Candis R. McLean
Father’s Day Deals
Father’s Day is just around the corner on Sunday, June 20. There are several tremendous restaurants and shops in the city where you can get amazing meals, pairing options, and gift ideas for that special someone in your life.
• Art in The Age: Art in The Age offers the ultimate Father’s Day gift for the dad who has everything: a meat-themed cocktail class! On Friday, June 18 at 7 p.m., Art in the Age is teaming up with Tabachoy, a local Filipino food cart, to host a Carnivore Cocktails Father’s Day Whiskey & Steak Workshop featuring the one-of-a-kind Deerslayer Venison Whiskey from Tamworth Distilling.
During the workshop, guests and their dads will shake, stir, sip, and devour delicious cocktails and incredible food. Admission includes a table for two in the Art in the Age Cocktail Garden, a demonstration and instruction of two specialized Father’s Day-themed cocktails, two dishes prepared by the Tabachoy team, and a tasting of the Tamworth Distilling Deerslayer Venison Whiskey — an exclusive spirit made with 100% real venison sourced from a New Hampshire farm!
Can’t make the workshop but still want to get dad the most unique Father’s Day gift? Tamworth Distilling’s Deerslayer Venison Whiskey is available for purchase at Art in the Age in Philadelphia ($65).
• Bank and Bourbon: There is nothing better than catching up with dad over your favorite drinks, especially if it is bourbon. Stylish American restaurant, Bank & Bourbon, is home to a diverse collection of bourbon and whiskey, showcasing its uniqueness based on how it is aged, where it is made, what it is made from, and how it is barreled. Guests are invited to celebrate Father’s Day with one of Bank & Bourbon’s bourbon experiences – whether it is a tasting and culinary pairing prepared by Executive Chef Thomas Harkins or a more lavish experience of Steak & Bourbon.
Extend the celebration at Loews Philadelphia with the Park & Stay package, offering complimentary parking for one vehicle during your stay. Travelers who book any two-night (or more) stays booked direct, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Loews Philadelphia Hotel will donate to DonorsChoose to help fund Philadelphia school projects for the 2021-2022 school year. DonorsChoose is an online non-profit that makes it easy to help teachers and students in need by allowing people to donate directly to local public school classrooms.
• Barcelona Wine Bar: This year for Father’s Day Barcelona Wine Bar will have a couple of options for dads who like to eat (who doesn’t?). Inspired by the culture and hospitality of Spain, Barcelona is great for families looking for a little something for everyone: open for indoor and outdoor dining, Barcelona’s streetside patio vibe is fun, familiar, and full of energy for a welcoming Father’s Day Brunch with a menu of tapas and dishes both simple and elegant, including seasonal picks alongside Spanish specialties and Mediterranean flavors like benedicts, torrijas and huevos estrellados, and of course, paella.
Do you still need a gift? Forget a boring tie for Dad on Father’s Day and instead elevate your gift-giving game with a Barcelona Wine Bar Experience: four in-restaurant “experiences” designed to showcase the best of the restaurant in a VIP way, including the Charcutería Experience, the Spanish Wine Experience, a Wine & Tapas Experience, and a Paella Experience. Charcutería and Spanish Wine Experience are each $60 and the Wine & Tapas and Paella are $130. Gift cards for the experience are beautifully designed cardstock with gold or silver foil accents.
• East Passyunk Avenue: East Passyunk Avenue, home to over 150 independently-owned businesses in South Philadelphia, is a one-stop shop for Dad this Father’s Day. For the imbibing Dad, pick up a six-pack of craft brew from Stickman Brews, The Bottle Shop, and Separatist Beer Project, or a bottle of delicious craft spirits from Manatawny Still Works. For the stylish, fashion-forward Father, purchase some new digs from South Fellini, A Man’s Image, and Metro Men’s Clothing. And lastly, if food is the way to Dad’s heart, treat him to a hearty and delicious meal from Bing Bing Dim Sum, Ember & Ash, Flannel, Fond, Noir, or Stogie Joe’s Tavern.
• Jet Wine Bar: Jet Wine Bar, Philadelphia’s “global vineyard,” is a one-stop shop for the oenophile Dad who considers himself to be a wine connoisseur. Give the gift of hard-to-find worldwide wines such as Leb Nat Gold and Leb Nat Ruby from Couvent Rouge in Lebanon, available in limited supply for purchase at Jet Wine Bar’s bottle shop. Alternatively, Jet Wine Bar offers an array of gift packages such as Orange is the New Wine and Au Naturel, each including three bottles of carefully curated wines, available for purchase online.
• New Liberty Distillery: New Liberty Distillery, the South Kensington craft distillery and home to award-winning spirit lines such as the revived heritage Kinsey brand, is excited to share the Kinsey Spirit Trio, a gift set containing three 375 ml bottles perfect for teaching an old dog even older tricks from Pennsylvania’s oldest whiskey brand. This Father’s Day, for $59.99, self-dubbed favorite children can treat Dad to three spirits that speak to the test of time: Kinsey Rye, Kinsey American, and Kinsey Bourbon.
- Kinsey Rye: A blend of three different mash bills of rye whiskey: A surprisingly rounded sweetness for a rye, with dry spice, ripe starfruit, and melon on the palate, with a finish of pepper and molasses.
- Kinsey American: Blended to replicate the flavor profile of a 1940s/50s sample of Kinsey: Opens bright and vibrant on the palate, leading to floral, semi-sweet vanilla notes, and finishing with hints of honeycomb and caramel corn.
- Kinsey Bourbon: A blend of two different bourbon mash bills: Warm and complex on the palate, with notes of honeysuckle, toffee, unripe orange, and grass, culminating in a sweet spice finish.
The Kinsey Spirit trio is available online at New Liberty Distillery’s website, here. This boozy gift set is also available for purchase onsite at New Liberty Distillery in the South Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia.
• Sabrina’s Café: Sabrina’s Café, the locally grown group of popular breakfast, lunch, and (in one case) dinner restaurants, is taking advantage of grilling season this Father’s Day by cooking up delicious burgers on the outdoor grill at their Collingswood location on Sunday, June 20 from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Enjoy “Dad’s Breakfast Burger”, composed of 8 oz. beef, cheddar cheese, and an over-easy egg on brioche, served with chips and water, available for takeaway.
• Silk City Diner, Bar & Lounge: Silk City Diner, Bar & Lounge, the retro and eclectic bar and lounge with beautiful art and artifact filled outdoor garden is pulling out all the stops this Father’s Day with a Surf & Turf special on Sunday, June 20 from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. Foodie Fathers are welcome to enjoy Silk’s classic Summer Filet & Jumbo Shrimp Skewer ($20) composed of filet tips, gulf shrimp, tri-colored bell peppers, red onion, locally-sourced mushrooms, ramp butter, and an arugula and heirloom tomato salad. Better yet, Dads enjoy a refreshing pint of Philadelphia Brewing Company Kenzinger beer, or a glass of peach iced tea, included with this Summer Filet & Jumbo Shrimp Skewer.
• Urban Farmer: Urban Farmer, Logan Square’s modern American steakhouse, boasts an extraordinarily well-sourced and meat-forward menu — perfect for all those steak-loving dads out there. Treat Dad to a Father’s Day ultimate carnivore’s treat, with Urban Farmer’s New York Steak Tasting ($70) — featuring three distinct cuts, including a 6 oz of Joyce Farms Grass-Fed, a Creekstone Natural Prime, as well as an 1855 Beef 21-Day Dry Aged. Additionally, UF’s menu includes other excellent, in-house butchered and aged cuts including Dry Aged, Ribeye, Filet, and New York Steak.
Guests may choose from an extensive list of delicious sides and steakhouse add-ons such as Baked Mac N’ Cheese, Grilled Asparagus, Twice Baked Fingerling Potato Tart, and Candied Bacon. You can get it for indoor and outdoor dining from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
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Bagels & Co.
Northern Liberties, the years of waiting are over and Philly’s hottest food neighborhood finally will get its bagel shop! Glu Hospitality debuts its first-ever breakfast and lunch concept Bagels and Co at 1001 N. 2nd St. The grand opening celebration kicked off on Friday, June 4, and is running through Sunday, June 13. Derek Gibbons and Tim Lu, the dynamic duo behind Germantown Garden Grill, Vesper Dayclub, Leda and the Swan, Germantown Garden Grill, Hunnies Crispy Chicken, The Igloos at Germantown Garden and Vesper Center City, are proud to debut a 1,100 square foot breakfast, lunch, coffee and bagel cafe and shop that is modern, clean, simple and stylish, complete with an opening menu filled with over a dozen varieties of Brooklyn-style Bagels, over two dozen inventive, creative and signature cream cheeses and spreads, along with fresh made-to-order sandwiches, salads, baked goods, and other goodies.
On the coffee side, Bagels and Co. is ready to give the neighborhood a jolt with fresh-brewed coffee in partnership with D’Amico Coffee Roasters. The menu features gluten-free and vegan options as well. In the kitchen, Glu is serving from-scratch Brooklyn-style bagels – that are soaked in water to make them puffy and crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. For cooking the bagels, Glu had special custom fabricated steam ovens made just for this first location for Bagels and Co.
“We love Northern Liberties and have invested over the years in making it one of the best places in Philly to eat, drink, live and work,” said Gibbons. “We have invested heavily in the neighborhood with a diversity of projects – and we saw a need for a bagel and coffee shop that was open seven days a week, with a variety of options, at a smart price point. We partnered with D’Amico Coffee Roasters and researched our options and came up with the idea of Bagels and Co. The idea came at a perfect time as with the pandemic, we had to close our nightlife destinations. The shutdown really had us step back and look at how we would pivot in the short term, but we also examined our business model for beyond the pandemic. A day-time, stylish cafe for our favorite neighborhood was the perfect option – with plans for more Bagels and Co. coming in the near future. The sky’s the limit as we seek opportunities around the city, the suburbs, and then even beyond Philly. The response has been crazy positive and even overwhelming, so we are taking our time, spreading out the celebration over a whole week, and we can’t wait to meet everyone and introduce Philly to our bagels!”
On the menu, look for over a dozen bagels that include plain, everything, salt, garlic, onion, egg, sesame, poppy, rainbow, cinnamon raisin, french toast, pumpernickel, cheddar habanero, whole wheat, whole wheat everything – and other specials to be announced. Bagels are only $2.00 each for standard bagels, and $10 for a 1/2 dozen, and $18 for a full dozen. Bagels with cream cheese selection are $4.00 each.
For toppings, look for over two dozen (and counting) spread and cream cheese options – including vegan, non-dairy, gluten-free and more. The opening line-up includes Plain cream cheese, Veggie cream cheese, Lox cream cheese, Black truffle, Cucumber dill, Birthday cake, Veggie tofu, Cheddar bacon, Jalapeño cheddar, Zaatar, Sundried tomato, Maple bacon, Non-dairy / Vegan – Tofu, and so much more.
Breakfast and lunch sandwiches are also available and made to order upon customer request, plus look for a pre-set menu of signature sandwiches. Bagels and Co. proudly serves Boar’s Head Deli Meats. A sample of sandwiches includes The Classic for $9.00 with lox or whitefish, cream cheese, tomato, onion, and capers. BEC for $8.00 includes bacon, egg, cheddar, salt, pepper, and ketchup. PB Banana for $7.00 includes peanut butter, banana, and bacon. On the lunch side, look for a Turkey, Ham or Roast Beer and Swiss Sloppy Joe, The Cuban, Grilled Cheese, Jerk Turkey, Italian, Caprese, Reuben, Chicken Salad, Tuna Salad, and Egg Salad. The 2nd Street for $10.00 features pastrami, muenster, and deli mustard. All sandwiches can be made with any bagel on the menu.
For coffee, Glu has partnered with D”Amico for special roasting blends that were designed exclusively for Bagels and Co. Coffee beverages include the standards with a tight menu of well-done drinks – including coffee, espresso, double espresso, cappuccino, latte, matcha, iced coffee, iced latte, iced matcha, red bull cool, Nitro cold brew and more. Coffee by the bag is also available for sale, as are Bagels and Co. merchandise, and grab-and-go market items, beverages, and more.
The 1,100 square foot space was completely renovated and replaced with a clean, cool, modern, and simple black and white design with subway tiles, accent pieces, light tonewoods, and a giant coffee bar and refrigerated case. For design, Gibbons and Lu opened up the wall on the N. 2nd Street side to show off the giant floor-to-ceiling windows to allow in a new bright and airy feel with tables that look directly out to the sidewalk scene. Inside, look for stools and a railing along the inside of the Piazza windows with seating for up to eight people. Inside, marble-top tables are set to start for up to 12 people. Outside, Bagels and Co. is the only eatery in the Piazza and Liberties Walk with ample courtyard space for covered weather-proof dining with the massive 20+ feet overhang that connects N. 2nd Street with the inner Piazza courtyard.
Save the date for Philly Gay Pride Month celebration and fundraiser with $1.00 from sales of Bagels and Co.’s signature rainbow bagel between June 11 – 13 will be donated to Philly Asian Queer for their work in the community. Additionally, on June 12th, Bagels and Co. will celebrate their grand opening with festivities all day with a free cup of coffee with any bagel or sandwich purchase. Bagels and Co. will stay open that day for a Grand Opening Public Party in conjunction with Northern Liberties Second Saturday and Artists at Work, with a DJ, featured artist at work, samples, giveaways – plus a local offer for the neighborhood with 10% off for any locals who show identification, mail or anything that says they are from No Libs and 19123 zip code – or from anyone that works in the neighborhood.
Opening hours are seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. For more about Bagels and Co. click here.
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National Bourbon Day
National Bourbon Day is Monday, June 14. Whether you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift idea, a great bourbon for your go-to cocktail, or trying to find a place with the best deal in the city, Philly Influencer has you covered.
• Art in the Age: Art in the Age offers a slew of bourbon-forward bottled cocktails to be enjoyed to-go in four-packs or al fresco at the verdant cocktail garden. Guests can imbibe refreshing tipples like the classic Old Fashioned composed of New Liberty Distillery Kinsey Bourbon, Jack Rudy demerara syrup, and Dashfire J. Thomas decanter bitters. Another fan-favorite is the Kentucky Mule crafted with Kinsey Bourbon, Pickett’s medium spice ginger syrup, Bitter Housewife’s lime, and coriander, topped with seltzer.
• Milkboy Philly: To commemorate National Bourbon Day, MilkBoy Philly is offering $2 off select bourbon to commemorate the day. Imbibers and bourbon lovers looking to sip on a refreshing cocktail to celebrate the special occasion need look no further than the signature Pharmacist ($11) crafted with bourbon, pineapple, and honey for a satisfyingly smooth drink.
• New Liberty Distillery: New Liberty Distillery offers two powerhouse bourbons meant to be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or expertly mixed in a craft cocktail. The Bloody Butcher Bourbon is a flaming blend of corn, barley, rye, then paired nicely with notes of milk chocolate, butter, leather and stone fruit on the palate, finishing with a dash of dry spice. Another Philly favorite is the Kinsey Bourbon–warm and complex on the palate, infused with the notes of honeysuckle, toffee, unripe orange, and grass culminating in a sweet spice for a finish.
• Red Owl Tavern: Red Owl Tavern offers one of Philadelphia’s most comprehensive selections of brown spirits. This National Bourbon Day, the Old City hot spot will be whipping up bourbon-forward libations such as The Libertea ($15), a perfect sipper to celebrate with. Guests can indulge in the cocktail indoors or outdoors, prepared with mint green tea-infused Old Forester Bourbon, honey syrup, lemon juice, apricot liqueur, and egg white, garnished with angostura drops, lemon wheel, and a touch of mint sprig.
• The Twisted Tail: The Twisted Tail boasts an exceptional array of bourbon-infused tipples for guests to luxuriate in including Cargo Plane($13) composed of Orange Cardamom Bourbon, Lo-Fi Amaro, and a citrus touch. Guests can indulge in this satisfying drink over an unforgettable evening with friends or family.
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Philly Beer Week Events
Philly Beer Week comes to an end this Sunday, June 13. There are still plenty of events you should circle on your calendar for fun, sips, and so much more.
Thursday, June 10, 2021
- A Visit from Ruby with 2SP at Jose Pistolas: Happy hour drafts include flights of 3 or 5 plus special release bottle pours and cans.
- Pony Party with Jade from Half Acre at Memphis Taproom: Boots the Philly Pony will be at the taproom to hang around so you can pet him while sipping on a beer.
- Taps in the Beer Garden at Libertee Grounds: 6:00 to 8:00 om featuring Ten7, New Trail, Triple Bottom Brewing and Punch Buggy Brewing. It’s at 1600 W Girard Ave Suite C5.
Friday, June 11, 2021
- Standard Tap Presents: “Once & Future Kings” AN Evening with Stickman Brews.
- THC (T-Ball Hitting Cans) at Memphis Taproom: A Philly Beer Week favorite event where you get to drink great and smash some cans.
- Garage Bands Volume 1: First ever live band performance at Garage! Four Lean Hounds will be rocking from 8 pm-midnight. Featuring beers from Founders and Sweetwater, as well as cocktails from Campari. The event is at 1231 E Passyunk Ave.
Saturday, June 12, 2021
- Love Your Locals at Lucky’s Last Chance: Featuring local beer specials from Levante, New Ridge, Love City Brewing, Wissahickon Brewing, Victory and Attic Brewing. The event is taking place at 4421 Main St.
- Troubles End Brewing: Local Lager Fest featuring Human Robot, 2SP, Forest and Main,
- Attic Brewing Co., Crime and Punishment and 2nd District. Stop by the festival at 50 West 3rd Ave. Collegeville, PA.
- GLOW UP Dance Party at Love City Brewing
Sunday, June 13, 2021
- Sour Sunday Anniversary Party at Roy Pitz Barrel House
- Live Music at Levante Stables featuring musical stylings of Colin McGetrick 1:00 to 4:00 pm. You can enjoy the live music at 208 Carter Dr. Suite 2, West Chester, PA.
For information and the remaining calendar of events for Philly Beer Week, click here.
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Vaccines and Cheesesteaks
Lutheran Settlement House (1340 Frankford Ave.) will be opening its doors on Friday, June 11 for a great cause and a cheesy one. From 4:30-7 pm, they’ll be administering free Pfizer vaccines for ages 12 and up. There is no registration needed. You’ll just need a form of identification and/or health insurance cards. If someone does not have insurance, they are encouraged to attend to speak with an administrator for accommodation. The first 100 people to get vaccinated will get free cheesesteaks and ice cream compliments of Weckerly’s and Joe’s, and Fishtown District.
The event, the first of a city-wide campaign, called ‘Vaccinations for All’ is funded through the generosity of the William Penn Foundation.
‘Vaccinations for All’ is a direct, bi-lingual call-to-action for hospitality industry workers and owners to hit the 70% vaccination rate goal and will entail pop-up clinics across West, Center, South, and North Philly areas.
You can follow Candis McLean on Twitter (@CandisRMcLean) and e-mail her at [email protected].
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