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
When you see it for the first time you are struck by its size.
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"Contrafuerte" in Philadelphia is Miguel Antonio Horn's latest sculpture which comprises of eight entangled nude bodies holding a small concrete bridge...
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Beer lovers have lots to celebrate in Philadelphia! Enter "ARS Brewery", a South Philly Garage Brewery (complete in an old garage and visible distillery).
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These old farm ruins outside Northern Philadelphia are covered in graffiti and belong to a now-abandoned prison...
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"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
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My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
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"Sally" in Philadelphia is a casual and friendly restaurant that's also been named the Best New Restaurant of 2021...
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"Chris Jazz Cafe" in Philadelphia has been keeping the jazz flames alive in Center City for over 30 years. A night here is an absolute event...
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"Herman’s Coffee" is in a former auto repair and car wash garage in Philadelphia. It's much more than just a coffee shop with espresso & yummy pastries...
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The "Rosenbach Museum" in Philadelphia will almost make you expect the residents to saunter out in Victorian garb! A must for literature lovers...
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"St. Marks Episcopal Church" in Philadelphia is just beautiful. Even though I'm not religious, I have enjoyed many free classical music concerts here...
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When I tasted one of "Function Coffee Labs" buttery flaky sourdough-based croissants in Philadelphia, I knew I'd found pastry bliss...
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156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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