What’s Open 14 Hours in Rittenhouse Square and Will Change Your Life?
Answer: El Rey, Stephen Starr's answer for an empty former Midtown Diner IV space in Rittenhouse Square.
While the interior of the Mexican diner still looks like the old 24-hour haunt that you remember, the design of the restaurant involved a trip to Mexico and flea market finds to stir El Rey to life. The exterior has only changed slightly, brightening the 2000 block of Chestnut Street with a golden brick front and a fun sign that promises to change your life. The original Midtown Diner IV sign is still there, with some slight adjustments. Are those 14 hours 11 - 1 am? If so, expect lunch hours right out of the gate. We're curious to see what chef Dionicio Jimenez will bring to the table when the latest from Starr opens later this month. We're guessing there won't be any scrapple on the menu.
El Rey, 2013 Chestnut St.
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[Midtown IV photo from Yelp]
Fitler Square: Grizzly Bears, Tennis Courts, and Garden Potlucks
Fitler Square is truly a hangout for locals who live in the quiet, tree-lined neighborhood that's known as a calmer, more residential cousin of Rittenhouse Square. It's smaller than other squares, but if you venture west for another block, you'll come across tennis courts, fields, two dog parks - one general and one for smaller dogs, and the gorgeous Schuylkill River Garden at the Schuylkill River Park. Every fourth Sunday from April - October, gardeners and residents bring dishes for an outdoor garden potluck there. This makes Fitler Square a nice community hideaway full of outdoor possibilities.
The 23rd and Pine square was named after former Philadelphia mayor Edwin H. Fitler. Inside you'll find an assortment of curious animal statues, such as the Fitler Square Ram, the dangerous Grizzly Bear, and the Family of Turtles, all of which were added in the 1980's. We like a square that has a love for animals and a sense of humor about it. Dogs might be walked in Rittenhouse Square, but at the dog park here, they can really get some exercise in.
Check out the contrast of this lively garden with the tall buildings of Center City standing proudly in the background. This is what we love so much about a rapidly greenified Philadelphia. Urban gardens and farms are what turns any gritty metropolis into a city that has it all - fresher air, more surrounding plantlife, and a populace that is likely to be in a better mood by having green space to enjoy.
Next time you're in Rittenhouse Square, interested in some different scenery or a few minutes of solitude? We suggest walking a few blocks over to Fitler Square.
Neighborhood Festival Watch: Mark Your Calendars and Stock Up on Sunblock
Bonus festival points if you attend all of these, but hey, no pressure. We'll see you out there.
On Saturday May 1, Walnut Street is blocked off between Broad and 19th Streets for the annual Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival, a rain or shine pedestrian-fest. It's the perfect time to try restaurant samples from Walnut Street's many restaurants that set up booths outside, or get a peek of local fashion at the all-day fashion show. Many of the stores have special sales and deals during the event. The live music and crowd ensures that Rittenhouse Square awakens any dormant aspects of spring.
Save next Saturday, April 24, for your North or South festival needs. If you're a Fishtowner, you've got to represent at the ShadFest at Penn Treaty Park. If you're in South Philly, stick to Passyunk Avenue for Flavors of the Avenue. You could do the civil thing and attend both, but we say? Follow your passions. Both promise lots of tasty local flavors and live music. Flavors of the Avenue is from 12 pm - 5 pm at East Passyunk Avenue, between Dickinson and Morris. Tickets to sample 20 restaurants cost $20 in advance/$25 at the door. The Crafty Balboa craft market will also be on Passyunk Avenue that day.
Yesterday, we mentioned Philadelphia Restaurant Weekend. But on Sunday, May 2nd, the Piazza will also host the Equality Forum's SundayOUT 2010. From 12 - 7 pm, the LGBT festival will fill the Piazza with live entertainment, a fashion show, Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus Cabaret, dance performances, and more, at $10 for adults and $5 for students.
Related:
Rittenhouse Square: Dog-Walkers And People-Watchers
Have a Taste of Philly at Philadelphia Restaurant Weekend
Rittenhouse Square: Dog-Walkers And People-Watchers
We all know that Rittenhouse Square belongs to the dogs - the tiny pampered ones, the tall elegant ones, the shaggy playful ones. The above statue proves it. They're all here for their daily walks in hopes that their owners will stop by Metropolitan Bakery, south of the Square, for some dog treats.
It's packed with people, too, on any given day, any given time, and any given weather, and not just residents of Rittenhouse. This is the square that attracts people from all over the city and is covered with pedestrians, those working, dining, and shopping in Center City. You come to Rittenhouse Square just to be there. It's the ultimate meeting place. There's always something going on, whether it's street performers doing their thing or farmers selling their goods. You'll spot many Philadelphians, but because there are several hotels with visitors and business travelers nearby, you never know what accents you'll hear or who you'll meet.
One of Philadelphia's (and the country's!) highest grossing independent restaurants, Parc, is across from the square. If you can land an outdoor table, you'll have the best view of the park and some of the most delicious bread and authentic French cooking around. Since the square is surrounded by dining options and fashionable shopping, it's hard not to wander off into the busy streets after you've surveyed the square scene.
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What’s up with…Rittenhouse Square
1 Bedroom Condo Unit Sale in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia – Spacious Bright 1BR Condo Unit in Rittehouse Square in walking distance to everything!
1 Bedroom Condo Unit for Sale in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia
Call The Somers 215-400-2620, RE/MAX Access, Northern Liberties, Philadelphia
This 1 bedroom condo unit for sale in Rittenhouse Square is a spacious, bright, 1 bedroom, bi-level, Rittenhouse Condo located on a quiet tree lined street is waiting for you. This condo offers extremely low condo fees and is only 3 blocks from Rittenhouse Square! Everything you want or need is in walking distance!
Enter the building through a foyer with stairs leading to Unit C which puts you in the main living room. Some of the interior features include:
high ceilings
soaring 13 foot windows
central air
large open living and dining area.
Plenty of storage throughout the unit
The kitchen is completely updated with the following desirable features: recessed lighting, granite counters and stainless steel appliances.
The 2nd level offers an oversized bedroom, plush carpeting, and a separate alcove currently being used as a home office.
The bedroom closet has been custom fitted for maximum storage and there is even a remote controlled ceiling fan installed for your convenience.
The 2nd floor also features a laundry area and a beautifully renovated bath with upgraded ceramic tile floor and vanity.
We welcome your visit to this 1 bedroom condo unit for sale in Rittenhouse Square.
Originally Posted on The Philadelphia Real Estate Blog
A Useable Feast at Noble Cookery
If you like art, food, and prefer when the two influence each other, this event is for you.
Down to Earth event planners will coordinate with Art in the Age and Noble Cookery to put on a sustainable feast with ceramic pottery on display.
It'll kick off with a cocktail hour with seasonal drinks inspired by local ingredients and a pottery preview at the modern farmhouse-style restaurant Noble Cookery in Rittenhouse Square. Over 75 pieces of functional pottery by Jim Dugan, Mel Griffin, Ayumi Horie, and Gwendolyn Yoppolo will be available. The family-style dinner at 8pm will focus on locally grown food. The exhibit itself is intended to highlight the connection between food, art, and people.
A Useable Feast
Tuesday, March 30, 7pm
$85 ($20 goes to local food bank), tickets are required, beer, wine and cocktails included
Noble Cookery, 2025 Sansom Street
Get Lively at Your Neighborhood Fitness Studio
Philadelphia is a city full of fitness options that go beyond the gym. Urban yoga studios and method instructors have branched out into neighborhoods where they can offer a more convenient workout that's close to home.
The Lithe Method has locations in Northern Liberties, Rittenhouse Square, and Ardmore. Lauren Boggi's signature program combines ballet barre work, Pilates, cardio, and strength training. It's tougher than it sounds and has garnered quite a following with those who are looking for a unique workout with schedule-friendly classes on weekends and evenings. Boggi maintains a blog called Fit Hip Healthy and her instructors frequently contribute. Each class is a full body workout, but specially targets certain body parts, with names like Waspie, Skinny Jeans, or High Mini. Sign up for an Immersion Class today and take advantage of the New Client Intro - 3 classes for $45. You can drop into a class whenever you want, whether you're sweating a fun, relaxing session in Rittenhouse or at the Liberties Walk location.
Dhyana Yoga is another neighborhood-friendly yoga studio that has locations in Old City, Rittenhouse Square, West Philadelphia, and the Main Line. So wherever you are in Philadelphia, there's a Dhyana class happening nearby. They offer a variety of workshops and hold over 125 classes per week, so there's bound to be something that fits into your schedule.
There's also a new yoga outpost coming to Northern Liberties. The Sankhya Yoga School and Wellness Center will open a new location at the Media Bureau building on Saturday, March 20. The festivities will begin with a meditation class, yoga session, and vegan snacks afterwards.
Couch Hunting in Philadelphia
Time for a new sofa? Moving into a new place or even adapting to a more modern interior can call for upgraded seating that fits the look. Maybe you're transitioning from a minimalist approach to something that's more cozy. There are plenty of options in Philadelphia for all of your settee-shopping needs.
We like Minima in Old City for all things mod and cutting edge. The name says it all. We can see this Showtime sofa from Barcelona Design in the single modernista's airy loft.
Showtime Sofa from Barcelona Design
Cole Sofa from HOST
For something that's more warm and inviting, the Cole Sofa at HOST Philadelphia can be customized in over 1000 fabrics and is available in a four-seat size. You can really make this sofa your own and have it match the rest of your furniture. There are so many choices at HOST, if you're looking for seating that you can really sink into.
Frank Lloyd Wright sofa from DWR
Couchoid from Blu Dot
Your plan is to make a real investment, a couch that stands on its own as a real work of art? Head over to Design Within Reach in Rittenhouse Square. The caramel leather Frank Lloyd Wright sofa (originally designed in 1912) is back in production there. Scope the many classic options at DWR, long-lasting designs that leave a real impression.
The aptly named Philadelphia sofa by Matthew Izzo is just one of the many selections you can order from the edgy fashion boutique in Old City. Izzo also stocks a variety of contemporary GUS sofas in vinyl upholstery or the super cool leather alternative Couchoid from Blu Dot. It's worth checking out Fosters down the street for similar designs.
Bolla Sofa from CB2
On a budget? We recommend shopping at CB2 online, where you can snag a fun loveseat, sectional pieces, or this hip, tweed sofa for under $1,000.
Spring Cocktails at the Franklin Mortgage in Rittenhouse Square
Cocktail culture is kept alive at Franklin Mortgage and Investment Co., Rittenhouse Square's only speakeasy that we know about.
After a long, busy day in the spring market, you deserve some relaxation. The fittingly-named Franklin Mortgage has just unveiled its spring drink menu, a list of 34 season-ready sippers that will be available starting Monday. All cocktails are $12 and there's absolutely no vodka. Some of the new offerings include:
- The Coal Cracker Swizzle - Rye Whiskey, Galliano, Ginger Syrup, Fresh Lemon Juice, Muddled Blackberry, Angostura, Mint, Sasparilla Tincture, Served Tall on Crushed Ice
- Destructive Urges - Bermuda and Demerara Rums, Green Chartreuse, Cane, Fresh Lime Juice, Angostura, Served Up
- Delores Haze - Barbados Rum, Honey, Fresh Lemon Juice, Muddled Strawberry, Egg White, Peychaud, Served on a Rock
- Kensington - Bourbon, Dry and Sweet Vermouth, Peychaud, Orange Marmalade, Served Up
We made the Kensington the other night at home and it remains one of our favorites.
Every Monday night, the classy, sultry hideaway hosts Monday Night School, an evening of liquor-learning and spirits tasting. You may RSVP for this event on their website.
The Franklin Mortgage and Investment Co.
112 S. 18th Street
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What’s up with…Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is in Center City, Philadelphia. The major shopping, dining, and business destination is where visitors and locals come together for culture and nightlife. As one of the most convenient areas for commuters to get to by public transportation, many Philadelphians come to Rittenhouse for work, shopping and entertainment. Those that travel end up staying near Rittenhouse Square, due to the variety of hotels that it offers.
Rittenhouse Square itself is akin to Central Park, albeit much smaller, as it attracts dog walkers, musicians, and all types in one common public space. There is a lot to see and do here, whether you're overlooking the square at an outdoor table at Parc or browsing the sales rack at Barneys Co-op. Many of the historic homes that surround Rittenhouse Square have been restored, but still maintain their handsome exteriors.
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