2,500 pound Verona-imported oven. After a minute or so the gooey and piping hot pizza will be slid onto a scale, and you pay by weight ($8.50 or $11.50 per pound, depending on the toppings). The newest creation by Penn alum Marco Lentini (also the owner of Gia Pronto next door), Taglio is already a huge hit, to which the bustling lunchtime crown can attest. People love the ability to customize their lunch to their hearts’ content – a big slice of plain Pizza Margherita, perhaps? Or how about five different small slices, each topped with an array of exotic ingredients? Since you’re paying by the weight of your lunch, anything goes....
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Related Destination: Taglio »
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Bridgewater’s Pub, a Commuter Haven
Posted by Samantha Lazar on December 2, 2009
Someone should tell Bridgewater’s Pub that it’s in a busy train station. The delightful gastropub seems to be under the impression that it’s located in an English hamlet or a small German town. As soon as you walk through its wrought iron façade, the fact that the pub is nestled inside 30th Street Station’s food court seems to melt away. This makes it a go-to destination for travelers, commuters, and even savvy locals who pop by once the crowds dissipate.
Hoping to avoid the pub’s busiest hours (rush hour and lunchtime), I decided to check it out for dinner on a Saturday. There were still people filling up its tables and lounging at the bar, but a calm, relaxing feeling dominated as laid-back regulars watched the football game and a smattering of people stopped by for bites and brews. Bridgewater’s beer selection is formidable, with a lengthy list of fancy drafts and bottles, many imported from Germany (the influence and expertise of their German bar manager is apparent!). Unsure of what to go with, I told the knowledgeable waitress what I was in the mood for and she picked out the perfect beer for me....
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World Café Live: Live Music and Tasty Food – a Perfect Combination
Posted by Samantha Lazar on November 24, 2009
World Café Live is a gem of a music venue. Just barely on our side of the Walnut Street bridge, it’s close enough to Center City to draw in a varied assortment of people (including those ignorant types who think anything west of the Schuylkill is a hike), and its proximity to 30th Street Station makes it possibly the most accessible venue in the city.
Always bustling, World Café is a two level music venue, the home of WXPN, and a fabulous restaurant all rolled into one. Their programming is varied and prodigious (check out the full upcoming schedule here), with shows playing almost every day of the week. They bring in local acts as well as big name stars, and the shows are usually aimed at adults (you won’t find many screaming teens in attendance, though you’ll probably spot a few people pushing sixty). ...
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30th Street Station: More than a Train Depot
Posted by Samantha Lazar on November 18, 2009
30th Street Station is awash with travelers at all hours, and you probably know it as the behemoth of modern transportation that it is – Amtrak, Septa, NJ Transit, PATCO, and countless buses (including our own LUCY) rumble through its labyrinths every day. In fact, after New York’s Penn Station, it’s the second busiest rail terminal in the country. But have you ever paused to look at the hub as more than just a quick stop en route somewhere else?
The station was built by the Pennsylvania Railroad around 1930 to serve the bustling city of Philadelphia, replacing the old “West Philadelphia Station” that was a couple blocks farther from Center City. The art deco style main concourse (in case you’ve never opened your eyes when passing through) is almost the size of a football field, with gorgeous marble floors and a soaring coffered ceiling. And of course you’re familiar with the exterior’s eye-catching ...
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Bubble House: a Restaurant, Tea Room, and Bar All in One
Posted by Samantha Lazar on November 3, 2009
Bubble House has been one of my favorite University City spots for years. On the adorable 3400 block of Sansom Street, next to New Deck and White Dog, Bubble House is perfectly located and cozy as can be. It’s great to pop in for a fancy cup of tea on a cool fall day or a bubble-filled iced tea if the weather’s warmer. It’s also a great spot for a relaxing drink later in the evening, as their full bar serves up regular drinks as well as sakes, liqueurs, and a wide range of uniquely delicious spiked bubble teas. And, of course, it’s a restaurant! The kitchen cooks up pan-Asian fare for lunch and dinner, and always has a nice mix of students, professors, and locals filling up its tables.
I stopped by for dinner recently, intent on sampling the best of their menu. I started off with a Bubble Tea cocktail to sip while deciding on the food. The special cocktails are a reasonable $8 and come hot or cold. I couldn’t resist a ...
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MidAtlantic Restaurant and Tap Room
Posted by Samantha Lazar on October 27, 2009
Ever since hearing the news of Daniel Stern’s new restaurant coming to University City, I’ve been anxiously awaiting its opening. Well, the wait is over - and it was worth it. MidAtlantic Restaurant and Tap Room is up and running at 38th and Market, blending the feel of a cozy neighborhood bar and a sleek modern restaurant that reaches back to Philly’s roots. The fare is heavily influenced by Pennsylvania Dutch traditions, and is a locavore’s delight. Inspiration is also drawn from the eastern coast’s specialties (as the name would suggest), creating a winning combination.
The bar features six drafts, along with a cider and a root beer always on tap, and the local brews (think Yards, Dock St., and PBC) are supplemented by a lengthy list of bottles. Stern has also created a bunch of signature cocktails for the classy tippler, including “The Standpipe,” which is kind of like a more interesting version of the classic rum and coke, but with root beer instead (“an adult version of a root beer float,” as the bar tender describes it). There’s also the exciting “Rumpringa,” which created a pleasant feeling of ...
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Marigold Kitchen: New Life for One of West Philly’s Favorite Restaurants
Posted by Samantha Lazar on October 15, 2009
Marigold Kitchen, an inconspicuous BYOB tucked into a cozy Victorian row house on the corner of 45th and Larchwood, just off of Baltimore Avenue, has been a West Philly favorite for several years. It’s changed hands a couple of times, and its newest incarnation is only two months old. But its charm hasn’t changed a bit, and the funky new metal and glass kitchen-inspired sculptures on the marigold-colored walls are a great touch. Executive chef Rob Halpern creates a menu that changes monthly, with only a few favorites carried over.
I decided to check it out as a special treat when my brother came to town, and trust me – he’ll be back to visit again soon! Sipping our wine from over-sized wine glasses, just reading the menu seemed like an exotic experience. I was a little dismayed ...
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Milk & Honey Market: Bringing the Best of Local Goods to Baltimore Avenue
Posted by Samantha Lazar on October 5, 2009
Ah, the long-awaited Milk & Honey Market has finally opened! West Philly has been anxiously awaiting its opening for months now, and everyone seems excited that the paper is off the windows, its shelves are stocked, and its sandwich presses are pressing. The shop, on the corner of 45th and Baltimore, is something of a market meets café meets up-scale deli, and is quickly becoming a neighborhood favorite.
The market’s ethos is that everything must be local, which works both to support Philly’s businesses, as well as to bring the best of Greater Philadelphia to the West Philly community. There’s the requisite fresh milk and organic honey from local farms, of course, as well as specialties from all the big names in town – ice cream from Bassett’s, cheese from Di Bruno Brothers, Breads from Metropolitan...
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New Style Pizzeria
Posted by Samantha Lazar on September 28, 2009
New Style Pizzeria has been dishing out doughy delights on the corner of 41st and Chestnut for going on 18 years. But now they’re true to their name – a few months ago the place underwent a total renovation, and now it’s as appealing to eat-in as it is to grab take out or order up a delivery. It still looks like your typical pizza joint, but one that’s well-lit, with a glass front, spacious open kitchen, and cheery orange walls.
The food, of course is the same as it’s been – that is to say, delicious. The prices are great too: I haven’t seen too many places serving up small pies for less than $6 in a long time. And any pizza place that sells white pizza for even less than the classic plain pie gets a gold star in my book. In addition to the staples, New Style also has a long list of specialty pies (the super-loaded “New Style Special” is a big crowd pleaser), stuffed pizzas, hoagies/sandwiches/wraps, salads, steaks, soups, paninis, wings, strombolis, calzones, appetizers, burgers, platters, pastas...
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Cavanaugh’s: Penn’s Favorite Sports Bar
Posted by Samantha Lazar on September 21, 2009
Cav’s has been a favorite University City hangout since it first opened at 39th and Sansom 25 years ago. Which is exactly why owner Brian Pawliczek decided it needed a facelift; the well-loved and well-worn bar just completed renovations and is ready to show off its new look.
The renovations feature a brand spanking new bar, as well as tons of booths, so you and all your friends can watch the game in comfort. Which game? Any game – or any 7 different games, simultaneously! The walls are literally lined with TV sets, so whatever showdown you’re after – professional, Big 5, or anything else – is bound to be playing.
Thanks in part to its spaciousness, Cav’s manages to cater to the sports crowd without overwhelming the people who are just looking for a cold pint and some grub. In fact, the beer list and menu are ...
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Honest Tom’s Taco Shop: A Food Truck Like No Other
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 31, 2009
Honest Tom’s is a unique food truck for two reasons: firstly, the food is AWESOME. There’s not a bad thing on the menu. And that leads us to the second reason: the menu is SHORT! There are only about 3 things on it, but you won’t mind – it would be hard to ever get tired of food so delicious.
The fare is Mexican (tacos – what a shocker!), and the proprietor is true to his name: such a nice, down-to-earth, honest guy. The fish, meat, veggie, and sweet potato tacos are all fabulous (as the occasionally long lunchtime lines can attest), and all the toppings are as fresh as can be. ...
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Rx: A Prescription for Deliciousness
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 24, 2009
Rx is widely known as the best brunch place west of the Schuylkill, but is often overlooked as a fabulous dinner destination. Open since 2001, Rx (so named because the building is a former pharmacy) has a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere and has been steadily garnering a reputation for serving exceptional and lovingly-prepared food. During the summer months sitting outside on the tree-lined sidewalk is a pleasure, and when it’s colder out you can delight in the old-fashioned pharmacy knickknacks that decorate the interior. The chefs use only seasonal ingredients, and everything is fresh and local, with an eye towards sustainability.
Dining on a summer evening, I chose an outdoor table, popped open my bottle of wine (it’s a BYO, of course), and ordered up the Beet Salad and PEI Mussels to start. ...
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Tampopo 3: A Philly Favorite Opens in U. City
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 20, 2009
Tampopo, the Korean/Japanese brainchild of Temple grads, just opened its third branch, this time in University City. Rejoice! The new restaurant at 44th and Spruce has just about everything you could ask for: delectable Korean and Japanese dishes (not fusion – rather, the classic cuisines of each culture sit side by side on the menu), it’s clean and inviting, fresh, and CHEAP, with nothing on the menu over $10! They do everything they can to keep the price down – it’s self-service, so no need to tip the waiter: place your order at the counter and pick it up when it’s ready. It’s also a BYO (the place is brand new, so it’s still fancying itself up, but once it’s done it’ll be a great low-key date spot). And, it may be the only BYO Bowl in town: bring your own bowl, and get a fifty cent discount!...
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Food Trucks: Fine Dining on Wheels
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 15, 2009
Okay, so you won’t find any linen napkins here, but the quality and dizzying array of dishes served up by University City’s food trucks rivals the fare of many restaurants and can’t be beat for a quick lunchtime bite. Food trucks line streets all over the area, most densely between 33rd Street and 40th from east to west and Spruce and Arch from south to north. The most popular of these restaurants on wheels serve up Chinese, Mexican, American, and vegetarian delights, but you can also find Middle Eastern trucks, Indian trucks, fruit salad trucks… the list goes on and on.
Service is usually quick and friendly, even if some trucks’ lunchtime lines seem daunting – that’s just because their food (and their prices!) are awesome. Whenever I need a snack ...
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Earth Cup Café: Coffee in its True Form
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 12, 2009
University City has no shortage of cute cafés, but I’ve found a new favorite: Earth Cup (formerly Sam’s Place), at 45th and Pine. Sam’s place was a neighborhood institution, serving up coffee, bagels, and ice cream to generations of West Phillyites for over 25 years. When it was preparing to shut its doors in 2008, long-time customer Natasa Borcanin swooped in to save the day. A professional barista who is truly passionate about coffee (as are all the super-friendly staff), she gave the shop a makeover, turning it into Earth Cup and specializing in organic, fair-trade custom blends.
Earth Cup’s mission is to showcase coffee in its true form, and all their grounds are as fresh as can be – nothing in your cup will ever be a week past its roast date....
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Summer Session at Dock Street Brewery & Restaurant
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 10, 2009
If you live in West Philly, you know Dock Street. If you live anywhere else in Philly, you’ve probably heard of it - and if you haven’t been there yet, you should get to the brewery/restaurant ASAP to check out their awesome food and indulge in some award-winning suds.
Dock Street is a microbrewery that’s at the forefront of America’s craft-brewing renaissance. And it’s Philly born and bred: founded over 20 years ago, it was named after Old City’s Dock St., which was the revolutionary-era brewing centre of the city. It recently moved into its awesome space in the old firehouse at 50th and Baltimore, and has been drawing in the locals as fast as its 10 tanks can transform fermenting ingredients into liquid gold....
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Powelton Pizza, a Neighborhood Institution
Posted by Samantha Lazar on August 6, 2009
Every college student loves pizza: I’m pretty sure that, by the transitive property, that means that every Drexel student loves Powelton Pizza. But it’s not just nearby hungry students with late-night cravings that flock to this pizza joint near the intersection of Lancaster and Powelton Ave.’s – locals seem enamored by it as well, developing its status as a neighborhood institution.
The place just moved into a brand new renovated space a couple of doors down from its previous location on Lancaster Ave. Since it’s nice weather now they have tables set up on the sidewalk for al fresco dining, but you can always grab a seat inside instead and take in some Jerry Springer lunchtime entertainment (a guilty pleasure…). The menu is long and comprehensive, featuring lots of specialty pizzas and chicken dishes, as well as steaks, seafood, hoagies and wraps. Their standard pizza is perfect: thin, crispy crust with just the right balance of sauce and cheese. ...
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New Kid on the Blockley
Posted by Samantha Lazar on July 30, 2009
The Blockley Pourhouse, a new bar and music venue at 38th and Ludlow Streets on the edge of Penn’s campus, is a welcome and much-needed addition to the neighborhood. It takes its name and aesthetic from the Blockley Almshouse, an old West Philly Insane Asylum that suffered a great fire in 1885, and closed shortly thereafter.
The Blockley’s tagline is “Drinking Institutionalized,” and they certainly do take their beers seriously. There’s a long list of brews on tap featuring a bunch of local favorites, and they also run some awesome specials including $2 Lionshead bottles all day everyday, and $5 pitchers of Bud Light and $1 well drinks on Thursday nights. ...
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Jose Garces made my day
Posted by Samantha Lazar on July 28, 2009
Wow. I don’t know why I didn’t visit Distrito sooner. Probably because Mexican food isn’t really my thing. But famed Philly chef Jose Garces (also the culinary brains behind Amada, Tinto, and Chifa) has completely changed my mind and awakened my taste buds with Distrito’s surprising, exciting, and unbelievably delicious modern Mexican cuisine.
Just walk into Distrito, at the corner of 40th and Chestnut Streets, and your mood will instantly be buoyed up to fiesta level – the pink and green plaid décor, the paisley-like tabletops, and a solid wall of Lucha Libre masks combine to create a restaurant environment that seems inspired by a trippy siesta dream. ...
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Demetri's Pizzeria and Mediterranean Cuisine
Posted by Samantha Lazar on July 10, 2009
University City can always use another BYO. And another diner, and another pizzeria, and another family-friendly joint, and another classy Mediterranean restaurant. Where do all of these things meet? At 45th and Chestnut, apparently: get psyched about Demetri's, a new restaurant that’s all this and more (they also do catering, take out, and delivery!)....
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Related Destination: Demetri's Pizzeria and Mediterranean Cuisine »
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Sprucey Juice
Posted by Kelly White on July 7, 2009
They've got only one beer in a bottle. It's the draft list you'll have to study at Local 44, for a serious rundown of lagers, ales, and casks. There's even a gluten-free beer, to further up the beer game at 44th and Spruce's own happy hour haunt. Owners Brendan Hartranft and Leigh Maida popped open this space shortly after the success of their first pub, the Memphis Taproom in Fishtown. What's different out west? There's a mix of no-frills eats like Cuban sandwiches, double-decker veggie burgers, and a chicken & french toast special. Energy for the late-night walk up Spruce Hill, perhaps....
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Tangled Up In Blue
Posted by Kelly White on July 5, 2009
Lovers are pink. Madmen are blue. At least that's what the chalkboard designates at University City's latest coffee lounge. Fans of specialty coffee roasters Counter Culture were foaming at the mouth waiting for Lovers & Madmen to let them in. Set across the street from the vibrant pinkness of Distrito, the coffeeshop beckons with a blue exterior....
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Clark Park Farmers’ Market
Posted by Samantha Lazar on July 2, 2009
Sick of hibernating all winter, eating canned food and potato after potato? Hopefully your wintertime culinary experience wasn’t that bad, but no doubt you’re thinking fresh now that summer is upon us. Swing by the Clark Park Farmer’s Market to satisfy that yearning for fresh, healthy and organic local goodness....
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Related Destinations: Clark Park », Clark Park Farmers' Market »
Related Categories: Dining + Food, Clark Park, Parks, Goods + Services
Brunch At White Dog
Posted by Kelly White on June 30, 2009
Brunch at White Dog is a rite of passage if you live, work, or further your education in University City. Once you fuel up on cage-free eggs in the sunny crack of Sansom Street, you can't go back to whatever diner you grew up on in quite the same way. You're a changed bruncher.
From now on, you'll expect your french toast to come crusted with grown-up cereal, on top of vanilla custard and brulee'd to a crisp surface of candied almonds and juicy berries. ...
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Related Destination: White Dog Cafe »
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Sassy Mango Lassi
Posted by Samantha Lazar on June 27, 2009
Desi Village, on 45th and Baltimore, is a true neighborhood eatery – when I stopped in for dinner at 7 on a Friday, the small restaurant was already packed with a convivial assortment of families, couples, and friends kicking back and chowing down.
The comprehensive menu includes all your favorite Indian standards, as well as a long list of vegetarian specialties, and everything is very reasonably priced. I started off with a Mango Lassi drink, which was the most delicious and refreshing blend of yoghurt and mango that I’ve ever tasted – I would have had refill after refill if I wasn’t trying to save room for everything else! ...
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Madrid Café
Posted by Samantha Lazar on June 25, 2009
If you’re in the neighborhood of 45th and Locust and looking for a place to grab a quick breakfast or lunch, or to sit and get some work done or chat with friends, think of Madrid Café. The small café opened just a few months ago and is pretty bare-bones, but it gets the job done.
I was told that people come in mostly for breakfast, but I stopped in for lunch instead and was pleasantly surprised. ...
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Related Categories: Dining + Food, Coffee Shops
Capogiro Gelato
Posted by Samantha Lazar on June 24, 2009
After living in Italy for a year, American ice cream just doesn’t do it for me anymore. Not even a pint of Haagen-Dazs or Ben and Jerry’s can compare to just one bite of the rich, creamy, fresh, flavor-infused ambrosia that is Italian gelato. I used to think there was something about the air in Italy that made their gelato (don’t call it ice cream!) taste so delicious. But I was wrong – Capogiro, which just opened a new branch on 39th and Walnut, makes gelato that’s every bit as transcendent as what you find in the gelaterias of Italy....
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Related Destination: Capogiro Gelato »
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Gold Standard Café
Posted by Samantha Lazar on June 22, 2009
Opening just a few weeks ago, the classy and cool Gold Standard Café (from the former owners of its namesake, the Gold Standard Restaurant, and Abbraccio) is a welcome addition to West Philly. Its prime location at the 5-way intersection of 48th and Baltimore makes it super convenient as well as perfectly situated for people-watching. The casual outdoor tables are just in time for summer iced coffee sipping, but you can also grab a seat in the front room at a high table or in front of the giant windows....
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Related Destination: The Gold Standard Café »
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Naked Chocolate Café
Posted by Samantha Lazar on June 20, 2009
A picture is generally worth a thousand words, but when the subject is the Naked Chocolate Café, a picture is worth at least five thousand. But even a photo essay wouldn’t do the chocolate shop and café justice – to get a real sense of it, you truly need a whiff and a taste. Stop by the Naked Chocolate Café, which opened its University City branch at 3421 Walnut St. last November, and judge for yourself....
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Related Destination: Naked Chocolate Café »
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