Darling’s Style

In the past month Darling’s Diner has gone from a neighborhood eatery to a 24/7 fully liquor licensed operation. As diners go, what more could you want? How about a night of free chair massages, sex therapy, boutique clothes, high end make up and more – and it all benefits a pedal powered cause.

This Thursday, October 14, Darling’s is hosting its first ever Fashion and Cosmetics Presentation with a one-hour free open bar from 6:30pm – 7:30pm as well as raffles and tastings for guests until 10pm. Advanced tickets are available online for just $15 but waiting to buy them at the door will cost $25.

Bringing the season's newest, hottest and trendiest trunk show clothes will be personal stylist Mary Harvey of Rack & Roll Clothing Co. Motives Makeup will have a selection of products and make-up artists on-site to help apply and explain all of the new fall colors.

Also on location will be two massage therapists offering chair massages, a sex therapist offering tips and advice, a personal trainer who specializes in marathon running, an interior designer and energy auditor to give advise on eliminating carbon footprints in the home and health and wellness product samplings. There will even be an anti-aging guru there to demonstrate a 3 minute non-invasive face lift.

Raffle prizes will include a full face demo by the guru, a two month membership to the Bellvue, tickets to the Walnut Street Theater, a handmade messenger bag, a bike helmet, private yoga and Pilates sessions and other prizes.

Live Loud, a network of wellness professionals, will be putting on the benefit, bringing with them their network of experts who encourage a balanced life in eight different areas – adventure, career, family, finance, social, spiritual, romance and health. Live Loud partners to market products and services, while giving back to the community through non-profits and charitable organizations.

The Darling’s Fashion and Cosmetics Presentation will benefit Gearing Up, a non-profit that helps women coming out of the cycle of abuse and addiction. Individuals get help while learning how to ride and maintain a bicycle, using bicycle safety as a metaphor for life. Live Loud is aiming to help raise $2,000 for their cause by donating the entire ticket price, raffle ticket sales and 20% of all of the products sold during the evening.

Darling’s Diner 1001 North 2nd Street Philadelphia, PA 267-239-5775

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High Steaks Cheesesteak Challenge

So here we are again. Back to the ever-raging Philadelphia debate – who’s got the best steak in town? This Sunday, October 17, Square 1682 is hosting its first annual Cheesesteak Challenge: High Steaks Chef’s Showdown and block party on Sansom Street between 16th and 17th from 3pm – 5pm to celebrate its first anniversary.

Nine of the city’s top chefs will face off in a gourmet cheesesteak throw down, creating their interpretations of the classic wiz wit / wiz wit-out. Chefs include Guillermo Tellez of Square 1682; David Boyle of Davio’s; Brinn Sinnott of Noble; Peter Woolsey of Bistro La Minette; Jason Goodenough of Happy Rooster; Mike Stollenwerk of Fish; Paul Healey of Domaso; Dennis Marron Jackson of 20 and The Grille at Morrison House; and Massimo De Francesca of Nios.

Who better than to judge the festivities than the Philly cheesesteak professional himself, Tony Luke, of – duh, Tony Luke’s, The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Michael Klein and others chosen from the city’s media and marketing sectors.

Tickets to the showdown are $20 and include tastes of all of the entries plus, three Victory Brewing Company brews. All of the proceeds go to benefit Philadelphia Academies, a Philadelphia based charity dedicated to career focused programming in our public schools.

The event will be held rain or shine and tickets will be available both online or at the door.

SQUARE 1682 121 S. 17th St. Philadelphia, PA 19103 Adjacent to Hotel Palomar Philadelphia 215-563-5008

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It’s Blocktoberfest Baby!

Tis’ the season for outdoor festivities and Blocktoberfest, the annual Christian Street block party is 100% into the festivis spirit. On Saturday, October 16th from 12noon – 8pm, celebrate the food, drinks and music of the fall between 20th and 21st on Christian. Blocktoberfest has been accumulating sponsors and vendors to make this second annual block party one to remember. Here’s a rundown of what to expect.

The Bites These days, every respectable outdoor event must include some of the cities best food trucks. Expect tasty treats from Koja, a U-Penn campus Korean and Japanese food truck, The Dapper Dog, the late night food truck usually stationed on 2nd and Poplar with the creative combo dogs and Coup de Taco another University City transplant. No Twitter stalking will be needed to find Honest Tom’s Taco Truck this Saturday – the coordinates are locked at Blocketoberfest. The Sugar Philly truck will be on location as well to satisfy everybody’s sweet tooth.

The Brews What goes perfectly with a fall festival? Some local brews, of course. With 11 different breweries rep-ing three different brews each and even some gleuten free selections, there will definitely be something for everyone including varieties from Bell’s, Blue Point Brewing Company, Dock Street, Ithaca Beer Co, Ommengang, Sly Fox, Troegs, Victory, Yards, Weyerbacher and more.

Beer passes are required and will be available in advance for $10 ($12 the day of the event) entitling festival-goers to three 12oz drinks - none of that half full, little plastic cup, tasting action. These are full, official, complimentary Blocktoberfest beer steins.

Beer passes can be purchased online or at one of the Blocktoberfest box office locations; Beauty Shop Café at 20th and Fitzwater or Sidecar Bar & Grille at 22nd and Christian.

The Tunes Headlined by The Budos Band, Blocktoberfest is bringing out nationally recognized and emerging artists and musicians including The Love Language, Cozy Galaxies, Allo Darlin’, Strange Engineers, New Pony and DJ Handsome Sam to keep it moving between sets.

Proceeds from Bloktoberfest go toward the architectural preservation of Shiloh Baptist Church at 2040 Christian St, a neighborhood landmark listed in the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places and designed by Frank Furness in 1868.

The event is also bicycle friendly and will offer bike parking via bike racks donated by Bicycle Therapy, at 22nd and South.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Reel Winners On The Big Screen

For many movie aficionado’s the thought of seeing the latest big money blockbuster on Delaware Avenue would make their skin crawl. They prefer the nice, cushy, reclining seats and clean, non-soda-covered floors of say, The Ritz rather than an AMC. And while action packed CGI created effects are great, these movie buffs would prefer a nice documentary any day of the week. Luckily, this week marks the start of the 19th Annual Philadelphia Film Festival, presented by the Philadelphia Film Society.

The 10day event begins this Thursday, October 14 and runs until Sunday, October 24, featuring 216 different screenings of over 100 different domestic and international narratives, documentaries and short films. The films will be featured on 11 different screens in 6 venues throughout Philadelphia and Bryn Mawr.

Though the star of the festival will be up on the big screen the festival will also be full of VIP receptions and events including a variety of panels with industry professionals and special guests. Tickets for all of the screenings are available online and festival organizers do suggest purchasing ahead of time. Print them out and take them with to avoid box office lines and sold out shows. There’s even a twitter feed keeping film lovers constantly in the know about sell-outs, changing schedules, special guests and event information. And for the next 10 days, the events are nearly non-stop (listed below) and even star studded.

Highlights include the Stewart Bradley Charity Event, a pep rally / cocktail party, that will be held at the Sumo Lounge at Raw on Tuesday, October 19, from 8:30pm – 10pm to support the Philadelphia Film Society’s Annual Fund. For just $25 at the door, that covers drinks and light hors d’oeuvres, mingle with Eagles Middle Linebacker, Stewart Bradley and support the cause that has brought Philadelphia this festival for the past 19 years.

There is also a 10th anniversary screening of M. Night Shyamalan’s Unbreakable on Thursday, October 21 at 7:30pm at the Prince Music Theater. General admission tickets for the screening are just $12 each, followed by a Q&A hosted by the director himself.

There are also many free admission events that would be great for movie lovers or even film students like the Sigma Sound Industry Panels, which will be held this Saturday, October 16 and Sunday October 17 from 12noon – 2pm at Sigma Sound Entertainment on North 12th St, where industry professionals will give their insights on current hot topics of the film world – like Saturday’s panel discussion on "Making a Film in Philadelphia."

So check out the links, pick your poison, sit back, relax and enjoy the show. But FYI - there are no trailers before the movies, so assuming there’s time to grab some snacks and hit the head before the movie will leave you out in the lobby – there are no seating guarantees after the screenings begin.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Mr. Greengenes Brings It To McToberfest!

Having Ocean Drive withdrawals? Haven’t gotten your fix of packed parties and awesome cover bands in a while? This Saturday, October 9, head to McFadden’s for the 7th Annual McToberfest. Doors open at 2pm and the party won’t stop until 2am.

Join philly2night and Coors Light to enjoy some great Oktoberfest foods as well as $3 Coors & Coors Light and $5 Pinnacle Vodka and Red Bulls all day long.

With Kristen and The Noise opening up for headliner Mr. Greengenes, the party under the tent is going to be wild! Plus, a portion of the proceeds goes to the Ronald McDonald House Charity, so you’ll also be doing something good for the world.

Get on the Coors Light VIP Party Guest List to get free admission and two complimentary Coors Lights to start the afternoon off right! But in order to take advantage of this day drinking deal, you have to arrive between 3 and 5pm. Keep your eyes out for the philly2night Street Team for a VIP Admission Pass OR just sign up for the Guest List here!

If you're not on the guest-list and you arrive after 5pm, it is a $15 cover and NO complimentary Coors Light. So, get yourself and your friends on the list, arrive early and DON'T MISS OUT!

McFadden’s Saloon 461 N 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 215-928-0630

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Tria’s "Fun Little Cousin," Biba, Finally Comes To Town!

As hanging out with “fun little cousins” can sometimes go, there are usually some surprises in store that weren’t expected. Maybe they are a little more grown up than previously anticipated, maybe their friends are wild and crazy or maybe they just love to drink wine and all this time hanging out with the little cousin could have been really cool. Who knew?

The team from Tria. That’s who. They knew that an upscale wine bar was just what University City needed. And this Friday, October 8, at 4pm, Biba will open its doors to the public as something a little younger, a little hipper and a little trendier than its older and more distinguished fam in Center City - Rittenhouse Square Tria, 18th and Sansom and Washington Square West Tria, 12th and Spruce.

Biba, though young and hip is absolutely anti-techie, aka, no TV’s, no Wi-Fi, no live music or karaoke. I guess we can safely rule out a facebook page. The “farmhouse – industrial” interior feel is just the right mix to make desperate internet seekers forget that their computer won't connect to anything. Maybe picking it up out in the patio seating next spring will be a possibility!

The intention is to have guests be distraction free long enough to enjoy one of the 26 wines by the glass or 10 hand selected artisanal beers as well as the simple, affordable cheese, charcuterie or chocolates offered on the menu at this chic, yet back to basics location.

Good food, good drinks and as long as the people that are there to join the party are in good spirits, good company too. Biba will be open Sunday - Thursday from 12noon - 12midnight and Friday and Saturday from 12noon - 1am.

Biba Wine Bar 3131 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 215-972-7075

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Fashion Week Finale!

Didn’t make it to any of the other Fashion Week events? Well this one is the grand finale! Make it or miss out for the year.

This week from Wednesday, October 6, to Saturday, October 9, CMK Entertainment will be holding the 2nd annual Philadelphia Fashion Week at the 23rd Street Armory in Rittenhouse Square. Each night offers a little something different including runway shows, musical performances, an open bar, lite bites and on-site shopping and except for Thursday, all events are 21 to enter.

During the four nights of events, Philadelphia’s most fashion forward including buyers, partners, vendors and designers will all be in attendance to see their work walk the runway including some of the top designs from the area’s most talented student, indy and emerging designers as well as professionals with looks from New York, London, Russia, Peru and Italy, each hand selected to represent the Philadelphia Fashion Week’s theme, The International Spirit.

Wednesday’s event will kick off the runway events and feature individual pieces by top local designers. Doors open at 6pm and the event will run until about 10pm.

Thursday’s event, beginning at 5pm, is open to all ages and will feature the area’s top student collections from Drexel, The Art Institute, Moore College of Art & Design, The University of Delaware and Philadelphia University. Immediately following, everyone is invited to Fashion Week's College Night Afterparty at City Tap House, on The Radian Balcony at 39th and Walnut Street. With no cover, a full menu until midnight and DJs Manny Romano & Adrian Hardy from 11pm-2am.

Friday and Saturday are dedicated to the international designers who have come in from around the world. Doors open at 6pm. On Saturday, don’t forget to wear red to support the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women campaign. After the show, LOTiS Media & the Spring Garden Social Club are presenting the Official Philadelphia Fashion Week After Party at Zee Bar, 100 Spring Garden Street. Fashion Week guests receive complimentary admission until 12:00 a.m. and half price admission until 2:00 a.m.

All of the collections will showcase the spring and summer 2011 looks and keeping on top of all of the different events may pose a challenge for even the most experienced fashionista. So this year, CMK Entertainment is launching a helpful Philadelphia Fashion Week app designed by Invictus Mobile Media, PhlFshnWk that is free to download.

PhlFshnWk will provide late breaking updates including times that specific designers will be presenting their collections, artists performances and so much more. This also makes printed materials nearly obsolete, putting a little green in Fashion Week.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Best Joke Wins 2 Tickets To Chris Fairbanks At Helium!

Helium Comedy Club welcomes Chris Fairbanks to the spotlight and philly2night has tickets to give away. We’re always looking for some good giveaways for our members and two reserved seats to a show this week sounded good to us!

So tell us your best joke. And don’t just make us giggle, make us piss ourselves laughing because your joke is so hysterically funny. Give it your best shot.

Post your joke in the comments below. Winners will be contacted via facebook and tickets will be left for them at the Helium box office the night of the show.

First place wins two tickets for the Friday night, 10:30pm show! Second, Third, Fourth & Fifth place each win two tickets for either the Wednesday or Thursday night 8pm shows - you're gonna have to duke it out.

Fairbanks will be performing from October 6 – 9 here in Philadelphia and you can catch his act for free on Wednesday, October 6, Thursday, October 7, at 8pm or Friday, October 8, at 10:30pm.

Chris Fairbanks took first place in 2003's Funniest Person in Austin contest, received 1st runner-up in Comedy Central's Laugh Riots contest, and has appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live and Comedy Central's Premium Blend, as well as Season 7 of NBC's Last Comic Standing and is currently is an action sports correspondent for the Fuel TV network.

Helium Comedy Club 2031 Sansom St Philadelphia PA 215-496-9001

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This Little Piggy Went To Ladder 15 - And He Tastes Delicious!

So after this weeks heartbreaking / rib shattering loss to McNabb, a Vickless Eagles squad will be on the road for next Sunday’s matchup against the 49ers. Obviously, tailgating is out of the question and if you drug your feet on the Green Legion trip, don’t worry, there’s still hope for your Sunday.

Ladder 15 pig roasts are a solid bid, even if the plan is for a couple weeks away. Ladder Chef David Ansill will roast up a full porchette as well as collard greens, corn bread and one draft beer (via the hot bartenders, not Ansill) for $25 a person for parties of 10 or more.

Orders need to be a week in advance, so think ahead but if you’re quick on the draw, you might still make this week’s order!

Otherwise, Ladder 15 is always offering Chef David Ansill’s NFL Tailgate, all day, every Sunday with NFL Sunday Ticket. Food specials, a Bloody Mary bar, $4 craft beers and $12 buckets of beer.

Ladder 15 1528 Sansom St. Philadelphia, PA 215-964-9755

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Baby Blues BBQ Brings West Coast Love To U City

After making its presence known with three locations out in Cali, Baby Blues BBQ is bringing it home to the Philly scene with a new BBQ joint up in University City at 34th and Sansom that is set to open Friday October 8, at 4pm.

And after a year and a half of searching for the perfect location, Baby Blues decided that University City had the perfect mix of students, professors and professionals to fill the 125 seat double-wide townhouse to capacity.

An open kitchen surrounded by a u-shaped marble counter top sits dead center of the two properties allowing BBQ lovers to sit and watch as the chef’s prepare Baby Blues’ time tested, finger lickin’ dishes recipes. (The counter itself has historical ties to the city and is said to come from the streets below Independence Hall – good to know.)

The menu, recipe and preparation of the ‘Q’ is identical to what’s found in any of the other Baby Blues BBQ locations in West Hollywood, Venice Beach or San Francisco, CA, a Memphis dry rub/ North Carolina hybrid, if you will.

All of the meat, pork, ribs and chicken included, are cured for between 24 – 48 hours and slow cooked for 10 – 16 hours, depending on its weight. All of the dishes are served and then sauced at the eaters discretion with house made sauces like the Eastern Carolina a vinegar and pepper sauce, the Central Carolina a mustard based sweeter sauce, the Sassy Molassy more of a Kansas City style, the XXX Sauce made with seven or eight different kinds of peppers and even a Ginger Tabasco sauce.

Sides are also all house made including the “crack and cheese,” I mean, mac and cheese, sweet potato mash and collard greens. Plus, 11 of the 14 side dishes are vegetarian friendly.

Though Baby Blues is predominately a restaurant, its bar scene, possibly its fabulous BBQ and presumably years rooted Philly clout, has managed to wrestle away the 610 WIP Live Post Game Show from heavyweight, Chickie and Petes, even BEFORE its opening night. After last night’s fiasco of a Birds game, the Post Game Show was broadcast from Baby Blues BBQ.

Opening night is Friday and for the first couple of weeks, Baby Blues will be strictly a dinner locale. But after getting through the opening kinks, the UC spot will be open every day from 11:30am – midnight and until 1am and 2am on the weekends.

Baby Blues BBQ 3402 Sansom St Philadelphia, PA 19104 215-222-4444

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Get Your Grub On At The Night Market’s Street Food Bazaar

Everyone knows Philadelphia has a solid bar scene and restaurants out the wazoo. But the food truck community has grown past the limits of the university’s curbs and into the hearts of the Philly foodie.

This week’s long awaited Night Market, brought to us by The Food Trust (aka The Headhouse Farmers Market and such) is the first of six roving foodie trains to roll through our neighborhoods over the next 18 months.

Night Market, Philly’s first street food bazaar is setting up camp at Passyunk and Tasker Streets this Thursday night, October 7, from 6pm – 10pm featuring live music and over 20 of the city’s favorite food trucks and local restaurants.

After having to reschedule due to a rainy night in September – yeah, like the ONLY rainy night during the entire month - this free to roam event has been rescheduled and is ready to roll. It’s the perfect way to highlight the thriving food cart scene in the city and hungry street food loving Philadelphians are chomping at the bit to get a taste of the first nights favorites including snacks from local East Passyunker brick and mortar spots as well as the gas and go types that are the star of the show.

Most of the food available will be GFG – good for grazing. A fried rice ball here, some Caribbean fried fish there and hey, why not just throw in that Mexican pork and pineapple taco while we’re at it, because that just sounds too good to pass up!

And missing out on this Thursday’s bazaar could be completely detrimental to your foodie cred – the next one isn’t scheduled until spring.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

The Midtown Village Fall Festival Is Bigger-Than-Ever!

Some like to call it the Gayborhood. Others call it the Midtown Village. But a rose by any other name is still a rose. This Saturday, October 2, the whole neighborhood is getting into the spirit and setting up for the “Bigger-Than-Ever” 2010 Midtown Village Fall Festival. The free to wander block party begins at 12noon and runs until 8pm, with the main hub at 13th and Sansom, the epicenter of the 6 blocks that will be closed down for the day and we have the rundown on the best of the festivities.

Bier Gardens - After a month of Oktoberfest celebrations, McGillin’s Old Ale House (the city’s oldest tavern) will be finishing strong, transforming Drury Street into a giant beer garden. The tented area will have with live entertainment, including karaoke, German food and beer.

Vintage and Time will have a beer and wine garden as well, offering cocktails, 60+ wines by the glass wines, and tons of beers on tap with live DJ.

Outside of Fergies Pub will be a forty-foot bar with beer and food for sale including Scotch Eggs, Bocodillos and Fish & Chips. They will also have a traditional Irish Music Session from 1pm - 4 pm and Soul Piece, a rock cover band playing from 4:30pm to 8pm.

New Eats On The Block – Making their inaugural appearances at Fall Festival, Tweed, Zavino, Barbuzzo, Sampan, Fuel, Jakes Sandwich Board and Bar will all be offering snacks to the interested crowds. Food lovers that haven’t been in to check these places out yet have the perfect opportunity to try, without having an entire meal to weigh them down for the rest of the afternoon.

Old Favorites - Lolita and Bindi, 13th Street’s staple Mexican and Indian BYO’s will be serving up pork carnita tostadas and fresh tamales or Chicken Tikka wraps and Saag paneer.

Share The Love – Ok, so maybe it doesn’t seem like sushi and sake fit into the beer loving festivities, but diversity is totally the name of the game in this hood and all are always welcome. Especially when they come correct like Raw Sushi & Sake Lounge, bringing what it does best to the party - sushi rolls, BBQ skewers and sake bombs!

On The 1’s & 2’s - Q102's DJ Richie Rich will be mixing it up from Noon – 3pm while raffling off tickets to upcoming events. From 3pm – 6pm 94WYSP Philly Rock Station will also be on the street, spinning and handing out prizes.

All For A Good Cause – The Loews Hotel is sponsoring Alex’s Lemonade Stand as well as the Little Villagers section with a free kids moon bounce and carnival games to benefit childhood cancer research.

Heart.Muscle.Mind will also have a Dunk-a-Trainer dunk tank to raise money for its project to build a fitness center for a local school in need.

FYI - Parking will be a nightmare, so find alternative means. Day drinking and driving is never a good combo anyway, so the phrase of the day for the 2010 Fall Festival is definitely public transportation.

With food, cocktails, wine, beer, shopping, art, live music, and even a dunk tank, the Fall Festival offers a little something for everyone. Come out and enjoy!

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

2nd Annual Charlie Brown Great Pumpkin Beer Event

On the corner of 12th and Green lies an off the beaten path craft beer bar. It’s not along a strip of stores or even in a neighborhood where you’d generally stop. But as they say, The Institute Bar is “making the ‘hood’ a better place one beer at a time” and this Saturday, October 2, from 12noon – 11pm, The Institute is celebrating fall in the hood with its 2nd Annual Charlie Brown Great Pumpkin Beer Event.

The first 10 people to show up at The Institute's Pumpkin Beer Event will receive a bottle of Black Flag Imperial Stout’09 or Brew Works Rudolf ‘09. The next five will receive a free bus ticket to the Craft Beer Express on November 13. Plus, the first 20 people to put down five pumpkin beers will get a free pumpkin pie.

The beer list for the event will include a total of 18 pumpkin beers from Dock Street, Dogfish Head, Elysian, Arcadia, Weyerbacher, Southampton, Roy Pitz, New Holland, Southern Tier, Smuttynose, Sixpoint, River Horse, Brew Works, Blue Point, Rock Art, Brooklyn and Wolaver's. There will also be a pumpkin inspired bar menu with eight pumpkin themed items to choose from.

The Institute’s two floors will be decked out in hay and pumpkins and the event is pay as you go, with no cover and a DJ on the 2nd floor. There’s also outdoor seating available and it’s supposed to be beautiful on Saturday, so get there early.

The Institute Bar 549 N. 12th St. Corner of 12th and Green Philadelphia, PA 267- 318-7772

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Brews For Boobies Pub Crawls

In support of our favorite gals, we are again looking to save some boobies. This week, it’s brews and pub crawls which are absolutely, no doubt about it, boobie friendly activities. This Saturday, October 2, Philly Beer Scene is hosting its 3rd Annual Pub Crawl for Breast Cancer, Brews for Boobies 3.

With a $25 donation to Brews for Boobies, supporters receive a tee shirt plus food and drink discounts at eight different bars over 12 hours. There are four different crawls in all but only the South Philly and Northern Liberties still have spaces available. Center City and Old City booked up fast!

The South Philly Pub Crawl begins at noon and will stop at Lucky 13 with $1 off drinks, 1601 with $3 drafts, POPE and Devil’s Den with $1 off drafts, The Dive getting in the spirit with free pizza and $2 liquor specials, 12 Steps Down with $3 women brewed craft beers, Tattooed Moms is giving $.50 off drinks for life and half priced drafts, Brauhaus Schmitz has $4 specials and Varga Bar will be rounding out the night with ½ price beer, cocktails and wine.

The NoLibs Pub Crawl will definitely be a surprise with many of the specials still TBD, but stops include Kraftwork, Johnny Brenda’s, Cantina Dos Segundos, Standard Tap, 700, Abbaye, North Bowl and finishing off at the Varga Bar after party.

All proceeds go towards the National Breast Cancer Foundation. For tickets, visit the Brews For Boobies 3 website.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Some Like It Hot 50’s Fashion Show At Valanni

If tailored pencil skirts, peep-toe shoes, and classic hair styles are your idea of a good time, you’re not going to want to miss the Some Like It Hot 2010 Fashion show at Valanni on Tuesday, October 5, at 10pm.

Like Mad Men incarnate, the runway will be stocked with some of the hottest fashions of the 50’s showcasing local designers; South Moon Under, Three Sirens Boutique, Sorella Boutique (of Media, PA), VAMP Boutique (of Manayunk), and Senor Custom Clothiers during the fourth annual fashion show hosted by Valanni.

The fashion event will close down Spruce St. from Camac to 13th, with a U-shaped runway set up to snake from one open window, through the sidewalk and back into the restaurant, allowing passer-by’s and guests to watch the show outside as well.

Manayunk’s L’Etoile Salon and Spa will provide hair and make-up for the models and Valanni’s staff, including man about town and philly2night’s favorite go-to-pho-lebrity, Arthur Kade.

The show is free to all who are out and about in the neighborhood - especially since a runway show on 13th and Spruce is kind of hard to miss. But Valanni will be offering drink specials to guests including $5 Martini's, gimlets and Manhattans as well as complimentary hors d'oeurves and party favor gift bags.

Valanni 1229 Spruce St. Philadelphia, PA 215.790.9494

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Margarita Mondays At Philadelphia Bar & Restaurant

After a solid first weekend, Philadelphia Bar & Restaurant has done what no one has managed to do in years. Bring life back to the corner of Market and Letitia. Yes, there is Franklin Fountain but unless you’re looking for delicious ice cream served in Chinese food take out containers, it doesn’t count.

The old Triada space has been dormant for way too long – just begging for someone to open up and kill it with something a little more foodie, a little more crafty and a little less clubby than the rest of Old City on a Friday night.

Didn’t make it out over the weekend? No sweat. You’re definitely still ahead of the curve. The menu is adventurous offering items from char grilled octopus to pork belly sandwiches and a scrapple cheese steak that sounds like an absolutely, fabulously, home grown Philly combination. Go and try it out – tell me what you think.

There’s also some tamer items like crispy eggplant, a cheese plate and a burger that has gotten some positive online user reviews. Bar snacks sound tasty as well with fried mac and cheese stepping up PBR’s game.

As for the drinks specials, try out the Soco Happy Hour from 5pm – 7pm, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with $4 Soco drinks and $5 Southern glazed wings. Also, beginning this week, try the rotating list of $3 craft pints that will be available every day all day and night. Tonight, PBR is pushing their Margarita Mondays promo with ½ priced tacos and ½ priced pitchers of margaritas.

PBR is open seven nights a week from 3pm – 2am Monday - Friday to and will be launching brunch this weekend beginning 11am Saturday and Sunday.

Philadelphia Bar & Restaurant 120 – 122 Market St. (Between Front & 2nd) Philadelphia, PA 215-925-7691

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Get Your Peking Duck On With Chinatown Restaurant Week

If Center City Restaurant Week left you wanting for more, you are not alone. And Chinatown’s Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity.

Running until Friday, October 1, Chinatown will be offering fixed price menus ranging from $15 - $25 per person. With nearly 20 restaurants in basically a four-block radius, Chinatown Restaurant Week offers the highest deal to dine ratio in the city.


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Phillies, Eagles & Playboy Bunnies On The Diamonds & Denim Red Carpet

Last night, Cole Hamels and his wife Heidi hosted a Diamonds and Denim event at Union Trust Steakhouse at 7th and Chestnut in Philadelphia. The invite only, inaugural, red carpet party benefited The Hamel’s Foundation: Dedicated to Supporting Education in the US and Africa.

The city’s top media and philly2night’s own paparazzi waited behind the velvet ropes to sneak a peak at some of the city’s biggest names in sports and entertainment. You’re going to want to check out the star-studded photo gallery for the who’s who that came out dressed in their hottest diamonds and denim to support the Hamels’ cause.

The most popular style of the night was overwhelmingly True Religion with corsets coming in a close second. And everyone looked hot – especially the Playboy Bunnies that were there to heat up the red carpet including Playboy’s Miss May 2007, Shannon James, Miss June 2004, Hiromi Oshima, Miss July 2007, Tiffany Selby, and Playboy Playmate of the Year 2006, Kara Monaco.

Guests made their limousine arrivals beginning around 6pm and still came trickling in at nearly 8pm with the exception of J Roll who rolled up in the Bentley and opted to enter through the rear doors instead.

But not all the Phills were so reclusive. Hamels teammates Chase Utley, Ryan Madson, Jamie Moyer, Kyle Kendrick, Roy Halladay and the very cool Ryan Howard all walked the red carpet. And FYI, the wives looked fabulous. Eagles lineup Brent Celek, Stewart Bradley and Todd Herremans were there too.

There were also appearances by Danny Bonaduce and his girlfriend who sported matching, custom bedazzled Hamels jerseys and Survivor cast members, including Playboy Cover Girl September 2001, Jerry Manthey, Eliza Orlins, Bobby Jon Drinkard and Big Tom Buchanan.

The event featured cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, both a silent and live auction and Bernie Robbins diamond giveaway. Stand-up comedian Joe Conklin and singers Tony Orlando and LeAnn Rimes kept the crowd entertained during the night.

All ticket sales went toward Philadelphia school grants in order to help local schools receive equipment and materials that they are lacking. All other proceeds raised by the event support the Hamels’ school in Malawi Africa.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Outdoorsy Type? Blocktoberfest & Vendemmia This Weekend!

How would you rather spend this weekend? Drinking wine or drinking beer? Whichever one you choose will allow you hours of outdoor drinking and festivities. Can’t decide which one you like better? How about both.

This Saturday, September 25, celebrate Ocktoberfest with Fado Irish Pub and Misconduct during Blocktoberfest, an all day, outdoor, German beer drinking festival that will block off 15th and Locust. From 11am – 8:30pm enjoy a German beer specials, join in the bratwurst eating contest, enter a strongman stein holding competition and listen to live music including the sounds of a German polka band.

It’s free to enter either bar but to gain access to the tented festivities it’s a $5 cover. There will be German pretzels, bratwurst and wienerschnitzel and the best part is the festival prices - all beer and food costs between $3 and $6 bucks.

On Sunday, September 26, everyone’s got a little Italian in them during the 14th Annual Vendemmia Festival. Wine lovers gather every year to celebrate the harvest with wine, food, live music and wine tasting. Now, everyone knows a guy who makes the best dego-red in the city – myself included. But during Vendemmia, the homemade wine competition puts the debate to rest until next year –foggetaboutit.

Tickets are $40 per person or $50 the day of the event, but for all the red wine and delicious Italian food available, it’s totally worth the ticket price. This year, the event will be held in its new home, moving from Girard Park to Vendemmia Square between Pattison Ave & Hartranft St. at 20th and Broad, north of FDR Park.

Fado Irish Pub 1500 Locust St. Philadelphia, PA 215.893.9700

Misconduct Tavern 1511 Locust St. Philadelphia, PA 215.732.5797

Vendemmia Tickets | 215-551-3859

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Will Jack Daniel's Birthday Be A National Holiday?!

Though turning 100 may get you on the Today show, nobody’s going to give you a national holiday. But if you were born in 1850 and you're still the life of the party, we might have to bend the rules. Though records of his birth are non-existent, its distillers know that Jack Daniels’ birthday is sometime in the month of September.

In celebration of his 160th birthday this September, 2010, the "Back Jack" campaign will call on the U.S. Congress to make Jack Daniel's birthday a national holiday and is seeking supporters through a nationwide petition drive and city tour via its grass roots, virtual and viral campaigns.

The Jack Daniels distillery is collecting signatures from California to Maine, Florida to Washington State and everywhere in between. On Monday, September 27, the Back Jack Campaign Bus will be rolling through Philadelphia on its way to Washington D.C. looking for local support from Jack Daniels fans in Philadelphia and stopping off in Rittenhouse Square from 12:30pm - 2:30pm.

Jack Daniels Distillery, the oldest in the United States (registered in 1866 but operational since 1850), is asking for support for a true independent, Jack Daniels, from its friends ages 21 and up by logging in at JDBDay.com and signing the petition through a special Facebook application or even by texting JDBDay to 68405.

The tour bus will be in Rittenhouse square right in time for lunch hour, so signing up in person is definitely a possibility. Jeff Arnett, the master distiller for the Jack Daniel Distillery and only the seventh in the history of the distillery will be onsite as well. But what day is JD looking to claim as its own?

“We’re ok with any day during that month,” said Arnett. “Every year in September we do Jack Daniels birthday promotions. We’ve begun celebrating the entire month.”

So in celebration of the art of birthday month, after checking out the Back Jack Tour Bus stop and maybe scoring some JD swag, head to your favorite bar, order the official Back Jack campaign cocktail, a Jack & Ginger and put one back for Jack.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Ride A Bull, Save A Boobie

Whether or not bull riding qualifies as a boobie friendly activity is still up for debate but supporting boobies by bull riding is one of the most original concepts I may have ever heard of. So out of sheer intrigue, lets just say yes, bull riding IS boobie friendly.

That said, on Thursday, September 30, in preparation for October’s Rock The Ribbon campaign presented by breastcancer.org, a 10th anniversary celebration of cancer awareness, Buckhead Saloon on North 3rd St. will be hosting the Bull Riding for Boobies charity event.

With the mention of Bull Riding for Boobies, at the door, guests will be given free entry as well as a wristband, treating them to discounted beer towers for just $8, instead of the usual $15 and a $2 discount for the mechanical bull at just $3 a ride.

Buckhead is also offering its usual Thursday night specials including $1 domestic drafts, $3 well drinks, $4 Miller Light pitchers and $3 Soco lime and kamikaze shots. So saddle up and come out to save the boobies.

Buckhead Saloon 461 N 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 215-925-8170

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

No Dollar Bills Needed For The Sugar Express

Like camping out for the new Madden, Philly gamblers have already started to line up alongside Sugar House Casino on Delaware Ave in anticipation of today’s grand opening this afternoon, Thursday, September 21, at 1:30pm. Philly’s most talked about opening of the year has finally come.

But apparently, Sugar House has saved one last surprise for last. No – it’s not a club or really great restaurant. It’s the Sugar Express, the official transportation system and free trolley service that Philadelphia’s first casino unveiled this morning.

The Sugar Express will pick up and drop off around Center City beginning October 1, running from 2pm – 10pm Sunday – Thursday and 4pm – 2am on Friday and Saturday. Pick up locations include Love Park / Suburban Station at 16th and JFK, The Pennsylvania Convention Center at 12th and Market, The Independence Visitors Center at 6th and Market, The Hyatt Penn’s Landing at Columbus and Dock and the final destination on the Center City loop will be Sugar House Casino.

Sugar House Casino 1001 N. Delaware Ave. Philadelphia, PA 267-232-2000

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Hit The Red Carpet This Saturday At Fashion Up!

As New York’s Fashion Week comes to an end, Philadelphia’s is just heating up. This Saturday night, September 25, Fashion Up, the hottest fashion event of the season will be taking over one of the city’s most upscale hotels, The Park Hyatt at the Bellevue for a red carpet celebration at 9pm.

Hundreds of Philadelphia’s fashionistas will celebrate the city’s most dressed up, swanky, soiree showcasing the hottest looks in fashion. Local and international designers will show off the season’s hottest looks for nightlife, the office and formal wear.

Join the city’s hottest in the Rose Garden Ballroom from 9pm – 2am for light hors d'ouevres served and provided by XIX Restaurant, music by Philadelphia's DJ Adrock and DJ Savva, Master of Ceremonies G-N Kang, guest appearances by Kharisma McIlwaine and Todd Zolecki and red carpet interviews by Billboard Model, Rachel Day, MTV2’s Mena Heaven and celebrity blogger and philly2night contributor, Arthur Kade.

Tickets are available online and range from $15, for groups, to $40 for VIP access. The first 300 guests to purchase tickets online will receive a gift bag of goodies from sponsors. Guests will also be treated to complimentary massages provided by Hot Hands as well as exclusive offers and giveaways from additional sponsors.

Be sure to dress to impress because press and photographers will be on hand shooting you at your best. But don’t be more than fashionably late or you’ll end up feeling like last year’s boots – out of style.

Click Here For Tickets!

The Park Hyatt at the Bellevue 200 South Broad St. Philadelphia, PA

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

I Could Not, Would Not On A Boat - But What About In NoLibs?

Green Eggs Café has etched out a place for itself in the hearts of South Philadelphia’s hungriest café goers with its tasty menu and green approaches to brunching in the city. Now, Green Eggs is bringing its popular menu and eco-friendly habits to a place where being green is just part of being in the neighborhood - Northern Liberties.

As if it was always meant to be, Green Eggs Café is moving in on North 2nd Street between Brown and Fairmount, amongst the laundry list of notable café’s and eateries in the area. And they are poised to make their presence known doing what they do best – serving brunch eight hours a day beginning this Saturday, September 25, from 8am – 4pm (but planning to push the limits of daytime dining into the sunset hours opening from 7am – 7pm in the coming months).

Opening up a new place on a Saturday morning in Philadelphia, during the fall, sounds like a suicide mission. This is one of the most popular brunching seasons - painfully obvious to hungry patrons waiting in the many lines that snake around other popular café’s. But the 60+seat space is ready to roll and Green Eggs is confident in its second location. As for those long lines, “call ahead’s” on a busy morning are definitely recommended.

The original, located on 13th and Dickinson has been a successful venture gaining itself the recognition of a “26” Zagat rating for excellence in food, in the 2011 restaurant guide. And with the same chef and menu as its predecessor, Green Eggs, NoLibs already has a winning combination.

On the menu, diners should expect to see all of their favorites including one of the most popular dishes, The Kitchen Sink. Served in an 8inch cast iron skillet, this morning monster includes three eggs, peppers, onions and potatoes, topped off with a buttermilk biscuit and finished with a scoop of sausage gravy.

As for the rest of the menu in the new location, it’s identical to the original, except for the fountain drinks that will replace the wasteful plastic bottles still in use at the South Philly locale for its bottled sodas and canned iced teas.

But just like in its current location, all of the oil used in the kitchen will be shipped off and converted into bio-diesel fuel. Add in the bio-degradable cups and take out containers and Green Eggs Café is doing it’s part to fit in with its new neighbors and putting the green in Green Eggs Cafe.

Green Eggs Café’ Northern Liberties 719 N. 2nd St. Philadelphia, PA 215-922-EGGS
Green Eggs Café South Philly 1306 Dickinson St. Philadelphia, PA 215-226-EGGS

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Wall Street Money Never Sleeps Ticket Giveaway!

So we’ve all seen the trailer.

Michael Douglass and Shia Labeouf star in the follow up to the 1987 hit, Wall Street – Wall Street Money Never Sleeps. You know - the one where Michael Douglass has been locked up so long that when he gets out of jail they hand him back his Zach Morris cell phone?

Yeah, you know what I’m talking about and it looked pretty good!

Well this Thursday, September 23, at 7:30pm, the Ritz East is holding an invite only preview screening and philly2night has passes to give out to you!

All you have to do is click the link below and enter the promo code. Print your passes, show up at show time, grab yourself some popcorn and Sour Patch Kids or what have you and enjoy the show. Compliments of philly2night!

Why? Because we love you. No seriously though. We got out hands on some free passes - who else are we going to give them to?

To receive screening passes:

STEP 1: Log on to WWW.GOFOBO.COM/RSVP

STEP 2: Enter RSVP Code: PHL2NGBLX7

STEP 3: Call your BFF and make sure she’s free.

STEP 4: You’re good to go – sit back and enjoy the movie.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Dave Attell at Helium Comedy Club this Weekend!

Just as Philly comics make their way into the spotlight, Philadelphia comedy clubs have become a destination for some of the country’s funniest comedians. Helium Comedy Club, on 20th and Sansom has been drawing the area’s funniest stand-up for the past six years.

This season, Helium’s fall out of your seat line-up includes some of the biggest name comics out there, including this weekend’s headliner, Dave Attell, who will be on stage Friday, Saturday and Sunday, September 24 – 26. Attell was named one of the “25 Funniest People in America” by Entertainment Weekly Magazine and had a solid run with Comedy Central’s "Insomniac with Dave Attell" during the earlier part of the decade.

Other high level comedians like Joe DeVito from Chelsea Lately and Last Comic Standing, JB Smoove from Curb Your Enthusiasm, Chris Fairbanks from Jimmy Kimmel Live and Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, Nick Thune from The Tonight Show and Knocked Up and Pat Mooney from Chappelle’s Show will grace Helium’s stage over the next few weeks. They’re especially looking forward to hosting Adam Carolla this November.

Helium’s comedians perform Tuesday – Thursday and Sunday at 8pm and Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and 10:30pm. Ticket prices range from $10 - $30, depending on the talent. Reserved seating is available with pre-purchased online tickets. General admission seating is also available online or at the club and is strictly first come first serve.

All ticket holders should arrive at least 30 minutes before the show. The bar opens at 6pm, Tuesday – Saturday and Helium enforces a two item minimum. But for those of you who want to dry out, no worries. It’s a mix and match type of deal. Two drinks, a soda and an appetizer, two appetizers etc. You get the picture. The menu includes dishes like personal pizza’s, nacho’s and salads, skewers, Panini sandwiches and desserts.

Helium’s 240 seat theater is perfect for you and a friend or even a large group. Right now, it's running a birthday promo that includes four free tickets to a non-special event. Sorry, no free tickets to Dave Attell. But, there are lots of other great shows to go to. Especially when it’s free to get in for you and three friends. All you have to do is make a reservation by calling the box office, mention your birthday plans, of course and come to the show with an ID proving the month of your birthday.

But if you're tired of sitting in the audience and think you have what it takes to be a stand-up comedian, Tuesday nights are open mic night. Just try to keep the heckling to a minimum, please.

Helium Comedy Club
2031 Sansom St. Philadelphia, PA 215-496-9001

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

First Annual Ribbon Ball Brings Awareness to the Lowes

For some, awareness is wearing a colored plastic bracelet as a constant reminder. For others it’s running a race or walking a marathon. Individuals and organizations coordinate fundraisers for a cure while those who can afford it donate to a cause.

On Saturday, September 25, from 9pm - 12am, Fight For Cure is throwing its first annual Ribbon Ball in the Howe Room on the 33rd Floor of the Lowes Philadelphia. Fight For Cure, one of the largest cancer oriented non-profits in the Philadelphia area, founded in 2009, works specifically to raise funds and awareness for cancer research, education and patient care for the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson Hospital.

This year’s fashionably formal event will include a night of dining and dancing as well as a live and silent auction. Guests are welcome to bid on items like an authentic Swiss Army Watch, a Philadelphia Eagles desk chair, a Philadelphia Phillies pre-game table and an authentic Michael Jordan Jersey, which was donated by Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Company.

Mike Jerrick, host of FOX 29’s, “Good Day Philadelphia,” will be the MC for the evening, DJ Prince T, aka Seismic, will keep the dance floor full and Dr. Richard Pestell, head of The Kimmel Cancer Center, will be speaking as well. Fight For Cure also has a vintage photo booth and a menu of butlered hors d'oeuvres and serving stations in store for its guests.

Tickets for the ball are $75 each. All Ribbon Ball and Fight For Cure proceeds will be donated to the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson Hospital to continue the fight against one of the deadliest diseases.

For more information and to purchase tickets go to the Fight For Cure website.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Check Out The Young Pro's Expo!

Getting back into the swing of working all the way through a Friday afternoon is tough. Especially after a summer of cutting out early and heading down the shore. Well instead of spending your time watching the clock, plan to cut out of work just a little bit early and stop by the Shops at Liberty Place for the Young Professionals Expo next Friday, September 24, from 4pm - 9pm.

Sure you could catch it after work. But hey – why not start your Friday night a tad bit on the early side? You’re not some old fogey – you’re a young professional in Philadelphia and there’s an event made just for you and it’s calling your name.

Now don’t get freaked out. We’re not trying to lure you into some cheesy job fair. The Philadelphia Young Professionals Expo is a chance to try out some cool products and check out everyone else who’s down to do the very same thing. You can even call it social networking and justify it all.

Try liquor, beer and treats donated by companies like City Tap House, Mission Grill and Chaddsford Winery. Check out the photo booth and get a dance lesson if you’re feeling frisky. You can even join into a scavenger hunt for a chance to win some great prizes like concert tickets from the House of Blues in Atlantic City – because we all know you’re just looking for an excuse to get back to the shore.

Last minute decisions to attend will cost you $10 at the door, but thinking ahead will gain you access for free. You could also do something good for the world and donate to support local charities – gaining you extra chances to win more great prizes.

After the event, head over to Public House for the Official After Party. And since you were such a great sport, participating in the scavenger hunt and checking out all the cool products, The Young Professionals Expo will give you your first round for free!

So if you’re between the ages of 21 and 39, work or play in Philadelphia, like to eat and drink and possibly have a secret affinity for scavenger hunts, stop by the Shops at Liberty Place for the Fall 2010 Young Professionals Expo.

Click Here To RSVP & Get In For Free!

The Shops at Liberty Place 16th and Chestnut Philadelphia, PA

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Sugar House Casino Sneak Preview!

After years of planning, neighborhood protesting and 11 months of building, Sugar House Casino will be open for business on September 23 at 1pm. Philly2night got a sneak preview of Sugar House and all the games, food and atmosphere that Philadelphia’s first casino has to offer. Here’s the rundown.

The Rules - Once Sugar House is open to the public on Thursday it will remain open 24/7. But thanks to the Pennsylvania liquor laws, drinks will only be served until 2am, like the majority of other bars in the area. Casino bars will open at 7am on the weekends and between 10 and 11 on the weekdays, so at least day drinking and a martini lunch are still definite possibilities.

Smoking will be permitted on 25% of the gaming floor, to start, with the possibility to open up to 50% down the road. Parking will be free and valet is available. Like in Atlantic City, guests will be treated to complimentary cocktails while at the machines and tables.

The Games - The 45,000 square foot gaming floor is home to four pits, 1,600 slot machines and over 40 table games including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Mini Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Thee-card Poker and Four-card Poker.

The High Rollers - The high limit room has slots ranging from $.01 - $100.00 as well as eight table games with minimum bets starting at $50 and maxing out at $10,000. High limit players are also given access to the high limit lounge with all the refreshments and house baked cookies they can stomach.

The History - The interior of the casino was designed to pay homage to the Jack Frost Sugar Refinery that used to stand on the very same plot of land, which had been vacant for years before site preparations began in 2009.

The Bars - As for the bar scene, Sugar House will offer beverage service, as well as two bars. Lucky Red the smaller of the two, features a 20-25 seat bar with digital poker machines built into the bar. Think B Bar in Borgata. Lucky Red’s bar surrounds a 160 inch HD LCD TV made up of 12 different screens and is crowned with a running ticker with all of the sports scores you could want. The 12 screens can each be set to a different game, or coordinated to be one giant TV screen playing one game on the entire screen.

The next stop on the Sugar House bar crawl is The Refinery. The space is Sugar House’s ”high end” restaurant with familiar food like burgers, hot dogs and floats. The circular bar is also outfitted with digital poker machines. The view of the Ben Franklin Bridge is phenomenal – and when the whether is nice, the windows fold in, creating open-air seating for the bar and patio area with live music four nights a week. Add in the cafeteria-style tables and The Refinery seats around 365 guests.

But if all you're looking for is a quick caffeine fix to hold you over until the bar reopens in the morning, Jacks is a 24 hour grab-n-go sandwich and salads spot that's right up your alley.

The Food - The menu was developed internally, so no big name behind the food or beverage services but the Fishtown Stacker, a hand breaded cod sammie, served to us on Le Bus bread was quite tasty - as were the shoestring fries and the mini burgers.

Wells Meat Company is supplying meat for the tasty tidbits. Bread will be baked and delivered by LeBus and Amoroso and all cold cuts will be Dietz & Watson, so local is the word of this menu. Sugar House anticipates ordering, preparing and serving around 8,000 lbs. of rib eye for its cheesesteaks, 1,500 lbs. of fresh hamburger meat, 3,000 burger buns and 2,000 hoagie rolls each day.

The View - As for the waterfront, Sugar House has created a $4.5 million dollar landscaped and hardscaped community green space and scenic pathway for running, biking or just checking out the view of Camden.

The Job - There are over 900 employees currently working in the new facility. Once the initial opening is complete, talks of “Phase I,” the fist expansion of Sugar House will be in store. As well as the opportunity for more Philly jobs. The casino plans to continuously hire – so if you’re in the market, there are still and will be positions available.

The Security – Sugar House is fully equipped with over 500 cameras, both inside and outside the premises- 508 to be exact. And at any one time there could be up to 50 “Eyes In The Sky” zeroed in on you. So watch yo self, cause there’s guaranteed to be somebody watching you.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Let Lumiere Plan A Night To Remember

We all know that looking like a million bucks and having a million bucks are two very different things. But a little brush with the elite can make you feel like your part of the action and Lumiere, a new Philadelphia based lifestyle management company, slash luxury suite and cigar bar can make you feel just as important as all of the stars you follow on Perez.

Philly’s own concierge service opened its doors in Rittenhouse last week and will soon be fully functional in the Wachovia Center. Like lifestyles of the rich and famous, most people only dream of flying in a private jet, driving a Bentley or ever chartering a yacht and unless your rolling down Rodeo Drive with Puffy riding shotgun, knowing where to go for such extravagant services is only half the equation. Affording it is the other.

But Lumiere has brought all of those services and more to Philadelphia. And for a price, you can be part of all the fabulous finds they have to offer – over 30 services in all. But it’s not just things we all know you and I cannot afford – like yachts and jets –at least without access to somebody else’s black card. Some of its services are definitely attainable. Lumiere offers access to its private luxury suite and cigar bar to members and nom-members alike.

Picture this. You and your friends have a celebration at hand - maybe a high-end bachelor party or a romantic night out with someone special. Starting your night in Rittenhouse is as common as being heckled by a rowdy homeless woman on 2nd and Market.

Starting your night at Lumiere for a $25 one night membership fee allows you to sip complimentary cocktails or BYO, purchase and smoke one of the exotic cigars Lumiere stocks in its humidor and allows you to employ the services of the concierge staff who will then plan the rest of your evening. Calling ahead might not hurt either.

But whether it’s last minute or months in advance, Lumiere will put together a night of drinking, dining, and VIP access along with transportation, tickets and hotel rooms. No matter what you’re looking to do, Lumiere can provide dreams for most budgets.

For one night only members, their services are available at an hourly concierge rate of $55 an hour, plus the cost of whatever you’re looking to do. Monthly memberships come in three levels – orange, yellow and blue flame – each with its own list of benefits. They offer entertainment and travel arrangements, personal assistant services, nutritional counseling, personal shopping, errand services and even security.

This company can not only book your vacation, but they will walk your dogs, water your plants and pick up your mail while you’re gone. This is the stuff the Kardashians are made of. And now, it’s all within reach. For a price, of course.

Lumiere 128 S. 20th St. Philadelphia, PA 800-578-4142

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Come Out & Play For Recess Lounge’s 1st Birthday!

Remember your first birthday? Probably not but most likely your family gave you a piece of cake and let you dig in face first, while laughing and taking pictures. Setting the precedent all those years ago, there’s only a couple times a year when people let you get away with whatever you want. And breaking the rules during birthday week is all part and parcel of getting another year older.

Well this weekend, it’s Recess’ turn to break all the rules and getting it in, is what this Virgo does best! When the rest of Old City shuts down at 2am, Recess keeps the party going until 3:30am but getting into Philadelphia’s most exclusive playground is usually pretty pricey and if you don’t have a membership you’re out on the street dodging cops, cabs and crazy drunk chicks.

But Saturday night, September 18, Recess is letting the party in with free admission and an open bar from 10pm - 11pm. Sign-ups for this exclusive birthday party also include a membership, so you’re never left out in the cold again. Plus, DJ Ronnie D will be spinning sets all night long.

For bottle service reservations be sure to email info@recesslounge.com.

Click Here To Sign Up For The VIP Open Bar!

Recess Lounge 125 S. 2nd St. Philadelphia, PA 215-351-9026

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Phashion Phest's Runway Show Is Dressed To Kill

Bussing it up to New York to get a peek of fall’s right-off-the-runway fashions is a thing of the past. Instead, Phashion Phest brings it all to you, right here in Philadelphia. This year’s event, Dressed To Kill, is being held on Tuesday September 28, from 6pm – 9pm under the Convention Center tunnel on 12th St. between Race and Arch - the perfect venue to reflect the crimes of fashion theme woven into the show.

For the past 17 years, Phashion Phest, has proven itself to be the Delaware Valley's premier fashion and beauty event showcasing upscale retailers, salons, accessory boutiques and related businesses. This year, Philly’s fashionista’s will come together for a cocktail reception and runway show where guests are welcomed to experience all of falls trendiest of trends presented by 7 salons, 12 retailers and 20 fashion and beauty sponsors.

During cocktails stylists from salons like Panache Hair Design of Philadelphia and Salon Rouge of Cherry Hill, NJ will be displaying their runway-ready beauty trends, making up all of the models for the show who were discovered at the “Fresh Face Model Search Competition” that was held earlier in the summer.

New this year, preceding the fashion show will be a hair show, highlighting the salons’ new fall hairstyles. The runway show will feature styles by upscale retailers from Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley, including Kenneth Cole, DKNY and South Moon Under.

Tickets for this fab event are $50 in advance and $60 at the door but only $25 for students with a valid student ID. Tickets include entry, a top shelf open bar and cocktail party hors d'oeuvres. And if you mention philly2night when you purchase your tickets you also receive a $5 discount. To purchase tickets by phone, call 215-670-4327.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

New Craft Beer Search Engine Launches Friday!

Drinking your way through the extensive beer lists available in some Philadelphia pubs can get a little pricey. And once you’ve narrowed down your favorite, there’s no guarantee that the next bar you hit will carry the same selection. And this gets even trickier with seasonal brews. Well this fall, finding that certain pumpkin beer won’t be such a chore.

There’s a new website launching on Friday called PhillyTapFinder.com, the brainchild of husband and wife beer lovers who would run into the problem of having to stalk out their favorite brews all the time and wished there was a resource to direct them.

Well, my little beer enthusiasts, now there is! The PhillyTapFinder, Philadelphia's craft beer locator is an extensive resource of beers available in the bars around Philly, in participating pubs, of course. The site allows you to use the search box for “Brewsing” through by beer, bar, style or neighborhood. Otherwise, you can search by brewer, ingredient or even characteristic.

This is how it works. Say your looking for that pumpkin beer. Type in pumpkin and Sidecar Bar pops up. There, you can peruse Side Car’s whole draft list. Click the link and PhillyTapFinder gives you a map. Love the beers, but it’s just not in the right neighborhood for this particular outing? Click on the beers and PhillyTapFinder will direct you to other bars in the city with those particular brews.

There are about 60 craft beer bars that are currently listed on the site and they are constantly updating. The site is brewser – I mean browser friendly for iPhone and Blackberry and it’s free to join.

Beer tips are also welcomed and even rewarded through the Tap Tip portion of the site. Tap tipsters are encouraged to email or text in drafts they come across as well as photos of draft lists or chalkboards. As an incentive, tipsters can accumulate enough points through emailing in new drafts to win prizes like key chains and tee-shirts – and I mean honestly, who doesn’t love to win a free tee shirt!

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Get Your Eco-Friendly Gear On At Green Fest Philly

You don’t have to compost coffee grinds and eggshells in your 3rd floor apartment to prove your into preserving the environment but these days, going green means more than just recycling. The green scene has spread into so many parts of our world and now, it’s crept into our closets!

On Sunday, September 12, from 11am – 6pm Green Fest Philly 2010 will be celebrating sustainable fashion with a fashion forward one-day street fair. The event will be held at Headhouse Square, on 2nd and South and will focus on supporting local thrift stores and buying vintage.

Last year brought together over 200 vendors. This year, pretty much everyone with ties to the green community will be set up – from Realtors and hair salons, to farmers and co-ops.

Papertrees will be playing on the main stage and the Headhouse Farmers Market will be going on from 10am – 2pm, as it does every weekend. So snacks and music will be available.

Between the eco-friendly fashion show, the Recessionista Fashionistas clothing swap and the eco-poetry contest at Jons on 4th and South, this event is chock full of carbon reducing, planet saving fashion goodness. And luckily, it’s evolved way past hemp and burlap.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

BBQ Throwdown & Music Festival In NoLibs This Saturday

Chances are, if you were to ask two people their recipe for BBQ you will get two completely different answers. Some like it dry, some like it wet, some get a little smoky while others let it rest overnight and go at it in the morning.

Everyone’s got their own style but no matter if they are professional pit masters or weekend warriors, slow and low seems to be the winning technique. This Saturday, September 11, A Full Plate Café’ is hosting its 4th Annual Rib Cook Off to try and put this summertime debate to rest – at least until next year.

This finger-lickin’ competition, followed by the Northern Liberties Music Festival will be throwing down at Liberty Lands Park on 3rd between Poplar and Wildey. The doors open at noon and judging begins at 2pm. For a $20 entrance fee, BBQ lovers will get to sample all of the contestant’s dishes.

Each BBQ team, both professional and amateur, can enter to compete in three categories of grilling – ribs, whole organic chicken or a vegetarian item of their choosing. That takes care of the proteins, but what is a BBQ with out the sides? No worries. A Full Plate will be supplementing these soon to be award wining dishes with their vegetarian friendly sides like mac n’ cheese, roasted beets and southern slaw as well as desserts from The Flying Monkey Patisserie.

Winners from last year’s BBQ battle, like Koo Zee Doo, Sonata and Q BBQ, will be back at it again looking to bring home the title of “Best Ribs In The Philadelphia Area.”

After you’ve tasted all the ribs you can stomach and winners are crowned, the live music will keep the party going. The semi – annual Liberty Lands Music Festival goes from 4pm – 10pm, featuring local bands like Black Landlord – in case you missed them at the last BBQ event! And for just $10, get yourself a bottomless cup of beer.

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.

Cheap Eats During Center City Restaurant Week

What do you get when you offer a three-course menu for $35 at 126 Philadelphia restaurants? Center City Restaurant Week, of course! And this September, the Center City Restaurant Association has decided to keep the deals flowing for an extra week.

From September 12th – 17th and September 19th – 24th, Center City restaurants will be offering up delicious dishes at discounted prices. Diners should expect an appetizer, entrée and dessert for just $35 per person, not including drinks, tax or tip.

This is the time to make a reservation at that really nice place you keep walking by, but know that you don’t have the money to drop there. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new or even revisit an old favorite.

Not sure where to book first? If you happen to be in the vicinity of 16th and Chestnut on September 8, stop in The Shops at Liberty Place for a free food sampling at 12:30pm. Chefs from participating restaurants will be on site serving up tastes of their Restaurant Week menus.

This year, for every meal you have during restaurant week, you have the chance to enter a drawing to win fifty-two $50 gift certificates to restaurants throughout the city. And, for an added perk, the Philadelphia PPA has promised NOT to ticket you for parking in loading zones – HA! just kidding. But they are offering $9 parking at dozens of lots and garages, as long as you present a parking voucher from a participating restaurant.

Make Reservations & See The Full List Of Participating Restaurants!

This article was written for and can be viewed at philly2night.com.