Union Transfer: Plan A Music Lover’s Perfect Night Out

It’s easy to find great live music in a city as large as Philadelphia, and if you’re looking to catch a set this weekend, pay a visit to Union Transfer. This popular bar and venue is one of the best places in the city for all genres of live music, from up-and-coming indie rock groups to beloved singer-songwriters from years gone by.

While it was once a Spaghetti Warehouse restaurant, it has since been transformed into a bona fide venue with a great sound system, incredible architectural details, and a large stage that ensures a great view from every seat in the house. There is a spacious bar with skilled bartenders that can create any type of cocktail that you have in mind, plus craft beers and premium wines, as well. Grab a drink and a seat at one of the numerous bar stools before heading to the front of the stage to rock out with your favorite acts.

Union Transfer
1026 Spring Garden St
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 232-2100
www.utphilly.com

Cardio and Strength-Training Converge at Philly Power Yoga

Beginning a yoga practice can be intimidating, which is why the staff at Philly Power Yoga goes out of their way to welcome new comers. Whether you've been practicing yoga for years or you’ve never given it a try, the talented teachers at Philly Power Yoga can whip you into shape in no time (and do so with a smile).

If you haven't yet mastered the basics, come to a Beginner's Yoga class to learn the main principles of yoga. But if you are already an expert, jump right into a Power Yoga class in a room heated to 90 degrees, so as to allow deeper, safer bending. You can also opt for a Pilates class instead and work on building strength throughout the body, specifically in the core, or come to a barre class for a full-body workout. Philly Power Yoga even offers cardio classes to complement your strength-training workouts.

Philly Power Yoga
2016 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(267) 908-5395
www.yandpphilly.com
www.yelp.com/biz/philly-power-yoga-philadelphia

Local Ingredients are Always in Season at Farmer’s Keep

When you're living in the heart of the city, it can be hard to find fresh, local fare. That's a situation that Farmer's Keep hopes to change. The restaurant in Rittenhouse Square devotes its entire menu to organic, sustainable food, all sourced from around the Philadelphia region. The result? Fresh, colorful plates heaped with food that's as healthy as it is tasty. And in the name of cultivating healthy lifestyles, Farmer's Keep also hosts Pilates, yoga, running, and biking clubs right in the city.

So join in with one of the clubs and fuel up before or after your sweat session. If you're looking for something light, try the Green Goddess salad with arugula, baby spinach, frisee, and chive, as well as apples and grapes, all drizzled in celery vinaigrette. Or opt for a heartier entree, like the beer and brats, hunter's pork, or lemon chicken. No matter what you order, you can always expect it to be fresh and locally sourced at Farmer's Keep.

Farmer's Keep
10 S. 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 309-2928
www.farmerskeep.com
www.yelp.com/biz/farmers-keep-philadelphia

Happy Thanksgiving!

We hope everyone has a wonderful day celebrating with family and friends! What are you thankful for this year?

How to Keep Your Fridge Squeaky Clean

From dripping leftovers to forgotten lettuce from months back, there are likely a few things in your refrigerator that could use your attention. Here are a few simple ways to keep your fridge clean once and for all.

  1. Clear everything out. Start by going through the contents of your fridge and throwing away anything that’s past its expiration date. Leave everything on the counter until you’re done cleaning inside.
  2. Unplug. Unplug the refrigerator from the wall so that you can leave the door open while you clean without wasting energy.
  3. Clean inside drawers. Remove the drawers and rinse them out in the sink or bathtub. Use warm, soapy water to remove germs.
  4. Wipe the shelves. Using a spray bottle of multipurpose cleaner, wipe down all of the shelves and walls inside. You may even be able to slide the shelves out for easier access, depending on the model of refrigerator.
  5. Clean under jars. Before putting the food back in the refrigerator, be sure to check the bottoms for any grime or leaks. Wipe them off so that they don’t dirty your now-clean fridge.

How To Clean the Refrigerator [The Kitchn]
Refrigerator-Cleaning Tips [HGTV]
How Should I Clean My Refrigerator? [Cleanipedia]

See Al Capone’s Cushy Cell at Eastern State Penitentiary

The very first time Al Capone was arrested—the first of many—he landed in the Eastern State Penitentiary. The charge of carrying a concealed, deadly weapon only earned him eight months in the slammer, but that was enough time for him to get comfortable. His cell at Eastern State still looks much like it did back then, outfitted with high-end furniture, oriental rugs, and even a radio. And you can see it for yourself on a tour of Eastern State Penitentiary.

The rich history of the prison comes to life via the narration of actor Steve Buscemi in an audio tour of its many hallways and cells, but you can also opt for a guided tour for access to some behind-the-scenes spots. Either way, you'll learn more about the people who lived at the notorious prison, what landed them there, and how day-to-day life unfolded after they were locked up.

Eastern State Penitentiary
2027 Fairmount Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 236-3300
www.easternstate.org
www.yelp.com/biz/eastern-state-penitentiary-historic-site-philadelphia

Happy Veterans day!

Today is a day to honor the men and women who have bravely fought and continue to fight for our country. Thank you for your service!

Three of Philly’s Best Brunch Spots

There’s nothing better after a long weekend than a mimosa-filled Sunday brunch. Philadelphia is home to numerous brunch spots that will satisfy your craving for eggs benedict or gourmet waffles, and these are three of the best—just make sure you arrive early to beat the inevitable crowds.

Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat
With a location in Northern Liberties and one on South Street, Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat offers home-style weekend brunch to folks all across the city. The menu includes breakfast classics like omelets, home fries, lox, and huevos rancheros. It’s also BYOB, which is always a brunch plus.

Sabrina’s Cafe
Sabrina’s Cafe is another great BYOB brunch option in Philadelphia, and its brunch specials change bi-weekly to keep things fresh. These specials include fun twists on the traditional eggs benedict, French toast, and pancakes with unique toppings like dried apricots or toasted coconut, as well as hearty sandwiches with a slew of sauces and seasonings. Sabrina’s also offers many vegan and vegetarian options for meat-free visitors.

Crêperie Beau Monde
If you prefer a more sophisticated brunch option, Crêperie Beau Monde is a traditional Breton crêperie serving French cuisine based on centuries-old recipes. Brunch is served on weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. only, and while dishes here are a bit pricier than most, the decadent ingredients and luxurious atmosphere make it well worth the cost. Crêperie Beau Monde's bloody mary is so good that it has won awards, and sweet and savory crêpes offer something for any palate.

Election Day

Today is Election Day. Be sure to get out and vote!

Partake in Teatime at The Dandelion

At The Dandelion, lunch runs from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., dinner from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., and high tea from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Teatime is an integral part of the staff's daily routine, just as it would be in proper English restaurant. That's because when widely-renowned restaurateur Stephen Starr dreamed up The Dandelion, he used the gastropubs of London as his inspiration.

From the vintage-inspired chandeliers, glossy fireplaces (one wooden, one marble, one tiled), and statement drapes, The Dandelion transports its guests across the pond. Scarlet leather banquettes, a gleaming bar, and comfy lounge chairs round out the aesthetic at The Dandelion.

The restaurant's aesthetic is just part of its appeal, though. If you do decide to participate in teatime, you can also partake in some light appetizers like roasted spiced bar nuts, British cheeses, or deviled eggs. Larger items available at tea time include classic English eats such as beer-battered fish and chips and lamb shepherd's pie. Although the menus change regularly depending on seasonal ingredients, you might see items like roasted chicken, rabbit pie, or crab risotto on the dinner menu at The Dandelion. Pair your entree with a glass of wine or a pint of beer.

The Dandelion
124 S. 18th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 558-2500
www.thedandelionpub.com
www.yelp.com/biz/the-dandelion-philadelphia

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