Describe Philadelphia in Three Words:

Historic, Foodie, Young

Favorite Neighborhoods:

Philadelphia is a city with vibrant neighborhoods that each has their own distinct personality.If I had to pick one area to live in, it would have to be Society Hill. Society Hill is definitely one of the most sought-after neighborhoods for families, set extremely close to the Delaware River.

Rittenhouse Square, however, is my other favorite area because it reminds me of that hustle and bustle I miss having from NYC. It is definitely an out-of-towner's favorite neighborhood. Along the sidewalks you can find high-end shopping, theaters and entertainment, wine and cocktail bars, and restaurants of all kinds.

Best Hotel for Out-of-Town Guests:

The Ritz Carlton Philadelphia. This hotel is the epitome of “Historic Philadelphia.” They have an amazing newly renovated lobby bar, which is especially fun to have drinks at before dinner. They have an awesome buffet brunch that even the locals will roll out of bed for, and a concierge service that will help you make your weekend in Philly unforgettable.

3 Must-Visit Restaurants:

Vernick (2031 Walnut Street, Rittenhouse Square)

One of the top restaurants in Philly, you must call ahead to make a reservation because they book up extremely fast. You can also grab a seat at their first come first serve bar, which is sometimes more happening than the dining room upstairs. You cannot go wrong with anything on this menu: Maryland Crab Toast, Amish Chicken, and Truffle Pasta (ask for this as it's not always on the menu).

Wm. Mulherin’s Sons (1355 N Front Street, Fishtown)

I am completely obsessed with this place; I try and go here as often as I can get in. What to order? ONE OF EVERYTHING!!!!

Dmitri's BYOB (944 N 2nd Street and 795 S 3rd Street)

Philadelphia is known for their BYOB (bring your own bottle) restaurants. Dmitri’s is by far one of my favorite BYOBs. They do not take reservations so it forces you to wait and sip on the bottle of wine you brought. It is Greek Fare, with tons of local fish and fresh vegetables.

Best Place to Grab a Cocktail:

Rouge (205 S 18th Street). It is a Rittenhouse Square staple.

Morning Coffee Go-To:

La Colombe! This is literally the only coffee that gets the job done, with locations all around the city. You can visit their headquarters in Fishtown.

Where to Shop:

Philadelphia is home to tons of independent boutiques that are setting up shop all over the area. The best part, is when you can’t find what you’re looking for in the smaller boutiques, the King of Prussia Mall is right on your backyard. This is one if the biggest malls in the country that just went under a luxury expansion/renovation. It is a MUST see for the shopaholic visiting or living in Philadelphia. My favorites? Neiman Marcus King of Prussia, Townhome Jewelry, Third Street Habit, Valley Forge Flowers and Vagabond Vintage.

Spot to Get Pampered:

Rescue Spa is my go-to for everything beauty. When I lived in NYC I always went to a million different places to maintain my beauty needs, but Rescue Spa has everything covered; they pretty much always prevail. I go here for my mani/pedis, my eyebrows, a quick facial, the infrared sauna, and of course the service.

Tourist Spot You Still Love to Visit:

Reading Terminal Market (12th and Arch Streets) is the best food market in the city, and one of the oldest farmers markets in the country. It is totally a tourist trap, but when you are craving Bassets Ice Cream from 1861, you go here. You can enjoy eating basically every type of cuisine from classic Philly Cheesesteaks to Soul Food and Middle Eastern Dishes.

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