Volunteering with Philly’s Vaccine Rollout and COVID-related Relief

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  • People wait in line at a FEMA Community Vaccination Center at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Wednesday, March 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Unless you work in a pharmacy or hospital, volunteer opportunities to help roll out the vaccine in Philly might not seem super apparent. BUT they exist and I’m trying to list them as I go.

  • Philadelphia Medical Reserve Corps – This group includes local volunteers to assist with public health emergencies as well as day-to-day tasks like health screenings and community education. They’ve existed long before the pandemic, but could use help from anyone with medical background OR not! If you register through THIS SITE select COVID Support and there is an option for COVID mass vaccination
  • Multilingual COVID19 Vaccine Champion – Imagine a census worker but in your own community, helping educate your neighbors about the vaccine. A Vaccine Champion is a trusted messenger trained to deliver accurate information about the vaccine to their peers. The COVID-19 Vaccine Champion training will be a 90-minute multilingual session that covers a variety of topics related to the COVID-19 vaccine. 
  • Black Doctors COVID19 Consortium – I’m BLOWN away by the grind of BDCC. They’ve done 24 hour vax-a-thons, serving the hardest hit communities in Philly. They could REALLY use your help.
  • MANNA – they’ve been feeding those with chronic illnesses for decades now, and they could really use your help these days.
  • Everybody Eats: A group of Philly chefs host this traveling food drive that lands in different neighborhoods to give out free meals and essentials. Follow Everybody Eats on social media to see where the next one will take place and sign up to volunteer.
  • Jewish Relief Agency: This organization uses volunteers to distribute pantry staples and fresh produce to 6,000 low-income people in the region. The food is kosher, but clients do not need to be Jewish to receive assistance. Sign up to volunteer.
  • Philabundance: Philly’s hunger relief powerhouse distributes more than 24 million pounds of food a year to those in need with the help of a robust volunteer program. Get involved.
  • Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission: This century-old organization serves those experiencing homelessness in Philadelphia by providing three meals a day to anyone in need. Get involved.

Happy to add more when I see them, but wanted to throw some opportunities out there to kick things off!

How to Exercise at Home with Philly Studios

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I’ve had a few people request I compile these bad boys, and in this time when we’re all struggling with cabin fever (better than actual fever), I’ll try to keep this up-to-date so you can sweat from home! Got other ones? SEND THEM TO ME! Like… via DM.

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  • Philly-based Studios that are hosting classes online  (I’m  a sucker for my city)
    • Three Queens Yoga is offering streaming classes via their Instagram Live! Venmo the instructors directly, get a great workout, and wear your pajamas while doing it!
    • Got a kettlebell or some weights at home? Need some coaches to tell you how the heck to use them? KG Strong has got you covered with online sessions and virtual training.
    • Unite Fitness has started releasing some At-Home Workouts that only require some space, no equipment.  This is accessible via their Instagram, and the always-badass Juliet Root kicked things off with this badass post. They’ve also got live classes now, and you can sign up via their website HERE. First class is free with code LIVE1.
    • Got any weights at home? For $27.99/month, RippedPHLis offering an on-demand service with streaming videos for those of you aiming to get RIPPED at home!
    • CarlyFit – queen of beach workouts and the Rumble boxing room – is hosting 2x daily workouts on Zoom (classes cost $5 each or 5 for $20). DM heryour email to get in on it!
    • City Fitness, despite closing their doors, has the inimitable Jon Lyons dishing up videos on the WE/FIT YouTube page!
    • Tuck Barre & Yoga had to shut down all of their locations, including one that was due to open over the weekend! Lucky for you, they’re hosting Facebook Live sessions a few times a day FO’ FREE!
    • The triplets of Triyo Fitness are bringing their signature sweat sessions to your door, and already released their first at-home workout that requires ZERO equipment, but breaks one hell of a sweat. They collectively teach all over the city, from Unite to Rumble to Barry’s, so trust me, you’re gonna work.
    • Serena Fit’s virtual studio has been a favorite of mine for years – she’s got #athomeworkouts down to an art, and you can get two weeks for $24.99. She’s got a buttload of styles to sweat, and does a great job of correcting form from afar!
    • Mackie Root from Unite Fitness has 20 at-home workouts available for free download! Need more personal attention? There’s an option for that, too if you want to level-up your attention (trust me, this guy could teach you on a desert island and you’d get jacked).
    • BPM Fitness is going to be delivering some streaming at-home options soon (written 3/16, will update when live)
    • Kim Harari – from the Fitler Club to your front door (but not literally), she’s bringing together fitpros from around Philly and getting live-streaming and at-home workouts via PDF. Keep an eye on her Insta.
    • Remix Fitness is based in Horsham, but NOW their online workouts can be based from ANYWHERE in your home! Follow their social for some lockdown workouts.
    • Peace at the Park would typically be kicking off another season of outdoor workouts at Washington Square Park this time of year, but due to Covid 19, they’re switching gears to virtual classes. Follow their Insta for more details.
    • Motion Melissa has been doing virtual training for basically ever BUT she’s offering a few freebies via THIS LINK. Try the quickie arms – it’s no joke! And other classes range from $2-6 to rent.
    • Fit Academy is offering space at the studio to come in still – but if you’re trying to sweat from the safety of home, they’ve already got a handful of workouts on their insta and are going to be posting regularly on IG TV.
    • Follow Focus Barre & Yoga for some streaming classes soon! (nothing as of 3/16, will post when live)
    • Kate DeGennaro of Flywheel and SLT infamy is also offering four weeks of equipment-free workouts Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 7:15am (great for us early-birds!) for the next four weeks (just email her at kate.degennaro11@gmail.com)
    • Sydni Arnett from Barry’s and Everybody Fights has just posted her first at-home workout on Youtube! What a doll.
    • Want something a little more one-on-one? Jackie Dragone of Rhythm Lab is offering privates via Facetime – DM her for pricing and details. BUT if you’re down for a group style, she’s also got Live Streaming workouts from 3/18-3/22 daily (schedule here).
    • Teagan Schweitzer of @yogawithteagan  has a lot of video content of yoga in some GLORIOUS spaces (like Rome!) already, but she’s adding new classes this week. Easy payment, soothing visuals, namaste.

Other spots to stream online workouts

  • Big shouts to City Fitness’ Riley Stanford for putting together this YouTube Playlist of some of Les Mill’s Finest! Great if you need a little longer, and all equipment-free.
  • Barre buddies? Sign up for a 15-day FREE trial of Barre3 and get unlimited access to the at-home workouts.
  • CorePower Yoga has a special selection of on-demand classes totally FREE. And as of 3:54pm 3/16 this link is a little wonky, but generally it should work!
  • obé Fitness – they’ve been doing the “streaming workouts” basically forever, and they’ve got a GREAT variety of classes. PLUS if you use code SWEATSANDTHECITY you can get a 30-day free trial.
  • NEOU Fitness – stream for 30 days, free for first-timers!
  • Tone It Up Fitness – longtime favorite of fit-heads who love to sweat at home, they’re offering a free 30-days for first-time users!

 

Things Girls Do After Graduation: Get Overly Invested in a Podcast

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What were you doing in March 2016?

I couldn’t really tell you offhand, but a quick scan of social suggests Instagramming my food, going to Mexico in some strange semblance of a 28 year old’s spring break, dressing for theme parties, and dating like it was a part-time job.

What Instagram won’t tell you is that I was also questioning my career choices, occasionally lonely and missing the friendships of my college days (despite graduating in 2009), and trying desperately to figure out how to be:

a) Authentically myself

b) Cool

c) Satisfied

If that’s not PostGrad Problems, I don’t know what is.

During this time, I stumbled across the content of one Will deFries, through his iconic series “Things Girls Do After Graduation“. And after devouring everything he’d written about these ladies (worth a read, but that’s not what this post is about), I stumbled onto this podcast, Touching Base. Turns out these guys, too, were gearing up for a “Spring Break Cruise” with people way younger than they were, and so I decided I’d give it a listen.

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I didn’t work in a corporate environment (just a big hospital), I didn’t play golf, I could care less about most professional sports, and I wasn’t watching The Bachelor OR The Bachelorette. But listening to these three (eventually four) Austin-based hosts, David Ruff, Dillon Cheverere, Micah Wiener, and Will, speak about their day-to-day lives, their takes (hot or lukewarm as they may have been) on Instagram, socializing as an adult, and dating, and the politics of that elusive check mark on Twitter, made the commute to work, the long days occasionally devoid of real human interaction, and the occasional train ride peppered with laughter, insight, and, somehow, camaraderie.

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The boys

It’s pretty wild that we can get so invested in someone’s voice. People we have never met, and likely never will (though if any of you boys join Dan on a Philly trip, I’d love to buy you each one beer). But for over two years, I’ve listened to these guys “talk about nothing” more than most of my family and friends. I’m a part of inside jokes that none of my friends know about, and whether it’s waxing nostalgic about Old Gene, stifling laughter any time someone asks what time the rest of the guests are coming (the rest of the guests are what?) or laying out my weekend in fun on Instagram, these guys became like a second family (or at least like, a second friend group).

That’s why, five days ago, after reading Will’s post explaining the layoffs that affected Dave and Dillon, I found myself sitting at 40th and Market, waiting for Philadelphia’s rapid transit system after a particularly painful eyebrow wax in preparation for a bachelorette party,  crying into my Lululemon thumbholed-sleeves, wondering how the hell my weeks were going to be half as pleasant without the calming voices of my four favorite strangers. Reading through the comments on the post, I was not alone, not by a long shot.

So I just wanted to say thank you. Though Will and Micah seem to be safe for now, I know things won’t really ever be the same. You all stumbled across something pretty magical. I would be thrilled to learn that something comes together and that lightning strikes twice. But, if it doesn’t, thanks for the memories. The FMK (but with other stuff), the music advice, the chumps, the champs, the bracket, the Homie, Rosie and Randy, Cabeza-watch, the brunches, the Lost Tapes, the SZNs, the kings, the mamis, the savage cuckery, the Bean, the worst weekends, the Best ofs, the Vice headlines, the Gas Station, the Bunsen Burner, two minutes in Paradise,  and the popcorn lung.

Still waiting on that mousepad, Micah.

Okay, we love you, bye.

Pokémon GO? More like Pokémon STOP. Philly Free Streets 2017

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(Oh, hey there. You might be wondering “Why hasn’t Jordan written anything since August?” Feel free to scroll down to the end of this post for the answer to that.)

But maybe you’re just here because you wanna know about Philly Free Streets this year. In that case, read on.

I was pumped for this year’s event. I even wrote a feature about this year’s Philly Free Streets over on Fitt Philly. I’d checked my bike tires, woke up early (well, for a Saturday), suited up, and rode over with my pal Sammy. We were hype to take a power walk with Mayor Jim Kenney before riding our bikes along the 3.5 mile route.

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The kickoff schedule

Best laid plans, amirite?

The hour of 9 came and went, and then so did 9:30. We actually stuck it out until 9:40 before deciding it was time to get busy living, but this was an inauspicious start…

Let’s break it down a little bit:

THE GOOD

Free Streets – not much can be bad about that, right? The weather was crisp and wonderful, there were different city groups and services out doing demos, offering goodies, and beautifying spaces.

I really loved the Pedestrian Plaza by the Al Aqsa Islamic Society, Parks & Rec, and Mural Arts Philadelphia – adirondack chairs, chalk, lots of conversations and connections.

People brought their A-game for riding (loved this skeleton from the Kidical Mass ride, and penny-farthing in blue – snaps to this guy for balance!)

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There was an area at the end of the route, El Centro de Oro in the Fairhill neighborhood that I can almost guarantee I never would’ve explored otherwise. I jumped into a Zumba dance class with strangers. I helped paint a mural. It was wonderful.

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Shoutout to Mural Arts!

 

THE BAD

Two words:

Pokémon

GO.

This app was released in summer 2016. I vaguely remember some friends and peers getting obsessed, and then losing steam & interest, and then never discussing it again. Flash in the pan, right?

Wrong.

Pokémon GO’s creators, Niantic, Inc., partnered with Philly Free Streets for an epic Pokémon GO integration along the route. And, up until about two weeks before the event, this was the ONLY information available on the PFS “Program Details” Page. Neverthless, I was shocked at the sheer volume of Pokémon GO players, teams, swag, etc that clogged the event. People were walking around armed with maps, portable chargers, wearing Pokémon swag, and meeting up with their “teammates” from around the country. The event was listed on the Niantic, Inc. website, and considering the game still has about 65 million active monthly users, that brought folks from far and wide.

Being on a bike during the 3 hours that I was out at the event was incredibly challenging, as clusters of players would stop in the middle of the streets, intently staring at their phones, enjoying this augmented reality. They wouldn’t look up, they rarely reacted to calls of “on your left” and it felt dangerous.

 

 

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Thanks to @joey4017 for this shot of folks glued to their phones, catching them all.

I don’t know if there was some sort of benefit the city got from this Pokémon partnership, but as someone trying to enjoy the event without the app, it was painful. I almost think I would’ve been supportive of cutting my “free streets” time down by an hour and giving these Poké-people an hour all to themselves, if it meant they weren’t clustering in the streets for the other 4 hours.

THE UGLY

Trash trucks – not vehicles that I spend much time around on a regular basis, but I respect the hell out of them. They keep our streets cleaner than several other cities I have visited.

Unfortunately, they served as the barrier between the (mostly) free streets. The new route was not TRULY a car-free 3.5 miles, as the north-south path crossed several major intersections that were not shut down. Good for traffic, but also challenging as a rider, a walker, and for anyone with strollers. The space they left on the road was about 2 people wide on either side, so there was a lot of stop and go along the way.

They were smelly, which I guess is the nature of trash cans, but it’s worth noting the aroma of garbage is what my mind recalls when thinking of sensory experiences at Free Streets.

Final thoughts

Did I have fun? Sure.

Could it be improved? Well, what event couldn’t.

Full disclosure: I am on the planning team for Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia and we spend at least a month following each event reviewing what went wrong, right, and what we could do better, and several months leading up to the next one reviewing those same issues.

But this Pokémon thing REALLY tainted the vibe of Philly Free Streets to me. I thought this year was supposed to be all about connecting neighborhoods (last year’s was mostly along South Street, connecting pretty much the same folks that go to all the summer festivals already). And, to an extent, I felt some of that. But mostly I felt like I was imposing on a Pokémon GO convention with the occasional table for IndeGo or the Philly Water Department.

Here’s hoping that some good times this year turn into better ones next year.

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****UPDATE: I have actually been writing more than ever. Someone just decided that I could make a part-time gig out of it…. I’ve been channeling many of my words and social time to Fitt Philadelphia, so if you’re ever wondering what fitness events you should do each month, or when the new megaformer studio is opening, or where to find the most innovative workout spots in the city, I’d recommend hopping over there. ****

Date Night in Philly: Cake Life Pastry Pairings

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Philadelphia is affectionately known as the City of Brotherly Love. And, though we do have a history littered with a few not-so-brotherly moments (cough Santa cough), at the end of the day, if you love Philly, it’ll love you right back.

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Promise, we can be nice, too.

There’s nowhere this is more evident than in the numerous collaborations our chefs, restaurateurs, and purveyors of adult beverages put together on a regular basis. I’ve noshed on lamb Barbacoa dumplings from Han Chiang of Han Dynasty & the gang from South Philly Barbacoa, nibbled Sweetgreen’s salad designed by Zahav’s Mike Solomonov, and, most recently, got to enjoy a pastry and drink pairing courtesy of two of Fishtown’s sweethearts (and neighbors!) – Cake Life and Kensington Quarters.

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Last week, the team from Cake Life and Tim Kweeder of Kensington Quarters, along with Jason Malumed of MFW Wine, banded together for an epic guided pastry & beverage pairing. While the wines were sourced from the region of Southwest France, the pastries were the brain-children of the brilliant minds of Lily & Nima, Cake Life’s co-owners.

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This was the fifth in a Summer Series the shop hosted highlighting either wines or spirits, and was one of the most fun nights I’ve had all summer. From 7:30-10(ish… five courses and wines in, and time was a loose concept), Jason and Tim led us through South by Southwest France – using tunes from the notorious music festival as a soundtrack.

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This tray is what dreams are made of…

We enjoyed savory and sweet treats highlighting seasonal ingredients like melon, tomato, and peaches. We salivated over syrupy sausage rolls and SOME of us may have even licked our plates after a particularly mouthwatering almond-plum cake, our final course of the night.

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Oh, that’s just a prosciutto crisp topping that Melon Tartlet

The time and consideration that went into the wine pairing was evident with each sip, and Jason and Tim brought us on a whirlwind tour through Southwest France that had me checking Google flights and vineyard tours.

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Sauvignon Blanc & goat cheese / tomato jam Croisstini – think the most elevated take on pizza & wine 

While the Summer Pairing Series is done for the season, Cake Life has a lot more up their sleeves… Keep your eyes peeled for similar, seasonally appropriate pastry-pairings to go down monthly. PLUS if you wanna get an amazing taste-tour through Cake Life’s goodies, try one of their Second Saturday Tastings, where duos can eat their way through the shop’s pie, tart, or cake flavors and fillings (BYOB at night – making this the ULTIMATE date night activity!)

Thanks Cake Life for making Philly (and Fishtown) a little sweeter and to Tim and Jason for livening the mood and making us look at Sauvignon Blanc in a way we never had before.

A Dogfish Head Holiday

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Here’s a fun fact: despite eating, drinking, and breathing Philadelphia, I was actually born in Delaware. The “Small Wonder” is known for a few things (other than where I came into this world):

Now, I’m a big Dogfish Head fan. Founder (and James Beard Award-Winning) Sam Calagione is pretty much a rockstar in the craft beer world, and I get a little giddy on those lucky occasions I get to rub elbows with him.

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Philly Beer Week: Bringing Beer Buddies Together!

But last summer I had the chance to do something I’d actually never done before: Visit and explore the home of Dogfish Head AND stay in the historic Dogfish Inn.

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Just over two hours from Philadelphia is the coastal Delaware town, Lewes, that’s home to the Dogfish Inn. The Inn is about 11 miles from the brewery in Milton  and 6 miles from the Brewpub. Perfectly nestled for an epic beer-themed weekend getaway!

Our room was ADORABLE, with a large bed and a cozy little desk area (everything is available to purchase, but the growler was complimentary, perfect for taking on a brewery tour and filling up with the good stuff!)

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Beach chairs for the nearby sandy shores, and a tote bag I still covet

While the thin walls of this charming spot made for some semi-sleepless nights, the kitsch and vibes were so stellar, it was easy to forget. BONUS: Who needs sleep when you can mainline Chicory Stout Coffee in the little lobby-visitor center?

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While we planned our own little tour of the area, and drove ourselves from place to place (don’t worry, we waited until we got back to our room before we enjoyed our growler’s contents), you could always let the DFH team plan your weekend for you, with some pretty epic Packages (from brewery tours & swag to a honeymoon getaway!)

Other bonuses?

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Access to the elite fleet of Dogfish Head’s beach cruisers AND a wonderful little fire pit that fills up with like-minded, beer-loving guests at night!

Now, to answer a few questions I’ve had since my stay:

  • The rooms can range from $209-$349, or potentially more during the weekends. I was lucky enough to WIN a two-night stay during the off-season (mid-September) but it could definitely be a splurge for some.
  • There’s ZERO beer sold on-site. Luckily, there are restaurants and shops nearby so you can stock up on all your DFH beer needs!
  • Yes, there’s beer soap in the showers. Yes, it’s amazing. Yup, I took the remainder of the soap block home with me.

Next time you’re thinking of a beachy weekend (or playing hooky, lots more availability during the weekdays), and wanna soak up some brews and seaside views, consider the Dogfish Head Inn. And then head over to Milton to stock up on all the beers, spirits, and swag you can get your hands on!

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Beer-loving Babes!

Cheers to vacations fueled by beers!

the sweet life: farm tour with sweetgreen

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You write / read about food enough, you’re bound to hear a regular deluge of food trends. Going into 2017 alone, predictions included:

One trend that never goes out of style: sustainability.

It’s this very tenet that brought me to A.T. Buzby Farm in the middle of  Pilesgrove, NJ (of Cowtown Rodeo fame) with the team from sweetgreen. We were going to get behind the scenes at the family produce farm to celebrate summer, sustainability, and locally-sourced goodies.

sweetgreen’s four food ethos (scratch cooking, transparency, sustainability, and local sourcing) were all highlighted on this tour, as we were seeing exactly where they source their zucchini for the NY locations. PLUS – gorgeous day (minus a few drizzles) exploring a gorgeous farm with this dapper dude!

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Eric Buzby – Second generation farmer, full of life lessons and pride

Eric and his mother, Dawn (one of the cofounders of the farm) brought us around just a small portion of their 170 acres, showing off their gorgeous sweet corn fields, a pretty cool pickling process, and their friendly farm pups!

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It was incredible to hear the (honestly, quite romantic story) of his parents deciding to buy a farm together (which served as an informal proposal of marriage, because who buys a farm with someone unless they’re truly in love?)

We discussed the importance of a values driven market, and how sustainability is more than just environmental. Other discussions of sustainability included:

  • Financial – A.T. Buzby Farm was able to stay afloat in the early years using the mechanical skills of the founder, Andrew Buzby, who fixed many of their used machines by hand. They also have adapted their business model to include revenue from multiple sources, from local farmers markets to their popular CSA to wholesale with groups like sweetgreen!
  • Social – Less than 2% of Americans make their living farming, and the average age of farmers is over 40. A.T. Buzby employs local high school and college students to keep the  culture of agriculture going in the next generation.

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These cherry tomato plants are meant to be metaphorical – only by tending to the new crop of farmers can the agriculture industry stay alive and well!

(The metaphorical tomatoes were also delicious, as Dawn plucked us a ripe one right from the vine to nibble.)

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Sifting through the cuke crop to separate the pickles from the rejects

I was not alone in leaving the farm feeling energized, more connected to my food, and overwhelmed by how much effort and time goes into growing the veggies that are tossed into those tasty salads I happily shell out $9-12 for on a regular basis.

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Meet me in the Kiwi Berry Fields

If you’re dying to try some of the Buzby Farms produce (which I’d totally recommend), you can nab some at the Headhouse Farmer’s Market on Sundays in Philly, from 10am-2pm.

Or, you can check out one of the 15 New York sweetgreen locations and add some zucchinis to your harvest bowl.

Summer at Opa: Cheese Pies & Blue Skies

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Summertime in Philly…

The temperatures are sweltering, the weekend trips to the shore test our patience, and Center City Sips has filled the streets every Wednesday with drunken 20-somethings rocking suit jackets and teetering on heels.

But there’s a distinct joy that comes with some of the sweat – Summer Menus are hitting the Philly Restaurant Scene. Seasonal produce and ingredients, seafood, and creativity galore. And Opa, known for contemporary Greek plates in Center City, is bringing out the big guns. Or, in this case, the small plates.

The highlights?

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Dakos – Barley toast with sour cherry marmalade, fresh chevre, and fennel.

I may be on a toast kick lately (check out my latest post from Fitt for the Top 9 Spots Artisan Toasts in Philly!) and Opa’s take on the dish features a tart cherry marmalade that I want in all food and drink in the future.

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Aritchokes stuffed with crab, fresh herbs, Meyer lemon, & squid ink romesco. Then topped with cheese. Whoah.

Anything stuffed with crab is a-okay in my book, but this artichoke dish had us scraping the plate clean.

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Beet Cured Salmon – carpaccio style, melon, vidalia, arugula, pickled pepper

Lox comes to dinner with Opa’s beet-cured salmon. The little melon cubes add a hint of sweetness, though the pickled peppers are ENTIRELY too hot to eat.

So, ya know, don’t make the same mistake I did.

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Spaghettini – lobster, spicy tomato, olive oil crumbs

That spicy tomato is NOT A DRILL. But neither are the chunks of juicy lobster scattered throughout this dish. A small enough portion to not weigh you down, but large enough to satisfy for a summer dinner.

And now my FAVORITE two dishes:

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Lamb Loin – filo, lamb demi, charred spring onion, potato purée

Beef Wellington goes Greek! The filo is crispy, flakey, and buttery. The onion is perfectly charred, and the lamb is juicy AF. For only $10, this dish is the star of the new menu offerings.

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Tiropita Kataifi – kefalograviera & robiola, filo, orange, honey

Cheese. Pie.

Typically speaking, that’d be enough for me. BUT for your sake – I’ll hit you with some thoughts. Crunchy pastry strings surround a core of kefalograviera (a hard Greek table cheese typically made with sheep milk) & robiola (y’know – more cheese). The whole mess is drizzled with honey and tastes of bright citrusy orange.

Dessert has arrived. It’s unexpected and whimsical and delights the tongue.  Try not to fight over the last bite.

Chef Bobby Saritsoglou and his team are making a serious name for themselves in Midtown Village, and I can’t wait to see what fall brings. Just try to keep your visits limited to Thursday through Tuesday – those Wednesday SIPs crowds are an unforgiving lot.

 

 

Zahav x Momofuku: Isreali Breakfast

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“Oh, you write about food? What’s your favorite restaurant?”

It’s a question I field regularly, from travelers coming to Philly for the weekend to casual acquaintances at networking events; from friends and family to total strangers that ALSO wanna gab about food. And, to be honest, there’s an easy answer, but it hurts to share.

Zahav hits every checkbox in my dream resto:

  • Diverse array of tastes served in one meal
  • Impeccable service, from the hosts to the folks tidying up the table between courses
  • Killer soundtrack (seriously, who’s curating the Zahav Spotify playlist, and can I get your info?)
  • Masterful presentation (from the open kitchen to plating of individual dishes)

This is unfortunate because, in addition to being one of the most wonderful places to dine, it’s also one of the toughest reservations to get in Philly, so I try not to boast too much when I do manage to get a meal on my calendar. But this… this was something special.

Zahav collaborated with the team from Momofuku’s Ssäm Bar (known for some killer Korean-style meat and Asian fusion dishes) for a one-time Israeli breakfast for the ages.

When I saw the tickets go up live Thursday, May 18 I’d purchased a table for 4 before 7:30am. When an opportunity like this occurs, you pay first, ask questions later. I had no trouble finding three willing dining companions and, Saturday at noon, we were seated with no idea what we’d be eating (but a certainty that it would be delicious).

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I’m going to do that thing that some people love and others hate, which is rehash the menu, so if you don’t care for that kinda thing, feel free to scroll through the photos.

First Course:

  • Israeli Breakfast Breads – we’re talking Kubaneh (linking to David Chang’s Lucky Peach article, keep it in the family) and a sweet Rugelach (perhaps date flavored, I must admit that detail was hazy)
  • An insane rose(?) and strawberry jam that I wanted to drown in (yes, we ordered extra)
  • Bentons Bacon Salad – frisée, poached egg, and smoked / cured egg yolk
  • Country ham – sliced paper thin, served with red-eye coffee gravy
  • Beef tartare – made with Yuzu Kosho (an incredible citrus chile condiment you should put on all dishes) and MORE egg yolk

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That beef tartare, though…

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Making frisée fun again…

Second Course

  • Short Ribs Al H’aesh – this was an incredible dish that was (I believe accidentally) brought to us three times. I apologize, Zahav, for not mentioning our second and third portions, but if you bring me short ribs on a skewer, I will eat them all without question.
  • Shakshuka – with smashed English peas, tomato, Saffronella, and an egg. I wish Zahav offered this for dinner, too.
  • Spicy pork sausage with rice cakes – easily my favorite dish, this dish had texture, heat, and an egg. What more could a girl ask for?!

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Shakshuka & banchan (Korean side dishes like kimchi and ginger scallions, that went with EVERYTHING!)

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Added bonus to spicy sausage dish – when your friends can’t take the heat, you get extra.

We were promptly rolled out of Zahav and into the street, where we blissfully walked the 20 blocks home on cloud nine, stuffed with the best foods around.

Zahav – you dog. You got me again. I’m unabashedly enamored with the entire CookNSolo restaurant group (and like to maintain a healthy obsession with Federal Donuts), so just keep doing what you’re doing, and I’ll keep blindly throwing my money your way.

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Gratuitous food pics

Philly Beer Week 2017 – 10 Events You Can’t Miss!

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year….

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: Philly Beer Week – There’s nothing quite like it. And, with ten days (or less, who knows when you’re reading this) until Opening Tap, the city’s beer bars, reps, and drinkers alike are gearing up for Christmas in June.

2017 marks the 10th Year of this 10 Day Beer Bonanza (“week” is a relative term, right?) and I’m pretty sure that folks are pulling out all the stops to make it the most memorable year to-date. As I did before in 2015 (missed most of last year due to a poorly timed Whole 30), I spent an unreasonable amount of time poring over the lineup of events. I recognize that not all the events are released yet, but I think enough are out that I’ve crafted a pretty dynamite list.

I wouldn’t recommend attending all 10 of them. But, if you do, best of luck to you and your liver.

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May the odds be ever in your favor…

  1. For the person who takes Thursday off… The Hammer of Glory Relay – June 1st, ALL DAY
    For $10, you can hop a seat on a double decker bus and follow the iconic HoG (Hammer of Glory) throughout the city, watching as it passes from spot to spot using themed vehicles, roller derby gals, weird man-powered machines, and ridiculous costumes. Most of the stops, coincidentally, are bars, so if day-drinking is your thing, you can’t start the “week” off any better.
  2. For the one that likes to run for fun… Red Owl Tavern / Founders Brewing Almost 3k – June 3rd, 10am18527242_1358343947548692_3634553842382043062_o.jpg

    Y’all. 3k… that’s not even 2 miles, so no excuses. $30 gets you your first beer, your last beer, a glass, and a t-shirt. PLUS FITNESS! The run is around Independence Mall, and you’ll be hanging before (and hopefully after) at Red Owl Tavern sipping on tasty Founders brews. The ideal way to start your PBW Weekend!

  3. For the one who loves Sunday Funday… Poppin’ Wheelies and Doing the Hula June 4th, 12pm-7pm 

    Two parter – Part 1 – Noon, get some hair of the dog whilst at Drury Beer Garden for some epic Big Wheel Races in the back. Or just laugh and laugh while sipping Evil Genius offerings.
    51PQ9835YGL.jpgPart 2 – 3pm Head just a few feet over to Tiki for an all-male hula contest. Just try to keep your 2SP beers down as these hairy, bearded brutes shake their groove things…

  4. For the nerds who love brews and views… Raven Society Rooftop Biergarten with Sam from Dogfish Head, June 6th, 6-9pmScreen Shot 2017-05-23 at 2.25.05 PM.png

    The Dogfish Head will be flowing, Sam Calagione (founder and owner of Dogfish Head and recent James Beard Award recipient) will be speaking, and the sun will be setting. This will likely be one of the most Instagrammable events… Just saying.

  5. For the one who never wakes up early enough for brunch… Breakfast for Dinner with Rob from Allagash – Jose Pistola’s, 9pm-midnight 

    If you’re like me, you might prefer your eggs served alongside kegs. And if you’re NOT like me, you’re not really a morning person. Head over to Jose Pistola’s to have your (pan)cake and drink beer, too.

  6. For the karaoke all-star… LIVE-Band Karaoke at Johnny Brenda’s with Yards! June 8th, 8:30pm
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    Yeah, I’m sure you’ve done karaoke. But have you ever done karaoke with a live full band?! Let the Yards brews give you the liquid courage you need.
  7. For the Mrs. Doubtfire fan… Left Hand Brewing’s PBW Drag Show – Taproom on 19th, June 8th – 8-11pm
    Taproom on 19th is known for their burgers and beer year-round, so you can be sure that the draft list is going to be incredible when they’re highlighting Left Hand Brewing. But, let’s be honest, you’re not just coming for the drinks.18274940_1368095863272820_3503969321176695260_n.jpg
  8. For the one that still can’t stop singing “I’m on a Boat“… Beers & Boats at Bartram’s Garden June 8th, 4-8pm
    This is always a crowd pleaser AND has been known to sell-out, so get your tickets fast! $15 gets you a 30-minute kayak rental & your first beer. PLUS, on the Schuylkill, you can sing as loudly as you want (important if you’ve already indulged in a beer or two…) Don’t worry, lifejackets are mandatory!
  9. For the Picasso of Pilsners, or the Kahlo of Kolsch… PBW: The Art of Beer at Frankford Hall, June 6th, 7-9pm
    A picture’s worth a thousand words, but that art on bottles and cans… that’s priceless. This event is a panel discussion on beer label design featuring the artists behind Tröegs Independent Brewing Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company, Hill Farmstead Brewery, Mikkeller, Forest & Main Brewing Company and Highway Manor Brewing! Edutainment at it’s finest.
  10. For the grand finale… Tailgate Olympics at Devil’s Den, June 10th, 12pm-6pm
    No better way to kick off the last weekend of PBW 2017 than with games galore. Giant Beer Pong, Washers, Huge Jenga, & Cornhole to name a few… Bring out your inner jock and soak up the Saturday sunshine with your friends from Free Will, Yards, Evil Genius, 2SP, and Weyerbacher!

There are TONS of events this year, really with something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, in it for the games (keep your eyes out for the goldfish and turtle races), a sweet-tooth, or looking for super rare brews… You’ll have a harder time not having fun during the first 10 days of June than you will finding a beer-focused way to spend your days!