How to Feel Like You’re on an Episode of ‘Sex and the City’ in Philadelphia, PA
Ready to live like Carrie Bradshaw, without the NYC prices? Then these hotspots, tips and tricks, and style inspo will help you live your best city girl life right here in Philadelphia, PA.
The happy hour hotspots (for those GNOs)
If you’re a working girlie (perhaps you’re a writer, like Miss Bradshaw and myself, or a nurse, marketer, accountant, recruiter, teacher, or anything in between) who often finds herself in Center City, these are the happy hour hotspots perfect for your next GNO (or, “girl’s night out”) after a long shift:
The upstairs rooftop bar and lounge counterpart to the popular Mexican eatery Condesa, El Techo is the rooftop that has everyone in the city buzzing all spring and summer long. Reminder to go early if you’re in the mood for their out-of-this-world margs, because El Techo is usually packed and poppin’ by 5:30 for happy hour on the weekdays.
Perhaps something of a hidden gem, The Dandelion gives you British gastropub vibes right here in the birthplace of the U.S.A. Featuring an impressive beer and wine list and light English bites, this spot is another great happy hour pick right in Rittenhouse.
Also in Rittenhouse Square, a.bar is the upscale bar counterpart to the sleek and ultramodern eatery a.kitchen– and in my experience, it serves up some of the best craft cocktails in the city.
Middle eastern fare plus a fantastic wine list (even during happy hour)? Sign me up. This trendy-but-casual spot is a great go-to for those girl’s nights out that turn into dinner, because the food here is truly top-notch.
The style stops you need to know about
Many people may not know, but Philadelphia is home to (nearly) just as much high-street shopping as any other major U.S. cities. Visit Walnut Street for some higher-end brand experiences (read, Apple, Allo Yoga, Free People, etc.), or check out Manayunk (my favorite neighborhood) for some upscale resale and RemixOnMain, and beyond!
Caffeination stations
Nested in the lobby of the (gorgeous) Comcast Technology Center, Vernick Coffee Bar is a nice casual spot to enjoy craft Vernick-inspired light bites (and your morning joe, of course). Plus, the vibe here is just right, with modern design elements all around, so it’s worth a work-from-cafe stop for sure.
With multiple locations all over the city, you can’t miss La Colombe. From popularizing the draft latte game (and boasting the best nitro cold brew I’ve ever had), La Colombe is a convenient and can’t-go-wrong coffee stop every time.
Another Philly favorite of mine, Passero’s has various locations across the city, too, and always offers service with a smile. Plus, their non-dairy options are always on point, and their fresh roasted beans make every cup taste super crisp and refreshing!
A one-man run coffee shop in Manayunk, Mama’s Boy has some of the most creative lattes (and the most heart!) of any coffee shop I’ve ever visited. Try the signature Lil’ Zooz, for sure– you won’t regret it.
The (new) workout plan
I’ve sung the praises of this Manayunk hotspot before– but it’s always worth a mention. This is the gym I go to most regularly for group fitness classes, and it’s simply the best. The staff, the vibe, and the space are all top notch, and a barre session with Cate, Elaina, or Sarah is sure to whip you into shape in no time!
If you’re in Center City and in need of a pick-me-up workout, the HIIT sessions at Ripped PHL will get you sweating. If you want major calorie burn, this is it– trust me.
Looking for a workout that’s a little less traditional? Rumble is a boxing gym (frequented by celebs like James McAvoy when he’s in town, BTW), that offers cardio boxing workouts that help you burn calories and build strength while boosting your confidence, too!
Yes, Philly has a Barry’s Bootcamp location for all you dedicated fitness queens– you’re welcome!
So, where do you like to spend your time in the City of (Sisterly) Love? Let’s discuss,
Xoxo,
MM.