Josh & Celia
Things To Do
K'Far Cafe
This is one of Josh and Celia's favorite restaurants in Philadelphia. They do a delicious brunch, with the pistachio sticky buns being one of their most popular menu items. However, if you're lucky enough to get a reservation for dinner, do not skip out on their amazing foie gras toast and signature lamb entree. Their head chef was initially the pastry chef for award winning restaurant, Zahav. Needless to say, she can do a lot more than just pastries.
Murph's Bar
Most people do not expect world class Italian cuisine to come from a classic Irish dive bar, but somehow that's what Murph's bar has managed to do. The modest exterior and bar space makes for a very pleasant surprise when you are served authentic Italian meals with hand made pasta cooked perfectly al dente. The chef himself is an Italian immigrant who does an excellent job representing his home country. Unfortunately, Murph's bar does not take reservations, but if you go early enough, you may beat the rush. Just know, that while it looks like a hidden gem, most of Philadelphia knows that Murph's italian food is unparalleled.
Suraya Restaurant
Suraya has now been named the number one restaurant in Philadelphia for a second year in a row and for good reason. Despite receiving a large spike in traffic and press attention, Suraya's quality and service has stayed consistently exceptional. Suraya is a beautiful introduction to Lebanese cuisine, having roots grounded in tradition, with an interesting twist that pushes the boundaries of what we think of in the standard Mediterranean meal. If you can squeeze in reservations, even if it is a 10 pm dinner time, it is worth trying the best of Philly.
El Limon Conshy
It's that hole in the wall restaurant that you walk into and know that they are going to serve up some authentic Mexican cuisine. You cannot go wrong with their al pastor quesadillas or carnitas burritos. There have been many debates over whether the tomatillo sauce (Celia's favorite) is the best or whether the mole sauce (Josh's favorite) reigns supreme.
Tired Hands Fermentaria
Are you a beer snob? Look no further. Tired Hands is the best brewery in the Philadelphia area. They make delicious craft brews from saisons to IPAs. If you're lucky, you can catch them at a time where they have one of their famous milkshake beers on tap...if they haven't already sold out within the first day.
The Dandelion
It would not be a list of Philadelphia recommendations if there wasn't at least one Stephen Starr restaurant on the list. Celia and Josh celebrated one of Celia's birthdays here, along with her family. This restaurant is incredibly charming and pays homage to the stereotypical British pub. If it's not an English breakfast you want, you can google Stephen Starr and have a go at one of his other restaurants -- Talula's Garden, Continental, and El Vez to name a few.
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
Every major city has their selection of museums and art galleries. However, not all cities have a magic garden. If you have been anywhere near social media, at least one of your friends or friend of a friend will have their profile picture taken at the Philadelphia Magic Gardens. The whole thing itself is a work of art with mosaic creations from floor to ceiling. If you've never been, you should at least go take a look. At the very least, you'll be able to get a new profile picture.
The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute is the foundation of some of Celia's favorite childhood memories. Interested in science? Look no further. You can learn about the applications of virtual reality, or you can take a tour through a giant heart! If your lucky, you can score tickets to their "after hour" events that range from game of throne to harry potter themed exhibitions. It's always a good time at the Franklin Institute!
The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
You can't expect two physicians not to recommend the Mutter Museum! It is an extensive archive of all the strange medical diseases and their almost inhumane ways of treating them in the past, prior to more significant medical and technological advancements. As wacky as the exhibitions are, they are incredibly educational and fascinating...that is if you can stomach it.
Dalessandro's Steaks
Philadelphia is the land of the cheesesteak. To avoid falling into a tourist trap, avoid Pat's and Geno's. The real (and best) Philadelphia cheesesteaks are at Dalessandro's. This is a little diner Josh and Celia would frequently visit when studying late night for some much needed motivation.