On Stage
You can’t go wrong with performances at the Arden, Wilma, Lantern, or Philadelphia Theater Company. Tickets are less than half of what you’d pay in Manhattan, and the quality is superb.
Where to Shop
Briar Vintage Clothing (Photo: Jauhien Sasnou, courtesy of Philadelphia Magazine).
Fashionistas will be delighted by the limited-edition clothing and accessories for men and women at Maark Concept, a cooperative run by four Philly fashion designers. From $100 up. For the latest in footwear, visit Bus Stop, a curated shoe boutique for men and women run by London designer Elana Brennan. For vintage clothing, head to the Old City section of town, where you’ll find menswear at Briar Vintage and womenswear next door at Sazz Vintage – at prices you’ll never find in Brooklyn.
RELATED: Our April Invitation: Philly in Bloom
Where to Dine
DiNics (Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia).
Reading Terminal Market is where you’ll find many of Philly’s finest food purveyors under one roof. Insiders head to Carmen’s for cheesesteaks, DiNic’s for juicy, hand-carved roast pork (with broccoli rabe and provolone) on an Italian roll, Bassetts for ice cream and Termini Brothers Bakery for Italian pastry. Open for breakfast and lunch 7 days.
New York has Per Se; Philly has Vetri. Chef/owner Marc Vetri was named one of the “Ten Best New Chefs” by Food & Wine, then went on to win the James Beard Award for “Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic.” The Tasting Menu, at $155 per person, will transport you to Tuscany and, just maybe, to the moon. Reservations far in advance are advised at this 37-seat gourmet mecca.
Zahav is considered to be one of the top restaurants in the country. Chef Michael Solomonov was named National Chef of the Year by Travel + Leisure. His claim to fame? Transforming basic Israeli foods into artful culinary masterpieces. Zagav is also known for its Happy Hour and inventive cocktails. The Taste of Zahav menu is $45 per person.
Amis, a Roman-style trattoria, is an affordable branch of Marc Vetri’s restaurant group, serving brunch and dinner. Enjoy hand-rolled pasta, charcuterie, and a large selection of fine wines. Three courses without wine averages $60.
When is a vegetarian restaurant worthy of a carnivore’s interest? When it’s Vedge, an upscale eatery in a historic mansion that offers a classically elegant dining experience with an innovative approach to vegetarian cuisine, along with an array of cocktails made from their own herb-infused syrups. Moderately priced.
Where to Stay
La Reserve Hotel.
The Morris House Hotel, built in 1787, is a National Historic Landmark. This 15-room B&B has a delightful garden courtyard in which to enjoy afternoon tea. Rates start at $199.
1024 Clinton Street is located on a quiet, tree-lined street in the Washington Square West neighborhood, walking distance to the Historic District and Avenue of the Arts. Rates start at $129.
La Reserve, near Rittenhouse Square, offers special packages that include Champagne, chocolate-covered , fine dining. This elegant townhouse B&B is a steal at $105-190.
For more information, go to Visit Philly.
