Photo by Laura Reehling

Small local businesses are still feeling the impact of COVID-19, so here’s a great chance to support them as the popular West Philly restaurant promotion event returns with new dates and new deals. The 2021 University City Dining Days kicks off this Wednesday, Oct. 20 with more than 20 restaurants participating in the event. In addition to returning participants like Dock Street West, 48th Street Grille, and Renata’s Kitchen, new participants include Chengdu Famous Food, Kusina Philly, Woosa Bubble Tea, El Taco, Lulu Cafe and more. Continue Reading

The 2019 Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll (Photo by Lora Reehling).

Baltimore Avenue Dollar Strolls, typically taking place twice every summer, have always been very popular, drawing huge crowds of both West Philly residents and guests. But this year, the event is returning with a new take, after taking a break last summer due to the pandemic.

On Saturday, Sept. 25, from 12 – 4 p.m., visitors are invited to stroll up and down Baltimore Avenue between 40th and 52nd Streets to visit local small businesses and restaurants during the Baltimore Avenue Saturday Stroll. Although there won’t be $1 offers from most participating businesses like during the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll, they will offer Stroll specials, discounts, and unique offerings during the event. Continue Reading

As the Delta variant began spreading earlier this summer, some Philadelphia area businesses, mostly restaurants, started requiring proof of COVID vaccination for entry. Other businesses, who do not require proof of vaccination, have to ask their customers and staff to mask up, according to updated citywide rules. In West Philly, the following businesses and event organizers are currently requiring proof of vaccination (and some of them masks, too):

• World Cafe Live is reopening its indoor space at 30th and Walnut for in-person events on September 29th after hosting events online for more than a year. The popular West Philly music venue has recently posted an update on its COVID-19 policy, which now includes proof of vaccination:

“Until further notice, all guests will be required to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination for entry to World Cafe Live. Negative tests will not be accepted at this time.” Continue Reading

Many small local businesses have been hit very hard by the pandemic, but they’re holding on and some even have some exciting news to share with the community:

Lil Pop Shop Partners with Weckerly’s Ice Cream

From left to right: Weckerly’s owners Andy Satinsky and Jen Weckerle, and Lil Pop Shop owner Jeanne Chang (Photo by Megan Kelly).

West Philly’s Lil Pop Shop and Fishtown’s Weckerly’s Ice Cream, have recently announced a new partnership. Starting this Friday, April 16, Lil Pop Shop customers will be able to enjoy a variety of scoops and other ice cream treats from Weckerly’s. Over in Fishtown, Weckerly’s flagship shop (9 W. Girard Ave.) will offer a selection of Lil Pop Shop’s small-batch fruit and cream based-pops. Continue Reading

The city is lifting some more coronavirus restrictions imposed on businesses on Nov. 20 due to a spike in new cases. Starting this Saturday, Jan. 16, limited indoor dining at restaurants is allowed to resume. Restaurants can reopen at 25 percent capacity and are allowed to seat only up to four people from the same household at one table. Indoor catering events and entertainment are still not allowed.

“Everyone must wear a mask at all times, especially when they are sitting and eating,” Philadelphia Public Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley said on Tuesday when announcing loosening of indoor dining restrictions. Here’s what this means:  Continue Reading

University City District (UCD) is launching University City Dining Days this weekend with new deals to showcase West Philly’s diverse restaurant scene and a new meaning – to offer support to an industry severely impacted by COVID-19.

This year’s Dining Days promotion will run from Saturday, Sept. 19 through Sunday, Oct. 4 and will feature not only the typical option of three courses for a set price, but also alternate deals including to-go cocktails, special add-ons, and takeout options, all perfect for picnics in the neighborhood’s public spaces.

Nearly 30 restaurants are participating in this year’s Dining Days, including returning participants like White Dog Cafe, Distrito (pictured), and Vientiane, and newcomers like Kusina Philly, Loco Pez, and Booker’s. Participating restaurants offer choices for takeout, outdoor dining, or indoor dining, where applicable. Available options include three courses for a set price ($15, $25, or $35), free add-ons for orders over a certain price threshold, and deals on make-at-home kits and takeout beer and cocktails.  Continue Reading