Function Coffee Labs Philadelphia
Pastry bliss
Bronwyn from Philadelphia
It’s possible to find good croissants and other pastries in Philadelphia: we have J’aime, Metropolitan Bakery and the Artisan Boulanger Patissier in South Philly, to name a few. But when a friend asked me to meet at Function Coffee Labs in a quiet spot in Bella Vista just around the corner from our bustling Italian Market (1001 S. 10th), and I tasted one of their buttery flaky sourdough-based croissants, I knew I’d found pastry bliss. All of the pastries and breads (which are mostly sourdough-based) are made and baked in-house daily at this tiny corner cafe owned by Ross Nickerson and Megan McCusker (who, according to their website, travelled the world to discover the best coffee-making practices to emulate “where coffee meets science”- before settling in Philly).
As their name attests: one needs coffee to function, so why not make it really good? A cappuccino with one of their Sourdough Fruit and Cream Cheese Pastries on a sunny morning (or a rainy day for that matter) at a table across from, or sitting in, the lovely, well-shaded Barascino Park has become one of my favorite ways to start the day.
A Cookie Dough Sourdough Cruffin or Cinnamon Swirl Croissant may spark your fancy, and they also bake muffins, cookies and offer savory “toasts” with yummy toppings like smashed avocado topped with pickled radishes and red pepper flakes. The staff is friendly and helpful and always happy to fill the dog water bowl should you bring your furry pal.
Philadelphia Spotter Bronwyn
About this spot
Our Philadelphia City Guide
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Grace and Proper
Vintage Euro Bar
For cocktail lovers, sip a Porto Tonico with Ferreira White Port, tonic, grapefruit, and mint or a That Nicholas Cage with bourbon, honey, white truffle, lemon, and lavender.
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Material Culture
Anthropology museum or shop?
"Material Culture" in Philadelphia isn't just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history & cultures...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Laurel Hill Cemetery
I see dead people
"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Fabric Workshop and Museum
Contemporary art
The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Penn Museum of Anthropology
Mummies and more
The "Penn Museum of Anthropology" in Philadelphia would be a marquee attraction in a smaller town. Don't overlook this jewel and its collections, trust me.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Woodmere Art Museum
Home to Philadelphia artists
The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Greene Street Consignment
Fashion-forward fun
"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!
by
Andrea
Szyper
Simeone Foundation
The cool car museum
The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...
by
Andrea
Szyper
Night Kitchen
The best bakery in Chestnut Hill
How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Hokka Hokka
Too pretty to eat
"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.
by
Andrea
Szyper
Solar Myth
Adventurous Jazz Bar
Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Mummers Concerts
So local
The only reason I know about the Mummers Concerts in Philadelphia is because I lived behind the small 'park' for over 10 years! Can't get more local...
by
Doug
Daub
Heading to Philadelphia?
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Coffee & tea
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
