Weekend in Philly: Food Edition
When you think of what to eat in Philadelphia, you probably think of water ice, hoagies, and of course cheeseteaks, but this city has way more to offer. Start your afternoon off with a trip to the Reading Terminal Market. This place is home to several eateries that serve a range of delicious fare, from crêpes to Chinese food. But if you're in the mood for some comfort food, Ma Lessie's Chicken & Waffles is the spot to go. Whether you opt for their namesake and get the chicken and waffles, or you order the baked turkey wings, you will be happy with either choice. The fried chicken is seasoned, crispy, and juicy. And the turkey wings are lightly smothered with a hint of rosemary. Add a side order of their mac & cheese, which is not extra cheesy (just the way we like it) and the black eye peas, candied yams, and the collard greens with turkey meat. Didn't get to try all of their sides, but if they are anything like the ones mentions above, you can't go wrong!
In the evening, make your way over to The Olde Bar. It gives "old school vibes" with no loud music playing in the background. Perfect ambiance to catch up with a friend or for a cute date with someone special. Their happy hour menu leans heavily on seafood. Treat yourself to a glass of wine and the $2 Buck Shuck Oysters. Another menu favorite: the mussels with lobster cream and the Olde Bar Crab Fries which comes topped with lumb crab and lobster butter. Both were fantastic and both should be ordered.
Still hungry? make your way over to Fishtown for dinner at Kayala. When we first walked into the Southern Thai restaurant we immediately fell in love. From the decor and palm trees located in the middle of the restaurant, to the hospitality and the deliciously crafted menu, you can immediately tell that this eatery is the place to be. After reviewing the menu, we decided on the shaw muang. A beautiful plate of flower-shaped dumplings filled with ground chicken and garnished with cucumber and a Thai chili. We also tried the gui chai. Two hefty-sized crispy garlic chive rice cakes.
This is food that takes work and creativity.
For the main course, we went with a curry dish that seemed specially curated just for us. It was bold, flavorful, and sprinkled with some heat. It was called the gaeng pae. A sharing plate of goat and lamb curry, served with jasmine rice and accompaniments. Reservations are highly recommended.
For a nightcap, head over to the Time Restaurant located in Center City. The Whisky Bar & Taproom showcases live local music nightly. Upstairs you can dance and party the night away.
The next day, have brunch on a rooftop taqueria at El Techo. With a retractable roof and windows, they stay open during all weather. Enjoy views of the city while you enjoy your bistec con huevos and a coco carajillo, a drink made with tequila, cold brew, and a chipotle coconut cream.
…And of course there are plenty of options to choose from to get a cheesesteak, but Campos did not disappoint. They been around since 1947 and sandwiches are made to order. Salt, pepper, ketchup. Stick to the script and your belly will thank you.
