Stroll through Chestnut Hill this season to find vibrant fall foliage, delectable eats and more
Known as the garden district of Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill boasts Victorian charm down its scenic streets and vibrant greenery dotting the sidewalks. This neighborhood offers the best of both worlds with an array of historical spots and its famous Germantown Avenue for splurging and delectable dines. Whether you are grabbing a breath of fresh air at Morris Arboretum or stopping for a sweet treat at Cake, a day in Chestnut Hill offers a cozy respite from Philly’s bustling downtown.
CAKE
A beloved member of the Chestnut Hill community for over a decade, Cake continues to churn out baked goods of the utmost quality. But they don’t stop there—just as scrumptious breakfast, lunch and brunch offerings always delight. Don’t forget to taste one of Cake’s classic Quiche du Jours while basking in the airy setting of Robertson’s conservatory, or drop in to place your very own personalized cake order. 8501 Germantown Ave., cakeofchestnuthill.com
EL POQUITO
Dine like a Baja Mexican surfer at El Poquito—a contemporary twist on the classic cantina. The restaurant’s abundance of cocktails can be enjoyed in their outdoor oasis or inside for a relaxed dining experience. From flavorful carnitas bowls to tempting enchiladas, this elevated taqueria’s menu is sure to satisfy your Mexican cuisine cravings. 8201 Germantown Ave., elpoquito.com
Matines Café transports you to Paris with sweet macarons, flakey pastries and other French bites.
MATINES CAFÉ
Owners Amanda and Arthur de Bruc bring a taste of France to Matines Café. Originally from Paris, the owners were eager to share rich bites and Parisian decor with the world— landing upon quaint Chestnut Hill. Devour a brie, ham and fig jam medley on a baguette as you tap your feet to the subtle sounds of classic and contemporary French tunes. 89 Bethlehem Pike, matinescafe.com
CIDER BELLY
With a passion for fresh and locally sourced earth-grown ingredients, lovebirds Matthew and Kimberly Vendeville opened a charming taphouse in July on Chestnut Hill’s picturesque Germantown Avenue. Indulge in their delectable Nibble Board while sipping an unpasteurized and unfiltered dry cider like The Covered Bridge, infused with dark cherries. 8005 Germantown Ave., ciderbellyhardcider.com
CHESTNUT HILL HOTEL
Built in 1894, the historical Chestnut Hill Hotel boasts revamped elegance and serene tranquility. What was once a speakeasy in the Prohibition era has now undergone grand renovations preserving hints of its original grandeur. Stop by the Bombay Room for an assortment of breakfast items before you hit the town, or head out back to the Chestnut Hill Brewing Company’s beer garden—the choice is yours. 8229 Germantown Ave., chestnuthillhotel.com
SPA ELYSIUM & FRINGE
There’s no such thing as a quick trip to the spa with Spa Elysium & Fringe’s service and shopping galore: Think shiatsu massages, the renewal facial, detoxifying seaweed wraps and more as you browse through delicate jewelry pieces and terrarium kits. If these treatments don’t entice you, Spa Elysium also offers hair services, cuts, and manicures. 55 Bethlehem Pike, spaelysium.com
RELAX THERAPY SPA
When in doubt, zen it out at Relax Therapy Spa—a rebalancing of the mind, body and soul thanks to licensed therapy expert Gilda Smith. Our favorite service? The Surrender Reset package that offers two hours of mudra pranayama practice, yoga, silent meditation and a soothing massage. 8327 Germantown Ave., relaxtherapyspa.shop
OCCASIONETTE
Support small businesses by popping into Occasionette. The curated brick-and-mortar features an endless array of candles, notebooks, frames and more for visitors to peruse. By making a purchase, customers also aid in Occassionette’s efforts to be a site host for Community Supported Agriculture. 8521 Germantown Ave., occasionette.com
STYLE BY BLAIN
Lead your stride in utmost elegance with footwear from Philadelphia’s premier shoe boutique: Style by Blain. Owner Voltaire Blain ensures each customer has a luxurious and exclusive shopping experience by assisting them in finding a superb pair from brands like Alden, Paraboot and Gaziano & Girling. 8433 Germantown Ave., stylebyblain.com
ADELINAS RESTAURANT & BAR
Metallic accents contrast the local flora adorning the walls in this authentic Italian restaurant. Rest in one of the sleek leather seats around the bar while enjoying the Bistecca Alla Fiorentina and a glass of house red wine. The dimly lit candles and soft chatter will set the tone for a splendid evening out in this picturesque eatery. 8235 Germantown Ave., adelinasitalian.com
Grab a pint at Chestnut Hill Brewing Company’s taproom.
CHESTNUT HILL BREWING COMPANY
What could be better than an outdoor beer garden full of craft sips to pair with a tasty meal? Savory bites of buffalo cauliflower join with the bursting flavors of the Tropical Tease for a perfect dining hangout in the Market at the Fareway. For a more intimate setting, the Brewing Company also offers the Taproom—an eclectic industrial-chic spot destined for a fun night out. 8221 Germantown Ave., chestnuthillbrewingcompany.com
THE STAGECRAFTERS THEATER
For over 90 years, The Stagecrafters nonprofit theater has brought unforgettable plays to its Chestnut Hill stage. Sit on the edge of your seat this September as you witness the story of Doubt: A Parable unravel, and prepare for the holidays as Silent Sky unfolds in November. 8130 Germantown Ave., thestagecrafters.org
Morris Arboretum’s Step Fountain is just one of its hidden gems.
MORRIS ARBORETUM OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
Take a seat on the recently restored Step Fountain as you overlook the lush foliage spread throughout the Morris Arboretum. Perfect for all times of the year, this botanical collection offers a place for ecosystems to thrive while visitors enjoy its vibrant array of floral and fauna. Locally sourced gourmet cuisine from chef Josh Hunter can be found at the on-site Compton Café—an exquisite pit-stop from your nature walk. 100 E. Northwestern Ave., morrisarboretum.org
WOODMERE ART MUSEUM
Creativity has no boundaries at the Woodmere Art Museum. A 19th-century stone mansion, the Woodmere houses over 9,0000 pieces and nine unique galleries for visitors to browse. If you are hoping for a more hands-on experience, the museum schedules lectures and panel discussions, in addition to methodical painting and watercolor courses. 9201 Germantown Ave., woodmereartmuseum.org
NONAME GALLERY
Gallery owner/curator Jonene Lee knew she was here to stay after successful pop-ups in the neighborhood. At NoName Gallery, local and international artists display their urban and contemporary art, as well as home furnishing pieces in the welcoming atmosphere of Chestnut Hill. Paint the night away while sipping your favorite drink for one of the many events this gallery has in store. 8127 Germantown Ave., nonamegalleryphilly.com
Photography by: COURTESY OF: CHESTNUT HILL BUSINESS DISTRICT; COURTESY OF: BRAND; ZACH PONTZ; WILLIAM CULLINA
