Where to Find Healthy Eats, Great Workouts, and Self-Care in Chestnut Hill

Susan Pinto, owner of Rebel yoga studio in Chestnut Hill, shares her go-to healthy spots.


Photograph by Bailey King

Philly has an insanely wonderful fitness scene, but the truth is, many of us tend to stick to our own neighborhoods — we’ve all got our favorite corner coffee shops, yoga studios, running trails, and more. That’s why we’re asking local fitness pros to give us a tour of their neighborhoods — and to spill all their secrets on the hidden gems they can’t quit.

Susan Pinto is the owner of Rebel yoga studio. Photo courtesy of Susan Pinto.

Chestnut Hill is one of Philly’s most adorable neighborhoods, and is about as close as we get to Stars Hallow charm (Gilmore Girls, anyone?) in this city. Susan Pinto, owner of Rebel, a 2017 Best of Philly award-winning yoga studio, lives in the area, and below she shares her favorite neighborhood spots that promote a healthy life — from her go-to grain bowl restaurant to the spa that keeps her toes yoga-ready.

The Best Healthy Food and Drink Spots in Chestnut Hill

Coffee shop: “High Point cafe, hands down! The baristas always greet you by name. They know your order, your kid’s order, and that seasonal pastry treat you love. A skim latte is my go-to drink, always hot. But on a day when I’m looking for something a little more refreshing, the berry hibiscus freshly brewed iced tea is amazing. No sugar needed.”

Healthy breakfast spot: “When I have the time to sit down and eat a relaxing meal, Cake is the only place I want to go. Their Garden Frittata is amazing. It’s chock-full of delicious veggies topped with smoked gouda. Get it with a side salad instead of potatoes to keep it healthy.”

Healthy lunch spot: “The Power Grain Bowl at Baker Street Bread is a daily staple. It’s a delicious blend of barley, wheat berry, quinoa, spinach, kale, and tomatoes. The house-made vinaigrette is so light, blending it all together for the perfect amount of flavor. YUM!”


Healthy date night spot: “For a fun date night, my husband and I love to go to Paris Bistro. It’s literally like stepping into a 1930’s Parisian cafe. Tin ceilings, velvet banquettes, and black and white tile floors give it such a cozy, sexy vibe. But the best part is the intimate jazz club downstairs. We love to grab dinner upstairs; the escargot and trout amandine are my favorite. Maybe not the healthiest of options, but date night is time to splurge! After dinner, we like to head down to the jazz lounge to catch the late show.”


Bar: “I love the bar at El Poquito. They have the best spicy margaritas. Grab a basket of guacamole and chips on the side and you’re good to go.”

Grocery store for healthy foods: “I love the famers’ market vibe at the Top of the Hill Market. Everything is local and so fresh. You can call ahead and special order any kind of fish and they’ll have it for you the next day. They also have a little cafe next door with prepared items and daily soups if you don’t feel like cooking a whole meal.”

The Best Workouts in Chestnut Hill

Workout class: “When I’m not practicing yoga, I love to take a spin class with Alli at Chestnut Hill Cycle Fitness. Her energy is infectious and her playlist makes the class fly by!”


Nearby running trail: “I live right in Wissahickon Valley Park, so I’m spoiled. There are endless trails right in my backyard. I like to take my dog and walk behind my house on the paths that lead to Devils Pool or Valley Green. The scenery changes depending on the time of day, so a hike in the woods is a magical experience every time. It’s the perfect way to unplug and calm my mind.”

The Best Self-Care in Chestnut Hill

Beauty treatment: “You have to go see Chrissy at Cure de Repos. The treatment rooms are so warm and cozy with crystal chandeliers that throw off a soft starry glow. Chrissy is a master at skincare and always knows exactly what treatment is best for your skin. I love the Oxygenating Facial. I have really sensitive skin and this is so gentle, yet it exfoliates like microdermabrasion without the irritation.”

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Place you go for self-care: “I’m barefoot most of the day, so having perfect toes is a must. The girls at Millennium Nail Salon do a great lavender pedicure. For an extra $10, you can add on an extended foot massage. They offer complimentary snacks and beverages while you relax. And if you’re there on the weekend you have to get a back and neck massage from Elizabeth!”

The Best Events in Chestnut Hill

Annual events: “I love Stag and Doe Nights, which take place every Wednesday in December. All the streets are lit up with festive lights, outdoor carolers and bands play and sing and the stores stay open late for shopping. It really brings the community together and celebrates this lovely little town we live in.”


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