High Spring-Summer Checklist: The Outdoors is Calling
Here are a few of our favorite spots to enjoy a meal or tasty bite outside in the fresh air that aren’t just your typical sidewalk seating or standard restaurant patio.
✅ SOUTHEAST ASIAN MARKET AT FDR PARK
The Southeast Asian Market in FDR Park has been home to a business community of refugees and immigrant members since the 1980s. On Saturdays and Sundays from April through October, food stands and vendors sell everything from Cambodian and Indonesian meat skewers to Vietnamese iced coffee and fresh coconut water. Local foodie and influencer Roland Bui says not to miss the Thai papaya salad with mini crabs and Khmer-style cheesesteaks. Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park: 1500 Pattison Ave. & S. Broad St., Philadelphia. fdrseamarket.com
✅ THE LANDING
Tucked away under an old trestle bridge and full of industrial vibes, this gem from Chef Nicholas Elmi (The Lark, Laurel) offers coffee, salads, breakfast sandwiches, and more. A great spot for kids and grownups alike with a bocce court, games, ping-pong, and fire pits. Take a stroll across the walking bridge (Pencoyd Bridge) from Manayunk to Bala Cynwyd for the perfect little weekend day outside and ultimate views. The Landing: Ironworks at Pencoyd Landing, 617 Righters Ferry Road, Bala Cynwyd. thelandingkitchen.com
✅ CHERRY STREET PIER
Built into the shell of a century-old municipal pier, Cherry Street Pier today is a mixed-use public space open year-round with art exhibits, artisan markets, and special events. Grab a bite or sip from Lokal Artisan Foods French Toast Bites or The Garden trolley cars with spectacular views of the Delaware River underneath the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Cherry Street Pier: 121 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia. cherrystreetpier.com
✅ BOK BAR & IRWIN’S
Everyone’s favorite rooftop bar is back on April 13 for another season of food, drinks, and exceptional views of the city and beyond. Be sure to check their calendar for guest chef nights and special events. Make a reservation with their eighth-floor neighbor, Irwin’s, Chef Michael Ferrari’s acclaimed restaurant for modern Sicilian fare and more spectacular views atop this former vocational high school in South Philadelphia. BOK BAR and Irwin’s: 800 Mifflin St., Philadelphia. bok-bar.com and irwinsupstairs.com
✅ PICNIC AMONG THE TREES
Several top-notch arboretums in our region do double duty as perfect al fresco picnic spots as well as educational nature centers. Pick up some snacks from your favorite local food shop or takeout spot, head to the nearest arboretum or park, and take full advantage of the warm weather under the trees as you savor each bite of your lunch break or weekend outing. Tip: Many of the region’s college campuses also provide a wonderful free option, especially when school is out of session. Various locations; see individual websites for details on hours, approved picnic areas, restrooms, parking, and any entrance fees.
NEED A PICNIC SPOT?
We have a few in mind...
Awbury Arboretum
Germantown
awbury.org
Fairmount Park
Philadelphia
myphillypark.org
Morris Arboretum
Chestnut Hill
morrisarboretum.org
Tyler Arboretum
Media
tylerarboretum.org
University of Pennsylvania
West Philly
upenn.edu
Villanova University
Villanova
villanova.edu
...and many more!
SEA MARKET PHOTO BY BY ROLAND BUI. IRWINS PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SOURCE
