Josh Middleton

Brunch isn't just a meal: It's an occasion. Typically a weekend centerpiece (though Boston has some great weekday breakfast options, too), a good Boston brunch is an excuse to go big over filling (and maybe hangover-curing) plates of bacon and eggs, piles of decadent French toasts, Bloody Marys and mimosas galore and a stiff cup of joe as you recount all the juicy gossip about your weekend shenanigans. All you need is an easy-breezy outfit, your largest pair of shades and a blanket, because anyone who knows brunch knows that a good nap in a nearby park is essential after all that belly-filling grub.  My colleagues and I have put in the work to find the best Boston brunch options in neighborhoods around town so all you have to do is make a reservation (if possible) and show up. We've prioritized spots with delicious food and cocktails, obviously, but also atmosphere, because what is brunch if you can share pictures of it when you wake up from that coma nap? 

Perhaps it’s the history, rooted in the decadent and famously roaring 1920s, that lures us to speakeasies in Boston. Perhaps it's the romance and mystery of the process—whispering passwords, entering through secret doors. Whatever the reason, we can all agree that there's something about visiting a speakeasy that gives us a tingle of adventure, not to mention delicious, perfectly concocted cocktails from bartenders who really know their way around a spirit cabinet. Thankfully, among the best bars in Boston, there is a healthy selection of these hush-hush cocktail dens to try. We've rounded up the finest among them below, so you'll know where to go the next time you and some friends want to elevate your cocktail experience. Keep reading so you'll know where to go (and how to get in) the next time you crave that alluring speakeasy vibe.

Summer is finally inching its way into the city, with temperatures rising and locals hitting the streets to enjoy all the fun things to do in Boston when the weather is hot, hot, hot. The city is alive this time of year, with parks in gorgeous full bloom and locals pouring out of their dwellings after a rainy spring to hit up our best restaurants, drink refreshing cocktails in bars across town, and maybe take a summer getaway or three to make more room for tourists looking to enjoy the best of what our beautiful city has to offer. If you're stuck on finding things to do, we've got you covered. Below, find your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Boston right now for tourists and locals alike. The ordering is intentional. The top seven items are the most essential things to do on a first trip to Boston. Returning visitors and those with a lengthier itinerary can explore further down the list to find worthwhile attractions, museums, and fun experiential activities, such as catching a sunset on our Esplanade, visiting an inner-city tree sanctuary, or shopping till you drop at an arty outdoor market. June 2025: Warmer weather means its beer garden season in Boston. Below, we've added some of our top picks on where to enjoy some refreshing suds (and more!) in the open air. 

I've been on the hunt for the best restaurants in Boston ever since I moved here from Philadelphia (an amazing restaurant city in itself) in the summer of 2021. At first, I relied on local writers, racking up reservations at places I discovered on "best restaurants in Boston" lists and even joining a supper club that opened doors to dining destinations those lists may have missed. Now, four years later and after dozens upon dozens of meals around the city, I am more than equipped to share with you the bounty of my finds. I've worked in this type of journalism for 15 years, developing a good sense of what people are looking for when they want a stellar night out, whether it's a local looking for their favorite new restaurant, bar or breakfast spot, or a tourist hoping to find the best things to do when visiting The Hub. When picking a "best" anything, I take into account the flavor of the food and drink, of course, but also the ambiance, the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, the decor, and the location—because all those things go into creating a perfect experience and a shareable snap on Instagram. Continue perusing for a list of the absolute best places to eat in Boston right now, curated by yours truly and a small contingent of in-the-know local writers. The list changes monthly, so check back often for updates. Happy dining! June 2025: New additions include Sushi @ Temple Records, a standout, authentically Japanese sushi spot in Downtown Crossing, and Chickadee, th

We could go on and on about why Boston is one of the best cities in the world, but we'll start with one biggie: its access to both the incredible benefits of urban living—world-class restaurants, arts and culture, stellar bars—and, thanks to its location at the doorstep of New England, direct access to miles and miles of the great outdoors, where you can get away from the hustle bustle of city life, stretch your legs, and hit some open trails in peace.  There are plenty of picturesque hiking spots near Boston—whether it’s climbing scenic wooded preserves or exploring waterfront trails, these local hikes are perfect for walking off the bustle of The Hub. No time to leave the city limits? Head over to one of Boston’s best parks. If you want to turn an afternoon stroll into a full-on escape, check out the best weekend getaways and day trips from Boston.

Whether you were born here or are visiting for the first time, odds are you’re well aware: Philly knows how to have a good time. The City of Brotherly Love offers plenty of history, entertainment, and adventure, but there’s more than museums and monuments to explore. Case in point? A big night out. Spent at a hole-in-the-wall bar or a swanky, glitzy nightclub, an evening on the town is one of the best ways to experience the energy of this largely underrated city.  The best clubs in Philadelphia may vary by design, crowd, vibe, and style, but what they all have in common is that they bring people together with good music, fresh cocktails (which are likely more affordable than you think), and an ever-growing sense of community. Nothing is basic here, from top-tier restaurants to multi-level venues with all sorts of music. But if you ask locals like me, the best part about a night out is that you get all the glamour and fun of a larger metro, like NYC, minus the steep price tag and fussy transportation. When the sun goes down, Philadelphia lets it rip, and the result is a dancing extravaganza like no other. My favorite nightclubs include the cult-favorite Dolphin Tavern, which is perhaps most famous for its ABBA-themed dance nights, the Gayborhood’s eclectic Franky Bradley’s, and Dahlak, an Ethiopian-Eritrean restaurant in West Philly that’s beloved for its lively evening programming. So, put on your favorite outfit and comfy-yet-cozy shoes for a night of beats and bevs—I’ll mee

Despite its 2am closing times and historical love for blue laws, Boston certainly knows how to drink. Even with the Hub's high expectations when it comes to alcohol access, the city's best bars deliver with stellar ambiance, top-tier cocktails, and fantastically curated beer and wine lists. While Boston might be best known for its Irish pubs and dive bars, it now boasts award-winning cocktail joints and craft beer emporiums that are well worth a visit. We've rounded up our top picks for the best places in town to enjoy a drink, so take a look and raise a glass. Cheers! RECOMMENDED: Guide to Boston's best restaurants APRIL 2025: This season, we're overhauling our list of the best bars in Boston so you'll have updated information at your disposal when looking for stellar spots to drink around town. In April, we revisited watering holes far and wide to verify that our recommendations are still on point. For the most part, they still are! Some changes: We've crowned a new number one for offering a bar experience quite unlike any other in the city of Boston. We've also fact-checked to offer you the latest updates on menus, can't-miss offerings, price expectations, and some insider tips to help you get the most out of your experience. Happy spring drinking, everyone.

Whether you're taking breakfast on the go or lingering over pancakes and a mimosa, we've all heard that it's the most important meal of the day. What better way to enjoy such an important meal than at some of Boston's very best spots for scrumptious breakfasts, available any day of the week? We've scoured the city and consulted a few knowledgeable locals to bring you the absolute best spots for breakfast sandwiches, decadent morning pastries, crepes, waffles, and more sustenance to get you ready to tackle the day.  We're focusing primarily on weekday breakfast here. But a Saturday night out definitely warrants a slower Sunday morning session at one of our picks for the best diners in Boston or Boston’s best brunch spots. But if croissants and cupcakes are more to your liking, satisfy that sweet (or savory) tooth at one of Boston’s best bakeries.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

Whether you’ve lived here all your life or are visiting for the first time, odds are you know some of Philadelphia’s most famous sites, like the Liberty Bell and the Rocky steps. As a semi-recent transplant from North Jersey, I can attest that Philly has so much more to offer tourists and locals alike. Want to stop and smell the roses at an Instagram-worthy garden or arboretum? Check. Craving a James Beard-approved meal? Take your pick—we have tons of restaurants to choose from. Want tickets to a one-of-a-kind live performance? Got you. How about a day spent at a museum…or five? This gritty-yet-gorgeous, famously unpretentious city has it all.  Sports fans, budding gourmands, history buffs, and art nerds alike visit from all over to foster their respective hobbies and interests, while everyone else comes to trek the historic cobblestones for cheesesteaks, street murals, landmarks, microbreweries, and more. Philly strikes a unique balance between the days of yore and the present—it’s not every day that you can see something as antiquated as the Betsy Ross House (where she is said to have sewed the first American flag) or Elfreth’s Alley (one of the oldest continuously inhabited streets in the U.S., dating back to 1703) and something as modern as the tree-lined Race Street Pier (which was upgraded into a park in 2011), mere minutes apart.  Below are 33 of the best things to do in Philadelphia whenever you’re in the area, as well as a few May-only events worth planning ahead for

When it comes to creating a properly outstanding bar, good vibes and even better drinks are a necessity, but a stonking good view? That’s a real gamechanger. After all, if the sun is shining, there are few things better than sitting up high, cocktail-in-hand admiring some glorious scenery.  And while there are plenty of bougie spots on this roundup, there’s a tonne of variety as well – rooftop bars can be anything from a glamorous, nineteenth-floor ‘trade’-themed bar to the top floor of a London car park – and our favourite ones range from chilled to cha-ching. One thing is guaranteed, though: views for days. Read on for our favourites from across the planet. RECOMMENDED:🥪The best sandwiches in the world🥩The best steaks in the world🍕The best pizzas in the world🍝The best cities in the world for food

This city may be known more for its scrappy sports fans and greasy, drippy cheesesteaks but the best luxury hotels in Philadelphia provide a different side to the City of Brotherly Love – one that can hold its own among the world’s fanciest, most cosmopolitan cities. Book a room in one of these world-class digs to lap up a little splendor while you set out to explore the best things to do in Philadelphia. They‘re all excellently located, so you know you’ll always be within walking distance to a handful of top Philadelphia attractions – whether it’s the historical stuff in Old City or Rittenhouse, which puts you in the epicenter of excellent museums, gorgeous parks, and some of the best restaurants in Philadelphia. Check out our guide to the best luxury hotels in Philadelphia below for the plushest beds, top-of-the-line amenities, and impeccable service. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best hotels in Philadelphia Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

As one of the oldest cities in the country—and one with the prettiest fall foliage—Boston is a prime place to visit in October. The region has historic haunts you can't miss, whether it’s one of our creepy old graveyards or a verifiably spooky site with a story that would put your favorite true-crime podcast to shame. But it's not all about the fear factor around here, with family-friendly fun floating around, too. If you want to celebrate the season without waiting for all the annual Halloween parties and events to happen, here's how to get your tricks and treats out and celebrate Halloween in Boston all October long. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Boston

Perched on the 17th and 18th floors of Boston's glitzy new Raffles Hotel, Blind Duck is a sophisticated and intimate speakeasy-themed bar that boasts panoramic views overlooking the city's Theater and Financial districts. To find this hidden gem, take the elevator to the 17th floor. From there, ascend the spiral staircase, turn left, then right, and look for an unassuming door that resembles a fire exit. A subtle duck logo will confirm you're in the right spot. Step inside, and a maître d' will greet you in a small, heavily curtained room before leading you down another set of stairs to your seat or the bar, depending on availability. The vibe: Sophisticated, contemporary, and upscale, the decor sets a refined tone that makes you feel like you're somewhere special. However, it's the jaw-dropping panoramic views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, showcasing the sky and the bustling city below, that truly captivate. The space itself is compact, featuring plush, banquet sofas and additional chairs at the bar for direct contact with the bartenders. While there's a small area for standing, it can quickly become crowded as servers navigate the aisles to attend to their tables. The food: Blind Duck offers upscale small plates to complement their cocktails, including okonomiyaki fries ($18), lobster tartine ($39), a duck bao bun ($23), and, at $130 a pop, 30 grams of Osetra caviar served with housemade potato chips, crème fraîche, and chives. You can also satisfy your sweet tooth

Descend the stairway at the very back of Downtown Crossing listening bar Temple Records to discover chef Kenta Katagai’s impossibly cool subterranean sushi den, where you'll be in store for an intimate Japanese dining experience in stylish, dimly lit surroundings. Katagai, a bright, cheerful presence, presides over the 22-seat sushi counter, preparing nigiri and rolls in a style called Edomae, meaning that fish is cured, marinated, or lightly torched to boost flavor and safety. Rolls come already brushed with soy sauce, and a dab of wasabi is placed between the fish and bed of rice. Katagai’s dining room is almost overstaffed, which affords guests the kind of personalized experience you get at much pricier omakase joints. This isn’t omakase, per say, but it feels like it. Waitstaff is eager to walk you through menu items, which range from traditional nigiri to inventive rolls, to help you put together a delicious spread based on your flavor profile. The vibe: Sleek and sophisticated yet simple. The sushi counter only holds 22 people, so service is intimate and, with a full staff on board to suit customer needs, almost personalized. Traditional Japanese design elements are inspired by Wabi Sabi, a Japanese design philosophy that celebrates the beauty in imperfection.  The food: A true standout on the Boston sushi scene. Rolls, prepared in the style of Edomae, are likely to suit even the staunchest sushi-resistant, with slightly cooked rolls and unique Japanese small plates bur

Chickadee, named after the Massachusetts state bird, may be located at the far reaches of the Seaport District—in the former waterside storehouse turned Innovation and Design Building—but that hasn't kept those in the know from taking notice. It quickly notched a place on the James Beard Awards semifinalist list for Best New Restaurant right after opening in 2018, and in 2025, its chef, John DaSilva, was named a semifinalist in the Best Chef: Northeast category. The vibe: Industrial meets contemporary, with elements such as concrete columns and exposed ductwork juxtaposed with warm blue and gray tones on the walls. Homey elements like bright woven rugs, tall plants and bookshelves lined with vases, tchotchkes, extra silverware, plates, and glassware add a cozier touch. The food: Chickadee's seasonally changing menu takes ingredients from local farms, markets, and producers and gives them an exciting Mediterranean twist. Like any true Mediterranean restaurant, dinner could begin with a rotating selection of mezze: house-made dips, spreads, and bites served with fresh-baked pita. From there, you can work your way through a selection of small plates (parmesan garlic bites, striped bass crudo, chickpea panisse fries) and pastas (squid ink fusilli, lobster campanelle, harissa lumache), or go all out with a filling large plate, which recently has included options like roasted black bass with asparagus, tangerine, hazelnut dukkah, and mint; and slow-roasted porchetta with broccoli d

Owned and operated by the team behind Greek restaurant Krasi, Hecate is a cooler-than-cool subterranean speakeasy that feels a bit more Salem than Boston. Named for the Greek goddess of magic and witchcraft, the stylish 24-seat bar offers exciting and unique boozy concoctions crafted by bartenders referred to as "spirit guides." The vibe: Dark, mysterious, alluring, elegant—lit with candlelight and furnished with plush, Art Deco-inspired furniture with gold and brass accents. A sleek black marble bar centers the room. The food: The menu includes 10 "snack" options, including "pickled things," stuffed dates, fried chicken, and chickpea fritters. The drink: Open Hecate's leather-bound book of spells to find a collection of curious concoctions with names such as "Snake Oil" (vodka, gin, eucalyptus, buckwheat, cedar smoke, tobacco bitters), "Dragon Gate" (Erguotou, Kota pandan, ginger, sesame, coconut, astragalus, wasabi, lime), and "Hagalaz" (Elderflower Svol Aquavit, sea buckthorn, dogrose, sea moss, aquafaba, wine vinegar). The glassware is just as exciting as the drinks, featuring bowls, goblets, and other inspiring vessels. Time Out tip: Hecate does not take reservations—it doesn't even have a phone—so plan your night accordingly. We'd even suggest arriving 30 minutes before opening to avoid wait times. Also, order wisely. You won't be cast out if you order something basic like a vodka soda, but you may be the recipient of some side-eye.

In a narrow alleyway off of 13th Street in the Gayborhood lies this gem that’s just loaded with character. You’ll see that as soon as you walk in the door, as you look over the dimly lit dining room that’s decorated with vintage artwork—mostly of the female-focused, soft-porn variety—frilly lamps and even taxidermy fish. Grab a table for dinner or sit around the bar for a selection of beer—available on draft or in a bottle or can—wine and cocktails. The food menu features upscale bar fare that ranges from skirt steak and shrimp scampi to chicken wings and burgers. Upstairs, a performance space hosts a variety of shows throughout the month—from burlesque and drag shows to dance parties presided over by a solid lineup of local DJs.

The promise of cocktails, grilled cheeses, and pinball games draws the kid within us to this retro speakeasy located on the other side of a freezer door at the back of Roxy's Grilled Cheese in Cambridge. The creative minds behind Area Four operate the space, which is filled with a rotating selection of ’80s pinball classics, such as "Galaga," "Ms. Pacman," "Mario Kart," and "Big Buck Hunter." The vibe: Like your best friend's birthday party, in the ’80s and ’90s—but with booze! Games beep and boop in the background while you gulp down oozy grilled cheeses and fruity cocktails that come in an imaginative collection of glassware. The food: Around seven varieties of grilled cheeses are served on crunchy sourdough. The Classic Three Cheese showcases the house cheese blend that appears on all sandwiches: Vermont cheddar, Wisconsin brick cheese, and Monterey Jack. More complex options, such as the "Hot Honey Bacon," add applewood-smoked bacon and Mike's Hot Honey. You can also get a couple of varieties of fried chicken, several burgers and dogs, and shareable items like fried pickles or poutine. The drink: A scan down the Roxy's Arcade cocktail menu is a trip down memory lane in itself. Drinks, such as "Threat Level Midnight" and "The Clash at Demonhead," shout out old-school pop culture references and come in quirky vessels—from a Millennium Falcon mug to a ceramic glass in the shape of Tina Belcher from Bob's Burgers. The flavor profile is tiki-ish, with several rum- and fruit ju

Nestled on Beacon Hill, just off Charles Street, 1928 Beacon Hill opened in 2021 as an instantly timeless hidden gem under the guidance of Chef Victor Valencia. Offering a full modern New England menu, this speakeasy-style space also evokes the Prohibition era with a delightful list of throwback cocktails. The vibe: 1928 Beacon Hill features three distinct spaces: The bar and lounge have a decidedly lodge-like feel, adorned with Black Forest wall mounts and antique paintings. The Ship room boasts a nautical theme, featuring oars and seafaring art. Meanwhile, The Library offers the charm of a gentleman's den complete with leather banquettes, wallpaper evoking book-lined shelves, soft lighting, and pages from books hanging from the ceiling. The food: Modern New England cuisine is the focus at 1928 Beacon Hill. While the menu changes occasionally, past highlights include an impressive seafood tower overflowing with a decadent assortment of chilled shellfish. The rich and flavorful lobster pasta features a whole lobster served with linguini in a white wine butter sauce. The crab cakes are also noteworthy, prepared with minimal filler and a lip-smacking house-made Béarnaise aioli. The drink: House-made simple syrups and fresh juices enhance the "throwback cocktails" crafted at 1928 Beacon Hill. The signature "1928 Cocktail" offers a heavenly balance of sweet and sour, made with Tito's vodka, elderflower liqueur, raspberry, and lemon. Another standout vodka drink, the "Pornstar Mar

Yvonne's is a modern supper club located in Downtown Crossing, in the space formerly occupied by the historic Locke-Ober. It retains some of that former space's original charm, like the 19th-century mahogany bar, while offering a decidedly contemporary yet old-world experience. For instance, you enter, speakeasy-style, through a concealed entrance within a faux hair salon. And that's not the only secret entrance in the joint.  The vibe: The ambiance is a blend of 20s-style clubbiness and au courant sophistication. Expect a gorgeous, dimly lit space with chandeliers hanging from ornate ceilings and rich upholstered furniture. The Library Bar, with its book-lined walls, offers a tome-tiered respite perfect for imbibing. The overall feel is decadent and sophisticated. The food: Chef Juan Pedrosa presents a menu focused on international small plates, featuring an innovative approach to flavor and presentation. Diners can expect a variety of globally-inspired bites designed for sharing, such as crispy tater cubes, a playful take on a classic, alongside more contemporary options like chicken quinoa meatballs. Seafood is represented with dishes such as baked oysters. For a sweet and surprising finish, the popcorn brûlée exemplifies the restaurant's creative spirit, blending the familiar with exciting and unexpected bursts of flavor. The drink: Yvonne's boasts lovingly crafted cocktails, including large-scale options like their Moscow Mule, which are particularly enjoyable in the boo

Every Sunday between May and November, the SoWa Open Market in Boston transforms the South End into a vibrant, open-air marketplace. Here, a multitude of tent vendors offer an exciting array of handmade treasures, from unique jewelry and handmade clothing to original artwork. This bustling scene, coupled with the presence of local food purveyors, DJs, artists' studios, and galleries, creates a fun, festival-like vibe perfect for Sunday browsing. Food trucks on site sell everything from savory hot dogs and bahn mi to cookies, refreshing bubble teas, and elote. And for those seeking a touch of nostalgia, the nearby year-round SoWa Vintage Market at 450 and 500 Harrison Avenues presents a curated selection of vintage and antique goods.

This delightful, family-run cafe on Highland Ave in Somerville is serious about its coffee. The owners handpick beans from different roasters, and their espresso drinks pack just the right punch with beautifully textured foam. The delicious pastries, baked goods, and sandwiches make it a breakfast and lunchtime go-to. The vibe: Small and homey. A modern white counter is warmed up by a roomful of antique accents and a small pastry case holding treats on fun, mismatched plates and pastry stands. A blue-framed menu behind the counter presents the offerings. The food: Katie Rooney, the owner and head baker at 3 Little Figs, is a baking wizard. Her biscuits are a standout, and she's known for experimenting with unique flavors. The black pepper biscuit piled high with scrambled eggs and cheddar is divine. The ricotta toast is a delicious alternative to your everyday avocado toast. You can get yours in sweet (honey and cinnamon) and savory (olive oil, salt, and pepper) versions. Five sandwiches and a couple of specials on the sideboard make up the heartier options at 3 Little Figs. There's a BLT, for instance, with North Country smoked bacon, leafy greens, tomato, and Sir Kensington's mayo. The drink: Drinks are more plentiful here than at other equivalent cafés in Boston. Besides all your standard espresso-based coffee drinks, 3 Little Figs offers fruity smoothies, shakes, teas, and bottled drinks, such as kombucha, ginger ale, and strawberry lemonade. Smoothies are made with cocon

Opened in 2008 by two friends, Mike and Patty, who used to work together at South End Formaggio, this tiny Bay Village eatery, which has other locations around the city, has made a name for itself with scrumptious breakfast sandwiches served until 2pm every day. Mike and Patty hung up their aprons in 2013, but new owners have maintained the place's original focus on filling, start-the-day fare with quality ingredients and cool flavor combos. Vibe: Teensy and bustling, with folks lining up for their famous sandwiches. This is most definitely a grab-and-go kind of place. Food: Mike & Patty's claim to fame—and the reason for the lines—is the "Fancy," a loaded breakfast sandwich with fried eggs, bacon, cheddar, avocado, red onions, and house mayo on toasted multigrain. For those craving extra bacon and cheese, the "Breakfast Grilled Crack" features a fried egg, extra bacon, American, cheddar, Swiss, and Gruyere on buttered sourdough. There's a "Nutella Fluff" to satisfy your sweet tooth, two breakfast wraps for when you don't want bread, and, for the meat-free, a "Vegan Classic" with vegan scrambled eggs and Gouda on an English muffin. Drink: Wash down the breakfast goodness with a cup of hot drip coffee or grab a prepackaged drink from the fridge. Options include chocolate, strawberry, and banana milks from Shaw Farm, orange and strawberry-apple juices, and a Mike & Patty's-made cold brew. Time Out tip: With only two stools inside the Bay Village location, plan to grab your brea

Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese treats are in full supply at this Cambridge bakery/café, a smaller, casual sibling to Oleana and Sarma, and just the ticket when you need to quickly satisfy a craving for owner Ana Sortun’s Mediterranean cooking. The aromas of Middle Eastern spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and coriander will greet you as you walk in the door. Vibe: There's nothing particularly spectacular about the decor at Sofra. It's a rather typical corner bakery with lunch-counter-line vibes. But the waft of delicious pastries baking in the back and a friendly staff make Sofra instantly warm and welcoming. Chartreuse walls, floor-to-ceiling shelves featuring cute specialty grocery items, and a refrigerator case with prepacked salads, hummus, vegetables, and other vibrantly colored items add pops of color. Seating can be found at a collection of high tops and window counter seats. There's also a cozy nook where you'll find Turkish textiles draped over a banquette and stools. Food: Gozelme and shawarma, börek and spanakopita, fatteh and fava…you might as well try them all. But save room for sweets, because the almond rose cake is heavenly, and the tahini-brown butter donut (only available on weekends) is a must. Drink: Sofra offers all the regular espresso-based coffee drinks, plus an extra-zippy Turkish coffee. Hot teas and a variety of iced tea drinks and lemonades, chais, and a golden turmeric latte round out the beverage offerings. Time Out tip: Go during a downtime—between

If you’re in West Philly, beeline to 4545 Girard Avenue right now to check out the brand new Will Smith mural being sketched and painted by London street artist Richard Wilson. According to a rep from Mural Arts Philadelphia, which broke news about the mural this afternoon on Twitter, Wilson was inspired to do the work after seeing some of Will Smith’s feel-good, togetherness-inspiring posts on Instagram. SNEAK PEEK: London artist Richard Wilson is in #Philly creating a mural honoring Will Smith! Check it out at 4545 Girard Ave. pic.twitter.com/dyzzy5LNB8 — Mural Arts (@muralarts) May 29, 2018 This isn’t a Mural Arts Philadelphia project, but the nonprofit has helped Wilson with essential organization and connected him with a nearby school, the Global Leadership Academy Charter School, where he will teach some art-making classes in conjunction with the mural’s creation. We haven’t been able to track down Wilson for comment, but this Instagram post from last week offers a few more clues in his own words as to what he has planned. Beautiful day in Philadelphia! Ready to start sketching up tomorrow, and yes there is a reason why that brick at top right has no paint ☺️ This wall belongs to a warehouse but I’m working in and this view is from a school, its an amazing place and i’m pretty sure all the kids just think the walls getting a coat of paint and thats it! I’m going to do a class with some of the kids and an Art teacher here which makes this really special #spraypain

Dust off your white threads; pull out your fanciest table linens and candelabras: Dîner en Blanc is returning to Philadelphia for its seventh year, and the waiting list is officially open. For those new to the game, Dîner en Blanc brings together upwards of 5,000 attendees dressed head to toe in white. All participants are required to tote their own white dining supplies: a table, chairs, linens, silverware, china and a picnic basket full of food and drinks. They’ll set up everything and have a fabulous meal together under the stars while the rest of us watch it unfold on Instagram (#dinerenblancphilly). Photograph: Georgi Anastasov The date for the 2018 festival hasn’t been announced yet. That will happen at a special party aboard the Moshulu on June 12. As fans know, the location of the soiree won’t be announced until moments before Dîner en Blanc takes place. But perhaps the Moshulu party offers a hint? Maybe something along the waterfront? I doubt organizers would be that obvious. The one bit of information we do know is the theme: “Passport to Le Dîner en Blanc,” a nod, says co-host Natanya DiBona, to the 30th anniversary of the party, which began in Paris 30 years ago before making its way to 80 cities around the world. As such, the party will celebrate the towns and cultures around the globe that participate in Dîner en Blanc, including Philadelphia, which was one of the first cities to take part when the party went international. Photograph: Courtesy Du Soleil Phot

Outdoor-drinking enthusiasts, take note: This summer the Good King Tavern is opening charming secret patio. Opening June 6, the space is tucked away just behind the restaurant, which sits at the corner of 7th and Kater Streets in Queen Village. General Manager Chloe Grigri says the patio will be decked out with market lights, greenery and casual garden furniture, where guests can hang out to sip a lineup of refreshing, summer-approved beverages. Drinks include Kronenbourg ($6), Aperol Spritz ($10), and rosé, red and white wines by the glass for $9. A selection of shots will be available for $5. Those include the TGK Fireball (Wild Turkey bourbon, cinnamon and chili) and TGK Kamikaze (Appleton Reserve, Grand Marnier and fresh lime). As good as all that sounds, the vino is truly where it’s at. The restaurant recently won the 2018 Time Out Philadelphia Bar Award for Best Wine Bar. Our judges were especially impressed with the Good King Tavern’s wine selection, because it’s just downright approachable. “While wine lists can be intimidating, the Good King Tavern has broken up its menu into flavor profiles, rather than listings by region or by grape, said judge David Powell. “This allows even a wine novice to find an incredible bottle without having to be a connoisseur. There’s also great diversity in the price points, inviting everyone to enjoy a bottle without breaking the bank.” If you’re itching to check out the secret patio before the grand opening, Grigri is hosting a Negroni

No city does the patriotic holidays quite like Philly, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, sealed and delivered. Accordingly, there’s an abundant list of Memorial Day events in Philadelphia to cipher through. We’ve done the job of narrowing down the essential things to do in Philadelphia over the long weekend—from fireworks shows and Philadelphia concerts to street festivals. If you’re looking for a more laid back way to celebrate our troops and the unofficial start of summer, consider checkout out one of the beer gardens in Philadelphia, or scurry up to one of the city’s rooftop bars to check out those aforementioned fireworks. The Bok Bar opens this weekend, FYI. Find our full guide to the top Memorial Day weekend events in Philadelphia below. Friday, May 25 Sail Philadelphia at Penn's Landing; noon; $7–$125Nine tall ships from along the eastern U.S., Bermuda and Portugal will dock at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia. The four-day festival includes tours of the traveling boats, admission to the Independence Seaport Museum and optional 90-minute or two-hour cruises. Tickets to sail aren’t cheap ($90-$125 for a day pass), but you don’t have to get out on the water to experience the vessels. On Deck ship tours are $10 for adults, or you can admire the beauties from land at the accompanying Sail Philadelphia Waterfront Festival, which costs $7 to enter. —Jared Brey Photo Pop Philly at the Philadelphia Building; 3pm; $25 Photograph: Briana Sposato A towering office

Put your hands together, folks, and pray that the rain-filled weekend forecast is all a hoax. There are way too many things to do in Philadelphia this weekend to be dealing with all that precipitation—including major outdoor street festivals along Rittenhouse Row and in the Italian Market. Art in the Open also transforms the Schuylkill Banks into one big open-air art gallery all weekend. If the rain does come, you’ll have to grab a poncho or an umbrella and play along, or opt for some of the weekend’s more-sheltered to-dos. Like what you, ask? Well, there’s the amateur porn fest, Hump! Film Festival, at FringeArts; big-time comedians Hannibal Buress and Jay Leno perform along the Avenue of the Arts; on-the-rise Philly indie rockers Hop Along perform at Union Transfer; and tons of local theater companies debut new shows, such as the Arden Theatre Company’s Fun Home and Mamma Mia! at Walnut Street Theatre. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Harry and Meghan’s royal wedding, stop by the Dandelion on Saturday for a prix-fixe meal that includes English classics, cake and champagne. Find details on all that and more in our comprehensive guide to the (hopefully dry!) weekend below. Friday, May 18 Free admission at Philadelphia museums; all day; freeA handful of local museums celebrate International Museum Day by opening their doors to guests for free. Participating spots include the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Penn Museum, the Rodin Museum and the Pennsylvania Academy of the F

Lovers of donuts and fried chicken, get excited. Federal Donuts announced today that it’s opening a new location in Center City. 🚨NEWS FLASH🚨 FedNuts is coming to @eastmarketphl❗️Excited to be in the historic #StephenGirardBuilding in the great East Market neighborhood coming 2019 ☕️🍩🍗 pic.twitter.com/e2jMnlEQnH — FederalDonuts (@FederalDonuts) May 14, 2018 The expanding comfort-food chain run by CookNSolo’s Steven Cook and Chef Michael Solomonov will take up residence in a 1,180-square-foot space in the Stephen Girard Building, part of the pedestrian-oriented development project known as East Market that takes up an entire city block—from Market to Chestnut Streets and 11th to 12th Streets. The building is quickly filling up with a well-curated mix of shopping, dining and living spaces that developers hope will revitalize the area just east of City Hall. Federal Donuts will join other Philly favorites in the building, including MOM’s Organic Market, Wawa, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, Little Baby’s Ice Cream and District Taco. ROOST Apartment Hotel will also run 60 stylish extended-stay rooms in the adjoining residential building, the Ludlow. Those are expected to open later this summer. This will be the seventh location of Federal Donuts, which became the self-proclaimed world’s first fried chicken and donut shop when it opened its inaugural storefront in Pennsport in 2011. In the years since, it has expanded to Rittenhouse, University City and beyond. The menu at t

There are a ton of things to do in Philadelphia this weekend to keep you busy around the clock, but folks from the Friends of Rittenhouse, a group that works to maintain Rittenhouse Square, would appreciate a few extra hands on Saturday morning as they work to spiff up the popular square for summer. If you can spare a few hours, they’ll even give you a handful of delicious treats for your hard work.  All volunteers who swing by to help between 9am and noon on May 12 will receive a free 16-ounce salad from sweetgreen, custard from Shake Shack and macaroons from Sofitel Philadelphia. Duties for the day include planting impatiens, pulling weeds, raking leaves and picking up litter around the park. All supplies are provided, so all you need to bring is a willingness to help (and maybe a little green-thumb expertise if you have it). Photograph: Courtesy Friends of Rittenhouse The cleanup is part of the spring iteration of Love Your Park Week, which kicks off on May 12 and lasts through the 20th. The initiative is a way to get folks out of the house to engage with the city’s green spaces—through volunteer cleanups like the one at Rittenhouse Square on Saturday, but also events such as bird-walking tours, plant sales and an excursion to spot amphibians in Carpenter’s Woods. (See the full lineup of events here.) Most of the cleanups won’t come with free Shake Shack custard, but at least you’ll leave feeling good that you put in some time to keep Philadelphia parks clean and thrivin

This weekend in Philadelphia brings about all kinds of ways to get out and have some fun in the sun. Among the major events happening this weekend is the opening of Spruce Street Harbor Park and Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest along the Delaware River. Both attractions bring enough activities to the waterfront—from live music and beer gardens to general hammock-lounging—to keep you busy all summer long. Over in Fairmount Park, adventure seekers will find plenty to love at the debut of Treetop Quest, an outdoor adventureland filled with zip-lining, rope courses and more. If you’re looking for neighborhood block parties, beeline to the IPA, Champagne and Rosé Block Party outside Hawthorne’s Cafe in Bella Vista; and if it’s art you’re after, swing by the PAFA Annual Student Exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Looking for ways to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend? Tons of restaurants are rolling out special menus, but if you failed to snag a reservation, consider taking her to do some shopping at the Art Star Craft Bazaar at Penn’s Landing, or lounge along the Schuylkill Banks to watch the Dad Vail Regatta. The Rittenhouse Square Fine Craft Fair is also open all weekend at 18th and Walnut Streets. On the live-performance front, check out the debut weekend of Brian Sanders JUNK’s innovative Dancing Dead IPX show in an old church, or the equally trippy Séancers at FringeArts. Comedian D.L. Hughley performs at the Merriam Theater, and DJ Marshmello (who you may hav

Last night, at the Trestle Inn, we brought together bar industry folks from across the city for our first-ever Time Out Philadelphia Bar Awards ceremony. With the help of a panel of in-the-know judges, the awards gave us a chance to dole out prizes to the best bars in Philadelphia at this very moment—from promising new joints to iconic dives and even the bartenders and cocktails you need to get acquainted with pronto. We couldn’t have picked a better spot than the Trestle Inn, which is always a blast, with its go-go dancers, old-school funk and soul music and some of the friendliest drink-slingers in town. Spirits flowed all night, courtesy of Bar Awards sponsors Hendrick’s Gin, Flor de Caña and Segura Viudas, who each brought specially made cocktails (or a small bottle of straight up Brut, in the case of Segura) for guests to enjoy. When it came time for the awards presentation, everyone gathered on the dance floor to cheer on all the winners and nominees. It’s clear that bar industry folks make up a tight-knit, supportive community in this city. That fact only helped make the night one big, kick-ass celebration—with winners and nominees alike getting back-pats and high-fives all night long. Check out the full list of winners here, and some photos from the evening below. All photos by Margaret Ferrec David Powell from Flor de Caña serves his special cocktail, the Translation, made with Flor de Caña 4 White, fresh lime, simple syrup, angostura bitters and a lime garnish.

Starting on Friday, swarms of folks will head like mosquitoes to the Delaware River waterfront, which will glow with the lights, sights and sounds of two of summer’s most popular hangouts: Spruce Street Harbor Park and Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest. Here’s what’s in store for this year’s attractions. What’s happening at Spruce Street Harbor Park in 2018 Photograph: Matt Stanley The beer garden and carnival-like promenade opens for the season on Friday, May 11, with all the tidbits you’ve come to know and love. The Boardwalk will buzz with food stalls manned by folks like Franklin Fountain, Village Burger, Chickie’s and Pete’s, Distrito and more selling pizza, tacos, cheesesteaks, fried chicken, funnel cake, doughnuts and ice cream. The floating beer garden known as the Oasis is back with a TBA food and drink lineup, and a whole new display of greenery decorating the barge. Then of course, there are the hammocks, 50 of them to be exact, that hang from light-filled trees throughout the park. Relax there and take in the scene, or take part in some onsite games like bocce, ping pong and shuffleboard. Photograph: Matt Stanley Spruce Street Harbor Park will also play home to a staggering number of events throughout the season, including paddle board yoga, a Jazz in the Park concert series and an event every Friday night called Lights + Flights, which is essentially a beer tasting and light show all in one. The Punk Rock Flea Market and a farmers’ market from Greensgrow Farms

Hot damn! We’ve hoped and hoped for it for weeks and it’s finally here: a weekend that calls for sun and warm temperatures for three days straight. Get out and enjoy it; there’s plenty to do around the city. Of particular note is the opening of three popular beer gardens in Philadelphia—Uptown Beer Garden and both locations of the stunning PHS Pop-Up Gardens. Traveling beer garden Parks on Tap is still rolling around town, too, this time moving out to Mt. Airy for ample suds and BBQ-style grub under the sun. It’s First Friday in Old City, which is perfect, because the nearby Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival is all aglow for its first weekend at Franklin Square. Check out some galleries, then head over to take in the illuminated pandas, dragons and samurais. Saturday is going to be one big citywide fiesta, with Cinco de Mayo events and food and drink specials happening all around town (find 10 of our favorite picks here), and the South Street Spring Festival draws thousands to one of Philly’s busiest thoroughfares for a day of outdoor eating, drinking and merrymaking in the streets. Get excited, because that’s one of the first spring and summer festivals in Philadelphia of the season. There are many more to come. On top of all that, there are a handful of theater and art openings, namely the new Renoir exhibition at the The Barnes Foundation (which you can peep for free on Sunday). Get details on all those things and more in our roundup of things to do in Philadelphia thi

On August 11, eight miles of Philadelphia streets—on North Broad Street between City Hall and Erie Avenue—will close to vehicular traffic for the third annual Philly Free Streets event. Mayor Kenney and the city of Philadelphia announced plans today, saying that this will be the largest event of its kind in the city yet. If you’ll remember, the Free Streets event in August was only seven miles, so this time around you’re getting a whole extra mile. Make plans now: Roads will be open that day from 8am to 1pm for pedestrians, bikers, joggers and general gadabouts to stroll freely without the fear of any motorized disturbances, and local organizations and businesses will host events along the route throughout the day.   Photograph: Courtesy Philly Free Streets Philly Free Streets was inspired by the Pope visit in 2015, when much of the city was closed to traffic, allowing folks to walk and pedal wherever they wanted—including, and perhaps most memorably, across the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. People loved it so much that the Philly Free Streets initiative was born. The first one happened last September. Then, 10 miles of streets closed—mostly along South Street—and about 30,000 people showed up to take advantage of a blissful, car-free stroll through their city. Like most Philly Street Events, which have drawn tens of thousands of spectators, the August event is meant to highlight a part of town that tends to get overshadowed by more popular areas like Center City. Organizers ho