I LOVE PHILADELPHIA!

You had me at these gorgeous cobblestone streets! My pining for Philadelphia finally became a reality. Reconnecting with a couchsurfer and dining at V Street (http://bit.ly/1KzJfkR) prompted my recent booking.

Couchsurfer turned friend Aura at Independence Beer Garden

I chose to stay at Apple Hostels, because I wanted to walk everywhere and this appeared to be the most centrally located accommodation on a budget. Unfortunately, I don't feel like I received a good value. The only two positive aspects about the hostel are the location and pleasant staff. Know that you will be packed in with 24 other females in the shared dorm. I didn't get any sleep and paid $85.26 for a two-night stay. That is the most I have ever paid for a dorm bed with that many people in the room.

City Hall

Philadelphia exceeded my expectations with its rich history, beautiful architecture, spectacular street art, delicious food, and craft beer. The city is quite walkable if you plan to stay where I did, which was in the Old City District.

Merchant's Exchange Building

The best way to travel to and from the airport is via the train (SEPTA). Buy your tickets inside a station, as it will save you money.  http://www.septa.org/fares/ticket/

Here are my recommendations for a smashing time. I wasn't there long enough to go inside any museums, but that didn't stop me from taking snaps of the outside.

*V Street Restaurant
*Love Statue
*Mural Mile
*Reading Terminal Market
*Independence Beer Garden
*Sunday Open Blues Jam at Twisted Tail 
*Tartes Bakery
*I Sushi
*Penn's Landing
*Merchant's Exchange Building
*Masonic Temple
*Chinatown
*Franklin Square
*Yards Brewing Co.
*Philadelphia City Hall
*Panorama (http://bit.ly/1QPGjEy)

Franklin Square

Quince Street

View at Penn's Landing

 

Masonic Temple

Most charming restaurant front

Entrance to Chinatown

The next five photos are a few of the Mural Mile Masterpieces.

 

 

 

  

Outline of Ben Franklin's home

I "love" you Philly and truly hope we meet again!

 

V STREET - ONE OF THE REASONS I TRAVELED TO PHILLY

For the first time in my life, one of the reasons I booked a trip was for a restaurant. No kidding. I heard through the grapevine that a new vegan eatery featuring street food opened in Philly, so I started stalking their Facebook page.

I couldn't stop salivating over the food photos and descriptions, coming to the conclusion that I needed to dine at V Street, sooner rather than later. I booked a flight and had dinner the day of my arrival. The place was packed; however, two stools at the sizable, lovely front window were waiting for us.

My companion and I began with a couple of bevvies. I wanted to try a local beer and chose "Fear of the Brett Planet" (highly recommend). My friend decided on an interesting and refreshing cocktail, "Sevan Springs Eternal." We selected four menu items to share, which were all phenomenal and left us well satiated.
 

Peruvian Fries - aji amarillo, cilantro, olive, peanut

Korean Fried Tempeh Tacos - gochujang, radish kimchee, corn tortillas

Za'Atar Grilled Corn - zhoug, grilled tomato

Cauliflower Shawarma - flatbread, cucumbers, hummus, harissa

A big shout out to our impeccable and delightful server, Erin, who spent time with us despite being in demand. The timing for each plate was perfect. Honestly, the food might be the best I have ever had in my life. I'm not one to choose a favorite anything; however, V Street has me changing my tune.

You don't need to be vegetarian or vegan to thoroughly enjoy the fare. The dishes are highly creative and absolute flavor explosions. Dining at V Street was worthy in itself of my journey. Whether you are a local or just traveling through, you need to make a date with this street food bar.
http://vstreetfood.com/