SPRING 2012 - Phillyvisitor.com

since 1993 

SPRING 2012 

Celebrate 200 years of discovery at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University.

CONTENTS 

One of Philly’s newest restaurants, Rocchino’s Coal Fired Pizzeria and Wine Bar in Old City. 

Area Maps 

• Center City Philadelphia . . . . p. 24 

• South Philadelphia . . . . . . . ..p. 34 

Attractions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 4 

Daytrips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 10 

Dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 14 

• Art Museum Area . . . . . . . . .p. 28 

• Center City. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 14 

• Chinatown/ 

Convention Center . . . . . . . . . p. 38 

• Manayunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 29 

• Old City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 36 

• South Philly. . . . . . . . . . . . .. p. 34 

• South Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 31 

• University City . . . . . . . . . . . p. 28 

SPRING 2012 

Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 30 

Galleries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 13 

Museums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 11 

Music & Theater . . . . . . . . . .. p. 6 

Nightlife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 42 

Shopping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 8 

Spas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 9 

Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 30 

Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 4 

PHONE NUMBERS 

• Philadelphia 

International Airport (PHL). . . . . . . . . . . 800/PHL-GATE 

• Amtrak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800/872-7245 

• SEPTA Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215/580-7800 

• Convention & Visitors Bureau. . . . . . . . . . 215/636-3300 

• Pennsylvania Convention Center . . . . . . . 800/428-9000 

The Convention Center Visitors Guide, 1213 Vine Street, Suite 215, Philadelphia, PA 19107; 

215/568-2210, FAX 215/635-0195, info@phillyvisitor.com, www.phillyvisitor.com, is published 

quarterly. Publisher, Brian Pell, pabdpell@aol.com; V.P. Sales, Marjorie Armour; Creative 

Director, Sue Harvey, vignettevm@comcast.net; Ad Design: Seema Shull, seema01@me.com; 

and Jack Rabbit Design, robert@jackrabbitdesign.net; Web Design, Walt Maguire. 

© 2012 Convention Center Visitors Guide, Inc. All rights reserved. 

The publisher assumes no responsibility for errors appearing in this publication. 

a 

SPRING 2012

ATTRACTIONS & TOURS 

ATTRACTIONS 

Adventure Aquarium on the Delaware Waterfront 

– 1 Aquarium Dr Camden NJ, 866-451- 

AQUA; 800-616-JAWS or 856-365-3300. AdventureAquarium.com. 

Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers 

800/443-8554 www.whitewaterchallengers.com 

info@whitewaterchallengers.com. Action-packed 

whitewater rafting….mild to wild trips each day 

on the near-by Lehigh River in the Poconos. 

An easy day or overnighter from Philadelphia. 

Terrific rapids and exquisite wilderness scenery. 

Ages 5+. This is the most fun you’ll have 

all year! No experience needed. Also featuring 

camping (tent and rustic cabins), Mountain Biking, 

Kayak clinics, Zipline and Paintball range. 

Independence National Park Old City, between 

Chestnut and Arch Sts, 2nd and 6th 

Sts, 215/636-1666. Historic area of Philadelphia, 

featuring renowned landmarks such as 

The Liberty Bell. 

The National Constitution Center on Philadelphia’s 

Independence Mall, 525 Arch St 

215/409-6600 www.constitutioncenter.org 

The National Constitution Center is dedicated 

to honoring the U.S. Constitution. This 

dynamic and modern museum tells the story 

of the constitution through interactive and 

multimedia exhibits. Adults $12, Seniors $11, 

Children 4-12 $8, Extra charge for some special 

exhibits. Mon-Fri 9:30-5, Sat 9:30-6, Sun 

noon-5. 

Philadelphia Zoo 34th & Girard Ave 215/243- 

1100. Open daily year-round. Adults $17.95, 

Children 2-11 $14.95. 

SightSeeing tourS of PHILADELPHIA 

Carriage 

Tours 

Private Coaches 

Daytime Tours 

Evening Rides 

Check out our 

Speciality 

Tours 

Frequent departures From 5th & market streets 

Trolley Tours 

24 or 48 Hour Pass 

21 Stops 

90 Min. Daily Tours 

The double-decker bus tours 

provide amazing views of the City! 

Hop on Hop Off 

24 or 48 Hour Pass 

21 Stops 

Call for FREE shuttle 

pick up from 

Center City Hotels 

Tickets sold on vehicles and in the Independence Visitor Center 

FRANKLIN’S 

FOOTSTEPS 

WALKING TOURS 

Departs from 

Philadelphia 

Downtown 

Marriott – 

12th and Filbert 

Streets. 

Amish Country, 

Ghost Tours, 

Duck Tours, 

Mural Arts 

and More! 

215-389-TOUR (8687) | phillytour.com 

4 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE Spring 2012

TOURS 

76 Carriage Company 215/389-TOUR www. 

phillytour.com Visitors can enjoy a great Philadelphia 

Tradition and take a fully narrated tour 

of the Historic District and neighborhoods in 

a horse-drawn carriage. This tour is available 

year-round. Starlit evening carriage tours can 

be arranged by reservation. Courtesy shuttle 

pickups at area hotels begins at 10am. We 

have over 30 years in the horse and carriage 

business in Philadelphia. Look for the “76 Carriage 

Co” before you board! 

The Big Bus Company 215/389-8687 www. 

phillytour.com. The Big Bus Company has 

been operating live-guided, open-top sightseeing 

tours in London since 1991. Now you 

can experience the unique history and beauty 

of Philadelphia from the top of an authentic 

London Double-decker. This open-top tour of 

the city offers spectacular views and entertaining 

live commentaries from fully trained 

and friendly guides. See Philly at your own 

pace by hopping on and off at any of 20 stops, 

or just sit back and soak in the history and the 

sunshine! Frequent departures. 

Ghost Tour of Philadelphia Independence 

Park & Society Hill 215/413-1997, www. 

ghosttour.com Explore the other side of 

America’s most historic and most haunted 

city on Philadelphia’s most unique and entertaining 

candlelight walking tour. Costumed 

tour guides spin tales of mystery and intrigue 

on a leisurely stroll through Independence 

Park and Society Hill on visits to Washington 

Square, Pine Street Cemetery, City Tavern 

and more. Experience the haunting tales of 

plague and pestilence...burial grounds and 

potter’s fields...heroes and traitors as we 

bring history back to life! $17/person, $8 

ages 4-12. Call 215-413-1997 for Reservations 

& Ticket Locations. Save $2 on tickets 

at ghosttour.com. 

Philadelphia Chocolate Tours 215/833-0044 

for tickets and info. www.philadelphiachocolatetours.com 

email: info@philadelphiachocola- 

TOURS 

tetours.com Take the sweetest tour in town! 

We’ll take you on a guided walking and tasting 

tour of select Philly chocolate shops, bakeries, 

and cafes. You’ll learn about the history and 

health benefits of chocolate, and the history of 

the city of Philadelphia and the neighborhoods 

we visit, as we savor America’s favorite flavor. 

We tour 52 weeks a year, because chocolate 

tastes great year-round! Join a public tour with 

family or friends, or let us give you a private 

tour as a scrumptious outing for your office, 

Spring 2012 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE 

5

TOURS & CULTURE 

bridal party, or other group. Keep an eye out for 

our special limited-edition tours! Public tours 

are $40 per person which includes chocolate. 

Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours & Transportation 

111 S. Independence Mall East, 215- 

922-2300 www.philadelphiasightseeingtours. 

com . The best of downtown Philadelphia attractions 

at your fingertips. 24-hour , 48-hour 

and hop-on hop-off tours. Offering Double- 

Decker buses tours, Historic Trolleys Tours, 

and unique tours such as the Independence 

Movement Historical walking tour. Transportation 

and shuttle service also available. 

Philadelphia Trolley Works 215/389-TOUR. 

www.phillytour.com. Philadelphia’s oldest tour 

company, serving Philadelphia for 30 years! 

This is the best way to get to know Philadelphia 

and all of its history, shopping, culture, 

and attractions. Visitors will enjoy a 90-minute 

narrated tour with all-day on/off privilege. 

Courtesy shuttle pickup at area hotels begins 

Sightseeing with a Splash! 

Celebrate America! 

Philly’s ONLY land and sea tour! 

Discover history, humor and heroes 

of America’s birthplace by land and 

sea on this truly unique tour 

of historic Philadelphia. 

phillyducks.com | 877-887-8225 

at 9:30 am. Be sure to check out our new specialty 

tours including Mural Arts, Fairmount 

Park, South Philly, and more. 

Ride the Ducks Fun Philadelphia tours 

always include an exciting ride on one of 

our amazing land and water duck vehicles. 

Ride through the historic streets of Old City 

Philadelphia and down the “hippest street in 

town”—South Street. Splashdown and cruise 

the Delaware River. Laugh and learn aboard 

this 70-minute city adventure. Great for groups 

and individuals! Groups 20 or more call: 215- 

351-9989. Individuals call: 877-887-8225. 

Taste of Philly at Reading Terminal Market 

12th and Filbert Sts, 215/545-8007, www. 

tasteofphillyfoodtour.com tasteofphillyfoodtour@gmail.com. 

Love to eat? You’ll love this 

75-minute food-writer-led walking tour about 

Philly food favorites like cheesesteaks, hoagies 

and pretzels and the vibrant Reading Terminal 

Market where they’re sold. Also learn 

about Philly as the birthplace of the Whitman 

Sampler, Ernie Keebler and Breyers Ice Cream 

– in other words, fun history that has nothing 

to do with our government! Leaves from the 

Market information desk, 12th and Filbert 

Sts., Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 A.M. 

Reservations required. $15.95 adults; $8.95 

kids (includes several small food samples). 

Private tours also available. 

Spirits of ’76 Ghost Tour of Philadelphia 

215/525-1776. www.Spiritsof76.com 1 Part 

History, 2 parts Haunt! Travel the cobblestone 

streets of Old City to hear chilling stories about 

the Spirit of ’76. Dare to visit more than 20 

of “Philly’s Frights & Sights” on a 75-minute 

ghoulish outdoor walking journey through 

Historic and Haunted Philadelphia. Tours run 

April through November. Tour meets at Così 

Restaurant at 4th & Chestnut Street. Reservations 

strongly recommended. For tickets and 

tour times, visit www.Spiritsof76.com, call 

215/525-1776 or visit Cosi each evening before 

the tour. Private tours are available year 

round. Group rates are available for parties of 

25 or more. 


Fall 2010 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE 

7

a 

EVENTS SHOPPING 

See listing on pg. 41 

SHOPPING 

The Bourse Food Court and Specialty 

Shops 111 S. Independence Mall E. 215/625- 

0300 www.bourse-pa.com This retail and 

dining complex, housed in the nation’s first 

commodities exchange building, across the 

street from Independence Hall, makes for 

a convenient stop for souvenirs and a great 

lunch. Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm.Sunday 

hours (March-October only)11am-5pm. 

Market Place East 701 Market St 215/592- 

8905. Located three blocks east of the Convention 

Center. Save on designer labels at 

Ross Dress for Less, Dress Barn & Hi-Style 

Fashions. Manicures, hair-styling and more 

are offered in a turn-of-the-century National 

Award-winning Historic Building. The lower 

level features a food court with atrium seating 

and pianist noon-1:30pm weekdays. 

Open: 9:30am-7pm, Mon-Thurs, Fri; until 

8pm. Sat 10am-7pm; Sun noon-6pm. 

Liberties Walk While visiting Philadelphia, 

take a stroll down Liberties Walk. Pamper 

yourself with a massage, manicure or pedicure 

from Spa East, and get your beauty services 

and do a little shopping at Tu Belleza 

(hair, make-up, lashes and supplies). If 

you’re looking for something naughty or nice, 

peruse the lingerie and adult toys at The Velvet 

Lily, try on custom made corsets at Delicious 

Boutique, and check out shoes and 

purses with brands such as Juicy Couture at 

Stephanie’s Closet. A few more steps and you 

can pick up some flowers at Beautiful Blooms 

and a stylish gift from Eclatante, both of 

whom cater special events and weddings. 

National Watch Exchange 101 S. 8th 

St at Chestnut St on Jeweler’s Row 

215/627-WATCH.www.nationalwatch.com 

National specializes in pre-owned, high-end 

watches including Cartier, Rolex and Breitling. 

National has over 500 watches in stock 

and offers a one-year warranty. National also 

carries the largest selection of certified diamonds 

and mountings in Philadelphia. Mon- 

Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 11am-4pm. 


Passional Boutique 704 S. 5th St 215/829- 

4986 passionalboutique.com/store Philadelphia’s 

destination for genuine steel-boned 

corsets, kilts, shoes, accessories, clubwear, 

costumes and leather. Featuring the designs 

of more than a dozen exotic couture designers 

including their own house brand of leather, 

PASSIONAL fashions come in men’s and 

women’s sizes ranging from XS-8XL. Open 7 

days from noon-10pm, friendly PASSIONAL 

staff will dress your dreams for formal to fantasy 

occasions. 

The Piazza at Schmidts North 2nd St Northern 

Liberties. www.atthepiazza.com. Infused 

with the ideas that helped shape public spaces 

and communities in Europe, the Piazza was 

conceived as a center for art and commerce. 

Come explore the 40 spaces that range from 

clothing designers, custom purses, a magic 

shop, and galleries galore, all owned and operated 

by Philadelphians. The Piazza is also 

home to several fine restaurants. 

Sexploratorium 620 S. 5th St. 215/923- 

1398 passionaltoys.com/store Philadelphia’s 

resource for quality sexual products. Three 

stories of merchandise from massage and 

health basics and men’s tools to fantasy products 

like restraints, electro-sex equipment 

and sex furniture (think swings and stripper 

poles to start) will inspire you to bring special 

gifts back home. The third floor is home 

SHOPPING & SPAS 

to Aphrodite Gallery, an art space devoted 

to erotic fine arts and Passion 101 sexuality 

workshops. Open 7 days from noon-10pm. 

University City District University City was 

Philadelphia’s first suburb, and it remains 

home to distinctive, livable urban neighborhoods 

of wide porches, tree-lined streets, restaurants 

and cafes, and shops. 

SPAS 

Giovanni & Pileggi 256 S 16th St 215/568- 

3040. Giovanni Mele and his talented staff 

cut, color, and style to perfection in this beautifully 

restored townhouse. Great Lengths hair 

extensions, Keratin treatment with Collagen, 

facials, manicures, pedicures, makeup applications 

and brow shaping are among the rejuvenating 

services offered. Open Tuesday through 

Saturday. 


9

DAYTRIPS 

WheatonArts and Cultural 

Center Millville, NJ 800-998- 

4552. www.wheatonarts.org 

WheatonArts is one of southern New Jersey’s premier 

cultural destinations located less than an hour from 

Philadelphia. The Museum of American Glass has the 

most comprehensive collection of American glass in 

the country with over 7,000 objects on display. Watch 

world-class art created in the Glass Studio. Interact 

with the artists in the Ceramics, Flameworking and 

Woodcarving Studios. Enjoy special exhibits, programs 

and events. Browse the award winning museum 

stores with one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gift items. Free 

to shop and stroll. 

Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park 

America’s only all-water 

cavern & wildlife park are located 18 miles east of 

State College in Centre Hall, PA. The cavern tour is a 

guided one hour tour by motorboat on an underground 

stream. The farm & wildlife tour is a guided 90-minute 

motorized tour over 1,500 acres of Penn’s Cave forests 

and fields which have been carefully preserved as a 

natural habitat for birds, plants, and animals. Open daily 

through Dec. www.pennscave.com (814) 364-1664. 

The James A. Michener Art Museum 

in Doylestown See the exhibit that 

left a million people around the world 

breathless! The first Uffizi tour in the 

US and the ONLY Northeast appearance 

of Offering of the Angels: Treasures from the 

Uffizi Gallery. April 21 to August 10, 2012! Art created 

between the 15th and 17th Centuries. by legendary 

artists such as Botticelli, Titian, Tintoretto, Parmigianino, 

Cristofano. Don’t leave Philly without seeing 

Italy! The Biggest exhibit in Bucks County and ONLY 

at the Michener Art Museum! 

Chestnut Hill, designated in 2010 

as one of twelve distinctive destinations 

in the USA by the National 

Trust for Historic Preservation, offers an array of activities 

to residents and visitors alike. Boutique shopping, 

dining, art, gardens, architecture and nature can all be 

enjoyed in Chestnut Hill, and the Home & Garden Festival 

each May adds to the fun. Only 20 minutes from downtown 

Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill blends the nostalgia of 

Main Street with a sophisticated shopping and dining 

experience. 215-247-6696 or www.chestnuthillpa.com 

Abington Art Center 515 Meetinghouse 

Road, Jenkintown. (215) 887-4882. Abington 

Art Center, located in a historic estate, 

hosts rotating exhibitions for today’s artists 

in its galleries and 27-acre Sculpture 

Park. Visit www.abingtonartcenter.org for more information 

about upcoming programs, events, and exhibits. 

Gallery hours: Wed.-Frid. 10am-5pm; Thurs. until 

7pm; Sat. & Sun. 11am-4pm; free admission. 

Peddler’s Village celebrates its 

50th anniversary in 2012 as the 

premier shopping and dining 

destination in Bucks County, PA. 

Located at Routes 202 and Street Road in Lahaska, Peddler’s 

Village offers 65 unique shops, 5 restaurants, the 

70-room Golden Plough Inn and the Giggleberry Fair 

family entertainment center. Enjoy free seasonal festival 

and year-round family events in our colonial-style village 

with award winning gardens. For more information, 

please visit www.peddlersvillage.com or call 215/794- 

4000. 

Fort Mifflin on the Delaware 

Fort Mifflin & Hog Island 

Roads, Philadelphia, PA 19153 

215-685-4167. Site of the largest bombardment of the 

Revolutionary War during the Fall of 1777. The valiant 

defense of the fort provided Washington time to establish 

winter quarters in Valley Forge and thus gave 

us the title “the Fort That Saved America.” Museum, 

14 original historic buildings, guided tours, gift shop, 

areas for hiking and picnics along the picturesque 

Delaware River. Candlelight Ghost Tours by special 

arrangement. Group, school & self-guided tours year 

round. Open to the public Wednesday through Sunday 

10 Am to 4 Pm, March to December, winter by chance 

or appointment, please check the website at www.fortmifflin.us 

Voted the most scenic 

river in Pennsylvania, the 

Delaware River’s shore is 

home to New Hope. As 

“The Entertainment Capital of Bucks County”, you’ll 

find shopping, music, theatre, train, ferryboat, and 

carriage rides. Annual events include, Winter Festival, 

Restaurant Week, Renaissance Fair, Film Festival, 

Summer Wine Fair, Arts & Crafts Festival, Summer 

Fireworks, Halloween Events, Holiday Tree Lighting 

and Light Show. The historic Parry Mansion Museum, 

The Children’s Museum (new), craft, art & antique galleries, 

restaurants, B&B’s & Inns are all part of this 

experience. Designated as one of the top 25 Art Communities 

in the USA. For more information, including, 

events & entertainment go to VisitNewHope.com. 

Chamber of Commerce 215-862-9990. 

Brandywine Battlefield Route 

1, Chadds Ford, PA. Site of the 

largest land battle of the American 

Revolution, Sept. 11, 1777. 

Museum, museum shop, guided tour of Washington’s 

Headquarters and exterior tours of Gilpin House and 

outbuildings. Areas for picnics and hiking. Events 

throughout the year include historical presentations, 

Summer History Camp, Commemoration Day for both 

Sept. 11, 1777 and 2001, and others. Closed Dec. 23 - 

mid-March. For information please call 610-459-3342 

or visit brandywinebattlefield.org. 


Academy of Natural Sciences Museum 1900 

Ben Franklin Pkwy 215/299-1000 ansp.org 

Mon-Fri, 10am - 4:30pm. Weekends and holidays, 

10am-5pm. Adults $15. Children (3-12), 

seniors, and military with I.D. $13. 

From March 2012 through March 2013, celebrate 

the 200th birthday of the Academy 

with a year of exciting events, special programs, 

public engagement activities, and a 

very special yearlong exhibit, The Academy 

at 200: The Nature of Discovery. Explore 

highlights from our collections during specially 

themed months, watch real scientists 

at work, and even get up close with rare 

specimens from our behind-the-scenes collections. 

American Swedish Historical Museum The 

first museum in the United States dedicated 

to Swedish and Swedish American history 

and culture, the ASHM also highlights the 

impact of Swedes on the Philadelphia region. 

A newly renovated exhibition tells the story 

of the Delaware Valley’s earliest European 

settlers and their New Sweden Colony (1638- 

1655). Other rooms highlight contributions of 

Swedes and Swedish Americans including soprano 

Jenny Lind, feminist Fredrika Bremer, 

engineer John Ericsson, inventor Alfred 

Nobel, and artists Carl Milles, Carl Larsson 

and Birger Sandzén. Special exhibitions feature 

contemporary art and design, as well as 

Swedish history and culture. Tu-F 10-4, Sa-Su 

12-4. Closed Mon & holidays. $8 adults, $6 

seniors and students with ID, children 5-11 

$4, and children under 5 free. www.americanswedish.org. 

215.389.1776 

MUSEUMS 

The Chemical Heritage Foundation 315 

Chestnut Street, 215-925-2222, www.chemheritage.org. 

The Museum at the Chemical 

Heritage Foundation tells chemistry’s untold 

stories, from alchemy to nanotechnology. 

Trace scientific progress in the laboratory, the 

factory, and the home and learn how chemistry 

continues to shape the modern world. 

Discover the chemistry in your life! Monday– 

Friday 10 am–4 pm, and until 8 pm the first 

Friday of every month for guest speakers and 

hands-on presentations that bring exhibits to 

life. Closed major holidays. Please check our 

website for schedule updates. Admission is 

free. 

ansp.org 

Join us for a year of exciting events 

and a special bicentennial exhibit. 

Show this ad to receive $2 off general admission. 

Maximum 4 persons. Not valid with other offers. 


11

MUSEUMS 

National Museum of American Jewish History 

215-923-3811 www.nmajh.org, The National 

Museum of American Jewish History, 

on Independence Mall, is the only Museum 

in the nation dedicated solely to telling the 

more then 350-year story of Jews in America. 

Featuring more than 1,200 artifacts, as 

well as 30 original films and 13 interactive 

displays, the family-friendly exhibition highlights 

the diverse backgrounds and experiences 

of Jews in this country and shows how 

an immigrant population flourished under 

freedom. This is a story of universal interest 

that resonates for visitors of all backgrounds. 

A signature attraction is the Only in 

America ® Gallery/Hall of Fame, a multimedia 

exhibition that showcases the achievements 

of 18 extraordinary Jewish Americans. The 

“It’s Your Story” video recording booth invites 

visitors to share family histories and 

Uncover Philly’s 

Swedish Roots 

personal memories which the Museum archives 

for public viewing and shares through 

online links. Come explore the blessings and 

challenges of freedom at the National Museum 

of American Jewish History. Tues-Fri 

10 am – 5 pm; Sat & Sun 10 am – 5:30 pm. 

Closed Mondays and major Jewish holidays. 

Adults (22-64) $12; Seniors (65+), Active 

Military and Youth (13-21) $11; Children (12 

& under) Free. 

National Liberty Museum in the heart of 

historic Philadelphia at 321 Chestnut Street. 

215/925-2800 www.libertymuseum.org. This 

is a contemporary exhibition that explores the 

idea that every citizen plays a role in preserving 

liberty. It features the inspiring stories 

of 2,000 heroes of all walks of life who made 

a difference, engaging interactives that promote 

positive actions, and a world-glass collection 

of glass art to show that freedom is 

Curious 

about 

Sweden and 

Swedes in 

America? 

From the 

Vikings to 

The Girl with 

the Dragon 

Tattoo, we 

have the 

answers. 

1900 Pattison Ave. 

Philadelphia, PA 19145 

americanswedish.org 

215.389.1776 

Featuring 

Special 

Exhibition, 

on view 

March 11 

thru June 24, 

Forged 

Sculptures of 

the Steneby 

Collection by 

Albert Paley 


fragile. Highlights include a 21-ft. Flame of 

Liberty by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, 

a 3-story tribute to the heroes of 9/11 

and two life-size children made of jellybeans. 

Open 10am to 5pm daily, except closed Monday 

during the school year and open 12 noon 

– 6pm on Sundays only. Call for schedule on 

holidays. Adults $7, Seniors $6, Students $5 

or $15 for your family. 

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts 

118-128 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, 

215/972-7600, www.pafa.org. Visit the nation’s 

first school of fine arts and museum, home of 

one of the finest American art collections in 

the world. Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm. Sun, 11am- 

5pm. Admission to the Permanent Collection: 

Adults $10, Seniors (60+) and Students with 

I.D. $8, Youth ages (13-18) $6. Admission to 

Special Exhibitions (includes the Permanent 

Collection): Adults $15, Seniors (60+) and 

Students with I.D. $12, Youth ages (13-18) 

$10. FREE for members and children under 

12 (excluding groups). Morris Gallery exhibitions 

and the ground floor of the Historic 

Landmark Building are free. Stop by PAFA’s 

Alumni Sales Gallery showcasing works of art 

for purchase by PAFA’s talented alumni. Visit 

PORTFOLIO at the Pennsylvania Academy ® , 

for a unique shopping experience. PORTFO- 

LIO features an array of items including distinctive 

jewelry, functional ceramics, books, 

and textiles. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 

10am- 6pm, Sundays, 11am-6pm. 

Penn Museum 3260 South Street, Philadelphia 

(215) 898-4000, www.penn.museum. 

This world-renowned museum features 

ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian, African, 

Asian, Central American, Native American, 

and ancient Mediterranean World galleries, 

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES 

plus special exhibitions. Enjoy “IMAGINE 

AFRICA” year long gallery project and programming, 

though 9/18/12. Gardens, shops, 

cafe. Tues and Thurs-Sun,10am-5:00pm. Wed 

10am-8pm. Closed Mondays, holidays. Admission 

donation: $10; seniors $7; children 

(6-17) and full-time students $6; under 6 free. 

GALLERIES 

Arthur Ross Gallery 220 S. 

34th Street 215-898-2083, 

www.upenn.edu/ARG Housed 

in a National Landmark Building, 

The Arthur Ross Gallery 

presents four multi-media exhibitions annually 

featuring art and artifacts from antiquity to 

the present. Gallery Schedule: January 27 – 

March 25, 2012 In Material: Fiber 2012. April 

7 - July 9, 2012 Samba Sessão: Afro-Brazilian 

Art & Film. Hours: T-F 10-5; Sat & Sun 12-5. 

Aphrodite Gallery 620 

S. 5th St. (one block 

from South Street on 

5th) www.Aphrodite- 

Gallery.us, AproditeGallery@gmail.com. Located 

on the third floor of Passional’s Sexploratorium, 

the Aphrodite Gallery, now in its 7th 

year, presents exhibitions of Erotic Art in all 

media by local, nation and international artists. 

Upcoming Shows: March1–April 30: Kati 

Kill—Facades (Paintings in Acrylic & Mixed- 

Media); opening reception March 23rd, 7-9pm. 

May1–June 30: Lisolette Gilcrest—Fantastical 

Boudoir Photography; opening reception May 

25th, 7-9pm. 


13

CENTER CITY 

DINING SECTION 

SEE RESTAURANT LOCATOR 

MAP PP. 24-25 

CENTER CITY 

D1 

Applebee’s 215 S. 15th St 215/772-2791. 

Unique Historic Location….Exceptional Value….Fun 

and Professional Service… Applebee’s 

on 15th Street is located in Center City 

Philadelphia (between Walnut and Locust) 

which makes it a very convenient location 

CENTER CITY 

215 South 15th Street 

(between Walnut & Locust) 

215.772.2791 

for people both in and outside of the Philadelphia 

area to host an event. We are within 

minutes of the Convention Center, the Liberty 

Bell, Betsy Ross House, museums and many 

more historic sites! Enjoy our new Pick ‘N 

Pair lunch combos starting at $5.99 along 

with sizzling steaks, signature salads, sandwiches, 

burgers kid’s menu and delicious desserts. 

Open Mon-Wed, 11am-1am, Thurs-Sat, 

11am-2am, Sun 11 am-12am. 

D2 Cichetteria Venezia C19 267 S. 19th St 

215/545-0441 c19Philly.com Eat+Drink+Love. 

Join us at C19 for dinner to experience authentic 

Venetian cuisine using the freshest of local 

ingredients,* a large selection of wines from 

the best vineyards in our region and around 

the world, and a full bar. Executive Chef and 

owner Andrea Luca Rossi went back to his 

roots, inspired by his mother’s traditional Venetian 

recipes, you’ll find her homemade gnocchi 

that is as light as air, and other extraordinary 

homemade pastas, pizzas, and meat and fish 

entrees. (*C19 recently received the coveted 

Snail of Approval from Slow Food Philadelphia.) 

Happy hour weekdays 4-7, dinner nightly 4-10, 

late night menu nightly 10pm-12am and Sunday 

brunch from 1pm – 4pm. 

D3 

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse 1901 John 

F.Kennedy Blvd.(corner of 20th St. and JFK) 

215/525-3233. chimasteakhouse.com. Chima 

provides authentic Brazilian cuisine served 

rodizio style. Experience 17 kinds of meat 

served by authentic Gauchos. Meals include 

an all-inclusive salad bar with more than 40 

items. Valet parking is available. Open Mon- 

Thu 5:30pm-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 5:30pm-10pm, 

Sun 4pm-9pm. 

D4 

Con Murphy’s Irish Pub 1700 Ben Franklin 

Parkway (at the Windsor Hotel) 267/687- 

1128. conmurphyspub.com An authentic cozy 

Irish pub in the heart of Center City. Serving 

perhaps, the best pint of Guinness in the city, 

a classy yet comfortable pub awaits you. Live 

acoustic music every Thursday, Friday and 

Saturday nights. The restaurant has created 

a menu to please all palates from the traditional 

and hometown dishes like Philly Cheesesteaks 

and Spicy Pulled Pork Sandwiches to 


signature Irish dishes such as Shepherd’s 

Pie, Fish & Chips, and an Irish Breakfast. 

Con’s also features some great seafood such 

as Shrimp Cocktail, Spicy Tuna Bites, Crab 

Cakes and much more. Open 7 days a week 

for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend 

brunch. Kitchen open late every night. Outdoor 

patio on the Ben Franklin Parkway. Definitely 

worth a visit. Only 3 blocks from the 

Convention Center. 

D5 

Davio’s 111 South 17th St; 2nd floor of 

the Provident Bank Building 215/563-4810. 

www.davios.com Four time winner, Best of 

Philly. This “Northern Italian Steakhouse” 

brings a deliciously unique flair to a city famous 

worldwide for its Italian restaurants. 

Davio’s offers exquisite food, expertly prepared 

and presented in a grandly historic 

ambience. The restaurant has already gained 

popularity as a prime spot for both “Power 

Breakfast” and “Business Lunch” among 

the Philadelphia business community. Dinner 

also brings local and national luminaries 

from all walks of life on a regular basis. 

DINING 

brunch | lunch | happy hour | dinner 

check in on Foursquare to receive a 

special offer. Some restrictions apply. 


15 

CENTER CITY

CENTER CITY 

DINING 

Reservations suggested for main dining room. 

Breakfast Mon-Fri 7-11am; Lunch Mon- Fri 

11:30am-2:30pm; Dinner daily 5-11pm; Bar 

menu daily 2:30pm-closing. 

D6 Devon Seafood Grill 225 S 18th St 

215/546-5940 devonseafood.com. The menu 

at this Rittenhouse Square restaurant changes 

constantly to reflect the fresh seafood 

brought in daily from both coasts. Specialties 

include award-winning Maryland-style crab 

cakes and bottomless sweet biscuits. Open 

Tue-Thurs 11am-11pm, Fri and Sat 11ammidnight, 

Sun and Mon 11am-10pm. Reservations 

accepted. 

D7 

Farmer’s Cabinet 1113 Walnut St 

215/923-1113 www.thefarmerscabinet.com 

Open daily until 2am. Come visit one of Philadelphia’s 

most unique dining experiences at 

The Farmers’ Cabinet, a Victorian era Saloon 

and Restaurant. We offer turn-of-the-century 

jazz Tues. through Sat. and are pleased to 

serve “All Day Brunch” on Sun. from 11:30am- 

9pm. We also feature European craft beers and 

classic cocktails, cocktails inspired by beer, 

house cured meats, Euro and domestic cheeses, 

and house made desserts. Open 3pm-2am 

Mon-Fri, 11:30am-2am Sat & Sun. 

D8 Fergie’s Pub 1214 Sansom St 215/ 928- 

8118. Nestled in the heart of Center City, Fergie’s 

Pub is home to all the best of a real Irish 

Pub: warm, friendly atmosphere and some of 

the best Guinness on tap in the city. Voted the 

Best Neighborhood Bar in Philadelphia. Our 

traditional Irish menu includes shepherd’s 

pie, fish and chips and burgers sure to please. 

We also specialize in some barbeque fare featuring 

dry rubbed pork spare ribs, beef brisket, 

and west Carolina pulled pork, hickory 

smoked for 16 hours. Tuesday and Thursday 

nights showcase the local favorite Quizo 

game. Traditional Irish Music Session, Saturday 

4-7. A variety of live music can be seen 

here Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and 

Saturday at no charge. Open 7 days. Kitchen 

open til midnight every night. 

D9 Fogo De Chão 1337 Chestnut St 215/636- 

9700. Fogo De Chão features continuous service 

of 15 different delectable cuts of beef, 


pork, lamb and chicken. Our concept also 

offers a sumptuous buffet of gourmet salads 

and fresh cut vegetables, and a variety of traditional 

side dishes to compliment the meats. 

Fogo De Chão is open for lunch and dinner and 

is ideal for both business and leisure meals. It 

awes it’s patrons with quality, delicious food 

and excellent service, while keeping the culinary 

tradition alive. Weekdays: Lunch 11:30- 

2:30 and dinner 5:30-10. Dinner only Sat., 

4:30-10:30. Dinner only Sun., 4-9:30. 

D10 

Girasole 1410 Pine St & Broad at the 

Symphony House 215/732-2728 www.girasolephilly.com 

Girasole offers the charm of old 

world cuisine and the warmth of the Mediterranean 

sun in a setting of modern ambience. 

Welcome to Girasole Ristorante-Philadelphia, 

where world class dining and quality of life is 

served with a Mediterranean flair in the City of 

Brotherly Love. Surround yourself in the aroma 

of homemade pastas dishes, fresh seafood and 

artisan cheeses. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail 

from the bar or consult a Girasole representative 

for the perfect wine to compliment your dining 

experience. Lunch served Mon-Fri 11:30-2, 

Dinner Mon-Fri 5-11, Sat 5-12, Sun 4-10:30. 

D11 Grace Tavern 23rd & South Sts (2229 

Grays Ferry Ave) 215/893-9580. A lovingly restored 

neighborhood tavern that features great 

wine and spirits. Menu highlights include Jambalaya, 

Oyster Po’ Boy with remoulade sauce, 

fresh sausage sandwiches, and pomme frites 

with Monk’s Bourbon Mayo. Full menu 11:30 

am-2am daily. 

D12 IHOP 1320 Walnut St 215/732-1726 

www.ihop.com. For more than 50 years, IHOP 

has been one of America’s favorite destinations 

for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ranked 

Zagat’s 2009 No. 1 best breakfast. IHOP is 

just 3 blocks from the Pennsylvania Convention 

Center. In addition to their world-famous 

breakfast, IHOP also offers a huge selection 

of burgers, sandwiches, signature soups and 

salads, plus entrees ranging from seafood to 

steaks ! Open daily from 7am-2:30am. 

D13 Irish Pub 1123 Walnut St 215/925-3311 

and 2007 Walnut St, 215/568-5603. High ceilings, 

carved cherrywood bar, stained glass and 

DINING 


17 

CENTER CITY

CENTER CITY 

DINING 

signed photos of Irish-American celebrities enhance 

the decor. Irish-American fare. Private 

room available for functions. Reservations for 

parties of 7 or more. DJ 9pm-11pm, Wed- Sat. 

Mon-Sat, lunch 11am-2pm; dinner 2pm-1am. 

Sunday brunch 10am-2pm (2007 Walnut). 

D14 

D11 Jolly’s Dueling Piano Bar 1420 Locust 

St 267/687-1161 www.jollyspianobar.com 

While Jolly’s is famous for a fun night of entertainment, 

(see listing in nightlife) they’re 

also great for dinner and lite bites, Offering a 

huge selection of salads, burgers, sandwiches, 

pizzas, and appetizers. One of the city’s 

best Happy Hours Tue-Fri, 5-7. Located just 

steps from Philly’s Avenue of the Arts and 

just blocks from the PA Convention Center 

and most center city hotels. 

LaScala’s Restaurant and Bar 615 Chestnut 

St (corner of 7th St.) 215/928-0900 www. 

lascalasphilly.com LaScala’s located in the 

heart of historic Philadelphia, is just around 

the corner from Independence Park. LaSca- 


DINING 

21 

CENTER CITY

CENTER CITY 

DINING 

la’s offers a vast menu of Italian-American 

homestyle dishes, a full bar and an extensive 

wine list. LaScala’s serves lunch and dinner, 

and features indoor and outdoor café style 

dining. Reservations accepted and large parties 

welcome. Free parking weekdays after 

3pm, and all day on weekends. 

D15 

D12 The Melting Pot 1219 Filbert St, Philadelphia 

215/922-7002 and 150 Allendale 

Road, King of Prussia 610/265-7195 www. 

meltingpot.com. What’s new in Fondue? 

Well, quite a lot…it’s much more than just 

cheese and chocolate. The Melting Pot restaurant 

features a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere 

with private tables and attentive 

service. A terrific blend of dinner and entertainment. 

A four-course dinner consists of 

cheese fondue prepared tableside, followed 

by a choice of fresh salads. The entrée selection 

features steak, chicken, seafood, pasta 

and vegetables. Finish off with a delectable 

dessert array of fresh fruit, rice krispies 

treats, brownies, cheesecake and marshmal- 


lows served with choices of decadent chocolate 

fondue. Individual entrees also featured. 

And don’t forget our extraordinary wine list. 

Reservations are highly encouraged. 

D13 D16 

Mercato 1216 Spruce St, 215/985- 

BYOB. Located in a beautiful historic building, 

Mercato is a new BYOB that focuses on 

market-fresh food. While the menu has Italian 

accents such as piadine – a pizza that is 

grilled, rather than baked – and fresh pasta 

made in-house, it is not limited to strictly 

Italian cuisine. Mercato is a cash-only 

BYOB, open seven days a week: Mon-Thurs, 

5-10:30pm; Fri, Sat 5-11pm; Sun 5-10pm. 

Reservations are accepted only for pre-theatre 

dining from 5-7pm. Reservations are not 

accepted for other times. 

D17 D14 Midtown II Restaurant 122-124 S. 11 

St. 215-627-6452 and 215/627-5568 www. 

midtown2restaurant.com Family owned and 

operated and proudly serving Philadelphia 

since 1974. Conveniently located in Midtown 

Village, we are walking distance from 

many hotels, theatres, and shopping areas. 

Our menu offers a wide variety of entrées 

from breakfast, to sandwiches, salads, sauté 

dishes, seafood, pasta, comfort foods, desserts, 

and more, just like mama used to 

make. And our homemade soups are legendary! 

Visit us online at to check out our daily 

specials. Free delivery is always available 

within 5 blocks. Open 24 hours a day, seven 

days a week, including all holidays, bet that 

you can always count on us to satisfy your 

hunger with affordable prices and generous 

portions. So stop by and say hello. There’s 

never a dull moment at the Midtown! 

Misconduct Tavern 1511 Locust St, 

215/732-5797, www.misconducttavern.com. 

Don’t assume the name encourages miscreant 

behavior; it’s actually named after the 

co-founder’s yacht. This nautically themed 

bar and restaurant features a 37 foot zinctopped 

wooden bar in the heart of Center 

City, serving tropical cocktails and one of 

Philly’s best selection of domestic and imported 

beers. Serving upscale pub fare featuring 

hot and cold sandwiches, soups, sal- 

DINING 

Happy Hour 

Just Got a 

Little More 

Interesting 

$3 Martini Menu 

5pm – 7pm 

Wed thru Fri 

200 S. 12 th Street 

215-964-9675 


21 

CENTER CITY

CENTER CITY 

DINING 

ads and our amazing burgers! Open 11:30 

am-2am daily. 

D18 

D17 Monk’s Cafe 264 S 16th St 215/545- 

7005 www.monkscafe.com Consistently rated 

“One of the Area’s Best” by Zagat, and winner 

of more than a dozen “Best Of Philly” awards. 

If you’re visiting Philadelphia, you must stop 

by Monk’s Café. Inspired by cozy Belgian brasseries, 

this casual, affordable neighborhood 

bistro is a great place to grab a quick burger 

and fresh cut fries, or relax over gourmet delicacies 

like steamed mussels, cured salmon, 

poached turbot, rack of lamb, grilled steaks, 

duck breast, and vegetarian fare. Choose from 

over 200 world-class beers, or sample one of 

the 20 Belgian Ales on tap – the largest selection 

of its kind in the country. Sun brunch 

11am-5pm. Kitchen open 11:30am-1am nightly. 

Bar open 11:30am-2am nightly. 

D19 

Nodding Head 1516 Sansom St 2nd 

Floor 215/569-9525. Big, full-bodied, balanced 

beers brewed on the premises and 

served along with a dozen of the world’s 

best beers, fine wines, and a full-service bar. 


DINING 

Winter 2010/2011 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE 

27 

CENTER CITY

CENTER CITY PHILADELPHIA 

DINING MAP 

ART MUseUM AReA SEE AD 

A1 The Belgian Café..........................p. 19 

A2 Water Works Restaurant..............p. 28 

UniveRsiTy ciTy SEE AD 

U1 The Restaurant School.................p. 29 

cenTeR ciTy SEE AD 

D1 Applebees.....................................p. 14 

D2 Chima’s Brazilian Steakhouse......p. 16 

D3 Cichetteria Venezia C19................p. 17 

D4 Con Murphy’s Irish Pub................p. 14 

D5 Davio’s..........................................p. 17 

D6 Devon Seafood Grille....................p. 15 

D7 Farmer’s Cabinet..........................p. 18 

D8 Fergie’s Pub..................................p. 18 

D9 Fogo De Chão...............................p. 48 

D10 Girasole.......................................p. 17 

D11 Grace Tavern................................p. 23 

D12 IHOP.............................................p. 20 

D13 Irish Pub......................................p. 20 

D14 Jolly’s Dueling Piano Bar..............p. 44 

D15 The Melting Pot...........................p. 20 

D16 Mercato........................................p. 26 

D17 Midtown II Restaurant................p. 21 

D18 Monk’s Café.................................p. 19 

D19 Nodding Head..............................p. 23 

D20 Olive Garden................................p. 22 

D21 Ruth’s Chris Steak House.............p. 26 

D22 Tabu.............................................p. 21 

D23 Tavern on Broad...........................p. 21 

D24 TGIFriday’s..................................p. 22 

D25 Valanni Restaurant & Lounge......p. 26 

D26 Varga............................................p. 26 


OLIVE 

GARDEN 

OLD ciTy SEE AD 

O1 Azione Family Style.......................p. 37 

O2 LaScala.........................................p. 36 

O3 Nick’s Roast Beef..........................p. 36 

O4 Pizzicato........................................p. 36 

O5 Rocchino’s.....................................p. 37 

sOUTH sTReeT SEE AD 

S1 Brauhaus Schmitz.........................p. 31 

S2 Catahoula......................................p. 31 

S3 Copabanana...................................p. 32 

OLIVE 

GARDEN 

CURTIS 

CENTER 

S4 Jim’s Steaks...................................p. 33 

S5 Johnny Rockets..............................p. 32 

S6 Jon’s Bar & Grille...........................p. 33 

S7 S&H Kebob House..........................p. 31 

cHinATOWn SEE AD 

C1 Banana Leaf..................................p. 38 

C2 Chinatown Restaurant...................p. 38 

C3 E Mie.............................................p. 39 

C4 Erawan Thai Cuisine......................p. 38 

C5 Joy Tsin Lau..................................p. 39 

DINING MAP 

C6 Lee How Fook................................p. 39 

C7 Mixx Fusion Japanese Cuisine.......p. 40 

C8 Penang—Malaysian Cuisine..........p. 40 

C9 Pho Cali Authentic Vietnamese......p. 40 

C10 Sammy Chon................................p. 40 

C11 Tai Lake Restaurant......................p. 41 

C12 Tazia.............................................p. 41 

C13 Vietnam Palace.............................p. 41 

C14 Yakatori Boy.................................p. 5 


25 

CENTER CITY PHILADELPHIA

:MNH:Ruthschris:Background Tear:Magazine:rc_bkg_tear_ext_C_9x10.75.psd 

CENTER CITY 

DINING 

start building 

your appetite. 

Philadelphia 

215.790.1515 

260 South Broad Street 

King of Prussia 

610.992.1818 

220 North Gulph Road 

group private dining available. 

reservations & gift cards at 

ruthschris.com 

Savor the likes of venison stew, lemon sage 

roasted chicken, grilled salmon, vegetarian 

shepherds pie, or enjoy one of their unique, 

yummy sandwiches or burgers with fresh cut 

frites. Kitchen open 11:30- 1:30am nightly. 

Bar open 11:30-2am nightly. Located above 

the Sansom Street Oyster House. 

D18 D20 Olive Garden 1346 Chestnut Street 

215/546-7950 olivegarden.com. Whether 

you’re traveling for business or pleasure, 

you’ll feel right at home here. You’ll get the 

same great food and friendly service you’re 

accustomed to at your hometown Olive Garden. 

At Olive Garden, Italy is the root of our 

inspiration and Passion! All of Olive Garden’s 

chefs study in Tuscany learning how to combine 

fresh ingredients to create authentic 

Italian foods that you’ll enjoy sharing with 

family and friends. Try our classic Italian 

dishes like lasagna, eggplant Parmigiana, 

and five-cheese ziti, or enjoy one of our steak, 

chicken, seafood, or fish entrees. Open Sun- 

Thu 11-10, Fri & Sat 11-11. 

D21 D19 Ruth’s Chris Steak House 260 S Broad 

St 215/790-1515 and 220 N. Gulph Rd, King 

of Prussia 610/992-1818. www.ruthschrissteakhouse.com. 

Tender, flavorful steak, never 

frozen. Richly marbled, corn-fed, US prime 

beef hand-cut daily, broiled to perfection and 

served sizzling. Serving seafood, fresh vegetable 

dishes, and eight kinds of potatoes. Select 

from an assortment of wines and homemade 

desserts. Open daily from 5pm-late. All 

major credit cards accepted. Valet parking 

available. 

D20 D22 Tabu Lounge and Sports Bar 200 

S 12th St (between Walnut & Locust St) 

215/964-9675 tabuphilly.com Tabu was 

created to serve one of the most diverse 

neighborhoods in Philadelphia. A sports bar 

alongside a lounge, both serving some of the 

finest local craft beers and comfort food, was 

designed with you, our customer, in mind. 

Tabu is located in walking distance to the 

convention center, several local theaters, as 

well as Antique Row. Nestled in the heart of 

the “Gayborhood”, Tabu opens its doors to a 

wonderful mixed crowd where EVERYONE is 


welcome. Catch the latest game and dine on 

the first floor or head upstairs to our lounge, 

where you’ll enjoy comfortable seating and an 

inviting atmosphere, with numerous events 

throughout the week. Open 7 days a week 

noon to 2am. Kitchen open noon to 10pm. 

D23 Tavern on Broad 200 S. Broad St. 

215/546-2290 www.tavernonbroad.com Located 

in the heart of Center City beneath the 

Bellevue on the corner of Broad and Walnut 

Streets, Tavern on Broad is open 7 days a 

week from 11am-2am. Tavern on Broad offers 

our guests a true fan experience with 34 

HDTVs…..there’s not a bad seat in the house. 

Come and enjoy cold beer and great food. 

Don’t forget to ask about our private party 

and special event offerings. Whether you have 

a group of 10 people or 300, Tavern on Broad 

can assist you in hosting your event. 

D24 TGIFriday’s Center City-1776 Benjamin 

Franklin Parkway 215/665-8443, City 

Line-4000 City Ave 215/878-7070 tgifridays. 

com. Leave your worries at the door. That’s 

DINING 

always been the T.G.I. Friday’s philosophy. If 

you want to meet people, celebrate life and 

have a good time, then our place is the place 

for you. At Friday’s, every meal comes with a 

generous side of entertainment and we make 

every visit memorable. 

Union Trust Steak House 717 Chestnut St 

215/925-6000 www.uniontruststeakhouse. 

com Housed in a grand historic building originally 

commissioned in 1888, this contemporary 

steak house serves fare fit for its surroundings---think 

shellfish towers, dry-aged 

filet and Pennsylvania-raised lamb. Dinner 

daily from 5:00pm. 

D25 Valanni Restaurant & Lounge 1229 

Spruce St 215/790-9494 www.valanni.com. 

Valanni offers distinctive Mediterranean 

cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in 

an inviting neighborhood restaurant that 

is located only one block from the Avenue 

of the Arts. Enjoy classics like paella and 

vegetarian tapas, as well as signature specialties 

such as walnut crusted duck breast 

flavors of spruce street 

1229 Spruce St 

215.790.9494 

valanni.com 

10th & Spruce 

tel: MA7-5200 

vargabar.com 

1216 Spruce St 

215.985.BYOB 

mercatobyob.com 


27 

CENTER CITY

CENTER CITY /ART MUSEUM/UNIVERSITY CITY 

DINING 

with coffee cocoa spiced glaze and mussels 

with chipotle chile, basil and charred 

tomato broth. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-10:30 

pm, Fri-Sat 5-11pm, Sun 5-10pm. Happy 

Hour Mon-Fri 5-6pm. Sultry Sunday brunch 

11am-3:30pm. Lounge menu until 1am, and 

DJs on select nights. 

D24 D26 

Varga Bar 10th and Spruce 215/627- 

5200 he latest from the folks who brought 

you Valanni and Mercato, Varga Bar features 

a great selection of beer, wines and liquors, 

lunch, dinner and a late night menu. 

ART MUSEUM 

A1 The Belgian Café 21st & Green Sts, 

215/235-3500. This latest addition to the 

popular Art Museum area restaurant scene 

brings an astounding selection of over 200 

bottled beers, a dozen well tended drafts, 

fine spirits, and great wines by the glass and 

bottle. The old world bar serves a delicious 

Belgian-inspired menu in a beautiful dining 

room showcasing nouveau-style painting, or 

outside in the large wrap-around sidewalk 

café. Full menu served 11:30am- Midnight 

daily. Saturday and Sunday brunch served 

11am-5pm. Bar is open until 2am nightly. 

A2 Water Works Restaurant and Lounge 

640 Waterworks Dr; 215-236-9000; www. 

waterworksrestaurant.com. Built in 1812, the 

Fairmount Water Works was an architectural 

and engineering marvel. Today, this National 

Historic Landmark is home to world-class cuisine 

and the magical dining experience. Dine 

beneath the high barrel-vaulted ceiling of the 

Engine House or the glass enclosed Solarium. 

Relax with intimate dining in the Breezeway 

and cocktails in the Caretaker’s Lounge. Our 

Riverside Veranda offers breathtaking views 

of the Schuylkill River and famed Boathouse 

Row. Lunch: Tue-Fri 11:30am-3pm; Dinner: 

Tue-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri & Sat till 11pm and 

Sun till 9pm. Brunch: Sun 11am-2pm.VER- 

UNIVERSITY CITY 

Baby Blues BBQ 3402 Sansom St 215/222- 

4444 babybluesbbq.com. The East Coast 

location of a West Coast barbecue legend 


has landed in University City, specializing 

in house-smoked meats done Memphis and 

Texas styles. Try their pulled pork, baby back 

ribs, brisket, catfish, or chicken. Open daily 

for lunch, dinner & late night. 

U1 The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill 

College 42nd & Walnut Sts 215/222-4200 

walnuthillcollege.edu. The hospitality leaders 

and chefs of tomorrow staff four theme restaurants: 

The Italian Trattoria (Tue-Sat 6-9:30pm): 

The American Heartland Restaurant (Tue-Sat 

6-9:30pm); The European Courtyard (Tue-Sat 

5:30-10pm) and the Great Chefs of Philadelphia 

Restaurant (Tue-Sat 6-9pm). Visit our pastry 

shop open Mon-Sat 7:30am-6pm. Complimentary 

on-site parking. Reservations suggested. 

Closed July 3 —Sept 1 for summer break. 

MANAYUNK 

Adobe Café 1919 East Passyunk Ave 215/551- 

2243 and 4550 Mitchell St Roxborough 

215/483-3947 www.adobecafephilly.com The 

Adobe serves high quality, moderately priced 

Southwestern cuisine, also offering a complete 

vegetarian menu. Dress casually and enjoy 

their vacation-like atmosphere. Open Thu-Sun 

11:30 for lunch—dinner, Mon-Wed open 4pm, 

Happy hour Mon-Fri 4:30-6:30. Every Mon is 

Fiesta night: 2 dinner entrees and a pitcher of 

beer or margaritas for only $30! 

Winnie’s Le Bus 4266 Main St 215/487-2663. 

Hip restaurant located on Main Street. The best 

DINING 

crab cakes in town, interesting salads, great 

burgers, great selection of desserts and artisan 

breads. Outdoor seating available to watch the 

sights on Main St. Serving Sun brunch, breakfast, 

lunch and dinners. Casual yet interesting 

menu. Mon-Fri Breakfast, 9am-11am; Lunch 

11am-3pm. Dinner Sun-Thurs 4:30-10pm; Fri, 

Sat 4:30-11pm. Brunch Sat, Sun 9-3. 

University City • 4207 Walnut Street 


29 

UNIVERSITY CITY/MANAYUNK

a 

30 

MUSEUMS EVENTS & SPORTS 

evenTs 

March 4-11. Philadelphia International 

Flower Show at the Pennsylvania Convention 

Center, 12th & Arch Streets. “Hawaii: Islands 

of Aloha” will unfold at the Pennsylvania Convention 

Center when the Flower Show kicks 

off the season with more than 10 acres of 

gardens, flowers and entertainment. A tropical 

experience that blends next-step digital 

technology with the natural beauty and rich 

culture of the Hawaiian Islands. 215/988- 

8899. www.theflowershow.com 

April 28-May 1. The Philadelphia Antiques 

Show. The Philadelphia Antiques Show is 

recognized as the finest American antiques 

and decorative arts show in the country. The 

Show features over 50 of the nation’s leading 

dealers and galleries. This year’s loan exhibit, 

“Pennsylvania Hospital Historic Collection” 

consists of rare books and manuscripts, fine 

art by noted artists of the 18th, 19th and 20th 

centuries as well as antique furniture and 

ephemera. The Pennsylvania Convention Center, 

610/902-2109 www.philaantiques.com 

April 26-28. Penn Relays. Held at the renowned 

Franklin Field in America’s most 

historic city, fans can get a chance to see the 

finest track and field athletes from ages eight 

to 80. 877/968-9466. www.pennathletics.com 

MAY 11-12. Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta. The 

premier rowing event for American and Canadian 

College crews is held on the Schuylkill River. 

www.dadvail.org 

JUNE 1-3. 81st Annual Rittenhouse Square 

Fine Art Show at Rittenhouse Square, 18th & 

Walnut Streets. Come “Circle the Square” 

at this beautiful and historic park and enjoy 

the artwork. Fast becoming one of the most 

respected art shows of 

original artwork in the 

country. Friday 11-7, 

Saturday 11-6, Sunday 

11-5 877/689-4112 

RittenhouseSquareArt. 

org 

BAseBALL 

The Philadelphia Phillies play at beautiful 

Citizens Bank Park. Broad Street and Pattison 

Ave. Schedule and ticked info 215/463- 

1000 or Phillies.com. 

BAskeTBALL 

The Philadelphia 76ers promise to keep 

fans on the edges of their seats again this 

year. Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St. 

215/339-7676. 

HOckey 

The Philadelphia Flyers make another run 

for the Stanley Cup. Wells Fargo Center, 3601 

S. Broad St. 215/755-9700. 

GOLF 

Ron Jaworski’s Riverwinds Golf and Tennis 

Club 270 Eagle Point Road, West Deptford NJ 

08086, 856/848-1033. riverwindsgolfandtennis.com. 

This world class course on the water 

was nominated for Golf Week’s 2009 “Best 

Places to Play” in New Jersey, this public 18 

hole championship course layout stretches to 

over 7,100 yards with a par of 72 along the 

Delaware River. The course was expertly designed 

by Pete Fazio, a member of the famous 

Fazio golf family. 

Ron Jaworski’s Running Deer Golf Club 

1111 Parvin Mill Road, Pittsgrove NJ, 08318. 

856/358-2000. runningdeergolfclub.com. 

Running Deer is considered the “Crown Jewel” 

of Ron Jaworski’s growing list of championship 

golf courses. The 18 tree-lined holes 

of Running Deer are spread out over 300 

acres with 6 sets of tees ranging from a tame 

5510 yards to an unyielding 7174 yards. 

Ron Jaworski’s Valleybrook Country Club 

200 Golfview Drive, Blackwood NJ 08012. 

856/227-3171. valleybrookgolf.com Ron 

Jaworski’s Valleybrook Country Club is an 

18 hole, public golf club located in beautiful 

Blackwood, NJ just 15 minutes from Center 

City Philadelphia. This championship golf 

course presents challenges to every level of 

golfer. Voted best golf course in South Jersey 

by the Courier Post 2006, 2007 & 2008. 

CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE Spring 2012

DINING SOUTH STREET 

Dining hall at Brauhaus Schmitz. 

SOUTH STREET 

S1 Brauhaus Schmitz 718 South Street 

267/909-8814 brauhausschmitz.com. Brauhaus 

Schmitz is Philadelphia’s only authentic 

German Bierhall and Restaurant. Located on 

historic South Street, Brauhaus Schmitz is 

the perfect place to bring family and friends 

for an enjoyable afternoon or evening in the 

city. We specialize in all things German; food, 

service, music and of course, beer. We feature 

a selection of 20 imported draught beers (16 

exclusively German) as well as 100 bottled 

beers. The menu is also sure to please with 

traditional German fare sure to make anyone 

a fan of German cuisine. Try our bratwurst, 

made in-house and sold by the meter, and our 

Rotisserie Schweinshaxe. Our atmosphere 

promises to leave everyone who visits with a 

feeling of Gemutlichkeit. 

S2 Catahoula Bar & Restaurant 775 south 

Front St 215/271-9300 www.catahoulaphilly. 

com Looking for a bit of Southern Creole 

cuisine? Look no further ! Catahoula Bar & 

Restaurant in the Queen Village area of Philadelphia 

can give you just that. This gastro pub 

offers a Louisiana feel with high top tables 

and ambient lighting. Their menu ranges from 

a variety of Po-boys to their famous Acadian 

Gumbo, not to mention many more Louisiana 

inspired dishes in-between. Brunch offered on 

Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-3pm, happy 

hour Mon-Fri 5pm-7pm, late night happy 

hour Fri and Sat 11pm-1am. Dinner nightly. 

Bestof 

Philly® 


31 

SOUTH STREET

SOUTH STREET 

DINING 

S3 

Copabanana 4th & South Sts 215/923- 

6180 Good times and good food are right 

around the corner. Peoplewatching is the favorite 

pastime at this tropical neon fantasy 

bar and grill overlooking South Street. Tex- 

Mex food, gourmet burgers and upbeat music 

make this a hot spot. 11:30 2am daily. No 

reservations. 

S4 

Jim’s Steaks 400 South St 215/928-1911. 

Specializing in their renowned Philadelphia 

cheesesteaks since 1939, Jim’s has become 

a local tradition. Their specialty steak is 

thinly sliced, cooked on an open griddle and 

then teamed up with a long torpedo-shaped 

Italian roll, layered with melted cheese, your 

choice of mouthwatering onions, hot or green 

peppers, mushrooms, or their special sauce. 

Their cafeteria-style art deco building creates 

a comfortable atmosphere. For peoplewatching, 

head up to their small upstairs 

dining room that overlooks South Street. 

Other Jim’s Steaks are located in West Philadelphia 

(215/747-6615), Northeast Philadelphia 

(215/333-5467), and Delaware County 

(610/544-8400). 

S5 

Johnny Rockets 443 South St 215/829- 

9222. Voted “Top 10 Best Family-Friendly 

Restaurant” and “Top 10 Best Hamburger” 

by Citysearch. Johnny Rockets was founded 

on the belief that everyone deserves a place 

where they can experience food, fun, and 

friendliness. Guests enjoy the All-American 

diner look and feel, servers who know the secret 

to getting the ketchup out of the bottle, 

and tabletop jukeboxes that belt tunes for a 

nickel. The All-American menu includes juicy 

hamburgers, hand-dipped malts and shakes, 

and freshly baked apple pie. Sun-Wed 9am- 

11pm. Thurs 9am-midnight. Fri, Sat 9-2am. 

S6 

Jon’s Bar and Grille 300 South St 

215/592-1390 jonsbarandgrill.com Here at 

Jon’s Bar and Grille, the birthplace of Larry 

Fine of the 3 Stooges, we have been providing 

our guests with great food, drinks, and attentive 

friendly service for over 28 years. Jon’s 

Bar and Grille offers a family friendly atmosphere 

with 150 outdoor seats, plasma TVs, 


darts and over 80 international and domestic 

beers to choose from. cheese steaks, burgers, 

salads, seafood, steaks, brunch, vegetarian selections, 

desserts, cocktails and more! 

S7 S&H Kebab House 

611 E Passyunk Ave 

267/639-3214. S&H 

Kebab House is a family 

owned restaurant specializing 

in authentic 

Turkish, Middle Eastern 

and Mediterranean 

cuisine. Located just off 

South Street, this cozy 

Enjoy dining outside oasis brings a taste of 

at S&H Kebob. 

the Ottoman Empire to 

the heart of Philadelphia. Featuring organic 

lamb, chicken, and Top Choice Black Angus 

Steaks, as well as traditional vegetarian 

dishes and fresh seafood, this restaurant satisfies 

every palate. Truly, as food critic Craig 

LaBan of the Philadelphia Inquirer writes, “this 

is the Kebab King.” Outdoor seating. Hookah 

Lounge. 

DINING 


33 

SOUTH STREET

SOUTH PHILLY 

DINING 

EAST PASSYUNK AVENUE 

East Passyunk Avenue is the cultural and commercial 

heart of South Philadelphia. This retail 

and entertainment destination offers a variety 

of women’s and men’s clothing shops, jewelry 

stores, children’s boutiques and salons. There 

is no better place to experience true South 

Philly dining than “Restaurant Row” in the 

1600 and 1900 blocks of the Avenue. 

ITALIAN MARKET 

9th from Christian to Wharton Sts 215/923- 

5637. From the makings of travel freddo to 

the workings of a ravioli machine, Philadelphia’s 

Italian Market features more than 100 

shops that reflect the Italian heritage of the 

original founders of the market, as well as 

vendors from Southeast Asia and the Middle 

East. Tue-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 9am-2pm. 

DINING 

Adobe Café 1919 East Passyunk Ave 215/551- 

2243 and 4550 Mitchell St Roxborough 

215/483-3947 www.adobecafephilly.com The 

Adobe serves high quality, moderately priced 

Southwestern cuisine. They also offer a complete 

vegetarian menu. Dress casually and 

enjoy their vacation-like atmosphere. Open 

Thu-Sun 11:30 for lunch through dinner, Mon- 

Wed open 4pm, Happy hour Mon-Fri 4:30-6:30. 

Every Mon is Fiesta night: 2 dinner entrees and 

a pitcher of beer or margaritas for only $30! 

P1 Dante and Luigi’s Corner of 10th and 

Catherine Sts 215/922-9501 danteandluigis. 

com Philadelphia’s oldest Italian restaurant 

established in 1899. Winner of Philadelphia 

Magazine’s “Best of Philly 2010.” Operating 

continually for 113 years, serving traditional 

homemade dishes, including their 20oz. veal 

chop and specialty osso buco, making this a 

“MUST STOP”. Come dine in a charming old 

world parlor atmosphere of yesterday. Private 

room for parties up to 50. Tues-Thurs 

11:30am-9:30pm, Fri 11:30am-10:30pm, Sat 

3pm-10:30pm, Sun 3pm-9:30pm. 

Franco’s High Note Café 215-755-8900 13th 

and Tasker Streets highnotecafe.com Franco’s 

is “bringing Italian back to South Philly,” 

and is one of the few places where you can find 

genuine Fried Calamari and Mussels so succulent 

that the juice will drip down your sleeve in 

true Italian style. It’s been called “one of the 

most traditional Italian settings left in Philly.” 

In addition to sitting down at an elegant yet 

comfortable table, you can appreciate a live vocal 

performance or a piano recital that takes 

place on a small stage tucked in between the 

tables of the restaurant. Now serving wine, 

beer and cocktails. Wed-Thu 5-9pm, Fri-Sat 

5-11pm, Sun 4-9pm. 

P2 

Ralph’s Italian Restaurant 760 S 9th St 

215/627-6011. Ralph’s has been in business 

34 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE Spring 2012 

P1 

P2

DINING DINING 

since 1900. Five generations of the same family 

have owned and operated the restaurant 

since its inception. One hundred years later, 

they work as hard as Francesco Dispigno and 

his son Ralph did to maintain the tradition 

that has been built for a century. Others may 

claim it but Ralph’s is the oldest family-owned 

restaurant in the country. Everything is made 

to order with the finest ingredients used in 

recipes that have been passed down from one 

generation to another. Nightly specials. Room 

available for parties up to 60 persons. Lunch 

and Dinner and daily. 

Shank’s Original Pier 40 901 S Columbus 

Blvd 215/218-4000 shanksoriginal.com 

Shank’s Chicken Italiano was recently voted 

“Best Hot Sandwich” in the Philadelphia area 

by 610 WIP sports radio, and their listeners. 

The tradition of Shank’s dates back to 1962 

when Shank’s and Evelyn’s opened its doors 

to the Italian Market near 10th and Catherine 

Streets. Shank’s, best known for its Giambotti, 

hearty soups, steak sandwiches, roast beef, 

pork, meatballs, chicken cutlet sandwiches, 

and Italian greens, became an Italian Market 

tradition. Zagat rated Shank’s year after year 

for “the best sandwiches in the world.” Movie 

stars, politicians, dignitaries and food lovers 

from around the world frequented Shank’s for 

nearly a half century making the luncheonette 

famous for excellence in authentic Italian 

food with no nonsense service. 

The Wishing Well 767 S. 9th St. 215/238- 

6555 wishingwellphilly.com The mission at 

The Wishing Well is that every person who 

walks through the door enters as a guest, and 

leaves as a friend. We strive to offer excellent 

service, warm atmosphere, and of course, 

outstanding food and drink. Join us for dinner 

where you’ll be impressed with Chef Carmen 

Cappello’s distinctive menu combining modern 

twists on classic dishes. Find familiar ingredients 

prepared in delightfully unexpected ways. 

We offer an eclectic beer, wine and specialty 

cocktail list. Outdoor seating. Beer brunches 

one Sunday a month with selected breweries. 

Open for lunch Mon-Fri 12-4, brunch Sat and 

Sun 11am-4, Dinner and cocktails late 7 days. 

Dante & Luigi’s 

Corona di Ferro f 


f 

Philadelphia’s Oldest 

Italian Restaurant 

Voted “Best of Philly” 2010 

by Philadelphia Magazine 

est. 1899 2012 

Corner of 10th St. & Catherine St. 

215.922.9501 

DanteAndLuigis.com 

f 

35 

SOUTH PHILLY

OLD CITY 

DINING 

OLD CITY 

Aqua 705 Chestnut St 215/928-2838 This Malaysian/Thai 

hybrid is a “perfect BYOB option 

with quick service and unfussy presentations of 

fresh Southeast Asian foods, leaving diners full 

and happy,” according to Philadelphia Magazine. 

One signature dish is the Rice Net Spring Roll, 

a filling of crab and shrimp, deep-fried inside the 

lacy crunch of mashed taro root. Also offering a 

variety of meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes 

as well as Thai and Malaysian drinks and des- 

1/25/10 serts. 5:14 Catering PM Page and private 1 room available. Ka- 

R E S T A U R A N T • B A R 

615 Chestnut • 215-928-0900 

L A S C A L A S P H I L LY.com 

raoke room. Open Mon-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 

11am-11pm. Closed Sunday. 

O1 

Azione Family Style 241 Chestnut St 

215/238-9983 azionefamilystyle.com. At Azione, 

every night is Sunday night where guests enjoy 

“Family Style” dining. Genuine Italian cuisine is 

served with personality and still allows guests 

to feel as if they’re in the comfort of their own 

home. Azione’s bar offers a combination of cutting 

edge cocktails, specialty wines and craft 

beers while still enjoying a “family” atmosphere 

and sense of comfort. Open Mon-Thu 4-10:30, 

Fri and Sat 4-11, Sun 4-10. 

City Tavern 2nd & Walnut Sts 215/413-1443. 

Follow us back to the 18th century to a time 

when a revolution was brewing, the ale was flowing 

and dining was more than a necessity, it was 

an experience. Enjoy George Washington Ale 

made from an authentic recipe. Our authentically 

garbed staff await your arrival. Come and enjoy a 

taste of history! Open daily. Lunch begins 11:30am. 

Dinner from 4pm Mon-Sat; Sun from 3pm. 

O2 O1 LaScala’s Restaurant & Bar 615 Chestnut 

St (corner of 7th & Chestnut) 215/928-0900 

www.lascalasphilly.com. LaScala’s, located in 

the heart of historic Philadelphia, is just around 

the corner from Independence Park. La Scala’s 

offers a vast menu of Italian American Homestyle 

dishes, a full bar and an extensive wine 

list. LaScala’s serves lunch & dinner, and features 

indoor and outdoor café style dining. Reservations 

accepted and large parties welcome. 

Free parking weekdays after 3pm and all day 

on weekends. 

O3 O2 Nick’s Roast Beef 16 South 2nd St 

215/928-9411. Nick’s is a moderately priced 

neighborhood restaurant and bar located in 

the heart of the nation’s most historic square 

mile since 1969. Famous for roast beef and 

roast pork sandwiches, our menu also features 

Philly cheesesteaks along with hoagies, deli 

sandwiches, soups, salads, appetizers and desserts. 

Lunch and dinner specials daily. Families 

welcome. Daily 11-2am. All major credit cards 

accepted. 

O3 O4 Pizzicato Ristorante 248 Market St 

215/629-5527 pizzicatoristorante.com Come 


visit Pizzicato, Old City’s contemporary Italian 

trattoria, featuring a warm, earthy dining room 

and a corner location great for people watching! 

Savor their beef, chicken and fish entrees, 

a large selection of homemade pasta and risotto 

dishes, salads, sandwiches, and their famous 

pizzas, made in a cavernous wood-burning brick 

oven. Full bar. Family friendly. Patio seating 

available. Open daily 11:30 am to 10 pm. (call 

for late night spring hours). 

Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti—Restaurant 

& Wine Bar 2nd & Walnut Sts 215/238- 

0499. www.lambertis.com. Enjoy the luxuries 

and pleasures of the Amalfi Coast in Italy right 

in Old City Philadelphia. Serving modern Italian 

cuisine via small plates designed for sharing, 

Positano Coast welcomes guests to sample 

delicious selections from the menu, including 

the freshest fish and seafood, the must have 

“Crudo”(the Italian version of sashimi) and creative 

variations of classic Italian dishes. Moderately 

priced. Plenty of space for large parties. 

Open 7 days for Lunch & Dinner. Valet Parking. 

Happy Hour Mon-Fri 5-7pm. BYOB Sun & Mon. 

O4 O5 

Rocchino’s 239 Chestnut St 215/238-6900 

rocchinos.com . Rocchino’s offers a quality, professional 

coal fired pizzeria and wine bar within 

a warm, inviting atmosphere. This style provides 

a venue to project a creative presence within the 

dining room, welcoming guests all day for trat- 

DINING 

toria cuisine and genuine Italian flavors. Rocchino’s 

offers select wines and International beers, 

while also keeping room for American standard 

brands, combining quality, comfort and professionalism 

in a single package. Open Mon-Thu 

11am-10:30pm, Fri and Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 

11am-10pm. 


37 

OLD CITY

CHINATOWN/CONVENTION CENTER 

Photograph by Allen Chien 

DINING 

Chinatown Gate 


C1 

Banana Leaf 1009 Arch St 215/592-8288. 

Located next to the Pennsylvania Convention 

Center in Philadelphia’s Chinatown section. 

Come and enjoy our dining and open-kitchen 

environment that will leave you refreshed. 

Open for lunch, dinner and late-night. Banana 

Leaf offers authentic Malaysian Cuisine 

such as homemade Roti Canai dip with Curry 

sauce. Or, try our Mango chicken or shrimp 

made with fresh mango. Try our coconut pudding 

or one of our other homemade desserts. 

Our famous ABC drink is made with milk, 

plum seeds, red rose syrup and jelly. BYOB. 

Open 7 days 11am-1am. Smoke-free environment. 

Visa, MC accepted. 

C2 Chinatown Restaurant 935 Arch St-10th 

and Arch 215/925-8688. Come experience 

one of Chinatown’s newest and finest restaurants. 

Located right in the heart of Chinatown 

1 block from the Convention Center, we offer 

a bright, modern dining room and great service. 

House specialties include General Tso’s 

Chicken, Pepper Steak with Onions, Shrimp with 

Lobster Sauce plus a large selection of authentic 

Chinese dishes. Open Daily 11am-11pm. 

C3 

Emei 915 Arch St 215/627-2500 Philadelphia 

Weekly raves about Chinatown’s 

newest restaurant, saying “Emei is at its 

best when it lets its Szechuan flag fly and it 

doesn’t hold back on the fireworks that make 

this kind of food so special.” House specialties 

include Sliced Beef and Tripe, Hot and 

Sour Soup, and Smoked Pork with Garlic 

Shoot. Open Mon-Thu 11am-10:30 pm, Fri- 

Sat 11am-11pm, Sun noon-10pm. 

C4 

Erawan Thai Cuisine 925 Arch St 215/922- 

7135 www.erawanchinatown.com Take your 

taste buds on an Asian excursion by making a 

trip to Erawan Thai Cuisine, voted “Excellent” 

by Zagat’s Guide. Three-course lunch and dinner 

specials available. Erawan is famous for 

their amazing Crispy Duckling with red curry 

sauce. Other house specials include Chicken 

Satay, and Imperial Golden Bag, a famous 

Thai specialty appetizer. Also try their savory 

Yen-Ta 4, a very unique dish available at only a 

handful of Thai restaurants across the country. 


DINING DINING 

Open Mon-Fri, lunch 11:30am-3:00pm, dinner 

4:00pm-10:00 pm, Sat 12 noon -10:30pm, Sun 

12noon-10pm. 

C5 

Joy Tsin Lau Restaurant 1026-28 Race St, 

215/592-7226/7227/7228. All authentic Chinese 

cuisine are served: Cantonese, Szechwan, 

and Mandarin. Dim Sum 7 days a week. Full bar 

for table service. Impressive Imperial Chinese 

decor and an economically priced menu. Dine 

where the Chinese dine out most. Banquet and 

Convention facilities accommodate up to 400 

people in one room with a stage. Mon- Thurs 

11am-Midnight. Fri, Sat 11-1am; Sun 10:30am 

- Midnight. 

C6 Lee How Fook 219 N 11th St 215/925- 

7266 www.leehowfook.com. This is the archetypal 

family-owned Chinese restaurant. It’s 

small and unassuming, and serves signature favorites 

like salt-baked squid, hot-and-sour soup, 

Singapore noodles, and abalone and duck soup. 

Zagat’s calls the fare “some of Chinatown’s finest…everything 

on the extensive menu is unbelievably 

great.” A lot of what you’ll find on the 

menu can’t be had at any other restaurant in 

town. BYOB. Tues-Sun 11:30am-10pm. Closed 

Mondays. 

C7 Mixx Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar 1002 

Arch St 215/923-1180. This Chinatown favorite 

offers unique Asian cuisine featuring Thai, 

Chinese and Japanese delicacies. Some menu 

items even have a Latin influence. House 

specialties include Chicken Katsu, deep fried 

chicken cutlets with their extraordinary Katsu 

sauce, an amazing Teriyaki, and famous 

Bento Box featuring a choice of 18 entrees 

served with miso soup, green salad, California 

roll, pork dumpling, shrimp tempura, vegetable 

tempura and white or brown rice, all 

for $17. We deliver. Try our all-you-can-eat 

Sushi, daily from 4 pm. Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, 

Sat 11am-11:30pm, Sun 12pm-10pm. 

C8 Penang-Malaysian Cuisine 117 N 10th 

St, 215/4132531. Experience authentic Malaysian 

cuisine in an exciting contemporary 

setting. You can count on a very knowledgeable 

staff to help guide you through the extensive 

menu filled with taste sensations. The 

famous roti canai is a must to start! Recom- 

mended: Jumbo Prawns or Steamed Fish with 

a selection of sauces, Yampot, Mango Chicken. 

Be sure and cap off your meal with a succulent 

peanut pancake. Seven days, lunch and 

dinner. Open 11:30 am-1 am daily. Beer and 

wine served. Visa, MC, AMEX. 

C9 

Pho Cali Authentic Vietnamese Restaurant 

1000 Arch St 215/629-1888 Located in the 

heart of Chinatown and just 1 block from the 

Convention Center, Pho Cali provides a blend 

of Vietnamese cooking and the opportunity to 

enjoy popular Vietnamese comfort foods in a 

E MEI 

RESTAURANT 

The Best Szechuan Food in Town 

915 ARCH STREET·PHILADELPHIA, PA 

215-627-2500·EMEIRESTAURANT.COM 


39 

CHINATOWN/CONVENTION CENTER


DINING 

relaxed atmosphere. Pho, the house specialty, 

is a beef noodle raised to the ‘n’th degree. Pho 

noodles are made from the finest white rice and 

mung beans. Open Sun-Thu 10:30am-10:30pm, 

Fri & Sat 11:am-11pm. Visa, Master Card (min. 

$15) accepted. 

C10 

Sammy Chon’s K-Town BBQ 911 Race St 

215/574-1778 ktownbbq.com . Come visit Chinatown’s 

newest restaurant and only Korean BBQ. 

Are you tired of Asian food that is predictable, 

either too bland or too spicy, and not authentic 

? Are you ready for a new taste experience? At 

K-Town BBQ we offer fresh, wholesome food that 

is both healthy and exciting. It is served family 

style with side dishes (“banchan”), so everyone 

can have his or her own combination of textures 

and flavors. Home of the award winning Korean 

fried chicken wings and Korean hoagie. Also visit 

our South Jersey locations at 404 Rt. 70 in Cherry 

Hill, 856/216-0090 and in Cinnaminson at 127 

Rt. 130 S, 856-829-8280. 

Singapore Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant 

1006 Race St 215/922-3288. Recent winner of 

the “Best Place to Take Animal Lovers” by Philadelphia 

magazine, this kosher vegetarian restaurant 

features Buddhist cooking from India, 

Singapore, Malaysia, China. Specialities: golden 

shrimp, herbal duck, orange beef, golden fish, 

lion’s head. Brown rice and herbal tea available. 

Rated “Excellent” by Zagat Survey. Sun-Sat 

11am-11pm. 

C11 

Tai Lake Restaurant 134 N 10th St 

215/9220698. tailakeseafoodrest.com Recently 

named one of the top 100 Chinese restaurants 

in the country by Chinese Restaurant News. 

The best seafood in Chinatown, Cantonese and 

Szechuan cuisines, Hong Kongstyle, variety of 

cocktails. Featuring striped bass, live shrimp, 

frog and more. Banquet rooms for up to 120. 

Open 7 days 4pm3am. 

C12 

Tazia 101 N. 11th St 215/922-2688. www. 

taziarestaurant.com Tazia is a contemporary 

Asian fusion restaurant with a twist. Taking 

inspiration from their travels and more than 25 

years in the culinary world, Tazia’s owners have 

created a warm, welcoming atmosphere featur- 


ing an array of innovative dim sum and tapas. 

Swing by for an extensive happy hour menu, 

or linger over dinner and stay for dancing and 

Karaoke. Book your parties, events, banquets, 

or meetings now! Open for dinner 3pm-12:30 

am daily. Happy hour 3:30-6:30 daily and 10pmmidnight 

Sun-Thurs. 

C13 Vietnam Palace 222 N 11th St 215/592- 

9596. vietnampalace.net. Located a half-block 

from the Convention Center, this Vietnamese gem 

serves some the most delicious Southeast Asian 

cuisines. Try the “Soft Shell Crabs,” Chicken 

sauteed with lemon grass or even the traditional 

“Pho Tai,” a beef noodle soup that is hearty 

enough to satisfy as a meal. Banquet room seats 

up 120 people. Rated highly by Zagat. MC, Visa, 

Amex, Discover. Sun-Thurs 11am-9:30pm. Fri, 

Sat 11am-10:30pm. 

C14 

C14 Yakitori Boy 211 N. 11th St 215/923-8088 

www.yakitoriboy-japas.com Recently crowned 

“Best of Philly” by Philadelphia Magazine for their 

famous Karaoke. Perfect for a relaxing romantic 

dinner or night out on the town, Yakitori Boy is 

located one block from the convention center in 

Chinatown. Yakitori, Sushi, and traditional bites 

such as okonomyaki are all served Tapas style. 

The open kitchen, gracious staff, and a beautiful 

modern ambiance exceed the typical dining 

experience. Food and Drink are just accessories 

here…the real gem is upstairs. Sing Karaoke 

in the Sake Lounge or book a private room for 

those rockstars-in-training! Dinner served daily 

from 5pm-2am. First floor Restaurant/Bar, Second 

Floor Upscale Lounge/8 Private Rooms fully 

equipped with karaoke. Reservations highly suggested. 

[SEE AD ON PAGE 5] 

Yummy Lan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House 

131 N. 10th St. 215/923-2222 Chinatown’s newest 

addition offers a unique delicacy. Lan Zhou 

hand made noodles have over 200 years of history 

and were originally used as a special dish when 

hosting high class guests. The skills involved in 

the making of these noodles are considered world 

renowned and the noodles are considered the 

best in the world. BYOB. Open 10am-9pm daily. 

Cash only. 

DINING 


41 

CHINATOWN/CONVENTION CENTER

42 

NIGHTLIFE 

CLUBS & PUBS 

The Belgian Café 21st & Green Sts, 215/235- 

3500. This latest addition to the popular Art 

Museum area restaurant scene brings an astounding 

selection of over 200 bottled beers. Full 

menu served 11:30am-Midnight daily. Saturday 

and Sunday brunch served 11am-5pm. Bar is 

open until 2am nightly. 

Catahoula Bar & Restaurant 775 south Front 

St 215/271-9300 A gastro pub with a Louisiana 

feel in the Queen Village section of Philly. Happy 

hour Mon-Fri 5-7, late night happy hour Fri & 

Sat 11pm-1am. 


Parkway 267/687-1128 Serving perhaps the best 

pint of Guinness in town, a classy yet comfortable 

pub awaits you. Live acoustic music every 

Thursday night. Kitchen open late every night. 

Outdoor patio on the Ben Franklin Parkway. 

Copabanana 4th & South Sts (215/923-6180), 

40th and Spruce Sts (215/382-1330), and 1619 

Grant Ave (215/382-1330). Good times and good 

food are right around the corner. 11:30 2am 

daily. No reservations. 

Fergie’s Pub 1214 Sansom St 215/928-8118. 

Nestled in the heart of Center City, Fergie’s Pub 

is home to all the best of a real Irish Pub: warm, 

friendly atmosphere and some of the best Guinness 

on tap in the city. Open 7 days. 

Grace Tavern 23rd & South Sts (2229 Grays 

Ferry Ave) 215/893-9580. A lovingly restored 

neighborhood tavern that features great wine 

and spirits. Full menu 11:30 am-2am daily. 

Hard Rock Cafe 12th and Market Street 215 

238-1000- hardrock.com Philly’s version of the 

international phenomenon is conveniently located 

near Independence Hall and steps from 

Pennsylvania Convention Center. 

Irish Pub 1123 Walnut St 215/925-3311 and 

2007 Walnut St, 215/568-5603. Irish-American 

fare. DJ 9pm - 11pm, Wed - Sat. Mon - Sat, lunch 

11am-2pm; dinner 2pm - 1am. 

Jet Wine Bar 1525 South Street 215/735-1116 

www.jetwinebar.com . Jet Wine Bar offers wines 

from around the world. Stop in for a glass, bottle 

or flight…..all from our Global Vineyard. Mon- 

Thu 11am-12am, Fri-Sat 11am-1am. Sun 11ammidnight. 

Jon’s Bar and Grille 300 South St. 215/592- 

1390 The birthplace of Larry Fine of the 3 Stoog- 

es. Providing our guests with great food, drinks, 

and attentive, friendly service for over 28 years. 

Offering 150 outdoor seats, plasma TVs, darts 

and over 50 international and domestic beers. 

Jolly’s Dueling Piano Bar 1420 Locust St 

267/687-1161 www.jollyspianobar.com Come 

visit this 125-seat venue, where every Tuesday 

through Saturday, two talented pianists/singers 

with a 2000+ song repertoire will spar with 

songs chosen by audience requests. Everyone is 

encouraged to sing along, and audience members 

are often invited on stage. One of the city’s best 

Happy Hours Tue-Fri 5-7. Great for dinner and 

lite bites. 

Monk’s Café 264 S 16th St 215/545-7005 www. 

monkscafe.com. Consistently rated “One of the 

Area’s Best” by Zagat, and winner of more than 

a dozen “Best Of Philly” awards. Kitchen open 

11:30am-1am nightly. Bar open 11:30am-2am 

nightly. 

Nodding Head 1516 Sansom St 2nd Floor 

215/569-9525. Big, full-bodied, balanced beers 

brewed on the premises and served along with a 

dozen of the world’s best beers, fine wines, and 

a full-service bar. Kitchen open 11:30-1:30am 

nightly. Bar open 11:30-2am nightly. Located 

above the Sansom Street Oyster House. 

Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar 200 S 12th St 

(between Walnut & Locust St) 215/964-9675 

tabuphilly.com. Catch the latest game and dine 

on the first floor or head upstairs to our lounge, 

where you’ll enjoy comfortable seating and an 

inviting atmosphere, with numerous events 

throughout the week. Open 7 days a week noon 

to 2am. Kitchen open noon to 10pm. 

Tavern on Broad 200 S Broad St 215/546-2290 

tavernonbroad.com. Home of the ½ price happy 

hour. Right in the heart of Center City, we offer 

a true fan experience with 34 HDTVs….there’s 

not a bad seat in the house. Come and enjoy cold 

beer and great food. 

Varga 10th and Spruce 215/627-5200 Come 

visit the latest from the folks who brought you 

Valanni and Mercato. Varga Bar features a great 

selection of beer, liquors and wine, plus a latenight 

menu. 

Yakitori Boy 211 N. 11th St 215/923-8088 

www.yakitoriboy-japas.com Sing Karaoke in the 

Sake Lounge or book a private room for those 

rockstars-in-training! Dinner served daily from 

5pm-2am. 


DINING 

Summer 2010 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE 

41 

SOUTH PHILLY

44 

NIGHTLIFE 

ADULT ENTERTAINMENT 

Cheerleaders 2740 S. Front St 215/467-1980 

www.cheerleadersweb.com Welcome to the new, 

fully renovated Cheerleaders, voted the “Best 

Gentlemen’s Club in the Northeast” by Ed Publications 

at the Gentlemen’s Club Expo in Las Vegas. 

Free parking. Open 7 days from noon until 

2am. Smoker-friendly with a premium selection 

of cigars available. 12 High Definition TVs featuring 

non-stop sports action. Full menu available 

with daily specials. 

Christine’s Cabaret and Steakhouse 6130 

Passyunk Av. 215/724-7700 christinescabaret. 

com. Come visit Christine’s spectacular 27,000 

square foot club featuring three 15-foot Hi-def 

TVs. We televise all UFC & boxing events. If 

that’s not enough, our entertainers are some of 

the most beautiful, personable and intelligent 

women in the country. Offering a wide variety of 

champagnes, wines and select cigars. Mon-Sat 

11:30am-2am. Sun 1pm-2am. 

Club Risque 1700 S Columbus Blvd (1 mile 

south of Penn’s Landing). 215/463-6900. Philadelphia’s 

newest Gentleman’s Club. Our atmosphere 

of FUN, FUN, FUN will make this your 

favorite spot. Tidbits are given during cocktail 

hour 5-7pm, Monday through Saturday, except 

holidays. All this for you and your associates to 

enjoy, 7 days a week from 11:30am to 2am. Also, 

visit us at our other location on Route 413, Bristol, 

1/4-mile of exit 26, Interstate 95. All major 

credit cards accepted. 

The Oasis Gentlemen’s Club 6800 Essington 

Ave. 215/937-0200 www.oasis-club.net. Philadelphia’s 

premiere gentlemen’s club. Customers 

select our club for leisure and entertainment because 

our performers are some of the most beautiful 

and personable women in the country. Enjoy 

a great selection of steaks, seafood and pasta. A 

variety of champagnes available. Across from the 

Airport Auto Mall. Open 7 days. 

The Penthouse Club 3001 Castor Ave. 215/423- 

6000 thepenthouseclubphilly.net Welcome to the 

Penthouse Club Philly, “Where the Magazine 

Comes to Life.” The Penthouse Club Philadelphia 

has an atmosphere that boasts innovative 

design and unique architecture which creates 

Philadelphia’s only premiere gentlemen’s club. 

Relax as you are pampered by the world’s most 

beautiful entertainers while enjoying exquisite 

cuisine prepared by our talented award-winning 

executive chef. Whether you’re coming by yourself 

or with a party, the Penthouse Club is sure 

to please. 

Our 2nd Location at 13 S. Morton St, Morton, PA 19070 610/690-2400 


CLUBS & PUBS 

The Belgian Café 21st & Green Sts, 215/235- 

3500. This latest addition to the popular Art 

Museum area restaurant scene brings an astounding 

selection of over 200 bottled beers. 

Full menu served 11:30am-Midnight daily. 

Saturday and Sunday brunch served 11am- 

5pm. Bar is open until 2am nightly. 

Bishops Collar 2349 Fairmount Ave 215/765- 

1616. Ever-changing selection of microbrews 

and a great jukebox. 


Parkway 267/687-1128. Serving perhaps the 

best pint of Guinness in town, a classy yet 

comfortable pub awaits you. Live acoustic 

music every Thursday night. Kitchen open 

late every night. Outdoor patio on the Ben 

Franklin Parkway. 

Copabanana 4th & South Sts (215/923- 

6180), 40th and Spruce Sts (215/382-1330), 

and 1619 Grant Ave (215/382-1330). Good 

times and good food are right around the corner. 

11:30 - 2am daily. No reservations. 

Downeys Pub Corner of Front & South Sts 

215/625-9500 www.downeysrestaurant.com 

A Philadelphia institution since 1976, 

Downey’s is a great meeting place for good 

times and great food. Kitchen open daily 

11am-1am. 

Fergie’s Pub 1214 Sansom St 215/928-8118. 

NIGHTLIFE 

Nestled in the heart of Center City, Fergie’s 

Pub is home to all the best of a real Irish Pub: 

warm, friendly atmosphere and some of the 

best Guinness on tap in the city. Open 7 days. 

Finn McCools 118 S. 12th St (corner of 12th 

& Sansom Sts) 215/923-3090 www.finnmccoolsphilly.com. 

Authentic Irish bar with 16 

beers on draft and classic Irish dishes Entertainment 

7 days a week such as Karaoke, DJs, 

and more. Open 11am-2am daily. 

Grace Tavern 23rd & South Sts (2229 Grays 

Ferry Ave) 215/893-9580. A lovingly restored 

neighborhood tavern that features great wine 

and spirits. Full menu 11:30 am-2am daily. 

Spring 2010 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE 

45

NIGHTLIFE 

Complimentary Full Dinner Buffet 

Monday - Friday 5-7pm 

Monthly Feature Acts 

Complimentary Limo Service 

HOTEL • CLUB • AIRPORT 

Complimentary Admission 

w/Hotel Room Key 

Seconds from the Airport 

Minutes from Center City 

6800 Essington Ave. 

Philadelphia PA 

215.937.0200 

www.Oasis-Club.net 

READ MORE 

ABOUT PHILLY 

NIGHTLIFE ON... 

Check out our 

New 12ft 

TV Screens 

for all 

Sporting Events 

46 CONVENTION CENTER VISITORS GUIDE Winter 2010/2011

1700 S. Columbus Blvd. 

Philadelphia, PA 215-463-6900 

Open M-T 11:30am-2am; Fri 11:30am-4am 

Sat 3pm-4am; Sun 3pm-2am 

Welcome to 

Philadelphia 

FREE Admission with Hotel Key 

Call for FREE Pick-up 

(within city limits) 

Couch & Champagne Rooms 

Free Lunch & 1/2 Price Happy Hour 

Full Dinner Menu with 

Daily Specials 

Delaware Valley’s Premier Gentlemen’s Club 

CLUBRISQUE.COM 

5921 Tacony Street 

Philadelphia, PA 215-289-6969 

Open M-F 11:30am-2am; 

Sat & Sun 1pm-2am 

Other Location: Rte. 413 & Ford Rd., Bristol, PA 215-781-6361 

Free Lunch Buffet M-F • Happy Hour 5-7pm • All Sports on HD TV

I-76 

Vine St. Expy I-676 

Market St. 

Chestnut St. 

CITY 

HALL 

S. Broad St. N. Broad St. 

S. 13th St. 

N 13th St. 

I-95

SPRING 2012 - Phillyvisitor.com

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