After much wait, Old City welcomes Revolution House, the new bar/restaurant located on the corner of 2nd and Market Streets which was home to Snow White diner for oh-so, long. I'm happy to report that the owners have put a lot of elbow grease into the new place. Not a trace of the former diner has been left behind, which for those of us who have dined there before know that's a great accomplishment. The only thing that nods at the locations previous roots is the diner-style breakfast that's offered on their menu complete with omelettes/pancakes/sides of bacon.
The two-story spot is spacious indeed, providing a bar on the first and second floors with table seating for dinning as well. The exposed brick walls/wood-planked bars/metal railings/chandeliers and hanging bottles give an array of textures adding much warmth to the environment. The real gem of the space however, is the huge roof deck which faces Market Street and is surrounded by colorful plantings and wall sconces for night time diners.
The beer list has a great mix of draft and bottle selections (any bar that serves Allagash White on draft is alright by me), and the wine menu allows winos to select their choice of glass or bottle (always bottle) for all sparkling/white/red/rosé. And, in addition to the diner-style breakfast, the food menu is all about comfort; burgers/tater-tots/meatballs/pizza. I sampled the margherita pizza, as well as the tater-tots, and to be honest I've had much better of both, but dining al fresco, above Market Street, away from the typical Old City crowd is good enough to keep me coming back.
Showing posts with label Philadelphia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philadelphia. Show all posts
20 June 2011
01 June 2011
PBW is Here!
Philly Beer Week kicks-off this Friday, June 3rd at various locations throughout the city and burbs. With plenty of options to try some new and fav brews, head out and get your drink on through the 12th at some of the events listed below.
June 3rd - Cool off with Capogiro's mouth-watering, beer-based gelato. Check out their four locations for flavors like Rogue Chocolate Stout with oats/chocolate malt/chocolate/hops, as well as Voodoo Love Child with passion fruit/raspberries/tart cherries. Divine!
June 4th -The Farmer's Cabinet hosts Mikkeller Draft Party starting at 3pm. The Cab. will be pouring an astounding 25 taps of rare beers from this Denmark brewer. I'm there!
June 5th - Monk's Cafe hosts The Lost Abbey at 4:30pm. With an lineup of tempting and pleasing sour beers, look for such brews as Duck Duck Gooze with pineapple guava fruit. Yum!
And, for more events, don't forget to download PBW's app for iphones and androids to help simplify the extensive list of 1,000 or so events to attend. Bottoms up!
June 3rd - Cool off with Capogiro's mouth-watering, beer-based gelato. Check out their four locations for flavors like Rogue Chocolate Stout with oats/chocolate malt/chocolate/hops, as well as Voodoo Love Child with passion fruit/raspberries/tart cherries. Divine!
June 4th -The Farmer's Cabinet hosts Mikkeller Draft Party starting at 3pm. The Cab. will be pouring an astounding 25 taps of rare beers from this Denmark brewer. I'm there!
June 5th - Monk's Cafe hosts The Lost Abbey at 4:30pm. With an lineup of tempting and pleasing sour beers, look for such brews as Duck Duck Gooze with pineapple guava fruit. Yum!
And, for more events, don't forget to download PBW's app for iphones and androids to help simplify the extensive list of 1,000 or so events to attend. Bottoms up!
27 May 2011
The Garden on the Square
Vibrant colors attracting, playful sounds of water splashing, music faintly looming in the background, small/magical/twinkling lights floating all around - there are so many ways to describe my experience at Talula's Garden on Washington Square. Stephen Starr continues to amaze me with his ever changing/always amusing concepts. Stepping off the street/out of the heat/into the earthy, eclectic garden was truly transforming. I had escaped the city if only for a few hours, and it was one of my favorite dining memories to count.
If you're not so lucky to score a rocking/wooden/metal/garden chair at one of the many large or small tables outside, the dining room and bar inside are by no means disappointing, but honestly dining outside versus inside is a completely different experience. In the garden that Starr has created for us, somehow I think the food and drink just automatically taste better because the space is so special. During my visit, I can say that I have tasted the best rabbit dish in the city. The Braised Rabbit with Handkerchief Pasta, Percorino, Green Olives, and Fava Beans was simply divine/tender/savory/mouth-watering. The plentiful options of cheese plates to amuse yourself with is quite impressive and a challenge to pick just one. With the 'In Kind' cheese plate, I enjoyed the most nutty/creamy/delectable Gouda paired with slightly sweet, almost candy-like, peanuts. Ahhh-mazing! Even the bread that's brought to the table, brioche with spring ramp butter, is so light/flavorful/heavenly, and the servers are more than happy to continue refilling your basket.
My night at Talula's Garden couldn't have been any better. The service was excellent, the staff was friendly/helpful/charming in every way possible, there was nothing negative to report about the food/drink, and to top it all off I got to experience this all at one of the city's most serene/uplifting/sparkling gems. Make a reservation. Immediately.
If you're not so lucky to score a rocking/wooden/metal/garden chair at one of the many large or small tables outside, the dining room and bar inside are by no means disappointing, but honestly dining outside versus inside is a completely different experience. In the garden that Starr has created for us, somehow I think the food and drink just automatically taste better because the space is so special. During my visit, I can say that I have tasted the best rabbit dish in the city. The Braised Rabbit with Handkerchief Pasta, Percorino, Green Olives, and Fava Beans was simply divine/tender/savory/mouth-watering. The plentiful options of cheese plates to amuse yourself with is quite impressive and a challenge to pick just one. With the 'In Kind' cheese plate, I enjoyed the most nutty/creamy/delectable Gouda paired with slightly sweet, almost candy-like, peanuts. Ahhh-mazing! Even the bread that's brought to the table, brioche with spring ramp butter, is so light/flavorful/heavenly, and the servers are more than happy to continue refilling your basket.
My night at Talula's Garden couldn't have been any better. The service was excellent, the staff was friendly/helpful/charming in every way possible, there was nothing negative to report about the food/drink, and to top it all off I got to experience this all at one of the city's most serene/uplifting/sparkling gems. Make a reservation. Immediately.
26 May 2011
"She Could be a Farmer in those Clothes"
That quote (from Clueless) really has nothing at all to do with this post except for the fact that they both have the word, Farmer, in common. And, I guess if you were heading to The Farmer's Cabinet you would need to throw on some clothes...so, there's that too, but we might be stretching it here...
Anyway, I recently had the opportunity to check-out The Farmer's Cabinet, and I guess if one wanted to be rather difficult they would mention the fact that Philly already has a few Whiskey/Speakeasy type bars (Village Whiskey/Franklin Morgage/Ranstead Room), so it might be getting a bit overdone, but I say, who the hell cares (or, As If!)!? Isn't it great that we have one more option to add to the list of great/stand-up/over-priced(but worth-it) bars where a fabulous cocktail is easy to come by without having to stand next to a group of fist-pumping, teens ordering cherry vodka with sprite, make that diet. I think so. And not only are the cocktails worth-it, but the ambiance and decor are appealing and transforming. Who doesn't wish they grew up in the Roaring Twenties? Flappers/Jazz/Illegal Liquor....my true calling.
Although it may not be the first of it's kind, The Farmer's Cabinet is A-Okay with me. The mason jars, filled with glowing candles hanging from the ceiling and the live band of banjo/violin/old-school piano players makes the experience authentic. The Cab. also offers up the option for a sit-down lunch or dinner which is something you can't find at Franklin Mortgage or Ranstead Room. And, while I didn't try the food menu (it looked mighty tasty), I did drink enough calories to make it count as a meal. The Whiskey Sour, my first ever, was simply divine. Although, I must say, I think I slimmed my chances of finding another that's just as pleasing. And word has it, they're mixing up a new cocktail list today, so you know I'll be popping over to try.
Anyway, I recently had the opportunity to check-out The Farmer's Cabinet, and I guess if one wanted to be rather difficult they would mention the fact that Philly already has a few Whiskey/Speakeasy type bars (Village Whiskey/Franklin Morgage/Ranstead Room), so it might be getting a bit overdone, but I say, who the hell cares (or, As If!)!? Isn't it great that we have one more option to add to the list of great/stand-up/over-priced(but worth-it) bars where a fabulous cocktail is easy to come by without having to stand next to a group of fist-pumping, teens ordering cherry vodka with sprite, make that diet. I think so. And not only are the cocktails worth-it, but the ambiance and decor are appealing and transforming. Who doesn't wish they grew up in the Roaring Twenties? Flappers/Jazz/Illegal Liquor....my true calling.
Although it may not be the first of it's kind, The Farmer's Cabinet is A-Okay with me. The mason jars, filled with glowing candles hanging from the ceiling and the live band of banjo/violin/old-school piano players makes the experience authentic. The Cab. also offers up the option for a sit-down lunch or dinner which is something you can't find at Franklin Mortgage or Ranstead Room. And, while I didn't try the food menu (it looked mighty tasty), I did drink enough calories to make it count as a meal. The Whiskey Sour, my first ever, was simply divine. Although, I must say, I think I slimmed my chances of finding another that's just as pleasing. And word has it, they're mixing up a new cocktail list today, so you know I'll be popping over to try.
24 May 2011
What I Like About...
Zavino, my neighborhood brick-oven pizza joint, located on the corner of 13th and Sansom in Midtown Village/the Gayborhood/Washington Square West (still deciding on what to refer to the new hood as), never disappoints. Whether I'm sitting down for dinner, stopping by for a late night snack (box of pizza for one, please), or happily sipping on some tasty/inventive cocktails with friends, I always enjoy my visits and I keep coming back for more. If you haven't been, check it out, and perhaps my top five favorite things (listed below) about Zavino will inspire you to grab a slice (or a box ) tonight.
1. The service is fast. Getting a delicious margherita pizza to go, after a Wednesday happy hour quickly turns into 6 hours of drinking, takes about 10 minutes or less. Perfect.
2. The leftovers keep well. Eating said pizza the next day for lunch after it's been sitting out all night because someone fell asleep (passed out) next to it, is still mighty tasty.
3. The staff is excellent. They're very tolerable towards all of their customers (those paying and not paying), such as the crazies who steal food off of the outdoor tables or those who walk (stumble) in late night and ask (demand) for a pizza to be made as quickly as possible. Late night cravings are tough.
4. The food is delish. If you really want to indulge and ruin your diet, I suggest ordering the 'Stache' Pizza with a side of the House Made, Ricotta Stuffed, Veal Meatballs to share of course (not really) with some friends.
5. The drink options are plentiful. While eating order a glass of red, a glass of white, try the Unusual Thyme and Limoncello Margarita cocktails, proceed to ask your server if he/she can then make those drinks into shots (see #3. They're so helpful and love creative people), and don't forget about the great Seasonal Victory Beers as well. Go ahead and add all of those to your bill.
Give it a try!
1. The service is fast. Getting a delicious margherita pizza to go, after a Wednesday happy hour quickly turns into 6 hours of drinking, takes about 10 minutes or less. Perfect.
2. The leftovers keep well. Eating said pizza the next day for lunch after it's been sitting out all night because someone fell asleep (passed out) next to it, is still mighty tasty.
3. The staff is excellent. They're very tolerable towards all of their customers (those paying and not paying), such as the crazies who steal food off of the outdoor tables or those who walk (stumble) in late night and ask (demand) for a pizza to be made as quickly as possible. Late night cravings are tough.
4. The food is delish. If you really want to indulge and ruin your diet, I suggest ordering the 'Stache' Pizza with a side of the House Made, Ricotta Stuffed, Veal Meatballs to share of course (not really) with some friends.
5. The drink options are plentiful. While eating order a glass of red, a glass of white, try the Unusual Thyme and Limoncello Margarita cocktails, proceed to ask your server if he/she can then make those drinks into shots (see #3. They're so helpful and love creative people), and don't forget about the great Seasonal Victory Beers as well. Go ahead and add all of those to your bill.
Give it a try!
19 May 2011
The Vendy Awards
This summer Philadelphia will be hosting the Vendy Awards at the Piazza at Schmidt's on July 9th. The Vendys first started in New York in 2005 to determine the best street food vendor in the city. Now, Philadelphians have the chance to nominate and vote for their favorite vendor. The event will showcase a cook-off, judged by a panel of guests to determine the best sidewalk chef in Philadelphia. A ticket for the event allows you the chance to see your favorite vendors compete, enjoy their food/beer/wine, and contribute a donation to The Food Trust. Show your support and vote for those hardworking vendors who supply you with your morning coffee/bagel/sandwich/late night snack! Who will you nominate, Philadelphia?
18 May 2011
Let's Be Frank...
As I've mentioned before, hot dogs are just one of my many weaknesses. I live for $ Dog Night at the ball park and BBQ season...heaven! And, while I love The Dapper Dog to bits, a girl needs more options. Thankfully, some others agree.
That wonderful man who always satisfies are tummies, Jose Garces, serves up Hot Dog Days for lunch at Garces Trading Company on the same days that Citizens Bank Park hosts Dollar Dog Night. I've been/I've tired them/they're delicious. For $9 you get the tastiest dog you've ever had paired with a beer of your choice and chips. And if you're feeling the need to indluge, $15 gets you two dogs and a beer. A bit pricey for a frank, but oh-so-worth-it. The next lunch special is offered 5/23 for those who are curious and eager to try.
And, I just heard that South Street will be welcoming a new hot dog joint called, Hot Diggity, on the 600 block. They plan to open sometime in June and will have about 10 different dogs on their artfully crafted menus designed by Philly artist/hot dog of the week columnist, Hawk Krall. I'm envisioning something similar to Sketch Burger, perhaps, but obviously with hot dogs instead of burgers.
It's the year of the dog!
That wonderful man who always satisfies are tummies, Jose Garces, serves up Hot Dog Days for lunch at Garces Trading Company on the same days that Citizens Bank Park hosts Dollar Dog Night. I've been/I've tired them/they're delicious. For $9 you get the tastiest dog you've ever had paired with a beer of your choice and chips. And if you're feeling the need to indluge, $15 gets you two dogs and a beer. A bit pricey for a frank, but oh-so-worth-it. The next lunch special is offered 5/23 for those who are curious and eager to try.
And, I just heard that South Street will be welcoming a new hot dog joint called, Hot Diggity, on the 600 block. They plan to open sometime in June and will have about 10 different dogs on their artfully crafted menus designed by Philly artist/hot dog of the week columnist, Hawk Krall. I'm envisioning something similar to Sketch Burger, perhaps, but obviously with hot dogs instead of burgers.
It's the year of the dog!
16 May 2011
Prost!
Stephen Starr's latest buzz-worthy spot, Frankford Hall, officially opens tomorrow (pics here). Located on Frankford Ave, in Fishtown, just up the street from local fav Johnny Brenda's and newbie Fathom, the open-air, industrial outdoor space can accommodate up to 240 with it's picnic-style tables. Similar to the Piazza (but without the hassle from security regarding open containers), Frankford Hall will host live music and project Phillies games during the week/end in the gravel garten filled with string lights and newly planted trees. The space includes additional indoor seating, three bars, ping-pong tables, assorted German beer on tap, and snacks such as Bavarian bread dumplings and all of the many varieties of sausage (bratwurst/weisswurst/kasekraner) those Germans are so famous for. An official menu has not been released, but Frankford Hall does open at noon on the weekends, so the possibility of the Nolibs/Fishtown area gaining a new brunch spot as well, looks pretty good. See you there! Prost!
13 May 2011
What's Going On?
There are so many reasons why I love Spring. Let me count the ways...heavenly, flowery aromas/fresh, ripe fruits and veggies/drinking and dining al fresco and....festivals! And within the next few weeks we have some pretty great ones to look forward to.
Let's start off with the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival this Saturday and Sunday. Rain or shine from 10am - 5pm, enjoy sausage and broccoli raab sandwiches/Italian ice/gelato/meatballs/cannolis ...any room left in those skinny jeans?? You better hit the gym for this one!
Then walk off that feast by heading up to Penn's Landing for the Art Star Craft Bazaar which is also open this Saturday and Sunday from 11am - 6pm. Check out the handmade goodies that over l00 local and national artists will be offering.
And, lastly, one of my personal favs, the Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival is happening next Saturday, May 21st. Walnut Street will be closed off to transportation from Broad to 18th and filled with food vendors/a runway/live music all day. It's the perfect excuse to put on that flirty sundress and show off those cute espadrilles.
Let's start off with the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival this Saturday and Sunday. Rain or shine from 10am - 5pm, enjoy sausage and broccoli raab sandwiches/Italian ice/gelato/meatballs/cannolis ...any room left in those skinny jeans?? You better hit the gym for this one!
Then walk off that feast by heading up to Penn's Landing for the Art Star Craft Bazaar which is also open this Saturday and Sunday from 11am - 6pm. Check out the handmade goodies that over l00 local and national artists will be offering.
And, lastly, one of my personal favs, the Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival is happening next Saturday, May 21st. Walnut Street will be closed off to transportation from Broad to 18th and filled with food vendors/a runway/live music all day. It's the perfect excuse to put on that flirty sundress and show off those cute espadrilles.
07 April 2011
F&F
I was really excited to check-out The Farm and Fisherman for what I thought was going to be a sure to/hit the spot/lick my lips kind of meal. Having heard great things from a few friends already about this BYOB and loving the farm to table concept, I perused their menu online while snacking lightly on lunch, making sure to save room for the many dishes I had planned on trying that night. And, after all this build-up and hype, I was less than impressed with the mediocre dishes I tasted.
The space itself lacked any sort of defining character. Previous to arriving, I had envisioned diners gathered around big farm-like tables, sharing platters of whole chickens and passing piles of wonderful greens and vibrant, delicious fruit. Too much? The lack-luster perception of the environment, I think, could also be applied to the food. I tasted it, I ate it, but there wasn't any "Wow!" factor there. Mind you, there wasn't anything horrendous to report about my experience. I just wanted a little something extra from my $27 entree, something besides the farm to table idea, which I couldn't quite get a sense of in the preparation of the dishes, that would make me want to come back to this spot over and over again. Perhaps I set my hopes a little too high for this newcomer?
What was even more upsetting was that after sharing the Tartare Salad, Grilled Pork Belly, Quail, Rib Eye, and Chicken Breast with Wood Mushrooms (although I have to say they looked more like Oyster to me), true to form this fille saved some room in her appetite for the course that I feel is never to be missed; dessert. And, after hearing my two options to choose from I wasn't even tempted to lift another fork and indulge. I passed on dessert! I just about turned my head and gave it the cold shoulder! And anyone who knows me is aware that this is not an easy feat. But, then again, I wouldn't really call turning down dessert an accomplishment for any party involved. Hopefully, F&F's constantly changing menu will become a little more inspired as the season brings us some great ingredients and flavors to have some fun with in the kitchen.
The space itself lacked any sort of defining character. Previous to arriving, I had envisioned diners gathered around big farm-like tables, sharing platters of whole chickens and passing piles of wonderful greens and vibrant, delicious fruit. Too much? The lack-luster perception of the environment, I think, could also be applied to the food. I tasted it, I ate it, but there wasn't any "Wow!" factor there. Mind you, there wasn't anything horrendous to report about my experience. I just wanted a little something extra from my $27 entree, something besides the farm to table idea, which I couldn't quite get a sense of in the preparation of the dishes, that would make me want to come back to this spot over and over again. Perhaps I set my hopes a little too high for this newcomer?
What was even more upsetting was that after sharing the Tartare Salad, Grilled Pork Belly, Quail, Rib Eye, and Chicken Breast with Wood Mushrooms (although I have to say they looked more like Oyster to me), true to form this fille saved some room in her appetite for the course that I feel is never to be missed; dessert. And, after hearing my two options to choose from I wasn't even tempted to lift another fork and indulge. I passed on dessert! I just about turned my head and gave it the cold shoulder! And anyone who knows me is aware that this is not an easy feat. But, then again, I wouldn't really call turning down dessert an accomplishment for any party involved. Hopefully, F&F's constantly changing menu will become a little more inspired as the season brings us some great ingredients and flavors to have some fun with in the kitchen.
05 April 2011
04 April 2011
Spring Has Sprung
Ladies and Gents, I did not wear a jacket to work today!! I may be
rushing it just a bit (and I do only have to walk a block to work), but I
think Spring and warm weather is here to stay. With the arrival
of beautiful sunny days, I certainly want to jump at every chance I can
take to be outside and enjoy these short-lived months of bliss. And, in
just a few days the city will begin to offer some great opportunities
to take advantage of Spring in the city. Check it out...
The Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts has already started to transform Philadelphia into the City of Lights! Starting April 8th, the 81 foot replica of the Eiffel Tower will be lit at the Kimmel Center, and every night there will be French food/wine/lessons and free nightly performances. Check out their schedule for information on purchasing tickets and finding free events that continue throughout the entire month, such as Last Party in Paris, which I cannot wait for! And to end it all, PIFA will be shutting down Broad Street all day on April 30th and transforming it into a Parisian Street Fair complete with a giant ferris wheel/food/vendors/performances. Je suis très excité!
And after a month of experiencing Paris, head on over to the Race Street Pier for it's unveiling! The kick-off event starts on May 11th, (tickets needed) and it will then be open to the public on May 12th. I'm eager to see what the park will have in store for us!
And lastly, the beloved Center City Sips will begin June 1st! If you don't already know, Sips offers HH specials from 5-7pm every Wednesday until the end of August. Securing a table outside with the gals for $4 cocktails...yes please!
Enjoy these next couple of warm-weathered months, Philly!!!
The Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts has already started to transform Philadelphia into the City of Lights! Starting April 8th, the 81 foot replica of the Eiffel Tower will be lit at the Kimmel Center, and every night there will be French food/wine/lessons and free nightly performances. Check out their schedule for information on purchasing tickets and finding free events that continue throughout the entire month, such as Last Party in Paris, which I cannot wait for! And to end it all, PIFA will be shutting down Broad Street all day on April 30th and transforming it into a Parisian Street Fair complete with a giant ferris wheel/food/vendors/performances. Je suis très excité!
And after a month of experiencing Paris, head on over to the Race Street Pier for it's unveiling! The kick-off event starts on May 11th, (tickets needed) and it will then be open to the public on May 12th. I'm eager to see what the park will have in store for us!
And lastly, the beloved Center City Sips will begin June 1st! If you don't already know, Sips offers HH specials from 5-7pm every Wednesday until the end of August. Securing a table outside with the gals for $4 cocktails...yes please!
Enjoy these next couple of warm-weathered months, Philly!!!
28 March 2011
Add Sum of this to Your Dining Experience
My experience at Adsum, like a Campbell's soup commercial, was Mmm, Mmm Good! I have so much praise for the menu/food/ambiance/service, and it was hands down one of the best dinners I have had in quite some time. Where to begin....
I was surprised (and thankful) by how easy it was to snatch a reservation for 9pm on a Saturday only a day in advance, especially considering how packed and lively the restaurant was when we arrived. Our table wasn't quite ready when we showed up, but no worries, we were able to enjoy cocktails and wine at the bar with the delightful bartender while we waited briefly. I was impressed with the cocktail menu which offered an interesting mix and pairing of spirits, but I opted to order my Sapphire Martini with St. Germaine and a twist that I had been craving, and I was even more elated when the good sir made it perfectly. The upbeat mix of music was just right for the scene and added a balanced liveliness to the space.The lighting was well played and casually seductive. So far, so good.
At our table we shared and sampled dishes like Chorizo/Grilled Octopus/Oaxaca Cheese Flatbread, Lamb Ribs with Pepper Kimchee, Delicious Diver Scallops served with an equally delicious Meyer Lemon Sauce, and Fluke/Grilled Snails (yum!)/Mushrooms/Garlic Confit....oh, yes. My only complaint was that the Fluke was a bit overdone, but nonetheless, the food was bursting with flavor and inventiveness with every bite. For dessert we tried a new addition to the menu, the Tres Leche with Foie Gras Icing and an Oil-Based Sauce was oh-so magnificent (I'm having cravings just thinking about it). The texture and flavors complimented each other in a superb and fascinating way that I could not have been more satisfied. The waiters were all too eager to receive our feedback on the dishes, and happily, I shared my favorable opinions making me feel even better about the experience.
I would be very willing to head back to Adsum to sample more of their desirable menu. We couldn't help but stare at our neighboring tables with big eyes and watering mouths, constantly saying, "Oh, we should have ordered that too!" Everything smelled/tasted/looked wonderful. Philly should be proud to have this gem of a restaurant and Matthew Levin's excellent talents.
I was surprised (and thankful) by how easy it was to snatch a reservation for 9pm on a Saturday only a day in advance, especially considering how packed and lively the restaurant was when we arrived. Our table wasn't quite ready when we showed up, but no worries, we were able to enjoy cocktails and wine at the bar with the delightful bartender while we waited briefly. I was impressed with the cocktail menu which offered an interesting mix and pairing of spirits, but I opted to order my Sapphire Martini with St. Germaine and a twist that I had been craving, and I was even more elated when the good sir made it perfectly. The upbeat mix of music was just right for the scene and added a balanced liveliness to the space.The lighting was well played and casually seductive. So far, so good.
At our table we shared and sampled dishes like Chorizo/Grilled Octopus/Oaxaca Cheese Flatbread, Lamb Ribs with Pepper Kimchee, Delicious Diver Scallops served with an equally delicious Meyer Lemon Sauce, and Fluke/Grilled Snails (yum!)/Mushrooms/Garlic Confit....oh, yes. My only complaint was that the Fluke was a bit overdone, but nonetheless, the food was bursting with flavor and inventiveness with every bite. For dessert we tried a new addition to the menu, the Tres Leche with Foie Gras Icing and an Oil-Based Sauce was oh-so magnificent (I'm having cravings just thinking about it). The texture and flavors complimented each other in a superb and fascinating way that I could not have been more satisfied. The waiters were all too eager to receive our feedback on the dishes, and happily, I shared my favorable opinions making me feel even better about the experience.
I would be very willing to head back to Adsum to sample more of their desirable menu. We couldn't help but stare at our neighboring tables with big eyes and watering mouths, constantly saying, "Oh, we should have ordered that too!" Everything smelled/tasted/looked wonderful. Philly should be proud to have this gem of a restaurant and Matthew Levin's excellent talents.
25 March 2011
Bar à Vins
Philly has some great wine bars which offer some excellent happy hour deals throughout the week. As you know, I am a big fan/frequenter of Bar Ferdinand on Monday nights which offers their bottles at half-price all night, but if you're looking for a spot in the heart of center city to sip on un verre de vin and enjoy some cheese and light snacks, look no further...
Vintage has a great HH from 4pm - 6pm (a bit on the early side) offering $4 house wines (good selection too!) and small plates at fabulous prices.
And, if you're like me, and it's rare that you're out of the office by 6pm, check-out Tria (12th street location only) for their always reliable HH menu from 5pm - 7pm. Changing everyday, the menu allows you to choose from 5 (red/white/cheese/2 beers) great options for only $5 each. Could you possibly need another reason to indulge?
Vintage has a great HH from 4pm - 6pm (a bit on the early side) offering $4 house wines (good selection too!) and small plates at fabulous prices.
And, if you're like me, and it's rare that you're out of the office by 6pm, check-out Tria (12th street location only) for their always reliable HH menu from 5pm - 7pm. Changing everyday, the menu allows you to choose from 5 (red/white/cheese/2 beers) great options for only $5 each. Could you possibly need another reason to indulge?
16 March 2011
...Ella, Ella, Hey, Hey
Two words immediately come to mind when I think about the brunch I recently had at Kanella; f'ing fantastic. And, yes, the "f'ing" is necessary because it puts that much more emphasis on how fabulous the food and experience was. We only had to wait a few minutes to scoop up a table for two on a Saturday afternoon without a reservation. The Greek/Cypriot kitchen is BYOB, with a friendly waitstaff, and a simple/well chosen/mouth watering menu. Everything we tried hit the spot. From the greek yogurt presented with honey/spices/nuts to the Cyprus Breakfast complete with fried eggs/halloumi/lounza....should I stop teasing you? I couldn't be happier with this gem, and I am eager to head back ASAP to check-out their dinner menu. If you're considering trying Kanella, (I strongly encourage it) and, if you're up for a little Opa! (always), snag a bottle (or two) of champagne on your way over, and they will gladly bring you flutes and OJ to accompany the bubbly.
The End of Al A Carte
Gasp! Marc Vetri has finally done it. Yesterday marked the start of a new era for Vetri; no more al a carte menu. Vetri will only be offering the tasting menu Monday - Thursday at $135 per person and the Grand Tasting Menu, Friday and Saturday. As an admirer and fan of Vetri's delicious dishes, I personally do not find this to be troublesome in the least bit. If you've been to Vetri in the past, it doesn't matter if you order al a carte or the tasting menu because you're spending mega bucks either way. You don't go to Vetri to order a side of pasta. You go to experience some of the best dishes you could imagine tasting, and one is never enough. Don't let this new change discourage you from trying possibly the best restaurant in Philadelphia; embrace it! Mangiamo!
Cake and the Beanstalk
The new coffee shop that replaced Flying Monkey Deuce on Locust street, Cake and the Beanstalk, is finally opened. I had the chance to stop by with a friend who I have not seen in ages to do some catching up. First of all, the staff is out-of-this-world friendly! Making me feel welcomed and right at home, I happily ordered my usual non-fat, chai latte, which was delish and almost a whole dollar cheaper than other surrounding coffee shops in the neighborhood. Cha-ching! To go along with my latte, I ordered the chocolate covered banana cake, which they claimed was their specialty (all treats are made in-house), and it certainly hit the spot. The space is perfect for taking a break out of your day to enjoy some treats/catch-up with a friend/do some reading/etc. There will be outdoor seating for the warmer weather, and the view of the garden next door is an added bonus for stopping at Cake and the Beanstalk. One last thing, in all my chatting/catching-up with my friend, I mistakenly left my purse next to our table at the shop and did not realize this for well over 3 hours. In a panic, I ran to the shop and was welcomed with a recognizing smile and a cheerful nod, and voila! my lost purse was found completely intact and with all of its contents accounted for. If you're in the neighborhood, this coffee shop is a must stop!
03 March 2011
An Affair to Remember?
Last night, after a great work-out at Versa Fit Studio, the class instructor approached a few of us gals to tell us about a show that she'll be in next weekend called, Pink Hair Affair. Having recently heard of this group of performers I was intrigued, so I took her card to find out some more information. Pink Hair Affair is a group of young female dancers performing burlesque inspired shows while wearing hot pink wigs...love! Tickets are just $10 and the event is BYOB. The venue is located on Cecil B. Moore, just a few blocks north of Nolibs. I say this sounds like a fantastic idea for a girls' night of dancing/drinking/showing a little skin. Who's ready to take it off?
01 March 2011
Do You Serve Espresso?
I've been wanting to check-out Audrey Claire for a while. Living in Philly for over 7 years now, and being the big foodie that I am, it's almost sacrilege that it took me this long to visit! As we know, I am such a big fan of Twenty Manning, that my expectations for Audrey Claire were already set pretty high; perhaps they were set a little too high...
The restaurant is your classic Philadelphia rowhome with a long/narrow/open floor plan converted into a dining area filled with two-tops and a small open kitchen. Like most smaller restaurants in the city, Audrey Claire is a BYOB, and like a lot of BYOBs the menu had many diverse offerings created for sharing. My comrade for the evening and I tried our fair share of the menu starting with the Pumpkin Risotto, which was highly recommended by our waiter but fell very flat and lacked the richness I was desiring. Next up was the Bosc Pear and Goat Cheese Flatbread, which was far better than the Risotto but still not the delightful treat I had hoped for. For the entrees, the rack of lamb certainly pleased my taste buds; it was quite delicious. However, the Paparelle with mushrooms was completely boring and tasteless. And, lastly in the hopes of ending things well, for dessert we shared the lavender creme brulee which was so rich in lavender it tasted like I was literally eating a bar of soap or a candle. Tres mauvais!
Overall, the food was a big disappointment, but we made up for it by poking fun at our waiter (he deserved it) and amusing ourselves one way or another as best we could since our taste buds certainly were not. Oh, and one more point of negativity to note were the wine glasses, which were actually shot glasses and had no shape whatsoever. We spent more time refilling our glasses than we did lifting our forks. Oh, one more, hence the title...they do not serve espresso. Not my favorite Audrey of all time.
The restaurant is your classic Philadelphia rowhome with a long/narrow/open floor plan converted into a dining area filled with two-tops and a small open kitchen. Like most smaller restaurants in the city, Audrey Claire is a BYOB, and like a lot of BYOBs the menu had many diverse offerings created for sharing. My comrade for the evening and I tried our fair share of the menu starting with the Pumpkin Risotto, which was highly recommended by our waiter but fell very flat and lacked the richness I was desiring. Next up was the Bosc Pear and Goat Cheese Flatbread, which was far better than the Risotto but still not the delightful treat I had hoped for. For the entrees, the rack of lamb certainly pleased my taste buds; it was quite delicious. However, the Paparelle with mushrooms was completely boring and tasteless. And, lastly in the hopes of ending things well, for dessert we shared the lavender creme brulee which was so rich in lavender it tasted like I was literally eating a bar of soap or a candle. Tres mauvais!
Overall, the food was a big disappointment, but we made up for it by poking fun at our waiter (he deserved it) and amusing ourselves one way or another as best we could since our taste buds certainly were not. Oh, and one more point of negativity to note were the wine glasses, which were actually shot glasses and had no shape whatsoever. We spent more time refilling our glasses than we did lifting our forks. Oh, one more, hence the title...they do not serve espresso. Not my favorite Audrey of all time.
Flower Food
One of the city's biggest events of the year, The Philadelphia International Flower Show, has inspired City Food Tours with it's "Spring Time in Paris" theme, to host their own take on the richness of Parisian culture, as well as incorporate some flowerful flavors. Their walking food tour of the city will run from March 7th - 12th, and will be the perfect way to sample treats, learn a bit about the process of food making, and discover hidden gems of the city. C'est parfait!
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