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City Cast Philly

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Philadelphia has one of the hottest food scenes in the country — just ask the Michelin Guide, which 

awarded three Philly restaurants a Michelin star

Since our culinary landscape is constantly growing and changing, we’re here to help you stay on top of it all. Here’s a recap of some of the Philly restaurants, bars, cafés, and other food spots that have recently opened.

Karak Cha House and Kabobeesh | 3748 Lancaster Ave. (University City)

This is your one-stop shop for halal Pakistani food in West Philly. From 

, you can sip on traditional or fruity teas, refreshers, and shakes. Highlights include brown sugar cardamom cha, rooh afza refresher, and a mango shake. If you’re looking to fill your stomach, 

 is serving up kabobs, curries, and sandwich rolls with daily specials including lamb kabobs, fried fish, and tandoori chicken. Both businesses can be found in the same building.

 recently expanded to its second Philly location. Promising a menu that’s both healthy and accessible, The Juice Pod sells cold-pressed juices, superfood smoothies, and açai bowls.

Mr. Fries Man | 2313 Frankford Ave. (Fishtown)

Locally owned and operated by the team behind 

, this L.A. street vendor-turned-chain is hopping coasts with its new location. 

’s menu focuses on loaded fries, including honey garlic with shrimp and bacon cheddar. Coming soon exclusively to the Philly location: cheesesteak fries.

Rougarou Baking | 526 S. 4th St. (Queen Village)

Queen Village’s bakery scene just got bigger. 

’s Jewish and Cajun shop offers delectable sweet and savory pastries from chocolate babka and lemon meringue tart to cardamom buns and jambalaya hand pies.

Iron Hill Brewery | 1150 Market St. (Center City)

 is back on Market East under new ownership. 

 include the chicken pot pie, beer-battered fish and chips, and baby back ribs. Patrons can select from over 20 craft beers to wash down their meal. If you’re just outside of Philly, locations in Huntington Valley and Wilmington are set to reopen soon.

,” thanks to the abundance of gourmet cookie shops in the neighborhood. Blueprint Cookies relaunched earlier this month as Cookie Head, offering four core flavors: chocolate chip, cookies & cream, sugar cookie, and chocolate peanut butter. Each month, the shop rotates a selection of special flavors, such as guava cheesecake. There’s also a selection of vegan and gluten-free treats!

 | 501 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Suite 2003 (Northern Liberties)

Enjoy waterfront views at this new tavern located along the Delaware River, the latest venture from the owners behind Libertee Grounds. The bar offers tavern plates including burgers, oysters, steak frites, and oven-roasted wings. If you’re looking to try unique cocktails, go for the caramelized onion martini.

 in the country) has finally arrived! Located inside the former Reef Restaurant & Lounge, the bar has two floors for sapphics to gather. The menu includes hot dogs (real meat and vegan options), grilled cheese, and toasted chickpeas. For drinks, you can grab the “Butch Bait” or “Touch-Me-Not” cocktails, or select a beverage from the mocktail menu.

 | 1099 Germantown Ave. (Northern Liberties)

Michelin-winning chef Laurent Tourondel is bringing wood-fired cooking to Northern Liberties. Guests can expect a flavorful, seasonal menu with dishes such as grilled branzino, prime rib, and orange-spiced duck breast.

Chinatown’s latest addition is right next to its iconic Friendship Gate. The Japanese chain with a cult-like following is bringing its 

. Choose from flavors like matcha, Oreo, chocolate, or the original with a vanilla bean custard filling.

If you were sad to see Mac Mart’s brick-and-mortar store close its doors, fear not. Your mac-and-cheese needs can still be met at its new kiosk right outside the Comcast Center. You can also grab hoagies, cupcakes, and other treats from local eateries.

Pick up a bottle or attend a tasting at Lovat Square, where wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers can browse a selection of 400 wines. The new addition to Chestnut Hill is opening in phases, with outdoor dining in the garden in the spring and a full-service restaurant and bar in the fall.

After making hoagies for over a century, Ricci’s is showing no sign of slowing down. The hoagie shop has expanded to Fishtown, where you can grab a chicken salad hoagie, black pepper turkey hoagie, or the corned beef special.

Philly loves its cheesesteaks and hoagies, but pretzels are another staple in this city. Go beyond the typical salted pretzel at Pretzel Day Pretzels, where you can order flavors like cinnamon sugar, longhots provolone, or s’mores.

The dessert shop opened its third location this month after gaining a following in Pennsport and Fishtown. The new storefront offers indoor and outdoor seating, evening coffee hours, and its signature mousse cakes. Need something savory? The shop has breakfast and lunch options, with expanded grab-and-go service at the Center City location.

Cleo Bagels’ loyal customers in need of coffee to shake off their sleepiness can stop right next door at Little Bean. Grab some bagels, bialys, or espresso and hang out in the new sister location.

 | 1537 Spring Garden St. (Spring Garden)

South Sichuan is bringing the heat with its authentic Sichuan meals. Munch on dandan noodles, cumin-style lamb, and dry pepper wings. The restaurant also provides several 

If you used to be a regular at Franny Lou’s Porch in Kensington, its spirit lives on at d’griot cafe. Blew Kind’s gallery and community space has already been operating workshops and storytimes, but the wellness cafe is the newest addition. Grab a yogurt bowl or biscuit breakfast sandwich before going about your day.

You no longer have to schlep over to West Philly or Port Richmond for this taproom experience. Carbon Copy has officially expanded to South Philly, serving up locally-made beers and wines. The menu also has a variety of non-alcoholic options. Don’t just go for the drinks — the pizza and wings are pretty solid.

If you need something sweet that’s vegan-friendly, stop by 

’s new location. Grab ice cream, brownies, and custom cakes that are free of animal products. And if you try one of Crust’s toaster tarts, you won’t ever think about Pop-Tarts again. Plans for the new location include cake-decorating classes.

Philly’s bar scene just got bigger. Serving up drinks from Human Robot and channeling an eclectic vibe with decor from Thunderbird Salvage, the bar’s keeping things local by inviting patrons to come and ponder in good company. Ponder also has a takeout wine and beer shop if you’re on the go.

Another new addition to the neighborhood is the latest venture from 

. Taking inspiration from travels in Italy and collaborator Meri Medoway’s heritage, this restaurant offers handmade pastas, crudo, and antipasti with seasonal ingredients.

The Phillypino food scene continues to grow. Fans of Filipino BYOB Tabachoy will be excited to hear that its “big brother” restaurant is finally open. Manong is ‘90s-inspired grillhouse with prime rib, blooming mushroom, and lumpia on the menu. Nostalgic guests will recognize details from a decade gone by, including a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles arcade game and a playlist with the ’90s’ biggest hits.

Get a taste of Europe while staying stateside. Banshee, the latest addition to South Street West’s bustling restaurant scene, takes inspiration from France, Spain, and England. Enjoy Spanish mackerel, Berkshire pork collar, and great white oysters. If you’re headed for the bar, seats are available for walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis.

Head down to this bank-turned-saloon for a full cowboy experience. Second Hand Ranch is your one-stop shop for vintage threads, hot dogs, and beer. The hybrid space’s saloon is serving up Western inspired cocktails like Gold Rush and Spicy Saddle. A full food menu will be available in February.

Move over, Starbucks. One of Vietnam’s biggest coffee brands is setting up shop in South Philly. Popular drinks include affogato, tiramisu latte, and sparkling espresso. If the beautiful interiors aren’t enough for you, go upstairs for rooftop views. This is a good spot if you need a caffeine boost late in the day or a place to hang out after work that isn’t a bar. This cafe is open until 8:30 p.m.

If you’re looking for more alcohol-free options as Dry January approaches, check out this new botanical beauty in the city. Stocked with tea from Northern Liberties’ Random Tea Room, customers can pick blends that match their needs, from digestive relief to immune resistance. This is another space open late, opening some days at 8 a.m. and closing as late as 2 a.m., giving Philadelphians more places to socialize without the booze.

Nestled right at the edge of Fitler Square, Pine Street Grill is intended as a casual, everyday restaurant for neighbors. From the team behind Michelin-winner Her Supper Club, the grill offers “Philly Balls” with roast pork, provolone, broccoli rabe, and hot relish; a PSG Burger with two dry-aged beef patties smashed with Cooper sharp; and fat eggplant parm.

"Uchi" is the Japanese word for home, and that sentiment is at the center of James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole’s upscale restaurant. Cole opened the first location in Austin in 2003 and has since expanded to eight cities — with three more Uchi locations planned for 2026. The new Philly spot, led by Chef Ford Sonnenberg, is cozy and full of non-traditional Japanese dishes like Hama Chili in addition to some locally-inspired meals.

Philly’s local culinary scene is constantly growing and changing. Here’s a recap of some of the restaurants, bars, cafés, and other delicious spots that have opened since 2024. Check them out! 

New Philadelphia Restaurant Openings, April 2026

Your Guide to New Restaurants, Bars and Cafés in Philly

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Philadelphia. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Philly Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Siani Colón

Each election cycle, you’re likely to see questions on your ballot asking you to vote on changes to the Home Rule Charter. Similar to the federal government, which has the U.S. Constitution guiding its functions, Philadelphia has its own document setting the rules for how our government operates.

, broke down how the powerful document is working out 75 years after its creation and why Philadelphians should recognize its importance.

What functions of the city’s charter impact our day-to-day lives?

“When the charter was adopted…it really shifted a lot of authority from state to local government. It established a strong-mayor form of government in the city, allowing our mayor to have two terms, allowing our mayor to appoint department heads, and to propose the city's budget.

“The Home Rule Charter dictates the powers that the mayor has, the powers that the city council has, and it actually defines a lot of the roles and responsibilities for different departments, different positions, and how some of our government bodies operate.”

In the first 50 years, only four charter changes were passed. Since 2000, we have seen a dramatic increase. What were the initial changes in those early stages, and why did changes increase in the modern era?

“The Home Rule Charter really outlines pretty much everything for city governance. So if you want to make small changes to certain things, it likely needs to be done through an amendment process. The types of amendments have covered a pretty wide range of things that include creating or modifying offices. It includes providing details for certain city positions, the fiscal health of the city, and creating various funds.

“But it also includes things such as non-binding amendments, like referendums on public opinion, using gender-neutral language within the charter itself when referring to council members. The types of amendments have really run the gamut in recent years. And because the charter covers so much about city operations, if you're gonna change anything, you're likely going to have to go through a process to amend the charter in order to do it.”

What have been some of the most influential or most controversial amendments throughout these 75 years?

“The ‘Rule of Two’ limited hiring managers in the city to choosing from the two candidates for a city job that happened to score highest on the civil service exam, which really limited managers' abilities to hire for that role. [It] also limited accessibility, potentially, to government roles for Philadelphians seeking to work for their government. That was repealed several years ago and has really opened up opportunities for more and different types of candidates to work for the city.

“One that I think is most controversial would be the 

. The rule was included in the original charter and at least twice in the past, has reached the ballot to propose either eliminating or modifying the Resign to Run rule…Both of those times, voters voted it down and wanted to keep the Resign to Run Rule.

“I do anticipate that that's one that we’ll continue to see debated moving forward.”

How successful has the charter been in its mission to curb corruption?

“The charter emerged after decades of political turmoil with the goal of [curbing corruption] and being a good governance effort. … [By] establishing merit-based hiring, [it] reduced nepotism and political patronage. It also strengthened the oversight of city finances and departments.”

“There have been efforts over its 75 years to improve upon that foundation and continue that through amendments that are voted on by the people of Philadelphia. One example being the establishment of the independent 

… which is a body that enforces lobbying, campaign finance, and conflict of interest policies and regulations.

“It's a living, breathing document. I think the fact that Philadelphians are able to use it to voice their opinions and weigh in on the shape and direction of their city's governance also contributes to that.”

Was there anything in particular that had surprised you throughout your research?

“Learning more about the attempt in the 90s for more of a wholesale reform of the charter. That attempt, which included the development of a charter reform commission, proposed over 60 different changes within one full amendment to the charter. That effort wasn't successful. One of the main reasons is from our understanding, is that there really wasn't a clear message to residents about what those changes were trying to accomplish.

“Whether adjustments to the charter are made … or if there's an attempt at wholesale reform in the future — it's really important that residents understand what they're being asked to approve and…how it is for the betterment of the city. And that voters continue to be able to weigh in at the polls on whether the change is right for the city."

Do you think we could ever see a hard reboot of the city's constitution in our future?

“It remains to be seen. If it were to happen again, I think it's just really important to understand why. Why would the charter need to be reformed, and in what ways would that be for the betterment of the city?

“Make sure that the folks who it would impact, which is essentially the residents of Philadelphia, understand it and agree with it, and that they're able to weigh in on whether it should happen.”

read the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter in full here

click here to read Pew’s research on the document’s legacy

The document detailing how Philly’s government operates has had more than 80 amendments since 2000. 

What Does Philadelphia’s City Charter Actually Do?

Why This 75-Year-Old Document Is Foundational to Philadelphia

What's being decided in Philadelphia City Hall and why it matters. We monitor local elections, political news, and Philadelphia City Council. 

Philly Election and City Hall News

Local Civics

April 26 is National Pretzel Day, and there’s no better place to celebrate than in Pennsylvania, which 

 in the U.S. Philly’s contribution is our signature soft pretzel, with its tight figure 8 design and bronzy color. Whether you’re looking for a Philly pretzel or the classic style, here’s where we recommend grabbing a doughy bite.

Operating in Reading Terminal Market since 2008, 

 offers “Amish-style” pretzels in honor of owner Roger Miller’s hometown of Lancaster. The stand sells classic soft, buttery pretzels along with flavors like garlic and sour cream-and-onion. You can also find pretzel roll-ups in flavors such as cheesesteak, chicken feta sausage, and jalapeño cheddar.

Next time you grab breakfast, forget about the bagels. 

 switches up your typical breakfast sandwich by offering it on a soft, hot pretzel. You can pick from cinnamon, salt, or everything seasoning and get two eggs and Cooper Sharp cheese with a choice of meat. If you want something lighter, grab a pretzel with cream cheese.

If you really want a bagel, then behold, 

 sells the bagel/pretzel combo with a 48-hour advance notice, but you can also find classic Philly soft pretzels if you’re keeping it simple. The bakery prides itself on being nut-free, Kosher-certified, and vegan-friendly.

4500 Worth St., Unit A (by appointment only)

 first gained notoriety in Philly’s pop-up scene by hosting bake sales in West Philly. While you can still find Wilson at a pop-up, you can also pre-order her popular pretzels when a drop is announced on 

. Or sign up for a beginner-friendly pretzel-making workshop to learn about the history of pretzels and how to make your own.

 is the go-to source for the signature Philly Pretzel, or specialty bites like the pretzel dog and pepperoni melt. If you come on National Pretzel Day, claim one free pretzel.

 sells Bavarian and Swabian pretzels. If you’re looking for stuffed pretzels, you can find pizza pretzels, long hots, and even a blackberry/raspberry streusel.

 in Manayunk sells regular soft pretzels along with hot dog pretzels, pizza pretzels (with or without pepperoni), and an everything twist. You can even order specialty shapes like a 

If you’re a fan of sourdough, stop by West Philly’s 

. Baked in-house, the bakery offers soft sourdough pretzels. 

 due to its fermentation process, contributing to its rising popularity.

 Pretzels might as well be synonymous with Pennsylvania. Here’s where to find the best ones, from classic to unique iterations, in Philly. 

Where To Eat the Best Pretzels in Philly

It’s warming up in Philly, which means that it’s officially festival season! With the 

, there are plenty of events to keep us busy — and working up an appetite! Chow down on the best that Philly’s culinary scene has to offer at these spring festivals.

Manayunk’s Main Street will be blocked off to traffic for one of the largest food truck festivals in the country. The 

 invites food trucks from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware to fire up the grill and offer everything from tacos and burgers to dumplings and skewers. This year’s event will be larger than usual, with more than 85 food trucks. Plus, the neighborhood’s main corridor will be open for business, so visit Main Street’s restaurants and shops while you’re there on April 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

One of South Philly’s biggest festivals is back for its 16th year on April 26 from noon to 5 p.m. East Passyunk’s 

 shines a light on the neighborhood’s favorite restaurants. Walk along five blocks of the corridor and grab a bite (or two, or three). If you need a break, stop by the Singing Fountain for live entertainment or buy a gift from one of the 100 or so vendors.

This food festival honoring Pan-Asian solidarity 

. The collaboration between Roots to Table and Asian Food Collective returns to Fleisher Art Memorial on May 3. Eat food from a range of Asian cultures with vendors including 

. While you’re there, learn about resources from Philly’s Asian-led nonprofits or grab crafts from local artists. Entry is free, but you can 

The Lancaster Avenue 21st Century Business Association is bringing this West Philly corridor to life with a 

 on May 16. Eat your way through Philly’s favorite food trucks at The Lawn at UCity Square at 37th and Filbert Streets. Then, head to the main stage at 37th and Lancaster for a dance party.

Help fund initiatives supporting home ownership, small businesses, and the community at 

 spring fundraiser on May 30. Hosted at the Commodore Barry Irish Center, your ticket includes food from the neighborhood’s top chefs and bakers, and an open bar. Tickets are available on a sliding scale between $50 to $250. And be sure to dress to impress — the suggested dress code is colorful cocktail attire.

Sometimes it’s hard to find restaurants or festivals that 

 returns on June 13, now at Girard College. The day-long event will feature over 50 vendors selling plant-based food and products, talks from leaders in plant-based health and activism, and family-friendly activities.

Explore dishes from BBQ to plant-based spins on classics at these upcoming food festivals. 

Food Festivals To Look Forward to Spring 2026 in Philly

Get a Taste of Philly’s Food Scene at These Spring Food Fests

We’re a month away from Pennsylvania’s primary election, when voters will decide who will appear on November’s ballot, including candidates for key positions like the 

Before casting your vote on May 19, make a plan. Here are the important deadlines to remember as Election Day approaches.

The deadline to register to vote or update your registration before the primary is 

, calling 1-877-VOTESPA, or reaching the Philadelphia County Voter Registration office at 215-686-1590.

. You can also register in person at 520 N. Columbus Blvd. 5th floor (Voter Registration Office), City Hall Room 402 (Philadelphia County Board of Elections), or a 

If you prefer to use mail, print an application online or grab one at the post office, the Free Library of Philadelphia, state liquor stores, or certain government offices. 

You’ll need to update your registration if you have moved or changed your name since the last time you voted.

deadline is also your last chance to update your party affiliation before the election. Pennsylvania is a closed primary state, meaning that you can only vote for candidates in the same political party as you, Democrat or Republican. Independent or nonaffiliated voters cannot vote for a candidate during this election, but you can vote on the 

. These voters can fully participate in November's general election.

If you cannot physically make it to the polls, you can request either an absentee ballot or a mail-in ballot by 

. The Philadelphia County Board of Elections must receive your application by 

 by people who will be away from the city on Election Day or are in the military. In the case of an emergency, 

last-minute absentee ballots can be requested

. Mail-in ballots are available to all eligible voters. You can also decide if you want a one-time mail-in ballot or apply to be an 

 is Election Day. The county election board must receive your mail-in ballot or civilian absentee ballot on this day by 

If you are voting in person, polls are open from 

Make sure you’re set to participate in this May’s election by following this list.


Register To Vote Before the 2026 Pennsylvania Primary Election

Your 2026 May Primary Checklist

Moving regularly each day can reduce stress, improve your sleep, and decrease your risk of diseases. So it’s no surprise that running clubs are a popular way to not only stay active, but also make new friends. However, some may want to start their wellness journey at a slower pace. Here are some walking clubs to ease you onto the trails.

This initiative between the Fairmount Park Conservancy, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, and the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation invites residents to get to know their neighborhood park — and perhaps visit others — 

. Trained leaders guide seasonal hour-long walks in parks around the city. 

You may have walked through the city, but have you ever walked around it? 

 encourages residents to explore the city’s borders by walking its perimeter either on their own or with a group. The challenge is designed in segments (trying to walk Philly’s entire shape in a day may be 

challenging) to connect with new-to-you sections of the city and gain a deeper understanding of what makes Philly, Philly.

 organizes multiple workouts each month all across the city. You may have seen its

 before. In addition to its walking group, you can participate in other group-fitness workouts and a book club. All 

 is a dedicated walking and wellness group for women of color in Philadelphia. The group organizes walks along the city’s bridges and trails or to specific destinations such as coffee shops and farmers' markets. Walks are adult-only unless specified otherwise.

 promotes accessible nature-based wellness activities with animals. The project hosts 

 at its home base at Awbury Arboretum and throughout the city. In addition to its goat walks, it also hosts grief walks.

Did you know that if you walk just five miles, you’ve completed 10,000 steps for the day?

 uses it as its marker for its weekly walks and runs. If you’re interested in joining the group and staying connected, you can 

🏃 If you’re looking for a little more speed, 

Walking Clubs

Here’s my favorite walking club!

Not everyone is training for a marathon, so these groups are encouraging slower movement in Philly. 

Join a Philly Walking Group Near You

Get Your Steps In With These Philly Walking Groups

Find the best of everything that Philadelphia has to offer.

Philly’s Best

Philly's Best

, it’s a good time to start thinking about what to plant in your garden this season. 

 to your plot and pot. Not sure where to find some? Here are some upcoming plant sales and swaps to spruce up your garden while supporting local businesses.

Remember the former Greensgrow Farm in Kensington? The 

 is taking over in partnership with the New Kensington Community Development Corporation. The institute is kicking this new era off with an 

. Attendees can go on a "wonder walk" that includes snacks and plant activities led by staff. The organization has also opened plant orders. 

 on April 18 to celebrate Earth Day. Make native plant 

 with other community members, along with other activities, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

 on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The street will be blocked off outside of the MLK Triangle to make way for workshops, music, and plenty of plant supplies. Interested in vending? 

Several festivals and businesses are hosting major pop-up sales to help you find the perfect plants for your garden. 

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