For all you Philly folks out there, I’ll be posting some of my new favorite Philadelphia spots every {or every other} Friday. They’ll be a mix of shops, restaurants, art, and other new discoveries I think are worth recommending. Most will be in the Center City (downtown) area since that’s my hood. So, here you go…
FOOD:
Giwa ~ Simple Good Korean Food ~ 1608 Sansom Street (Rittenhouse Sq.) ~ 215-557-9830
My husband is Korean, and we typically do not go to any Korean restaurants downtown because they are overly trendy and the food is much less authentic. But Giwa is a great place to get quick, easy Korean staples that are pretty satisfying to the Korean food lover. It’s an order and sit down place with a modern feel and young atmosphere. Prices are cheap for a meal (around $10 for an entrée), but a bit expensive compared to Korean food in Koreatown. But, to be able to walk in and sit down, take it to go, or (soon) to get it delivered, is well-worth the few extra bucks you’ll be paying, especially for those of us who live in the city and don’t have a car. You can go to Koreatown another night when you’re with a larger group and want to stay and linger over BBQ and Soju.
WORKOUT:
Lithe Pilates ~ Amazing Workout ~ 1030 N. 2nd Street, No. 401 (N. Liberties) ~ 215 928 1662
Lithe was named Best of Philly this past summer and for good reason. I’ve been a member since the Spring, and it was an amazing way to get in shape for my wedding. Lithe mixes classic pilates with barre ballet work, weight training, isometrics, and more. If you’re looking to shed a lot of weight, you’ll need to combine this with more cardio and good eating habits. But for better tone, posture, and strength, it’s a total body workout that will get your butt in gear!
ART:
Jessica Ritter’s Show ~ Rowan University, New Jersey
The opening for Decor{ate} is tonight, Friday, October 27th. The show will be a giant installation with hand painting on the walls, prints, paintings, hand-screen printed pillows, curtains & fabrics…and will be up until November 6th.
{Check out more Philly spots in the category section to the right called Local Finds.}
just discovered your blog and love it! i live in nyc but go to philly often to visit my boyfriend and your philly suggestions are very helpful. esp the korean restaurant rec! altho im biased since i’m korean 😉
Thanks for the Philly Favorites. I live in Jersey, and have been coming into the city to take a class at Moore. On my way to Remedy Tea (1628 Sansom) last night, I passed Giwa and had a light-bulb moment (hey, that’s the place that joy was writing about!). I will make a point to stop in some time. (And I love, love the felt hats from yesterday!)
I love GIWA! I believed I tried everything beside the Soft Tofu Stew because I don’t like tofu but I heard that dish is really popular. I highly recommend Kimchi Pancake (if you’re a kimchi lover), Dak Bulgogi (if you’re a meat lover)and Dol Sol Bibimbob. Most of their dishes can be vegetarian upon request.