The Best Philly Food Events Happening in September
Drag Divas Lunch, The Philly Black Wine Festival, Center City Restaurant Week, and more: Here are the food events you need to put on your calendar this month.
Scenes from last year’s Outstanding in the Field event hosted by FarmerJawn. This year’s dinner will be held at Wayvine Vineyards. / Photograph by Deon Joyce
It’s September, which means the city is getting back into its groove. Maybe you’ve been in Philadelphia all summer, sweating and cursing the heat. Maybe you’ve been down the Shore and haven’t given Philly’s restaurant scene a passing thought. Either way, we’re heading into the summer-fall shoulder season, one of my favorite times of year for eating, when the last of the summer produce intermingles with cooler weather to encourage eating and cooking inspiration that you just can’t get any other time of year. With that in mind, these are the best food events in September that have us excited for fall in Philly.
Southeast Asian Market in FDR Park for Labor Day, September 2nd
If you’re staying in the city for Labor Day, consider spending Monday at FDR Park eating stuffed and grilled chicken wings, fried tofu, seared noodles, and more. Bring a picnic blanket and cash, and enjoy FDR Park, which is about as close to nature as you can get in South Philly.
Vine-yl Night at a.kitchen, Sept. 3rd
On September 3rd, there will be many things going on at a.kitchen — one of Center City’s best restaurants, on a normal night. First, chef Drew DiTomo of Meetinghouse will collaborate with a.kitchen chef Eli Kulp on a menu that combines the two restaurants hit dishes. Meanwhile, winemakers Rajat Parr, César Vega, and Louisiana Remy will be pouring wines from Barbichette’s portfolio, while Parr spins vinyl that he’s bringing all the way from California. It sort of sounds like a house party, if the house party was hosted by renowned chefs and winemakers. Reservations are available here.
High Street Outstanding in the Field, September 8th
Outstanding in the Field is like a traveling circus of culinary excellence (check out the review from last year’s event by our own Be Well editor Laura Brzyski). The team criss-crosses the United States, partnering with local chefs to throw farm dinners. They’re doing it this September (the perfect season for farm dining in our opinion) at Wayvine Vineyards with food offerings from High Street chef Christina McKeough. Tickets are $385, inclusive of wine from Wayvine and cocktails featuring Dad’s Hat Rye.
Center City Restaurant Week, September 8-21
What better way to dive into fall than with Center City Restaurant Week? During the week of September 8th through 21st, more than a hundred restaurants will offer discounted two- and three-course meals. The prices range from $20 at lunch to $60 at dinner. I’d recommend checking out the menu at a.kitchen, which is a favorite of mine, as well as Oyster House. Just remember to tip generously, since servers will be extra busy during this time.
Drag Divas Lunch at BLDG39, September 29
On September 29, BLDG39 at the Arsenal will host the Philly Drag Mafia for a brunch buffet and epic performance. Brunch will be presented by chef Kenny Master, while cocktails will be served by Events with Shabar’s, while Philly’s queen Brittany Lynn will host the drag festivities. Tickets are $40.
Scenes from last year’s Philly Black Wine Festival / Photograph by Kabila Events
Philly Black Wine Festival, September 14th
On the evening of September 14th, the Philly Black Wine Festival returns to Philly for a night of eating, drinking, and entertainment. The festival highlights Black-owned wineries from around the world. Tickets range from $70 for admission to the main tasting, which includes sips from winemakers, plenty of food, as well as access to a cash cocktail bar. The event is hosted at the Penn Museum and will feature live music, retail, and more. Tickets here.
Farm to Fork at Fork, September 19th
Fork is hosting a four-course meal to help support the Sustainable Business Network, an organization that gives resources, support, and education to local businesses on how to incorporate more sustainable practices in their business model. It’ll be an evening of outstanding food prepared by chef George Madosky, featuring ingredients sourced from local farms. Tickets are $175 for general admission and $250 for VIP admission, which includes a cocktail hour before the event begins. Hosted by our food editor, Kae Lani Palmisano, it’ll be an evening of excellent food and thought-provoking discussions about how to build a sustainable local food system.
Joe Yonan in Conversation with Mike Solomonov, September 24th
Washington Post food editor Joe Yonan is coming to Philadelphia on tour for his new book, Mastering the Art of Plant-Based Cooking. For the Philly event, he’s partnering with chef Mike Solomonov to present a book talk at Goldie. They’ll chat about plant-based cooking, snack on mini falafel sandwiches, and enjoy Joe’s exclusive Black Sesame shake. A book signing to follow. Tickets will be available soon through Joe’s Instagram.
Donald Link at Vernick Fish, September 25th
Chef Donald Link is well-known in New Orleans and beyond for his regional, seafood-focused cooking. He’s coming to New Orleans for one night only to collaborate with chef Greg Vernick at his seafood palace. They’ll marry Philadelphia and New Orleans culinary flavors for a super-special menu that will definitely be over the top. Tickets are $210 and include a welcome cocktail.
Empanada-Making Class at Jezabel’s, Sept. 26th
If you’ve ever had Jezabel Careaga’s thoughtful northwestern Argentinean cooking, then you certainly know that her empanada-making skills are enviable. Luckily, she’s teaching an empanada-making class this month where you’ll learn the secrets to her tender, flavorful signature dish. Tickets are $125 per person and include all the supplies you’ll need, plus plenty of empanadas to take home, complimentary beverages, and a special dessert. The class is also BYOB, so it would be perfect for a group of friends or a daytime date.
A Feast for the Senses at Ardmore Music Hall, September 29th
On September 29th, Heritage Radio Network is hosting a fund-raiser for their high school internship program: a musical culinary crossover dinner featuring a conversation hosted by Delicious City podcast host Eli Kulp between Philly jazz phenom Snacktime’s Sam Gellerstein and Aron Magner, the frontman of SPAGA and the keyboardist for the Disco Biscuits. SPAGA will also play a full set after dinner. Food will be plentiful, and the energy is sure to be electric. Tickets are $250 per person.
