32 Old City Restaurants Tempt Our Tastebuds in Old City Eats

On Wednesdays we sip, but on Thursdays get ready to eat, Philly!

Old City District showcases its thriving dining scene with the debut of the largest restaurant program in at least 20+ years. Old City Eats debuts June 16 and runs every Thursday through August 25, 2016 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Thirty-two participating restaurants and bars will offer a selection of small plates for half off, plus five dollar drink specials, off-menu dishes, seasonal cocktails and even chef collaborations. The full list of participating top philadelphia restaurants, along with their menus, is found at oldcitydistrict.org/dine/oldcityeats.

Old City Eats will spotlight the best of Old City and historic Philadelphia’s culinary scene, that now includes over 80 restaurants, bars, coffee shops and other eateries. From ever popular mainstays like Buddakan, Amada and Continental, to notable newcomers like The Olde Bar, The Little Lion and Common Wealth Old City, to neighborhood corner bars like Eulogy Belgian Tavern, Nick’s Bar & Grille and Sassafras, to constant trendsetters like Fork, High Street on Market and Han Dynasty, to summer destinations like Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti, Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar and Keating’s Rope & Anchor Bar + Kitchen, Old City Eats feature food, cocktails and atmospheres that that will appeal to every taste.

Offerings are designed to appeal to neighborhood locals, to business people looking to enjoy sips with their co-workers, and to visiting tourists exploring America’s most historic square mile.

“Our focus for Old City Eats is spotlighting the neighborhood’s impressive and evolving list of dining options,” said Old City District Executive Director Job Itzkowitz. “With 32 restaurants and bars participating, there’s something to appeal to every palette, including Szechuan, Thai, Afghani, Italian, Cuban, British and other global cuisines. We have as diverse of a culinary scene as anywhere in the city! Whether you visit an old favorite or experience something new, Old City Eats will take you on a culinary journey that will last all summer long.”

Old City Eats makes its debut at the 32 restaurants listed below every Thursday, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, through August 25, 2016. All will offer two or more half-priced appetizers and at least one specially priced five dollar beverage. During the summer, restaurants are encouraged to offer off-menu specials and specialty seasonal cocktails. Old City District is also working with restaurants on chef collaborations that will pop-up in July and August.

Participating Restaurants:

Amada
217 Chestnut Street
http://philadelphia.amadarestaurant.com/
Appetizers: Lomo Embuchado, Piquellos Rellenos
Drink: Red & White Sangria

Bierstube German Tavern
206 Market Street
http://www.mybierstube.com/
Appetizers: Belgian Frietjes and pretzels bites
Drink: TBD

Buddakan
325 Chestnut Street
http://www.buddakan.com/
Appetizers: Edamame Dumplings, Cantonese Spring Rolls
Drink: House Sake

Common Wealth Old City
319 Market Street
https://www.facebook.com/4FathersColonialGastro/
Appetizers: $1 Buck a Shuck Oysters, $5 Mussel Pots
Drink: a $2 beer (their choice week to week) and a $4 drink special

Continental Restaurant and Martini Bar
138 Market Street
http://www.continentalmartinibar.com/
Appetizers: Hummus and Pita, Steamed Chicken Dumpling
Drink: Old Fashioned

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar
10 S. 2nd Street
http://www.cubalibrerestaurant.com/en/philadelphia/
Appetizers: Empanadas, Chicharrones
Drink: Cuba Libre

DiNardo’s Famous Seafood
312 Race Street
http://www.dinardos.com/home
Appetizers: Mussels Fra Diablo, Clams in White Sauce, Mozzarella Sticks n Jalapeno Popper Sampler
Drink: Seasonal Sangria

Eulogy Belgian Tavern
136 Chestnut Street
http://www.eulogybar.com/
Appetizers: Belgian Frietjes and pretzels bites
Drink: TBD

Farmicia Food & Tonics
15 S. 3rd Street
http://farmiciarestaurant.com/
Appetizers: Pork Belly appetizer (spicy charred asparagus, seared pork belly confit, sweet rhubarb, dijon) and meatballs (plum tomato sauce, basil pesto, sauteed watercress)
Drink: Farmicia Punch

Fork
306 Market Street
Appetizers at the bar: Artic char crudo (chile, lime, peanut), pork and crab arancini (crab fat aioli)
Drink at the bar: Rotates each month, starts in June with sparkling wine

The Gaslight
120 Market Street
http://www.thegaslightphilly.com/
Appetizers: Chef’s daily taco, pickled veggies, fresh baked soft pretzel bites, crispy chicken nuggets, cornbread, cheese fries, single patty Gaslight burger
Drink: $5 Old Fashioned, two $5 house cocktails, $3 drafts

Han Dynasty
123 Chestnut Street
http://handynasty.net/oldcity/
Appetizers: Dan Dan Noodles, Spicy Crispy Cucumbers
Drink: Gin Smash (Gin, Grenadine, Lemon and Lime Juice, Grapefruit Juice, Simple Syrup, Top with tonic)

High Street on Market
308 Market Street
Appetizer: Hummus, daily breads and spreads
Drink: Rotates each month, starts in June with sparkling wine

JJ Bootleggers
35 S. 2nd Street
Appetizer: White Lightenin’ Wings, Mashed Potato Balls
Drink: Moonshine Sangria

Jasmine Rice
224 Market Street
http://jasminericephilly.com/
Appetizers: Crispy Spring Rolls, Thai Basil Meatballs, Spicy Whisky Wings
Drink: N/A BYO

Kabul Restaurant
106 Chestnut Street
http://www.kabulafghancuisine.com/
Appetizers: TBD
Drink: TBD

Keating’s Rope & Anchor Bar + Kitchen
201 S. Columbus Boulevard
Appetizers: Cheesesteak Landing Eggrolls, Urban Fried Calamari
Drink: Classic Red Sailor Sangria

La Famiglia Ristorante
8 S. Front Street
http://www.lafamiglia.com/
Appetizers at the bar: Gamberi con fava, Paccheri alla Scarpariello
Drink at the bar: Prosecco, Pinot Grigio Wine, Pinor Noir Wine

La Peg
140 N. Columbus Boulevard
http://lapegbrasserie.com/
Appetizers: Cheese kurds with marinana, Tomato salad with basil oil and sheep’s milk cheese
Drink: “The Esprit” (vodka, ginger, lime, curacao)

The Little Lion
243 Chestnut Street
https://thelittlelionphilly.com/
Appetizers: Fried Green Tomatoes (Bacon Tomato Jam, Buttermilk Ranch, Pimento Cheese), BBQ Chicken Thigh Sliders (Sour Slaw, Potato Rolls, Bread & Butter Pickles)
Drink: Raspberry Sangria (Red Wine, Raspberry Shrub, Apricot Brandy), plus other specials that will vary by the week

Lucha Cartel
207 Chestnut Street
http://www.luchacartel.com/
Appetizers: Chicken, shrimp or mushroom empanada, queso fundido
Drink: House margarita, sangria

National Mechanics
22 S. 3rd Street
http://www.nationalmechanics.com/
Appetizers: Plantain chips and guacamole, and TBD
Drinks: Cocktails with house-infused liquors

Nick’s Bar & Grille
16 S. 2nd Street
http://nicksroastbeefbarandgrille.com/
Appetizers: Pulled Pork Nachos, Bacon Wrapped Shrimp with Cherry Pepper Aioli
Drink: Rowhouse Spirits Gin Cocktail
The Olde Bar
125 Walnut Street
http://theoldebar.com/
Appetizers: Fried Oysters & Oysters Belmont
Drink: Jockey Club Shrub

Panorama
14 N. Front Street
http://www.pennsviewhotel.com/panorama
Appetizers: 50% off all regular price appetizers
Drink: Select red or white wine

The Plough & the Stars
123 Chestnut Street
http://ploughstars.com/
Appetizers:
Drink: Old City Ice Tea

Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti
212 Walnut Street, 2nd Floor
http://www.positanocoast.net/
Appetizers at the bar: Focaccia Calda (Tuscan style bread, heirloom tomatoes, ricotta, mozzarella), Quinoa Salad (Edamame, corn, cherry tomatoes, baby arugula, sherry vinaigrette)
Drink: The Kensington – Stateside Vodka, Muddled Blackberries, Agave, Fresh Lemon

Prime Stache
110 Chestnut Street
http://www.primestache.com/
Appetizers at the bar: Macaroni & cheese with or without pork belly; Edemame Ravioli, Cheesesteak eggrolls, friend green tomatoes
Drink: Long Island, Well drinks

Revolution House
200 Market Street
http://www.revolutionhouse.com/
Appetizers: Pork shank dry rub; house-made slaw / Firecracker shrimp
Drink: Local drafts from local breweries

Sassafras
48 S. 2nd Street
http://sassafrasbar.com/
Appetizers: Fried pickles, Sassafras wings
Drink: TBD

Silence Dogood’s Tavern
216 Market Street
http://silencedogoodstavern.com/
Appetizers: 6 Different Tater Tot Options: Plain, Whiz, Whiz & Bacon, BBQ Chicken, Spicy, Pizza
Drink: Market Street Margarita

The Victoria Freehouse
10 S. Front Street
http://www.victoriaphilly.com/
Appetizers: ½ priced pub snacks (Bacon Wrapped Dates, Scotch Egg, Pickled Beetroot Deviled Eggs, Welsh Rarebit, Sausage Roll, Curried Cheese Chips) and Buck-a-shuck oysters
Drink: $5 select drafts, $5 house wine

Old City Eats dining options may be updated during the summer by participating restaurants. Please check Old City’s website, as well as with the participating restaurant, for any changes.

“Old City is home to more than just iconic attractions, we also have 80+ restaurants that continue to be a destination all on their own,” added Itzkowitz. “Restaurateurs such as Ellen Yin and Jose Garces have doubled-down on Old City, opening new restaurants (High St. on Market and The Olde Bar) to complement their longer-term hits (Fork and Amada). We have also seen a recent influx of new restaurants, such as The Gaslight and Little Lion, as well as gastropubs like Common Wealth Old City and Victoria Freehouse. We’re proud that Old City continues to be a premier Philadelphia dining destination.”

For a list of activities and attractions to pair with Old City Eats, visit oldcity.org, follow @oldcitydistrict on Twitter and Like Old City District on Facebook.

ABOUT OLD CITY DISTRICT

The Old City District is a special services district, managed by a board of directors drawn from area commercial property owners, business people and residents.  Located in the most historic square mile of the United States, Old City is a unique blend of historic influence and modern lifestyles. Old City has reinvented itself from foundries, factories and warehouse spaces into the residential, retail, dining and cultural destination of the city with art galleries, restaurants, and upscale retail boutiques and historic tours. http://www.oldcitydistrict.org.

Philadelphia Brings on Laughs with Natasha Leggero and Josh Piven

Philadelphia laughs its way into summer with two comedy shows featuring a Comedy Central all-star and a New York Times best-seller. First up, author and playwright Josh Piven (Worst Case Scenario Handbook) presents the world premiere of his craft-brewed comedy Muddled at Drexel URBN Annex from June 16-26, 2016. Then, the laughs keep rolling as Comedy Central’s Natasha Leggero headlines July 4th weekend at Valley Forge Casino Resort on Saturday, July 2, 2016. Details for both shows are below.

MUDDLED

New York Times best-selling humorist Josh Piven brings his unique brand of comedy to Philadelphia with the world premiere of Muddled, A Stage Comedy, from June 16 through June 26 at Drexel URBN Annex (3501 Market St). Penned by the author of The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook and directed by William Steinberger, Muddled gives theater audiences a best-case scenario for what happens when a group of hot-headed headbangers meet the home-grown hipsters of Brooklyn. In this craft brewed comedy, Piven trades navigating alligator pits for navigating mosh pits, and surviving frostbite for surviving the frosty bite of a quick-witted hipster. Muddled is Piven’s second play, following 2013’s hit No Reservations.

Previews begin on Thursday, June 16 and Friday, June 17, and opening night is Saturday, June 18 at 8:00pm. The show runs through Sunday, June 26. Tickets are available now for $30 at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/254659

After being fired from Facebook for some drunken twerking at Mark Zuckerberg’s wedding, Andy decides he’s done with social media, for good. He throws his savings into Library, a 1920s-style cocktail lounge in Brooklyn, with a no cell phone policy.   Late one night, Tricky Nicky Slick Andy’s long-lost father and former drummer for the 80s hair-band Black Widow  appears, claiming he wants to make amends with Andy and Tina, Andy’s mother, who waitresses at the bar. Nicky embarks on a business plan to turn the wainscoted, bookcase-lined supper club into an 80s-style Miami Vice-inspired nightmare…but something else is afoot.

Muddled is a broad comedic take on the journey from the iconic 80s to modern times. This world premiere production explores the good, bad, ugly and the funny occurrences that happen when we can’t let go of the past, but rely on the past to build the future. The show also touches on themes of our over dependence on social media, and the popular growing trend of exclusive social media-free zones.  Are headbangers and hipsters really that different? Can a bar be successful if you can’t tweet, facebook or yelp about it? What happens when phones are away and people are forced to talk to each other? You be the judge!

“In this hyper-sharing culture, privacy is a quaint notion, or something that belongs to the realm of the Edward Snowdens of the world”, says playwright Josh Piven, “The play in some ways compares two cultures that are both me-centric (hipsters on the one hand and the me-decade on the other) but also looks, in a humorous way, about what life was like before…you know, before it became like it is. When private stuff was PRIVATE.”

NATASHA LEGGERO

Celebrated actress, writer and comedian Natasha Leggero will headline 4th of July weekend festivities at Valley Forge Casino Resort. Leggero will bring her stand-up comedy show to King of Prussia on Saturday, July 2, 2016 during the on-going series Valley Forge Music Fair. The timing couldn’t be better for Philadelphia fans, as Leggero is currently in the new comedy Dice! (by Andrew Dice Clay) on Showtime, and her show Another Period starts a third season on Comedy Central on June 15th. Her performance will take place in The Venue at Valley Forge Casino Resort (1160 First Avenue) at 9:00pm. Doors open at 8:00pm. Event is standing room with regular tickets at $45 and VIP tickets for $80. Tickets are on sale now on Ticketmaster, or visit www.vfcasino.com.

Leggero’s appearance is part of the extended holiday weekend of festivities at Valley Forge Casino Resort in honor of July 4th and Independence Day. Valley Beach Poolside Club will officially extend hours to seven days a week that weekend. On Friday, July 1st, look for a special holiday weekend poolside party with DJ and drink specials. On Saturday, July 2nd, look for The FM Band to perform on the poolside stage at 9:00pm. On Sunday, July 3rd and Monday, July 4th, look for poolside music, games, extended hours and special events. That weekend through Labor Day, Valley Beach Poolside Club will open Monday through Thursday, 11:00am to 7:00pm, Friday 11:00am to 1:00am, Saturday, 10:00am to 1:00am, and Sunday, 10:00am to 8:00pm. Admission to Valley Beach is $10 for a day pass, or season memberships are available. Must be 21 or older to visit Valley Beach and to purchase a membership.

Natasha Leggero is an accomplished actress, writer, and stand-up comedian whose garnered attention across film, television and the web. Leggero created, wrote, produced and will star in the upcoming Comedy Central sitcom, Another Period.  Set in 1902 as an American period sitcom and spoof on modern day reality shows, Another Period explores the debaucherous life of Newport, RI’s socialites the Bellacourt’s, focusing on fame-hungry sisters Lillian (Leggero) and Beatrice (Riki Lindhome). The series will premiere on June 23, running for 10 weeks and is produced by Ben Stiller’s Red Hour.

Stemming from her breakout appearance on the Comedy Central Roast of James Franco, Natasha was recently lauded as the stand out roaster on the Comedy Central Roast of Justin Bieber, which aired on March 30, 2015. The actress has also recently appeared in an episode for NBC’s Marry Me and the hit show Modern Family in the episode “Fight or Flight.”

On the big screen, Leggero starred in two comedy films including Neighbors alongside Seth Rogen, as well as Let’s Be Cops opposite Jake Johnson and Damon Wayans, Jr. She also had a role in the 2009 romantic comedy He’s Just Not That Into You. In 2012, the actress was featured in the Emmy® nominated web series, Burning Love. Produced by Ben Stiller, the scripted series parodies the popular reality television shows The Bachelor and The Bachelorette.

Leggero has built her body of work with numerous roles on prominent television series including NBC’s Community, FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Arrested Development, Comedy Central’s Reno 911 and Drunk History, ABC’s Suburgatory, the sketch comedy Key and Peele, Comedy Bang! Bang! Chelsea Lately, and The Tonight Show, among many others. In addition, Leggero’s voice can be heard on multiple animated series such as Comedy Central’s Ugly Americans and Brickleberry, The Life and Times of Tim on HBO, as well as Aqua Teen Hunger Force and China, IL for the Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim.

TICKETS

Tickets are on sale for both shows – for Muddled click here, for Natasha click here.

Diner en Blanc Returns to Philadelphia for 5th Year

Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia returns this summer to celebrate its fifth edition with an unforgettable evening filled with elegance, food, art and music. The secret picnic in white will take over an undisclosed public space whose location is revealed only minutes prior to arrival. The date, number of registrations and registration lottery details will be announced next week at the official Dîner en Blanc preview party on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Reading Terminal Market. Reading Terminal Market joins the catering lineup for the main event, along with 33rd Street Hospitality Catering (new for 2016) and Luke Palladino Catering. During the preview event, guests will sample cuisine from all three catering outfits, vote on tables themed around “Celebrating Philadelphia: A City of Firsts”, reconnect with old friends, and meet organizers/volunteers.  The preview is free, but registration is required at bit.ly/debphl16preview.

The wait list is now officially open for this year’s Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia, an impromptu picnic that has grown into a global phenomenon that celebrates public space and “dinner as an artform.”

“This year’s Dîner en Blanc will celebrate Philadelphia and the Parisian roots of the event, while offering a bit of nostalgia with entertainment and other elements that participants have enjoyed in the last four years,” said co-host Natanya DiBona.

Interested parties can visit the website (http://philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info/register) and add their name to the event’s wait list. The wait list does not guarantee a spot to Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia. It does ensure that wait list members will be notified when slots for the event go on sale in early summer through a lottery system. Past registered members of Dîner en Blanc automatically will receive notice of registration going on sale through a lottery system, that debuted in 2015.

In preparation for the grand affair, co-hosts Natanya DiBona and Kayli Moran will throw a special preview party for past attendees and potential guests on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. The free party will move to an exciting new location inside Reading Terminal Market (enter through 12th and Filbert door). Given the significance of the location – it is the nation’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market – DiBona and Moran chose a table decorating theme that celebrates the many notable achievements of our great city:  “Celebrating Philadelphia: A City of Firsts.”  Table displays will include interpretations of the following “firsts::

– World Heritage Site in the United States
– Public Library
– Botanical Garden and Flower Show
– Newspaper / Political Cartoon /Magazine
– Zoo
– Art Museum and Art School
– Theatre / Play / Grand Opera
– Children’s Hospital / Women’s Hospital/ Medical School
– Army / Navy / Marines
– Circus / Merry-go-round
– First Flavors: Peanut Chews, Bubble Gum, Tasty Kakes, Ice Cream, Carbonated Beverages, Girl Scout Cookies, Candy Corn and more!
– Oddity Inventions: Slinkys, Pencils with Erasers, Escalators, Skee-ball, Bifocals, Crayons

Tables will be judged on use of white, execution of theme, creative use of props, complexity, and originality.  A grand prize winner, and people’s choice winner, will be selected by local judges with experience in art, design, entertainment and hospitality.

The table display contest is just one of several features of the annual Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia Preview Party, which brings together DEB event organizers, volunteers, past patrons and new participants.  It is the kick-off to a celebration of the city of Philadelphia that extends beyond one evening in August. It will also feature sampling from our catering partners – returning partner Luke Palladino Catering, and new partners Reading Terminal Market and 33rd Street Hospitality Catering (owners of Revolution Taco, Taco Mondo, Say Cheese Philly, Street Food Philly). Touché Accessories will be selling an array of elegant white accessories including hats, fascinators and gloves.

The preview party is free and open to those 21 years old and older. Registration is required by visiting: bit.ly/debphl16preview.

Dîner en Blanc was brought to Philadelphia by co-hosts Natanya DiBona and Kayli Moran in 2012, where the picnic debuted in Logan Circle. Since its debut, Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia has spotlighted and repurposed public spaces around the city, ranging from the JKF Bridge, to the Avenue of the Arts, to the Philadelphia Navy Yard. The event has grown from 1,300 participants in 2012 to 4,500 in 2015.

“The first year it was critical that in one aerial photo of the event someone could instantly recognize Philadelphia,” added DiBona. “With Logan Circle not only were we able to show off a 360 degree view of some of the most beloved cultural institutions in Philadelphia, but we had a nod to the French heritage of our event with a spot that was designed by a French architect on the ‘Champs Elysee of America.’  In the years since, we have picked locations that show off the spaces in new and unexpected ways while highlighting their history and significance to the City of Philadelphia”

Sign-up for the Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia wait list by visiting http://philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info/register.

Connect with organizers by following Dîner en Blanc-  Philadelphia on Facebook, @Dînerenblancphl on Instagram and @debphl on Twitter.

Hashtags: #DEBPHL16 #dinerenblanc

Apothic Wine is proud to be the official wine partner of the 2016 U.S. Diner en Blanc series.

ABOUT DÎNER EN BLANC– PHILADELPHIA
Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia debuted in the City of Brotherly Love on Thursday, August 23, 2012. Co-hosts Natanya DiBona and Kayli Moran worked with a six person volunteer planning team from April to August to make the first event happen. 30 Table hosts and on-site volunteers led 1,300 guests to the surprise location, Swann Fountain at Logan Circle.

Four events later, Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia grew to 4,500 attendees, the second largest in the US and the fourth largest in the world. 130 volunteers were necessary to bring participants to the 2015 location, the Marine Parade Grounds at Philadelphia Navy Yard. Guests traveled by a variety methods including by foot, subway and 50 chartered buses.

While Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia has been the recipient of “best foodie event” and “best pop-up” awards from publications such as PhiladelphiaMagazine and Main Line Today, the event’s greatest distinction is having the highest guest return rate of all the DEB events in the United States. The 2016 team is passionate about the experience they create for our guests and they look forward to delivering another great event in the summer of 2016.

New Dance Works Hatch with Birds on a Wire Dance Theatre

Birds on a Wire Dance Theatre presents HATCH, a mini-festival of world premiere dance works by Philadelphia’s emerging choreographers, from Thursday, June 9 to Saturday, June 11, 2016, at The Performance Garage (1515 Brandywine Street). All shows are 8:00pm, with doors opening at 7:00pm.

HATCH provides a glimpse into the latest trends in contemporary dance by presenting live performance from up-and-coming choreographers- Lora Allen, Belle Alvarez, Marie Brown, Mawiyah Dowd, Corey Melancon, Katie Moore, Nandini Sikand, and Donia Salem. With a diversity of style and background, each choreographer has developed bold material, breeding a wild mixed bill of short, refined works. Covering relevant topics such as immigration and social justice as well as featuring a rock-infused head-banging session and the kind of dance party you have in your room when no one is watching, HATCH has something for everyone. The evening features over thirty emerging dancers, choreographers, and designers. Performances are at the horse stable-turned automobile garage-turned Performance Garage in the Spring Garden district.

Join us for the art, or on Saturday night (June 11), join us for the art AND the party! The HATCH reception includes beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages along with snacks and appetizers at which hungry little birds can peck.

HATCH is one of several programs Birds on a Wire has established to align their mission to create opportunities for artists, particularly emerging artists, to grow, develop, and contribute to the cultural landscape in the greater Philadelphia region.

Each egg produced from HATCH is the result of an eight-month development program which includes design consulting and a support group to provide a nurturing environment to exchange ideas on the creative process. Originally conceived as a shared bill to consolidate new audiences in 2013, Birds on a Wire has expanded the goals of the HATCH program to provide additional development support prior to the final production. This structure allows the artists to create the work they want without many of the logistical and financial burdens of self-producing in addition to a creating a team of artists to work and learn from one another. Each choreographer receives production support, including access to a professional lighting grid and sound equipment, technicians to run the equipment, and professional video recordings of their live work. The goal? Professional and well-produced productions that allow each individual choreographer to present their best work as well as instill new knowledge about lighting, costume, and sound design to better contribute to the growth of each individual’s creative practice.

PERFORMANCES
Thursday June 9 at 8pm
Friday June 10 at 8pm
Saturday June 11 at 8pm with a reception following

LOCATION
The Performance Garage
1515 Brandywine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19130

TICKETS
$20 General Admission, $30 General Admission Plus Reception at:
https://www.artful.ly/birds-on-a-wire-dance-theatre

South Street Spring Festival Food and Drink Preview

Philadelphia, come hungry! South Street Headhouse District serves up the best street food in the city during South Street Spring Festival, on Saturday, May 7, 2016, from 11:00am to 8:00pm.

Philadelphia’s largest annual spring block party announces 30+ restaurants, bars, bakeries and food trucks that will fill the 12 blocks of South Street and surrounding streets. Brauhaus Schmitz will return with Maifest on the 700 block with with German beers, dancers, music, food, flower crowns and even a Maypole. The giant all-ages outdoor party will also include a new Philly Taco eating contest featuring a Jim’s Steaks cheesesteak wrapped in a giant slice of Lorenzo & Sons pizza.

This past week, South Street held a special media food tour of the participating restaurants. Here’s a sample of our favorite things:

Banana Pudding from Sweet Life Bakeshop

Magic Bars from The Little Bird Bake Shop

Zeppole (warm Sicilian doughnuts with cane sugar & raspberry sauce)
at Bistro Romano 

Woodrow’s Pork Sandwich (aged provolone, broccoli rabe, long hot aioli)
at Woodrow’s Sandwich

Cheeseburger Sliders at Bridget Foy’s

Cheesesteaks at Jim’s Steaks South Street 
Pizza from Lorenzo & Sons Pizza
“The Philly Taco” a Pizza Wrapped Cheesesteak

Frozen Daiquiris at Fat Tuesday

Preview of soon-to-open MilkBoy

Registration at Brauhaus Schmitz – here we go!

South Street Spring Festival “Team”

South Street Spring Festival is free and open to the public. Rain or shine. For the full schedule and roster of events, visit www.southstreet.com and follow @officialsouthst #SouthStFest on Twitter. See you on Saturday!

Waffles & Wedges Dishes Up 1st Birthday Block Party

Waffles & Wedges (1511 Pine Street) celebrates one year in business with a special 1st Birthday Block Party on Sunday, April 24, 2016, from 1pm to 5pm. Owners Andrea Capecci and Laura Judy will close down the street next to the Rittenhouse eatery for an outdoor celebration featuring food specials, menu additions, free beer tastings, live music, food trucks and more. Admission is free. Food is pay-as-you-go. Drinks are free. 21 and up to drink.  For more information, visit www.waffleswedges.com, or follow @waffleswedges on Twitter.

One year ago, on April 26, 2015, Capecci and Judy made the leap from their food truck (Pbon’s Fresh Phood of Philly) to brick and mortar with the opening of Waffles & Wedges. The duo personally renovated and designed the casual take-out eatery and cafe in the Rittenhouse neighborhood formerly occupied by Mexico on the Square. Over the past year, Waffles & Wedges has served more than 15,000 Leige waffles!

In honor of a successful first year in business, Waffles & Wedges will celebrate with an afternoon of festivities that will close down South Hicks Street, located directly next to the restaurant. Look for food specials and menu additions inside at the counter, as well as outside at Capecci and Judy’s two food trucks (Pbons Fresh Phood of Philly and Waffles on wheels). Specials and menu additions will include:

* Party Crasher Mini Waffles for only $1 (Liege waffle topped with vanilla icing and rainbow jimmies)

* The Birthday Waffle Sandwich (Liege waffle with Nutella on both sides, Bassetts’ Vanilla Ice Cream, coated in rainbow jimmies) $8

* Surf’n Turf Wedges (Beef steak, covered in Tipsy Cheese made with Philadelphia Brewing’s Kenzinger beer, topped with grilled Maryland crab meat) $11

* Gluten-Free Strawberry Mojito Heat (Strawberries, mint, jalapenos, and infused with rum) $7

*Birthday Waffle Chick (Liege waffle, pulled chicken with honey and BBQ, topped with pineapple jalapeno salsa) $9
Waffles & Wedges local partners will also be on hand for FREE samplings of beer, coffee and ice cream – including:
* Complimentary beer tastings from Broken Goblet Brewing, Neshaminy Creek Brewing and Philadelphia Brewing Company
* Ice cream scooping from Bassetts’ Ice Cream
* Locally roasted and organic coffee from Philly Fair Trade Roasters
* Wine samples from Ten Gallon Hat Winery

On top of food and drink, look for other outdoor fun like live music jams all afternoon from students at University of the Arts, and children’s activities plus adoptables from Saved Me.

Admission to the block party is free! Ice cream, beer and coffee are free. Other food is pay-as-you-go. 21 and up to drink (with identification). For more information, visit www.waffleswedges.com, call215-309-3222 or follow @WafflesWedges

ABOUT WAFFLES & WEDGES

Former school teacher Andrea Capecci and Laura Judy, CPA started their business in 2013 with a food truck named Pbons Fresh Phood of Philly. The truck served topped fries and pretzel rolls, but they knew they wanted to offer healthier alternatives to their customers, and expand their catering services.  In the beginning of 2015, they signed on the former location of Mexico on the Square, andWaffles & Wedges was born. Capecci and Judy installed an oven and did away with deep fryers, and also added a menu that is exclusive to their store. The menu of “mobile food” focuses on Liege-stylewaffles, baked (not fried) potato fries and sandwiches served on pretzel rolls.  The specialty of the house is a caramelized waffle, in regular and gluten-free versions, served whole or cut into bites, then can be topped with icing, jimmies, fresh fruit, ice cream and other tasty goodies. The skin-onwedges come in three varieties (sweet potato, waffle cut and regular potatoes) with the choice of dozens of sauces for the dipping.

“We like to make sure there is an option for everyone on our menu,” says owner Laura Judy. “We havewaffles and wedges for both vegetarians and meat-lovers, plus our wedges are baked, so they are a much healthier option than fries.”

Customers can then add a variety of sauces and seasonings themselves, including vinegar, BBQ sauce, mustard, and specialty Hawaiian sea salts.

Customers can wait for their order in-store, and soak in Waffles & Wedges custom decor. Capecci and Judy revamped the store’s interior by adding a touch of their personal story– the floor and countertops are topped with pennies, which they collected from their friends and family members. “We really liked the look of copper,” owner Andrea Capecci said. “My Aunt Krissy collected pennies for penny slot machines, so we decided to add her collection to honor her.”

In March of this year, Capecci and Judy decided to take their waffles back to the streets, so customers around the greater Philadelphia area could enjoy the new menu creations. Waffles & Wedges opened a second food truck that exclusively serves waffles. Both the Waffles & Wedges and Pbon’s Fresh Phood are still in operation and can be found at several places throughout the Greater Philadelphia area.

Waffles & Wedges also does catering! Trays are available for pick up for 10-60 people. Contactwaffleswedges@comcast.net for more details.

For more about Waffles & Wedges and their food truck, visit www.waffleswedges.com or follow @WafflesWedges on Twitter and Instagram. For more information on Pbon’s Fresh Phood, visitwww.pbonsfreshphood.com or follow @pbonsfreshphood on Twitter and Instagram.

South Street Spring Festival Ready to Rock Philadelphia

South Street Headhouse District announces that 40+ bands will rock the city on Saturday, May 7, 2016 during the 4th Annual South Street Spring Festival. The all-day, all-ages, free outdoor festival and concert will feature a mix of rock, funk, soul, hip hop, indie rock, reggae, R&B and country acts that will entertain an estimated 55,000+ people on three main stages and seven other performance areas on South Street and in Headhouse Square. Headhouse Square will also roll out the green for a special lawn concert with real grass for lounging and dancing in the sun! Festivities are free, with food and drink pay-as-you-go.

“Our music scene is one of the most robust and diverse in the city. Each and every week you can find live performances tailored to almost every musical taste and style in venues like TLA, Twisted Tail, L’Etage and soon to open Milk Boy,” said SSHD Executive Director Michael Harris. “With South Street Spring Festival, we wanted to host one of the city’s largest free concerts that celebrates that same diversity and creativity. This year’s line-up has some great city-wide favorites, but we’re thrilled to also be a showcase for new and emerging talent. Philadelphia, we hope you are ready to rock with us!”

Musical acts for South Street Spring Festival are selected after a year-round search for the best and hottest established and up-and-coming artists in the region. Acts for 5th Street, 2nd Street and street performance zones are programmed by the District with help from Jim Thorpe – Vince Volz of DVT Entertainment. This year’s line-up is as follows:

** 5th St. Stage 1

11:20AM Liv Devine (Alt Country)
12:20PM Song Dogs (Jam)
1:20PM Swift Technique (Funk)
2:20PM Nik Greeley and the Operators (Soul Rock)
3:20PM Johnny Popcorn (Hip Hop/R&B)
4:20PM The Captain The Pilot The Driver (Indie Rock)
5:20PM Kuf Knots (Hip hop/Reggae)
6:20PM Footwerk (Hip Hop/R&B)
7:20PM The Once Was (Jam)

** 2nd St. Stage 2 and Lawn Concert

11:00AM Sweet Eureka (Indie Rock)
12:00PM Nomad Clientele (Rock/Reggae)
1:00PM Zymotic Flow (Rock)
2:00PM Wave Radio (Indie Rock)
3:00PM Modern Colour (Blues Rock)
4:00PM Memphis Crawl (Blues Rock)
5:00PM In Presence of Wolves (Progressive Rock)
6:00PM Stereotytans (Rock/Funk)
7:00PM The Tea Club (Progressive Rock)

** 8th St. Stage – Maifest by Brauhaus Schmitz
2:00PM – 6:00PM HeimatKlange

** Street Performers at 7 Performance Zones

Ashton John (Singer Songwriter)
Connor Rothstein (Singer Songwriter)
Dave BAKER (Singer Songwriter)
David Scott Bradford (Singer Songwriter)
Jakki Roberts (Singer Songwriter)
Jay Regan (Singer Songwriter)
Jay Skull (Rock)
Joshua Bation (Singer Songwriter)
Judah Kim (Singer Songwriter)
Matt Chicchi (Singer Songwriter)
Mayfair Mansion (Jam)
Owen Crowley (Singer Songwriter)
Palaceburn (Rock)
RFA (Rock)
Sal Tommassello (Singer Songwriter)
Saver (Singer Songwriter)
The Black Sox Scandal (Rock)
The Good Mess (Rock)
The Madeleine Haze (Rock)
Valentina  (Singer Songwriter)
Suburban Sensi (Funk)

New radio partners this year to accompany the diverse music line-up include: 95.7 Ben FM, 93.3 WMMR, 102.9 WMGK Classic Rock, 97.5 WPEN The Fanatic and Greater Media Philadelphia. Other sponsors this year include: City of Philadelphia, Philly Voice, Where Magazine, Yelp, Specialty Productions, Aversa PR & Events, DVT Entertainment.

On top of music from the 40+ acts, the city’s largest block party will also feature 30+ restaurants/bars serving outside, 125+ boutiques and businesses catering to your style and shopping needs, and dozens of artists selling their handmade wares. Children of all ages will enjoy free family fun in the expanded Family Fun Zone. This year, look for attractions on three additional blocks – bring the total to 12 for 2016.

In conjunction with the Festival, Brauhaus Schmitz will host the 4th annual German Maifest on the 700 block of South Street, with German beers, dancers, music, food, flower headbands and even a Maypole.  Outside of Atomic City Comics (638 South Street) look for free giveaways and super hero sightings during Free Comic Book Day. Watch for new surprises, vendor lists, menus and more coming later this spring. For now, save the date and mark your calendars!

Stay tuned in early and mid April for additional announcements about food and menus, vendors and family fun. South Street Spring Festival is free and open to the public. For the full schedule and roster of events, visitwww.southstreet.com and follow @officialsouthst #SouthStFest on Twitter.

ABOUT SOUTH STREET HEADHOUSE DISTRICT

The South Street Headhouse District is a renowned commercial corridor and home to over 400 unique businesses, including some of the best restaurants, retailers, and services in the region.  The South Street Headhouse District, home of historic Fabric Row and Philadelphia Magic Gardens, is also one of the top tourist destinations in Philadelphia, with over one million visitors each year.  Surrounded by the historic neighborhoods of Society Hill, Queen Village, Bella Vista, and Washington Square West, the South Street Headhouse District is great place to eat, shop, play, and live.

ABOUT DVT

DVT Entertainment is based in Philadelphia, PA. Premier Booking Agents – Artist Management – Artist Consultants for the indie artist. DVT Entertainment is a collaboration between Vince Volz of Double V Bookings & Jim Thorpe of Thorpe Productions. Jim and Vince have joined forces to bring you even more of the quality entertainment you’ve come to expect at a growing list of traditional venues and specialty locations! Additionally the duo specialize in consultation and band development with the ability to eventually assist in regional & national booking. DVT programs Liberty Musicfest (Philly), South St. Spring Festival (Philly), Dewey Beach Music Conference/Popfest (Delaware), Elm City Music Festival (New Haven, CT). FOr more information, visit http://dvtevents.wix.com/.

P’unk Burger Teams Up with Sweet Box Cupcakes on FREE Boozy Cupcakes

P’unk Burger, at 1823 East Passyunk in Philadelphia, will celebrate their first birthday by giving away FREE cake milkshakes on Friday, February 12, 2016, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.

Last year, on Valentine’s Weekend, Marlo and Jason Dilks (also owners of SliCE) opened East Passyunk’s organic burger, fries and shake BYO. One year later, the couple celebrate their first year in business by partnering with Sweet Box Cupcakes (339 S. 13th Street) for a free shake giveaway!

Customers will enjoy a free limited edition P’unk and Sweet Box collaboration – a Raspberry Red Velvet Spodee shake made with Sweet Box’s signature cupcakes.  The shake will be free Friday, but you can also purchase this decadent option during the rest of Valentine’s Weekend.

“We love Sweet Box’s flavors and quality. We wanted a cake shake that was something out of the norm that could help celebrate our birthday but also appealing to our young couples during Valentine’s Weekend,” said Marlo Dilks.

P’unk Burger will also offer a “Birthday Cake Shake” with buttercream, candy pieces and cake batter ice cream. This alcohol-free cake shake is perfect for the mini-moos!

Shakes are one per person, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Dine-in only. During the celebration, all organic build-your-own beef burgers will be $5.00 each and fries will be discounted to $1.00.  All other items are one dollar off in honor of one year.

In addition to the Friday giveaway, P’unk Burger will also have other specials for Valentine’s Weekend, including Raspberry Red Velvet Spodee shakes available for sale on February 13-14th, plus Box of Chocolates shakes made with Little Babies Ice Cream. The new Alpine Burger will also debut with sauteed portobello, swiss cheese and house garlic mayo.

“Valentine’s Weekend holds a special place in our hearts,” said Marlo Dilks. “We went on our first date and fell in love over pizza, and went on to open up our first SliCE the day after Valentine’s Day in 2004. We opened the day after to have one more day to ourselves before our business and family started. So many years later, we opened P’unk Burger that same Valentine’s weekend. We want to thank the community for their support with our free shakes – and for allowing us to carry on our love of food for generations to come.”

Since opening, P’unk Burger has provided East Passyunk and South Philly with a healthier alternative for families that want to enjoy a burger and shake, but who also want to eat better and care about what they put into their bodies. Since opening, P’unk Burger has sold over 25,000 burgers, 10,000 shakes (including shakes made with Little Babies Ice Cream) and 10,000 lbs of fries.

For more information visit punkburger.com, call 215-468-PUNK, tweet @punk_burger and follow P’unk Burger on Facebook.

For more about Sweet Box, visit http://www.shopsweetbox.com or call (215) 237-4647.

Taproom on 19th Celebrates Two Year Anniversary with South Philly Block Party and Pop-up with Pigheaded BBQ

Taproom on 19th (2400 S. 19th, Philadelphia) celebrates its second anniversary with a full day celebration of brews, barbecue and live music. This Saturday, November 7, 2015, from 1:00pm to 11:00pm, owners Michael Strauss and Pete Fry will host the “Two Year Anniversary Block Party” featuring a chef pop-up with Pigheaded BBQ, performance by the Gin Canaries, tap-takeover with Bella Vista Beer Distributor, and a special cocktail designed by Lê HopSing from Hop Sing Laundromat. A large heated tent will take up the 1900 block of Ritner, making the event rain or shine. Admission is free. All food and drink are pay-as-you-go. Guests must be 21 or older to drink. For more information, visit www.taproomon19th.com, call267-687-7817 or follow @TaproomOn19th

Two years ago, on November 8, 2013, current owners Michael Strauss and Pete Fry took over ownership of Taproom on 19th and revamped the South Philadelphia staple into a top destination for local and seasonal upscale pub fare, 14 rotating taps of craft beer (including a cask engine), a classic cocktail menu, a knowledgeable staff and a warm vibe.

Taproom’s Anniversary specials by Executive Chef Speero will be led by this year’s “Anniversary Burger” – 1/4 lb Lafrieda Brisket Burger, Pretzel Bun, Shaved Steak, Tomato, Fried Onions, Special Sauce, Cheese, Fried Pork Roll. The national barbecue competition team Pigheaded BBQ will pop-up in the kitchen with:

* BBQ Fatties – House-rolled sausage stuffed with bacon and mac-n-cheese, coated in barbecue rub and smoked with peach wood for 2.5 hours

* Hog Chips – Kettle cooked potato crisps smothered in slow-smoked barbecue pulled pork, topped with brisket and pork studded baked beans, slathered in cheese sauce and dressed with barbecue sauce, sour cream and jalapenos

* Brisket – Full packer cut brisket, rubbed with salt and pepper, smoked low and slow using peach wood for 12 hours, sliced to order

Taps during the anniversary event will be taken over by Bella Vista Beer Distributor’s Jason A Miller. The night’s selection will feature:

Against the Grain Red Sonja
Alesmith Vietnamese Coffee Speedway Stout
Almanac Farmer’s Reserve Pluot
Almanac Golden Gate Gose
Ballast Point Indra Kunindra
Boulder Shake Chocolate Porter (nitro)
Bullfrog Jong Bruin Cafe
Cigar City Jai Alai
Duclaw Devil’s Milk (2014)
Evil Twin Imperial Donut
Half Acre Pony Pils
Heretic Shallow Grave
Hill Farmstead Legitimacy
Hill Farmstead Society & Solitude #5
Ilkly Siberia Rhubarb Saison
Neshaminy Creek Shape of Hops (custom firkin!)
Omnipollo Table Beer

Lê HopSing from Hop Sing Laundromat has agreed to design a special anniversary cocktail that will also make its debut on Saturday during the festivities.

The Gin Canaries will perform from 7:00pm to 11:00pm with a full set of jazz age and American songbook. The concert is free.
All food and drink are pay as you go. Guests must be 21 or older to drink (with identification). For more information, visit http://www.taproomon19th.com, call267-687-7817 or follow @TaproomOn19th

ABOUT PIGHEADED BBQ

Pigheaded BBQ is an award-winning KCBS Competition BBQ Team based in Middletown, DE. Retired Philly Police Diver turned pitmaster Ron Templeman co-founded Pigheaded BBQ in 2006 with his son Ron Templeman, son-in-law Mike Sadgwar and nephew Brian Milito. Other team members include Norma Templeman (Ron Ron’s wife), Trina Sadgwar (Ron’s daughter and Mike’s wife) and Stephanie Sadgwar (Mike’s sister). Pigheaded also provides catering services and collaborates with restaurants in the tri-state area for pop-up barbecue events.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia Returns to LOVE Park for 2015 Holiday Season

The Christmas Village in Philadelphia presented by NRG Home will again transform Philadelphia’s LOVE Park (15th and JFK Boulevard) into a traditional, open-air German Christmas Market, open daily between Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 26, 2015 and Sunday, December 27, 2015. For the first time ever, the market will open early for a special preview on Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22, 2015. Shop for high-quality, international and local gifts and decorations. Enjoy holiday sights and sounds with thousands of twinkling lights, the LOVE Park Christmas Tree, live music, children’s activities and photos with Santa Claus. Warm up with a glass of warm mulled wine or hot cocoa while enjoying European food and drink. Watch for new decorations, seating, vendors and tasty treats! Admission is free, with food, drink and shopping pay as you go.

After breaking attendance records last year with 600,000 visitors, Christmas Village in Philadelphia returns for the holiday season with some special new surprises for the City of Brotherly Love. The special preview weekend will mark the first time ever that the market has opened before Thanksgiving. Other new additions include the beautiful original Herrnhut Stars (Moravian Stars) that will illuminate LOVE Park and the village’s wooden huts, a new food and wine garden behind Independence Visitor’s Center, Santa’s house moving to the middle of LOVE Park for new photo opportunities, and new vendors and tasty treats from around the world.

Now in its eighth year, Christmas Village in Philadelphia has grown into one of the region’s most unique and charming holiday attractions. Organizers expect to attract more than 700,000 people in 2015. Seventy international and local merchants and artists are busy preparing high-quality and lovingly crafted gifts that will be sold in decorated tents and wooden houses that will pop-up throughout Center City’s famous LOVE Park. With ornaments, toys, apparel, jewelry, decorations, home goods, artwork and more, there will be something for everyone on Santa’s list.

Here’s five of our favorite things about Christmas Village that we are looking forward too!  Tell us in the comments, what do YOU love about Christmas Village in Philadelphia?

The Christkind is coming on Opening Day (Sat Nov 28, 2015) with treats for the kids.

Thousands of twinkling lights, the magical Christmas tree, the smell of evergreen. It’s truly a wonderful life!

Santa Claus is back and ready to find out if you’ve been naughty or nice.

We’ve counted down ALL YEAR until the day that Wisconsin Baked Cheese hits our tummy!

Help a charity and make a wish! We love to give back – but also read what everyone had to share on the wish wall for Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Vendor lists, food and drink menus, theme weekends, special event details and special promotions will be released in mid-November. Follow @philachristmas on Twitter and Instagram, follow Christmas Village on Facebook and visit http://www.philachristmas.com for more information.