Books, Beans, and Circles to Northern Liberties
Late winter will welcome two new businesses to the Northern Liberties neighborhood - Books N Beans Wifi-Cafe-Bookstore and the second location of one of the city's best thai BYOs, Circles.
The hybrid Books N Beans aims to be the spot for both modern and old-fashioned coffee drinkers - those who like to browse the web and catch up on their tweets while they sip their latte and those who like to read a real live book that's not on a Kindle. They'll offer textbook rentals, accept book donations and buy used books, and sell digital readers. Opening soon at 155 W. Girard Avenue (across from the Superfresh).
Circles will fill the former 2nd Street Pizza space at 812 N. 2nd Street. The Thai byo that received 2 bells (Very Good) from Craig LaBan already has a strong following for its supremely spicy food (don't order Thai Hot unless you mean it) at very reasonable prices. For now you can follow the opening @CirclesNoLibsbut they are already teasing March.
Northern Liberties is Full of Pig
The Blind Pig, or the Pig, as we already affectionately refer to it, feels like it's been open for ages.
You walk inside Northern Liberties' latest watering hole and friendly barkeep John hands over the Canned Beer List. The chalkboard wall next to the bar has the day's specials along with the draught list. You might see a Lime Rickey or an Alligator Sausage Sandwich next to a sketch of a flying pig, with his eyes X'ed out. And while that might have you wondering how comfortable you'll be here, just trust us: You will surely feel at ease here. The staff is incredibly nice and charming. Weird, right?
If you've ever walked into a local bar that has a very established "scene" and just feel out of place, well, that isn't going to happen at the Blind Pig. Crickets are not going to chirp when you sit down at the bar.
This isn't just a beer bar, there's a nicely edited wine list and a $3 chilled red wine special served in a mason jar that is just too good to be true. The food menu is certainly pork-influenced, but there are lighter salads, salmon, and falafel to please all ranges of hunger. One of the stand-out items that you'll see floating past you and wonder, what on earth? The Thanksgiving Balls, which happen to be a huge hit during July, are an almalgamation of turkey wrapped in mashed potatoes and stuffing. Breaded, fried and served with gravy and cranberry sauce. You know, in case you're a little impatient with the weather. It may just be the best cure for the summer doldrums in Northern Liberties.
We highly suggest you get over to 2nd Street and see for yourself. Maybe the pigs can't tell, but things are definitely looking up along this stretch of the neighborhood.
For hours and menu, check out http://blindpigphilly.com.
The Latest Food Truck Trend: The Brunch Cart
We dare someone to challenge us on this, but here it is: Northern Liberties is the capital of brunch in Philadelphia. Nobody does it better. Honeys, Cantina Dos Segundos, A Full Plate, Cafe Estelle, Cafe La Maude, Green Eggs Cafe, North 3rd, One Shot, and nearly every other restaurant and bar.
So it makes sense that we'd have an official Brunch Cart at 2nd and Poplar Streets. The La Copine Brunch Cart rolled out their amazing menu in the outdoor garden at the former Arbol Cafe this past weekend and will have its grand opening this weekend May 14-15 from 11-4pm. Shake up your normal eggs-and-Bloodys routine and stop by to see what's on offer from chef Nikki Hill (former sous chef at Barbuzzo).
The space is being called Garden Variety, and it's also a temporary home to your beloved Dapper Dog. Last week, we raved about the Lavender Honey Gastrique on the Bleu Cheese-Fig-Prosciutto Flatbread that's on the short & sweet menu, which elevates your traditional brunch fare with a sophisticated flair. All produce is locally sourced and organic.
Heidi Duffey gave us some more info on Garden Variety:
"Garden Variety will begin with a focus on food – featuring local chef/entrepreneurs. The open air food court will be open for weekend brunch (La Copine), dinner (chef to be announced soon), and late night snacks (Dapper Dog). We will also host a monthly full evening supper club presented by La Copine."
But it's not all about food. They'll also be hosting a monthly flea market presenting local artisans and their work, and curated thrift vending, along with evening music concerts open to the public and commissioned public art projects.
"Our mission will unfold as the season progresses. We hope to be an artistic and community hub that activates a vacant space into a vibrant destination," promises Duffey.
Well, we're looking forward to all of it, but let's start with some brunch first.
[images via Heidi Duffey of Garden Variety]
The Rundown at Gunners Run
Ever so curious about the newest bar in Northern Liberties, we popped into Gunners Run last night. What we found was some tasty calamari and salad and a crowd that was happy to see the place open.
Gunners Run will have serving rights that extend 40 feet into the Piazza's courtyard in front of the big screen, just in time for baseball season. Look for "deuces" (two-seaters) outside on the 2nd Street entrance.
We're excited for a strong addition to the neighborhood. Welcome, Gunners Run!
Related:
Gunners Run Soft Opens Tonight
Who Delivers in Northern Liberties? The Only To-Go List You’ll Ever Need
You know those nights. The ones where you sigh and toss the mail onto the countertop, having just stepped in from a late night at the office. You kick off your shoes and start opening cupboards, scan the fridge in a futile attempt, and turn back to the counter, where a neon-colored delivery flyer winks back at you.
There's always pizza. Indian takeout. Sushi. In Northern Liberties, home of the BYOB and gastropub, there's also a wide range of delivery options to choose from when you're short on time, with plenty of healthier and veggie-friendly choices, too.
If we're missing anyone, please let us know in the comments and we'll add to the list. Bookmark it!
Indian
Ekta
215-426-2277
250 E. Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Vegan friendly
Sahara Indian Cuisine
215-765-2685
517 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Tiffin
215-922-1297
710 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia PA
Follow on Twitter @TiffinIndian for specials
Pizza
George's Pizza
215-236-5288
201 West Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Home Slice
215-627-2726
Liberties Walk, Philadelphia, PA
Follow on Twitter @Homeslice_Pizza for specials
Vegan friendly, whole wheat crust available, gourmet toppings
Fun Fact: Pizza sauce is made with roasted carrots instead of sugar.
Old City Pizza
215-574-9494
100 N 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA
I an not a Pizza fan but OCP makes a small pizza (with ricotta cheese and sliced tomato) just the way I like it and it is always good, even the next day. Chris likes their gyros and always orders a cannoli for dessert. Their menu has everything and their food is pretty decent, inexpensive, and they have been serving Philadelphia for many years.
Rustica Pizza
215-627-1393
903 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA
Whole wheat crust available, gourmet toppings
Trios Trattoria
215-627-1000
342 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Japanese/Sushi
KenShin Asian Diner
215-298-9843
301 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA
Koi
215-413-1606
604 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA
Chinese
China House
215-925-2398
331 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA
Rich City
215-923-2800
514 S 5th St, Philadelphia, PA
Rich City has been delivering Chinese food to us for almost a decade. They delivered to us when we lived in Old City and now deliver to us every week in No Libs. Consistent, friendly, fast, great prices.
Mexican
Jose's Tacos
215-765-2369
469 N 10th St, Philadelphia, PA
On those busy weeks we can order from Jose's 2-3 times a week! Their platters are perfectly satisfying with beans, rice, meat, guacamole, and salsa. Mild, medium, or spicy, they have it all. Plus, of all delivery foods, I think Jose's is the healthiest with vegetarian options and very little fried foods. They are fast and affordable and deliver in No Libs!
Que Chula Es Puebla
215-203-0404
1356 N 2nd St., Philadelphia, PA
Brunch Philadelphia. One Shot Coffee Hits the Spot
BRUNCH PHILADELPHIA
ONE SHOT COFFEE HITS THE SPOT
Not sure where to go for Brunch in Philadelphia this weekend? Try the reinvented and totally amazing One Shot Cafe, a coffee house and cafe mash up that will caffeinate, comfort, and keep you coming back for more!
Their menu will satisfy your soul with such delights as their Poached Eggs with mushroom gravy, parm cheese and truffle oil over an English muffin... yum! How about our long time favorite Garden Bagel with crispy cucumber, fresh tomato, cream cheese and capers on a bagel of your choosing? There are dishes such as Ham Jack with black forest ham, apple-wood smoked bacon, applesauce, cheddar and arugula which is sure to become brunch favorite.
For the vegans amongst us One Shot Cafe loves you too! Try the Tofu Scramble or a Homemade Almond Butter with caramelized banana bagel sandwich that sounds incredible. Like waffles, oatmeal, or just plain toast? They have you covered.
The delicious coffee, tea, chai, and hot chocolate alone are reason enough to visit, with your laptop of course, on any day of the week. There is upper level seating too so do not forget to check that out. The folks that work at One Shot Cafe are attentive, friendly, and more than happy to recommend their favorite dishes for you to try. But hey! Just because we love the place, don't take our word for it. Try One Shot Cafe yourself this weekend. Let us know what you think.
One Shot Cafe is located in Northern Liberties. And remember, do not just Brunch in Philadelphia... Make your visit a longer stay and enjoy walking to the shops at Liberties Walk, Liberty Lands Park, and the Piazza at Schmidt's. We are pretty much always at our Remax Access Real Estate office in the Rialto Tower so come up to say hi and enjoy our amazing view of Philadelphia.
Brunch on Philadelphia. One Shot Cafe hits the spot!
Related:
A Bigger, Bolder One Shot Coffee in Northern Liberties
Start the New Year with a Supper Club in Northern Liberties
We're going to come out and say we think it'll be the year of the Supper Club in Philadelphia.
Many of us dream of having the ultimate dinner party at home, with a lively cast of players rounding out the table for some scintillating conversation. Only, there's the nagging question: Who will clean up afterwards?
Okay, relax. You can still have a Supper Club Experience right here in Northern Liberties. A Full Plate Cafe in Liberties Walk is planning a Supper Club Series for 2011, with the kick-off dinner scheduled for New Year's Eve.
Each month, the cafe will take a different inspiration to form a delicious 5 course meal with wine pairings. You'll meet neighbors, try new things, and best of all, the dirty dishes are not your problem!
January 2011's inspiration will be foods that will bring good luck for the coming year:
#1
Housemade black eyed-pea vegan sausage over Hoppin’ John rice cake
with Dijon drizzle
#2
Kale soup with tasso ricotta gyoza
#3
Coin salad – Beets, carrots, and parsnips tossed in a lemon goat cheese dressing
#4
Braised Pork Steak stuffed with a skewer of 12 grapes over
fennel onion sauerkraut
#5
Dark chocolate pot de crème with fresh tangerine
*all courses can be made vegetarian
5 course meal - $50 + gratuity / Complimentary wine pairings with each course
Interactive dinner includes discussions about wine pairings and explanations about meal selections
RSVP – call Café 215-586-0243 or email info@afullplate.net to reserve your seat. Space is limited.
Putting the Fish Back in Fishtown
When Chef-owner Mike Stollenwerk opens Fathom Seafood House in Fishtown, you can expect all things fish in a manner of ways.
That means a serious Raw Bar, Oyster Shots, Cod Pierogies, Crispy Fish Tacos, Sword Fish Schnitzel, and more...
We couldn't think of a more apropos neighborhood to consume such items. With a beer list that is heavy on locals and fishy references (Flying Fish Abbey Dubbel, Harpoon 100 Barrel Series, Heavy Seas Small Craft Advisory), it should be a successful spot on the Girard Avenue corridor.
The seafood shack should be serving up fresh catches soon (in the next few weeks). Stollenwerk currently owns Fish in Center City.
Fathom Seafood House
200 East Girard Avenue
Related:
The Emerald Isle of Northern Liberties
We want to point out a color we've been noticing a lot more lately in Northern Liberties:
Green.
Two new businesses in the neighborhood have taken on a green approach. One is Green Eggs Cafe, which has opened its doors at 719 N. 2nd St. Catering to the brunch crowd during the weekends and coffee and lunch scene during the week, the cafe will pack its take-out in earth-friendly packaging and to-go cups and serves up quinoa porridge and creative comfort food like the Kitchen Sink Skillet and a Philly Style Eggs Benedict made with Philadelphia Cream Cheese.
Another green-moniker-ed lunch stop is Green Olives Market, a Mediterranean olive bar and grocery store located at 992 N. 2nd St. across from the Piazza. Inside you'll find friendly owners, a nice selection of gourmet olives at the olive bar, a variety of prepared foods and falafel sandwiches, and health food items such as various oats, flours, dried fruits, and fresh fruit and vegetables. We stopped in for a tour and the owner was kind enough to hold up the sign for us:
Catering is available and we can't wait to try a Mediterranean platter. Hours are:
Monday - Closed.
Tuesday - Thursday: 10am - 8pm
Friday - Sunday: 10am - 10pm
Welcome to our own Emerald Isle.
Sonata – A Northern Liberties Delight !
Sonata - A Northern Liberties Delight !
If you have not been to Sonata yet in Northern Liberties, you are in for a treat ! This BYOB has all you can ask for: a great atmosphere, terrific service and delicious food ! When we were dining outside, folks walked by and exclaimed "It is in the best food in Northern Liberties ! " And you know what ? They may be right !
Stephanie and I definitely plan on going back to test other items on the menu. The night we went we had the blackened tuna and the sirloin steak for entrees and a wonderful clams casino soup for an appetizer. The sirloin was so tender I could have sworn it was a filet ! Did I mention they also have a great brunch menu for Saturday and Sunday ?
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