Settling In: Philadelphia, PA
I was in Philadelphia to attend the Cherry Bombe Jubilee in New York and the Black Women in Food Summit in DC, Philadelphia is right in the middle and it is my favorite city — and it's home. I grew up across the Ben Franklin Bridge in Camden, New Jersey. Originally a suburban town with ferry service to Philadelphia ,Camden evolved into its own city and was officially incorporated in 1828. but it is still very much an extension of Philadelphia. I chose my favorite hospitality brand, Sonder, for my accommodations and they did not disappoint.
Sonder has a presence in 40 countries and 9000 units in their inventory, and one thing that stands out is the consideration they put into using space design to emphasize the distinctiveness of each city, area, structure, and its history. Whether this type of attentiveness is part of their brand or not, it's obvious how carefully it's applied.
Philadelphia has complex history. Philadelphia was home to the liberation of Harriet Tubman and William Still, known as the Father of the Underground Railroad. For generations, it was arguably one of the worst places for African people, a port where they were brought to be sold into slavery and separated from their families. But it was also home to the largest population of free African Americans in the country—the Seventh Ward (between Spruce and South Streets and 6th and 23rd Streets) —and Mother Bethel, the first African Methodist Episcopal Church.You can go to South Street and see the remaining icons from the time when it was a vibrant, flourishing Black community, and then in the same day visit Napoleon Bonparte's brother's house.
Philadelphia is grossly overlooked as a global city; its food culture and community are second to none. 19th century Philadelphia was dominated by Black caterers, making food service in the city an integral part of its Black history. Thomas Dorsey, Henry Jones, and Henry Minton had essentially created a catering monopoly in town--a remarkable feat at the time. Dorsey's story is especially remarkable: he'd been born into slavery in Maryland and managed to escape from bondage in his twenties, fleeing to Pennsylvania which was a free state.
The Terrace:
Perched above Benjamin Franklin Parkway with an incomparable view of downtown Philadelphia, The Terrace is perfectly situated in the city’s Museum District. Home to some of the most renowned museums and art institutes in the world, such as The Philadelphia Museum of Art, Franklin Institute, and Barnes Foundation, there’s no shortage of inspiring exhibitions just a few minutes away. Plus, El Vez offers some of Philly’s best tacos for when you need a break from sightseeing.
The Terrace provides a perfect place to kick back and relax. Every space comes fully stocked with modern kitchen appliances, open floor plans, and a private balcony. If you have work that needs to be done, choose between your personal desk or take the elevator down to use the communal lounge area. And don’t forget to stop by the fitness center for a quick workout.
The Tidewater
The Tidewater, is also located in Philadelphia's Museum District, the building was formerly a local grain distribution center and a significant piece of history. The building's construction was reinforced with the country's first slip-form method. Today, every space within the facility offers a fully equipped kitchen, in-suite laundry, and industrial-style windows. If you want to indulge in some sightseeing, you can cycle by the city bike to witness the iconic Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River's rowers. You can also explore the picturesque gardens of Fairmount Park, take a jog up the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, or discover local bars and restaurants within walking distance of the Tidewater. The rooftop is an excellent spot to appreciate the building's stunning architecture.
The Edison
This contemporary building stands in stark contrast to the traditional atmosphere of Old City - America's most historic square mile. Each suite has a Roku for streaming, laundry facilities, and a full kitchen. Take your morning coffee on the roof for amazing views, or head to the acclaimed High Street on Market for farm-to-table sandwiches and pasta. Don't forget to take the bus over to Independence Hall and learn about the birthplace of America! Surround yourself with young professionals shopping at local stores and dining at independent restaurants in this vibrant neighborhood.
Boat People, by Philly-based artist Claes Gabriel, created with curator Ryan Strand Greenberg and Mural Arts Philadelphia. Located at 47th Street and Woodland Avenue in West Philadelphia, the mural’s design is inspired by the Haitian Flag, where Claes was born in Port-au-Prince.
Here's a brunch recipe inspired by Philadelphia, PA that serves two:
Philly-Style Breakfast Sandwich:
Start the day off right with this hearty Philly-style breakfast sandwich. Packed with savory flavor and loaded with delicious fillings, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. From the crispy bacon to the melted cheese and pretzel roll, every bite is a mouthwatering experience Perfect for a Sonder kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of Philadelphia-style soft pretzel rolls
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 large eggs
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pretzel rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are slightly toasted. Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the thinly sliced green bell pepper and onion. Sauté over medium heat until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook them to your desired doneness (fried or scrambled).
5. To assemble the sandwiches, take one pretzel roll and place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half. Add a quarter of the sautéed green bell pepper and onion mixture on top of the cheese. Then add a slice of bacon and a cooked egg. Finally, add another slice of American cheese and cover it with the top half of the pretzel roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make the second sandwich.
6. Optional: If you prefer a melty cheese layer, you can place the assembled sandwiches back in the warm oven for a minute or two until the cheese melts.
7. Serve the Philly-Style Breakfast Sandwiches warm and enjoy your brunch inspired by Philadelphia!
Feel free to pair it with some fresh fruit, a side of home fries, or a cup of coffee to complete your brunch experience.
