Philly POPS Plays at 10 Arts
Pair wine, food, and music at this unique dinner party.
February 22, 2013
Next Tuesday (February 26, 6:30 p.m.), pair delicious food, wine, and music at 10 Arts Bistro & Lounge’s dinner with members of Peter Nero and the Philly POPS. The restaurant and Philadelphia-based musical act have paired up for the first in a quarterly series that will celebrate the city’s cuisine and culture.
10 Arts chef de cuisine Nathan Volz worked with Peter Nero and the Philly POPS to create the menu items, carefully selecting dishes that would complement the orchestra’s genre-spanning style of music. The POPS quartet will play as guests indulge in five courses like sunchoke velouté with poached lobster and truffle chive oil, and a fiery East coast halibut plated with cilantro, quinoa, and rocoto beurre blanc.
“Our quarterly arts dinner is endeavoring to take the pairing concept to a whole new level, by bringing together iconic Philadelphia arts with food,” says Volz. “We’re excited for guests to experience how two art forms—the culinary arts and music—when brought together, create a harmonious, inspiring duo.”
Reservations for the single seating ($59 per person, $95 with wine pairing) are highly recommended in advance by calling 215-523-8273. 10 Avenue of the Arts, Center City
Where to Celebrate Oscars Weekend
Local spots offer specialty cocktails and staycation packages.
February 21, 2013
Davio’s
Sunday, February 24, 5-10 p.m.
The Center City steakhouse pays tribute to highly talented Oscar nominees with three cocktails inspired by their noteworthy performances. Guests will choose from the Daniel Day Lewis, a mixture of mint leaves, pulverized sugar, cognac, fresh berries, crushed ice, and sliced orange; the Hugh Jackman, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, and bitters with a lemon twist; and the De Niro, a clever combination of Prosecco, Aperol orange liqueur, and seltzer, dressed with sliced orange. 111 S. 17th St, Center City, 215-563-4810
Hotel Palomar
Through March 16th
In celebration of Philadelphian Bradley Cooper's Oscar nomination, Hotel Palomar is offering the Silver Linings Playbook Package through March 16. Starting at $259, guests will receive weekend-only overnight accommodations, breakfast for two at the Broad Street Diner, a VIP tour of Lincoln Financial Field, a Philadelphia Eagles tour gift, and exclusive pricing at Philadelphia Runner and the Lincoln Financial Field Eagles Pro Shop. Book your stay online by visiting hotelpalomar-philadelphia.com with special rate code: OSCAR. 117 S. 17th St., Center City, 215-563-1778
The Social at Revel
Sunday, February 24, 7 p.m.
The Social at Revel hosts an Academy Awards viewing party fit for a star, complete with specialty cocktails, trivia, and contests galore. Upon entry, have your picture taken by the “paparazzi” while holding a replica of the coveted Oscar award. Then, watch the entire show on movie-theater projection screens while enjoying creative concoctions inspired by best picture nominees like Les Misérables (St. Germain, orange juice, and Champagne) and Argo (Crown Royal, Apple Pucker, and cranberry juice), among others. Guests will be entered to win an overnight stay at Revel by guessing the outcome of each category, and they can show off their movie knowledge during commercial breaks with trivia hosted by 104.9 radio personality, Heather Deluca. Admission is complimentary and the first 200 guests will receive a special present. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, 855-348-0500
A Glimpse of Van Gogh: Vincent in Brixton
A play at Walnut Street Theatre examines Van Gogh before he was famous.
February 18, 2013
Seasoned playwright Nicholas Wright brings the story of Vincent Van Gogh to Philadelphia’s Walnut Street Theatre through the acclaimed Vincent in Brixton, starting tomorrow (February 19, 7:30 p.m.).
Directed by Kate Galvin, the play depicts Van Gogh’s early years as he attempts to make ends meet as an art dealer in Brixton, England. The legendary tale of the troubled artist’s self-discovery unfolds as he finds inspiration from his surrounding environment. Brought to life by actor Brian Cowden, the audience will see what shaped Van Gogh into one of the world’s most renowned artists.
“We’re getting a glimpse of Van Gogh’s life before he becomes the artist that we all know,” says Galvin. “There are many elements of the play that are based in fact. It’s fascinating to see the impact that this period of his life had on his later work.”
The piece will show on a regular schedule from February 21 through March 10 after two nights of preview performances. Tickets are $30-$40 on walnutstreettheatre.org. 825 Walnut St., Center City, 215-574-3550
President’s Day Weekend DJs at HQ
Spend the weekend with top turntable-pros at this AC nightspot.
February 14, 2013
This weekend, HQ plays host to star DJs.
Revel in Atlantic City hosts an array of globally renowned DJs this President’s Day weekend at its HQ Nightclub (February 15-17). DJ Tatiana Fontes will warm the crowd up on Friday night before Swedish musical mastermind, DJ Eric Prydz, hits the tables. Recently confirmed for both Coachella 2013 and the Ultra Music Festival, Prydz is recognized for energetic hits like “Call on Me” and “Every Day.”
On Saturday night, the good times continue with resident DJ A-Trak, who makes his second appearance at HQ. A-Trak effectively mixes multiple musical genres to result in exciting, must-dance beats.
Closing the weekend out is a visit from The Generation Wild Tour 2013—a compilation of some of the biggest names in the electronic-dance scene, like Deniz Koyu, Danny Avila, dBerrie, and Mikael Weermets. As a bonus on Sunday, club-goers will enjoy photos and Champagne showers by nightlife photographer, Kirill Was Here.
Doors open at 10 p.m. each night. For more information or tickets, visit revelnightlife.com.
New Exhibit: ‘Journeys to New Worlds’
Spanish and Portuguese colonial works spotlighted at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
February 14, 2013
“Journeys to New Worlds” opens February 16 in the Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman building at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The exhibit explores Roberta and Richard Huber’s impressive collection of Spanish and Portuguese colonial art from the 17th and 18th centuries, manifested in everything from paintings to sculptures to silverwork.
The Hubers began curating their extensive collection nearly four decades ago while living and working in South America. The compilation most notably features a variety of paintings by Andean master Melchor Pérez Holguín. But some of the exhibit’s most remarkable items—like The House at Nazareth, a vibrant painting from the late 18th century—are from unknown Peruvian and Bolivian artists.
“We are all very excited about ‘Journeys,’” says exhibition coordinator Mark A. Castro. “Although this museum has a long tradition of exhibiting colonial art, this show breaks new ground by examining a collection that wasn’t assembled by any strict academic principles, but rather by the interests and experiences of two enthusiastic collectors.”
The exhibit will remain open through May 19, Tuesday through Sunday (10 a.m. -5 p.m.). 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy,. 215-763-8100
Where to Spend Valentine’s Day
Prix-fixes and hotel packages make this day of love one to remember.
February 13, 2013
10 Arts Bistro
At Eric Ripert’s 10 Arts Bistro, chef de cuisine Nathan Volz will prepare a six-course Valentine’s tasting menu for you and your date, as you relax in a candle-lit atmosphere (February 14-16, 5:30-10 p.m.). For $195 per couple, enjoy dishes like smoked kusshi oysters, lobster and prawn ravioli, petite aged ribeye, and two dessert rounds of yuzu granita and chocolate creme brûlée. Guests can also opt for a $275 menu, which adds Moët & Chandon Champagne pairings to the aforementioned food items. For reservations, call the restaurant at 215-523-8273. 10 Avenue of the Arts
Bar Ferdinand
For a truly unique day of love, head to Bar Ferdinand's Spanish-inspired Día de San Valentín celebration. The Northern Liberties tapas spot is offering a five-course prix-fixe menu (February 14, $65/person; $90 with additional wine pairing), complete with live flamenco performances, and a complimentary Cava cocktail for each guest. From roasted chestnut soup, to seared ahi tuna with foie gras crouton, to a succulent dark chocolate cake with dulce de leche and chocolate sauce, diners will have an array of delicious dishes to choose from. A vibrant list of Valentine’s Day drinks will also be available, February 14-16. For reservations, call the restaurant at 215-923-1313. 1030 N. 2nd St., Northern Liberties
Bistro St. Tropez
Toast the year’s most romantic weekend at Bistro St. Tropez, where a three-course prix-fixe spotlights the likes of oysters, Scottish salmon, lobster feuilette, filet mignon, and lemon goat cheese risotto from February 14-16 ($58 per person). Have other plans on Valentine’s night? Bistro St. Tropez is also hosting a Valentine’s Brunch on Sunday, February 17 for $25 per guest. In addition to an amuse bouche course, brunch-goers can opt for first-course salad or salmon, mains like lobster scrambled eggs or a farm-fresh omelette, and a nutella or gluten-free dessert. For reservations, call the restaurant at 215-569-9269. 2400 Market St., 4th Fl., Center City
Caesars, Atlantic City
Looking to make it official with your significant other? Head to Atlantic City for Valentine’s weekend and pop the question with the Light Your Love package from Caesars Entertainment. Let Caesars profess your love in lights on the Waterfront Tower of Harrah’s Resort before you head off on an elegant limo ride with a $100 dining credit and a bottle of Etoile Rose Brut Champagne. For just $699 ($1,000 for the weekend), you and your loved one will also enjoy an overnight stay at the Tower with a special 1 p.m. checkout. For reservations or more information, visit caesarsac.com. 777 Harrah’s Blvd., Atlantic City, 609-441-5000
Hotel Monaco
Hotel Monaco’s Diamond in the Sky package comes complete with everything you need to make that special someone’s dreams come true. For $80,000, guests will get a Bernie Robbins engagement ring, access to a private pavilion at the Stratus Rooftop Lounge where you can ask for her hand, a personal photographer to capture the moment, a complimentary bottle of Veuve Cliquot, two nights in the Majestic Suite, car service, in-room brunch by chef Guillermo Tellez, an en-suite couples massage, a first-class flight home, and complimentary passes to local museums and attractions in the city. Plus, the package gives you a jump-start on wedding planning—it includes a wedding reception for up to 200 guests at the hotel’s luxurious Lafayette Ballroom. For more information, visit monaco-philadelphia.com; available February 8-17, minimum of five-day advance notice needed. 433 Chestnut St., Old City, 215-925-2111
Mardi Gras Offerings at REX 1516
The South Street restaurant spotlights a special menu for Fat Tuesday.
February 11, 2013
Enjoy takes on traditional Fat Tuesday fare like a muffuletta sandwich and a Hurricane cocktail.
Don’t be discouraged if you can’t join the soiree in New Orleans this Mardi Gras—REX 1516 is bringing the Fat Tuesday spirit to Philadelphia. As a supplement to their everyday offerings, the Southern-inspired eatery is serving up food and drink specials all day and night in honor of the holiday (Tuesday, February 12). Pay homage to The Big Easy with executive chef Justin Swain’s inspired menu, which is set to include lamb gumbo, sweet potato beignets, and the muffuletta, an over-stuffed sandwich with salami, Tasso, sopressata, Swiss, provolone, and house-made olive salad.
To accompany your themed meal, general manager and mixologist Heather Rodkey is shaking up an upscale twist on the classic N’awlins Hurricane cocktail. Rodkey’s re-imagining includes aged rum, passion fruit, cranberry, lime, and orange, and pairs perfectly with any item on the Mardi Gras menu. 1516 South St., 267-319-1366
Celebrate the Chinese New Year
Two high-end restos present prix-fixe menus to toast the Year of the Snake.
February 08, 2013
Welcome the Year of the Snake with a four-course tasting menu at AC's Buddakan.
Buddakan Atlantic City
February 9-10
Ring in the Chinese New Year at Atlantic City’s Buddakan, where they’ll be adorning the place with traditional red lanterns and offering a four-course Chinese New Year tasting menu for $55 per person. Guests can expect dishes that symbolize longevity, wealth, fidelity, prosperity, and good marriage, like Cantonese shrimp rolls, Peking duck lettuce wraps, San Bei basil chicken, and a whole fish served with forbidden black rice and black garlic. Cap the celebration off with Mandarin cheesecake. For reservations, visit buddakanac.com. 1 Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City, 609-674-0100
Sampan
February 10-11
Chef Michael Shulson’s Sampan is welcoming the Year of the Snake with a six-course prix-fixe and performances by the Pennsylvania Chinese Dance Club. For $55 per person (minimum of two guests), indulge in a family-style feast of pork pot-stickers, crab Rangoon, duck egg rolls, Dan Dan noodles with Chinese sausage, Cantonese steamed salon, and Peking duck. Wash your hearty fare down with specialty cocktails like The Author, which features Jefferson’s Bourbon, Domaine de Canton Ginger liquer, and lemon. The coconut-tapioca pudding with passion fruit puree will be the perfect way to end the meal. For reservations, visit sampanphilly.com. 124 S. 13th St., Center City, 215-732-3501
Philadelphia Fashion Incubator Pop-Up
Knit Wit hosts a pop-up shop that pays homage to emerging local designers.
February 06, 2013
The Philadelphia Fashion Incubator's Designers-in-Residence present their completed collections at Knit Wit this week.
Starting tomorrow, February 7, the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator presents a pop-up shop at Knit Wit. The event is the culmination of the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator’s one-year fashion program, which started in March 2012 when four students from area universities were chosen as the Incubator’s first Designers-in-Residence (DIRs).
The lucky students—Melissa D’Agostino, Kaitlyn Doherty, Autumn Kietponglert, and Latifat Obajinmi and Moriamo Johnson—were given exclusive access to work spaces, showrooms, curriculum, mentoring, and other resources from Macy’s Center City. Now, they will showcase and sell the Spring/Summer 2013 collections that they’ve spent the past year crafting.
“I am very excited about this because I believe that fashion is not just about the dress—it is so much more than that,” says Knit Wit’s owner, Ann Gitter. “It is how you live your life. I want to start doing these showcases once a month.”
The pop-up will remain at Knit Wit through February 14, with a wine and cheese opening reception tomorrow night (February 7, 6-8 p.m.) 1729 Chestnut St., 2nd Fl., Center City, 215-564-4760
New Menu at MilkBoy Philadelphia
The all-in-one establishment adds new food and drink options.
February 01, 2013
MilkBoy makes big changes to its menus.
Previously known for their coffee and live music line-up, Chestnut Street’s MilkBoy can now add dining destination to their repertoire. With a brand-new menu focusing on upscale comfort food from chef Jon Bohn, the all-in-one restaurant, bar, café, and live-music venue proudly indulges the varying tastes of its customers.
Situated in close proximity to Jefferson Hospital, MilkBoy opens its doors at 7 a.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. weekends to accommodate hard-working doctors and nurses who are heading home from the evening shift. Offering a full bar and the entire menu all day, MilkBoy is often packed at off-peak hours for what they call the “third shift.”
Since MilkBoy is open for every meal, Bohn has crafted a seasonal menu with dishes that can be enjoyed at any time of the day (or night). Carnivores will delight in the updated bacon bowl, filled to the brim with spiced honey-glazed bacon and served with a side of rich and creamy buttermilk dipping sauce. Vegetarians and vegans should sample the seitan asada—soft corn tortillas filled with cilantro, fresh salsa, and lime. Just don’t fill up before trying the creative takes on French fries, from chili cheese jalapeno fries to the house-favorite steak frites, topped with six ounces of sirloin and a mushroom-sherry reduction.
In addition to a noteworthy collection of canned beers, draughts, and coffees, MilkBoy also presents an impressive selection of specialty cocktails from bar manager Evan Maffiore. New drinks include the Waiting Room, with Frangelico, peppermint schnaaps, and coffee, and the Picket Line, which pairs espresso with double chocolate vodka. The menu and cocktails may be new at MilkBoy, but patrons can still expect the same 200-person live-music venue upstairs, showcasing both local and national talent. 1100 Chestnut St., Center City, 215-925-6455
