I was so excited when I heard that Philadelphia’s world-renowned Ars Nova Workshop was opening a coffee shop, bar, and music venue for Jazz and Contemporary music on South Broad Street in the former (and beloved) Boot and Saddle. I have gone to many concerts they’ve hosted in interesting venues around the city, especially enjoying the more experimental and improvisational performers that one often has to go to NYC for. But having a permanent space has really upped the anti of opportunities to see amazing musicians like saxophonist Marshall Allen’s (of Sun Ra Arkestra) Ghost Horizons or to experience a celebration of the music of Herbie Hancock and Santana-Mclaughlin’s ‘Love, Devotion, Surrender.’
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, local beers on tap, and an enticing list of Amaros from Italy, Croatia, and Brooklyn (who knew). Snack on tomato pie from the local bakery Cascia’s with a happy hour carafe of Col Di Luna ‘Flora’ Rosato Brut while listening to some cool jazz on the stereo from 4-6 pm on weekdays or 12-2 pm on weekends. Browse the records and books up front and maybe take something home to extend the experience.
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"The Percy Street Project" is a public art installation in Philadelphia planned to span the entire 1300 block. Come at night to see 'The Electric Street'.
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"Nunu" is an Asian fusion bar/restaurant in Philadelphia. I love it best on a cold day when I'm craving a cocktail and warm snacks. Perfect for dates!
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My favorite thing about the "Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion" by far is that it's very community-focused: I was toured by a local 4th grader!
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"Vault & Vine" in Philadelphia is a cafe inside a greenhouse. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius. I come here almost every weekend with my pug...
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"Suraya" just might be the best restaurant in Philadelphia right now. If you love the flavors of the Levant, that you're going to love it, too...
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"Spruce Street Harbor Park" is a true gift of the city of Philadelphia to its citizens, an ode to summer itself... I'll be there in a hammock!
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The "Navy Yard Food Truck Lineup" in Philadelphia appears every Tuesday & Thursday, come rain or shine! Great opportunity to try a few of them at once...
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"Interstate Draft House" is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar. I highly recommend ordering the Fishtown Tea cocktail there, similar to a Long Island Ice Tea.
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"Lloyd" Philadelphia is my bar of choice when I need a stiff scotch (80+ types) or a finely crafted cocktail. The style definitely makes me feel at home.
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Tuna Bar near the Ben Franklin Bridge is my go-to raw bar in the Old City in Philadelphia for exciting sushi rolls and Japanese-style appetizers!
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"Long in the Tooth Record Store" in Philadelphia is a family-owned business that reminds me of one of my favorite films, High Fidelity...
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Philadelphia’s Mural Arts has helped create literally thousands of gorgeous murals all over. I'm in love with the new abstract mural by Tim McFarlane...
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156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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