Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Photography (Philadelphia Museum of Art) Stockexpert/Jupiterimages
We asked the Concierges at Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia to gather the savviest sightseeing suggestions they could find—not just their own but also those of the other local connoisseurs, including some they work with every day at the Hotel. An important city in American history, Philadelphia has a host of historical sites and world-class museums, as well as fine dining, performing arts, sports, shopping and nightlife.
Fine Dining
For some of Philadelphia’s most innovative cuisine, try R2L. The offerings from Chef Daniel Stern, who trained at Le Bec-Fin, range from truffle risotto to roasted rabbit. Vegans must book a table at the brand new Vedge, opened by the former owners of the much-loved Horizons. No less an Italian food authority than Mario Batali has called Vetri “possibly the best Italian restaurant on the East Coast.” The tiny restaurant’s signature dish is spinach gnocchi, but, depending on the season, you might find pork shank with saffron risotto or fazzoletti pasta with duck ragu and black olives.
A Night on the Town
The Continental Midtown restaurant, with its year-round roof deck, is one of Center City’s signature spots. In warm weather, there’s also the rooftop lounge and sushi at nearby Vango. To see Philadelphia’s waterfront at night, try the Bongo Bar, located on the deck of an historic four-masted sailing ship.
Shop Talk
The Rittenhouse Square neighbourhood is home to some of Philadelphia’s premier retailers. Boyds has been a fixture for more than 70 years, serving both men and women with custom tailoring and designer clothing. Joan Shepp offers women designers from Ann Demeulemeester to Zelda, as well as handbags and shoes from names such as Chloe and Christian Louboutin.
Sport Time
The best spectator sport in Philadelphia over the summer is baseball. Head to Citizens Bank Park in South Philly to catch the 2008 World Champion Phillies. In the fall, nothing beats a Philadelphia Eagles football game. Tailgating at Lincoln Financial Field is almost as much fun as the game itself! And if you didn’t arrive in your own vehicle, please note: Several Philadelphia caterers can arrange tailgate parties for you.
