This eclectic Caribbean eatery is a pleasantly casual destination for anyone in the mood for moderately priced comfort foods or warm-weather drinks. The atmosphere complements the cuisine with a colorful bar area and plenty of chic decorations that keep up the tropical theme without veering into total tackiness. The menu features mostly fried and/or saucy selections, but there are occasional buffets available—ranging from appetizers to full-on barbecue. For the ultimate in comfort food indulgence, try the mac ‘n’ cheese, made with five different cheeses based on a carefully guarded secret recipe.

Blue Sky Café
144 W. Germantown Pike
Norristown, PA 19401
(610) 275-3407

The National Constitution Center is America’s most interactive history museum. Situated in the landmark-filled Independence National Historic Park—which also includes the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell—the center is a place to learn about America’s founding values and national liberties. Though this might sound like a bit of an academic bore, the facility does a great job of livening things up with a range of activities that get visitors involved and engaged. The Center has more than 100 multimedia exhibits, films, photographs, and artifacts as well as a permanent collection—The Story of We the People—which offers an enduring look at the Constitution. There are also special exhibits on people, movements, and historical events that present a wider scope on America’s rich history.

National Constitution Center
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 409-6700
www.constitutioncenter.org

Philadelphians love brunch and Cafe Lift serves up a delicious array of breakfast favorites. An oasis in a fairly deserted area, Cafe Lift exudes a hip, industrial aura entered into through a freight lift (hence the moniker). Entrees here run around $8 and the offerings are the typical treats you crave in the morning with a fresh twist. Egg dishes include the Jens Crespelle (scrambled eggs in a crepe smothered in maple syrup) and fried egg paninos: two fried eggs, veggies, and cheese nestled in a warmed panini. The sweet stuff is particularly enticing: you can try lemon ricotta pancakes, cannoli french toast, and nutty monkey crespelle! Lunch offerings include fairly standard and inexpensive paninis and salads. It’s best to visit Cafe Lift in the morning for their breakfast selection. Unlike many Philly brunch places, this cafe is still a hidden gem — so the time you'll wait for a table will be brief!

Cafe Lift
428 N. 13th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 922-3031