You don’t have to go to the Big Apple to experience the thrill of a Broadway production. Philadelphia's premier venue for Broadway plays, the Forrest Theatre has hosted touring productions of The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia!, Les Miserables and Rock of Ages in recent years. The classically designed theatre opened in 1927 and was one of the more opulent of the venues built by famous theatrical impresarios the Shubert brothers. Over the years a myriad of performers have taken the stage in a variety of productions, including Yiddish theatre, Gilbert & Sullivan, and the Philadelphia orchestra. Currently on the calendar of performances are West Side Story and Beauty and the Beast. Visit their website for ticket information.

Frankford Hall, a Stephen Starr restaurant in Fishtown, offers a communal experience that makes it easy to mix and mingle. The outdoor patio is open during both warm and cool months (there are gas heaters and fire pits, the latter of which are perfect for roasting s’mores) and seating at picnic tables, each equipped with Jenga. The eatery also offers ping pong and board games, making it feel like a house party.

There are nine beers on tap and 10 more in bottles, but the must-have is the giant soft pretzel. The menu also offers brats and burgers, vegetarian included, as well as shakes (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). For dessert, try the large German chocolate cupcake.

Hours are 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., Mondays to Fridays, and noon to 2 a.m., Saturdays and Sundays.

Frankford Hall
1210 Frankford Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 634-3338
http://www.frankfordhall.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/frankford-hall-philadelphia

Public Domain/Public Domain

What’s not to love about a cozy little Mediterranean bar and café? Barbuzzo is just that. A warm, inviting ambiance, attentive service and an expertly prepared menu of Northern Italian dishes.

Settle in with a refreshing libation like the Sanguinello with orange vodka, blood orange puree, Chambord, & lime. Order an appetizer like Wild Mushroom Bruschetta, Roasted Marrow Bone or Sheep’s Milk Ricotta with grilled French country bread. A nice selection of artisan pizzas adorn the menu, as do pasta dishes like Parsnip Ravioli with braised duck and Bucatini All'amatriciana with San Marzano tomatoes and pecorino.

Other dishes you'll find at this Philadelphia eatery include Grilled Mediterranean Octopus, Braised Short Rib, Caciocavallo Stuffed Meatballs, Bone-In Sirloin and Seared Halibut. Visit Barbuzzo's website to see the full menu!

Barbuzzo
110 S. 13th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 546-9300
http://www.barbuzzo.com/barbuzzo/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/barbuzzo-philadelphia

Public Domain/Public Domain