At MSC Retail, we’re completely and totally immersed in all things retail, restaurants & real estate. We know these city streets like the back of our hands, the ins and outs of every neighborhood and what makes Greater Philadelphia (including the ‘burbs!) so darn great. We’re wrapping up 2017 by acknowledging a few regional faves, MSC superlatives style…
BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE
“The Ranstead Room: Dark, Moody and Boozy.” – Jacob Cooper, Partner & Managing Director
A romantic dimly-lit red room with drinks poured over hand-chipped ice and freshly-squeezed juice from the mind of Stephen Starr? You’ve already won the game.
2013 Ranstead St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
BEST MUSIC VENUE
“TLA (Theater of the Living Arts). A quintessential and landmark Philly music venue. Small and intimate— sometimes cramped— but an opportunity to see some incredible national touring acts in front of a very small crowd with plenty of history in the building.”
– Douglas Green, Managing Principal
A South Street staple since the early 1900s, the TLA’s acoustics and character make musical memories that last centuries.
334 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
BEST LUNCH DEAL FOR UNDER $12
“bāo•logy. You can order everything by the piece, plus they have some rare, tasty teas for those not into a boozy lunch.” – Vincent Stipo, Real Estate & Hospitality Consultant
A newer addition to Philly’s fast-casual dining options, bāo•logy’s scrumptions Taiwanese street foods and bevvies makes this affordable lunch option a no brainer.
1829 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19103
BEST SAMMY IN TOWN
“Arista at Paesano’s. Chef Peter McAndrews kills it with sandwiches that are a little outside of the box.” – Scott Weiss, Retail Guru & Professional Engineer
Philly-style sandwiches with authentic Italian inspiration. This creation derives from a whole roasted suckling pig, broccoli rabe, Italian long hots & sharp provolone. Hungry yet?
Multiple Locations, we recommend the Italian Market, 1017 S 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
BEST PLACE FOR A GIRLS NIGHT OUT
“Franky Bradley’s dance floor. Affordable, super fun & whimsical ambiance. The energy at Franky Bradley’s on a Friday or Saturday night is the best in the gayborhood.”
– Libby Cefaly, Associate
A gayborhood go-to and downright good time. This secondhand establishment prides itself as the “House of Weird” with devilish decor and drag shows galore. Call your girlfriends, it’s time for a ladies night.
1320 Chancellor St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
BEST PLACE TO GO ON AN ADVENTURE
“You can’t beat a day trip to New Hope. The shopping and dining scene on Main Street is the best in the ‘burbs. You can also walk across the bridge to historic Lambertville, NJ, or take a short car ride to Peddler’s Village that has wineries and other fun, family-friendly activities.”
– Maria Mainardi, Retail Guru
Hop on I-95 northbound and hit the Bucks County ‘burbs for quality fam time in a town boasting with historical character and charm.
Check out Main Street, New Hope, PA
BEST COCKTAIL
“The Double Knot at Double Knot. They blend two types of whiskeys, two vermouths and two bitters together. Then, using a handheld torch, they light clove and cinnamon on fire and quickly cover the fire with the serving glass to contain the smoke and flavor. Once the glass is lifted, they pour the blended liquor into the glass and it mixes with the smokey flavor. If you are a whiskey fan, I definitely recommend this.” – Sam Kotler, Retail Guru
The Double Knot’s burnt aromatics make for a smokey and mysterious finish— it’s an an experience over a cocktail.
120 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
BEST HOLE IN THE WALL FOOD
“El Compadre on 9th Street. Hole in the wall food means humble food and that is what you will get here. Authentic and not over thought, it’s down home Mexican cooking.”
– Greg Acinapura, Hospitality Guru
Authentic Mexican in the Italian Market. Taco-bout a home run.
1149 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
BEST GROCER
“Riverwards Produce Market is one of the more unique grocers in the city. Beautiful space and excellent product.” – William Moscowitch, Retail Guru
Fresh, healthy and affordable food offerings make this neighborhood market a one stop shop in Fishtown.
2200 E Norris St, Philadelphia, PA 19125
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD
“East Passyunk. Growing in popularity as South Philadelphia’s best neighborhood, Passyunk has some of the best bars and restaurants in the city. Not to mention it is conveniently accessible by both subway and bus into Center City.” – Andrew Shpigel, Retail Guru
From old school social clubs to tapas & wine bars, East Passyunk neighborhood’s food scene is exploding with deliciousness. Consider a relo while you can, we aren’t the only ones to recognize everything this neighborhood has to offer.
Stroll down East Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA