The Editors’ Cut: What We’re Reading, Watching, Doing, and Liking This Week

In a moment in which the whole world is fighting for your time and attention (two rare and precious commodities these days), every day is an exercise in deciding what’s actually worth the read, the trek, the watch, the click, the deep dive, the effort.

We can help (at least a little) with that decision-making process, reader, via our Editors’ Cut — a weekly round-up of the best, can’t-miss bits of culture that we here at Philly Mag have been loving lately.

The Recs: February 6th

A woofy cause: Bark Bowl at Craft Hall

It’s Super Bowl weekend, but the Eagles aren’t involved so I’m not that into it. (Aside from Bad Bunny, obvs.) But you know what I’m into no matter who won their respective league champion games that year? The Puppy Bowl. And while the Birds are sitting Sunday out, DeVon-tails Smith is repping Philly on Team Ruff. But what about my own Philly pup, little Miss Barclay Swartz? Well, she’ll get her gridiron glory on Saturday at Craft Hall’s annual Bark Bowl. The event builds a whole indoor turf at the NoLibs bar and lets dogs run around like the good girls and good boys they are. Even better? The event supports the PSPCA, and they’ll even have adoptable pups on site, in case you want to add them to your team. — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

A word of advice: Internet Scrabble Club

Like millions of other nerds out there, I am a big fan of The New York Times games, with Spelling Bee and Wordle being my faves. So when I heard that the Times was releasing a new game, I got excited. Well, they released that game last month. It’s called Crossplay. And not only is it a complete rip off of Scrabble, they managed to make it drastically less fun. It’s a real loser. I’ve heard complaints from so, so many friends and after playing a couple dozen games, have deleted the app from existence in my life.

Instead, I’m sticking with the Internet Scrabble Club, a website that allows you to play realistic Scrabble with challenges, time limits, and other features that things like Crossplay and Words With Friends don’t have. I’ve played it pretty much daily for the past decade, and based on what the Times just dropped, I will continue to do so. I recommend it to all Scrabble lovers out there, and if you feel up to matching me, I am PHLVictor. — Victor Fiorillo, senior reporter/arts and entertainment editor

A sign of the times: Hyperallergic on anti-ICE street art

Street art is a crucial part of Philadelphia’s visual tableau, whether in the form of city sanctioned murals, graffiti in seemingly impossible to reach places, or stickers on any sticker-able public surface. This short read by Isabella Segalovich at Hyperallergic offers a look at the work of the guerilla artist known as Make It Weird and some of their recent pieces that criticize the Trump administration and offer reminders of viewers’ civil rights, all in their signature style emulating traffic signs. They join an increasing number of local street artists whose work rises to meet this alarming moment, but with an unmistakably Philly accent. — Shaunice Ajiwe, associate editor

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A night out: Bar Mish Mish

I think good collaborations don’t just combine the best of two distinct businesses, but become a force of their own. That’s what’s happening at Ace Outpost and Mish Mish’s sip-and-shop: Bar Mish Mish. Held on the first Friday of the month, it’s become a monthly tradition in my house. We started going because the vermouth, served over ice and garnished with olives, reminded my husband of a trip we took to Spain. We kept going for the funky, natural wines, Acepresso martinis, vibey atmosphere and stellar, well-priced vintage finds. Tonight is the partnership’s one year anniversary and they’re celebrating by slinging fancy hot dogs alongside their drinks. Get there early, or bring your most stylish big coat — the party often spills out onto the street. — Courtney Duchene, staff writer

An anthem: Paul Simon’s “American Tune”

Lately I — like many of my fellow Americans — have been in a defiant, rage-fueled, righteous fighting mood when it comes to … well, pretty much everything that’s happening in this country right now. That said, in these moments when I’m just in my feelings, I’ve been listening to Paul Simon’s gorgeous, mournful “American Tune” on almost obsessive repeat. The song, released in 1973 in the midst of the Vietnam War and Watergate, captures the pain and quiet endurance of someone disillusioned — even betrayed — by their country.

“I don’t know a soul who’s not been battered/ I don’t have a friend who feels at ease/ I don’t know a dream that’s not been shattered/ or driven to its knees.”

He sings of dreaming, watching the Statue of Liberty “sailing away to sea.” He sings of how it’s alright, it’s alright: “We’ve lived so well so long.”

I think this song — set to the tune of a favorite old hymn, which was set to the tune of a Bach melody — is one of the most resonant ever written. (This is probably why Willie Nelson has covered it; so did Dave Matthews, the Indigo Girls, and a bunch of others.) I also think the more recent version Rhiannon Giddens sings with Simon himself playing backup (starts at minute 2:25) is even better than Simon’s original. I appreciate, too, how the thing ends on a sad, but resolute note. There’s grief, but no giving up. Tomorrow’s another working day / and so I’m trying to get some rest. — Christy Lejeune, editor

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The Recs: January 23rd

Skate night: Millennium Skate World

I wish we had something like Camden’s Millennium Skate World within walking distance of my house. I’d live there. This place — a throwback to my youth, with its disco lights, crazy carpet, loud music, snack bar, skates that might be literal holdovers from ’80s — is literally just over the bridge, and makes for such a fun, cardio-filled couple hours. I took a handful of eight-year-olds to skate this past weekend, and they loved watching real-deal talented roller skaters do their thing. Now I’m plotting a day to return with just my grownup friends. You can even tack on a quick lesson to rev that muscle memory back up. Love. — Christine Speer Lejeune, editor

Madcap escapism: Clue at the Forrest Theatre

I find January to be pretty depressing, and this year started off rough, for … reasons. So dressing up to go see a play based on a movie based on a board game? I was down. Clue on stage is pure, shameless fun, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need. It follows the 1985 movie almost beat-for-beat, with rapid-fire jokes, secret passages, slapstick, and mayhem. For 90 minutes, you’re wrapped up in a campy whodunnit where the stakes don’t feel so high — even as the body count rises. — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

A wine tasting for history nerds: Jet Wine Bar

I’ve always been a believer that wine is more than what’s poured into the glass. It’s history and culture, it’s science and technique, its vines growing out of 400-million-year-old phyllite on 90-degree slopes and wine made not far from the highest elevation petroglyphs found in Europe. Few in Philly know this better than Jet Wine Bar’s owner Jill Weber. Her background in archeology guides one of the most interesting and fun wine tastings in the city. This past Wednesday I went to her tasting tour of the Alpine region cleverly named “off-piste,” meaning going off the ski path. While drinking a pinot grigio from Alto Adige, Italy, Weber told us the story of Ötzi, a naturally mummified man from the Copper Age who was found in the nearby mountains. Between sips of Domaine Jean vullien et Fils Mondeuse she delighted us with factoids about Savoie, France and how the region is home to Albertville, a town that generates electricity from Beaufort cheese waste. The wines were exceptional, but the tangents were what really made the night.

Jet Wine Bar’s wine tasting series is every third Wednesday(-ish) of the month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The next one, Unruly Wines for Unruly Minds: An Aquarius Wine Tasting, is happening February 18th and the Et tu Ruche: An Ides of March Wine Tasting will be held on March 18th. — Kae Lani Palmisano, food editor

A taste of summer: Little Water

Seafood shines its brightest in the summer, I think. Every August I go to the same restaurant in my hometown and tear through a steaming bag of crab legs with my family for my birthday. But despite the frigid weather, a friend and I had been thinking wistfully about oysters this past week. So we nabbed a late reservation at Little Water. Naturally, as a recent recipient of nods from Michelin and this magazine, it was packed to the gills. But at no point did the service, or the bites, suffer. The small plate of tangy marinated mussels and crackers that they sent us at the bar as an apology when our table wasn’t ready (though I’ve never been a whiner about waiting) kicked off the meal with a bang. Then, the half-dozen Sweet Amalia oysters with Alabama white sauce and their cute little vial of housemade hot sauce that I regret not asking to take home — a delight that we asked for another six of. Then, warm bread with shockingly garlicky butter, a zippy Caesar-esque salad covered in nori and toasted benne, lobster with grits, scallops with puréed butter beans, and a mild but lovely Cabernet Franc. We ate like kings — of the sea, that is. — Shaunice Ajiwe, associate editor

A hobby shop to help you wait out the snow: Loop

I’m getting ready to hunker down and stay inside to avoid the snow, but before I do, I’m taking a trip to Loop. The Fitler Square fiber shop has all the yarn, crochet hooks, and knitting needles you need to keep yourself busy making hats or scarves or blankets this weekend. I’ve found crocheting to be soothing. It helps me avoid doomscrolling and it’s easy to do while binging TV. The staff at Loop are super kind, knowledgeable and always ready to make recommendations or help you identify your next project. If you’re new to crocheting or knitting, or just want to develop a new skill, they offer several classes and their color selection is top-notch. — Courtney Duchene, staff writer

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The Recs: January 16th

A brisk run: Believe in the Run’s Wipeout Winter Grit 2026 challenge

The Wipeout Winter Grit Challenge is basically a contest (mainly with yourself) put on by the Baltimore-based running media group, in which you try to run a certain number of miles during the month of January. (I signed up for 120 and am currently at 65.71. Getting there!) It’s great motivation to get you out the door when the weather sucks. Along the way, you can get various prizes, including a weekend trip to the Donna Marathon in Florida — and BITR just announced that a Philly-area runner, Meredith Minnick of Plymouth Meeting, won it!  Congrats to Meredith! I bet running in Florida will feel so much better than in freezing Philly. — Kristen Schott, deputy editor, lifestyle and weddings

An empowering play: Suffs at the Academy of Music

I saw Suffs at the Academy of Music with my daughter last week and began to write a little recommendation of it for this column. Before I realized, I’d written 500 words. And this weekend is your last chance to see the Tony Award-winning musical about the women’s suffrage movement leading up to the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Egos flare, strategies clash, and friendships strain as the suffragists argue not just about how to win the vote, but who gets credit, who gets heard, and whose sacrifices matter most. That messy, human conflict is what makes Suffs feel alive — but it feels even more resonant today as we continue to hope and fight for a more perfect nation. A little historical bonus? Generations before the events depicted in the musical, Susan B. Anthony spoke at the Academy of Music to advocate for women’s rights. — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

Industry analysis: The Honest Broker on book publishing

This is an interesting read about the sad state of the publishing industry today, which limits the types of books we have the opportunity read. The answer, as always, is to read more books, encourage others to do the same, buy them from local stores, and in any way possible, support independent writers. — Roxanne Patel Shepelavy, executive director/editorial director, Citizen Media Group

A peek into another world: The Atlantic on mosh pits

This year, I’m celebrating the 10th year of friendship with my friend Raven. We met in high school and they moved to Philly to attend PAFA in 2016. When I followed suit the next year to go to Temple, Raven introduced me to many of the things I love about Philly, including the city’s hardcore scene and the majesty of the mosh pit. Atlantic columnist James Parker’s dissection of mosh pit politics paints a vivid picture of the organized chaos of hardcore shows. If you’ve been to one, reading this piece is like talking to a good friend. If you haven’t, maybe it’s like watching a nature documentary. Either way, fascinating. Yes, it largely focuses on the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival in Worcester, Massachusetts — but it’s nevertheless a great way to prepare for or contemplate the 20th anniversary of Philly’s own This Is Hardcore Fest coming later this year. Maybe the principles of the pit, as Parker posits, could teach us all something about how to live peacefully in 2026. — Shaunice Ajiwe, associate editor

Gluten-free pizza night: Barclay Pies

No one in my family suffers from celiac disease, but there are some gluten-free dishes that we’ll order just because they’re excellent in their own right — not just a version of their traditional counterparts, but dishes with their own distinct flavor and satisfying texture. That is the case with the celiac-friendly pizzas at Barclay Pies. The new pizza shop in Cherry Hill offers both regular and gluten-free Caputo flour pies as well as chicken tenders, wings, fries, and salads (gluten-free by default).

We ordered two pies: a classic pepperoni with honey and basil and the Caputo flour mushroom pie made with caramelized onion and shaved cremini. The pepperoni was a thin, New York-style pizza with a stretchy, doughy crust. The gluten-free mushroom pie was like a thicker pan pizza that had a focaccia-like texture and incredible chew. Both were good, but in the end, we preferred the mushroom pie not because it was a tasty dupe, but because it was delightfully different. — Kae Lani Palmisano, food editor

And for dessert: Falooda at Amma’s

When you think of desserts from the Indian subcontinent, gulab jamun probably pops into your head, which makes sense since pretty much every Indian restaurant in Philadelphia serves the syrupy, milk-based fried balls. Much lesser known is falooda, which I first encountered on the subcontinent itself back in 2007 … and then loved again this week at the new(ish) location of Amma’s at 15th and Walnut.

The dessert — essentially an Indian version of an ice cream sundae — is made with rose-infused milk, basil seeds, vermicelli, chopped dried fruits and pistachios, vanilla ice cream, some kind of jelly and, mint. (And, of course, a maraschino cherry on top.) It was as delicious as it was a mess to eat — the perfect ending for a feast of spicy, earthy South Indian flavors. — Victor Fiorillo, senior reporter/arts and entertainment editor

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The Recs: January 9th

Sustainable cuteness: Philly Goat Project’s Tree-Cycle Festival

This is more than just an opportunity to dispose of your Christmas tree in an eco-friendly way — it is a Philadelphia treasure of an event. Here’s how it works: You bring your tree, donate $20, and then watch the goats of Philly Goat Project eat it! Whatever’s left over will be turned into wood chips for the trails in city parks and community gardens. But wait, there’s more. So much more. Listen, I don’t even have a Christmas tree and I bring my family to this event at Awbury every year. Why? It’s goats eating Christmas trees! And you can hang out with said goats! And take pictures with them! And then you can explore the Farm at Awbury, warm up by the fire pit with free s’mores and hot cocoa, and did I mention the goats? Last year, a Gritty impersonator showed up and taught our new puppy what it means to be a Philadelphian. It was a delight. If you want to listen to me ramble excitedly about this, we recorded a podcast about it this week. Tree-cycling events are this Sunday, January 11th at Awbury Arboretum; and then January 17th at Laurel Hill West and January 24th at Awbury again. — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

The soundtrack we need: WXPN

I have an old AM-FM radio that sits on top of my fridge, and if you walk into my house you’ll almost always hear WXPN wafting out of it. It’s on when I’m packing lunches in the morning, it’s on when I’m washing dishes before bed, and it almost never takes a break in-between. It’s a little companion, like when people leave the TV on for their dog as they head off to work.

I noticed something different about XPN this week, something sly that the DJs do every once in a while. It started on Wednesday night, hours after the killing of Renee Good in Minneapolis. The DJ — the schedule says it was Jim McGuinn but for some reason I thought it was Amber Miller — played “Within Your Reach,” a little-played track from Minneapolis’s favorite sons (and my favorite band) the Replacements. It’s a crushing song that concludes simply with the repetition of “Die within your reach” seven times before lead singer Paul Westerberg, almost imperceptibly, sings “reach … for the sky.” I thought it was interesting, and possibly related to the day’s news. Then, yesterday, Kristen Kurtis played — over the course of just 45 minutes — three of the most well-known American protest songs: “This Land Is Your Land,” Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind,” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright.” This morning? Joan Baez doing “We Shall Overcome” at Woodstock.

This moment in American history is fraught, and it may seem silly to some to believe that a radio station’s musical choices have any impact on the direction that this country may go. I disagree. In moments like this we need our cultural institutions, our literal mouthpieces, to be a source of hope, and maybe even resistance. And XPN’s giving us both. — Bradford Pearson, executive editor

The drink we need: Wildfether Distilling in Haddonfield

Haddonfield — where I spent some time over the holidays — has an interesting workaround for its long-standing “dry town” status. Alcohol can be served as long as it’s made on-site, which gives this distillery, located in a historic Victorian home, cozy speakeasy vibes. I grabbed a seasonal whiskey cocktail recommended by the bartender; my husband tried one of their mocktails. Both drinks were unique, elaborate, and refreshing. Worth it for a jaunt to the ‘burbs! — Olivia Kram, digital marketing and community manager

And for the Dry January people: Bar Palmina

For the past few years, I have partaken in Dry (or damp) January and found it to be a great reset for my health (and wallet) after the endless food-and-drink events during the holiday season. (Worth noting: My Dry January efforts were hugely inspired by Philly Mag’s health and wellness editor Laura Brzyski, and her 2022 essay on Semi-Sober living.) This month, I’ll be hitting up Bar Palmina, Fishtown’s 100-percent-sober mocktail bar and sipping on zero-proof concoctions like the the Brown Dog, a wonderful Earl Grey, orange and dupe bourbon drink, or the Yuzu Negroni. Bar Palmina has also become a staple during months when I’m not doing a sober challenge, especially on weeknights when I want to go out somewhere with chill, candlelight vibes and drinks that are tasty and hangover-proof.  I’m also excited to go to their “Selected Works” event on January 23rd, which will feature readings from Philly writers. — Courtney DuChene, staff writer

On screen: Philadelphia Film Society’s “New York: A Character in Itself” series

As much as I, too, revel in Philadelphians’ irrevocable “fuck everywhere that isn’t here” attitude, I commend the PFS showing our mid-Atlantic metropolitan neighbor a little love (at least cinematically). As part of this vast curation of films showing throughout January, some of my all-time favorites will be available on the big screen: Moonstruck, Inside Llewyn Davis, The Taking of Pelham 123, After Hours, Klute, American Psycho, and much more. Nothing on this earth — neither rain, snow, sleet, nor hail — could keep me from a night at the Film Society East with a bucket of popcorn and 85 minutes of campy cult classic Frankenhooker. I expect to be equally delighted by PFS programming in the following months as well — in February, their “When Two Become One” series of films about obsession and in March, their “Scream Queens” series heralding women of the horror genre. — Shaunice Ajiwe, associate editor

Cheap eats: Samosas from Sabzi Mandi

Sabzi Mandi isn’t a restaurant, but a little Indian grocery store just over the Philly border in Upper Darby. Samosas are the only prepared food you can order there; they just have them behind the counter in one of those warming boxes, for $1.50 each. This is a real bargain considering what some Indian restaurants try to charge for a single samosa — usually upwards of $4. They’re legit, too: The owner told me that there’s an Indian woman who lives nearby who makes them. (When I asked him if I’d get a discount when I ordered 100 samosas — this was for a graduation party — he laughed and said, “They’re already so cheap! No!” Fair enough.) Anyway, while you’re at the shop, definitely avail yourself of some frozen idli and vada and some imported Indian beverages, like Limca soda and one of the yogurt-based drinks. If you’re in the mood to cook, pick up the small number of items needed for Madhur Jaffrey’s dry okra recipe, a favorite in my household. — Victor Fiorillo, senior reporter/arts and entertainment editor

And for dessert: Sprinkles in Elkins Park

In my life, ice cream is a year-round treat. When I was a young teen, I discovered Sprinkles, a family-owned shop in Elkins Park, and would always stop by on my way from my flute lessons in Jenkintown back to my home in Mayfair. The other day, I was out that way for an errand and decided to pop in and order my old favorite: death by chocolate on a fudge-dipped waffle cone. It holds up, and more: I live in Grad Hospital now and am telling you, it’s worth the drive. — Laura Brzyski, health and wellness editor

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The Recs: January 2nd

To be moved by history: Washington’s tent at the Museum of the American Revolution

Over the holidays, I took my children and visiting parents the wonderful American Revolution museum at 3rd and Chestnut. We’d been there before, but had somehow missed the crown jewel of the museum: George Washington’s war tent. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend a trip — and then taking the 10 minutes watch the (excellent) short film about the tent and Washington’s leadership during the Revolution. The movie ends with the screen raising to reveal this piece of material history, which has been restored and painstakingly maintained. As cool as the sight of the tent is, however, it’s the story that’s truly amazing. Like, for instance, how it lived for many years with Mary Anna Randolph Custis Lee — as in, Robert E. Lee’s wife, who happened to be Martha Washington’s great-granddaughter. After the Union troops came to Arlington during the Civil War, it wasn’t Mary, but the Lee family’s enslaved housekeeper, Selina Gray, who protected Washington’s tent and kept it safe, so that it could eventually make its way to this museum, via a winding road through history that the exhibit delves into. Even my kids (who are eight and 12, and who mostly only care about Washington thanks to his role the musical Hamilton) were entranced with the relic and the tale. — Christine Speer Lejeune, editor

To read for a great idea: New York Magazine on the state’s public-school cell phone ban

An excerpt:

When New York State banned phones in public schools from bell to bell this past September, the goal — according to the ban’s champion, Governor Hochul — was undistracted learning. But within weeks of the Great Phone Lockup, teachers began to notice an incidental (and arguably even more compelling) benefit: The teens were talking to one another as if they were in a Brat Pack movie. Sure, there’s been grumbling and some burner phones and scrolling in the bathroom. At one high school, an entrepreneurial senior even bought a pouch-unlocking magnet on Amazon and tried to charge classmates a dollar per jailbreak. But generally, with phones off-limits, the atmosphere feels different. There’s a pleasant buzz in the lunchroom, chatter in the hallways, and an alphabet of new analog hobbies popping up just about everywhere. “We’ve had a lot more school spirit,” says Rosalmi, a senior at New Heights Academy Charter School in Harlem. “People are more willing to do stuff.”

As a parent with a kid on the cusp of cellphone age, a phone ban in Pennsylvania can’t come soon enough. — Bradford Pearson, executive editor

To read for a mood boost: “My Sparkly Crocodile Strut of Hope” on The Philadelphia Citizen

I was captivated by Gupta’s story of how he — the son of Indian immigrants, who never saw himself fitting in with the Mummers — accepted an invitation from the Golden Sunrise fancy brigade to strut in this year’s parade, not just as a new and oh-so-Philly experience, but as an act of much-needed hope going into 2026. — Roxanne Patel Shepelavy, executive director/editorial director, Citizen Media Group

To rock: Philly Loves Bowie Week

Of all the millions of reasons I love Philly, one of the biggies is the fact that David Bowie also loved it, and was influenced by this place. Thanks to the Sigma Kids for dreaming up Philly Loves Bowie Week, for keeping it going every year since his death (10 years now!), and for supporting CHOP while doing it. The festivities kick off today and include dance parties, concerts, and loads more ways to celebrate. (Random brag: In 2021, I won Bowie Trivia hosted by Patti Brett on Zoom.) Check out this year’s lineup here. — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

To read for fun: Workhorse by Caroline Palmer

I’m about three-quarters of the way through the 500-plus-page tome that is Workhorse, by Caroline Palmer, who grew up in Bucks County. (She now lives in Montclair, N.J.) The protagonist of sorts is Clo Harmon, a self-deprecating editorial assistant who stumbles her way up the masthead at the Vogue-like fashion mag she works at. Clo, who hails from Northeast Philly and later the upper-middle-class-suburbs (there are a few Philly Easter eggs in the text), is a workhorse — not to be confused with the show horses (i.e., her affluent colleagues at the mag who simply achieve by existing). It’s an entertaining book with plenty of cringe-worthy moments, and as someone who has worked at magazines for nearly 20 years, I find myself at times both relating to and horrified by Clo’s behavior. She’s a complex character, and sometimes it’s downright hard to like her: She’s an underdog and a Byronic hero, and I can’t wait to see where this ends. — Kristen Schott, deputy editor, lifestyle and weddings

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The Recs: December 19th

To stuff your face: Shakshuka croissant (any croissant!) at The Bread Room

My kid and I stopped in for a treat the other day at Ellen Yin’s new Bread Room, the bakery/bread workshop that just opened on Chestnut Street. The place is warm, cozy and inviting (man, that the smell of fresh bread!), but what I’m really writing to tell you about is the shakshuka croissant I bought there. Best snack I’ve had all year, maybe. You’ll have to forgive my abysmal food photography, above — it really doesn’t do this pastry justice. But you can imagine it thusly: flaky, buttery, airy croissant, topped with sweet tomato sauce, a baked egg, and a medley of herbs, including a bright, sprightly dill. I took one bite (right there on the sidewalk, as you see), and that was that: Had to scarf the rest while driving home, breaking my own “no-croissants-in-the-car” rule. (They’re so messy!) Totally worth it. — Christine Speer Lejeune, editor

To get in the Christmas groove: John Coltrane’s “My Favorite Things,” the very best Christmas carol

’Twas the week before Christmas, and all through the city, everybody was tired of the songs that were … okay, no need to be crass. But I get the sense that we’re all a little sick of the jingling bells and the sleigh rides, whether solo or together with you. While we’re stressing over menus and presents and seating arrangements, I think what we want as our soundtrack is a whiff of holiday, not a punch. Less “Dominick the Donkey,” bless his Italian heart. More John Coltrane.

While “My Favorite Things” is not technically a Christmas song, it’s impossible to remove it from the canon, what with its warm woolen mittens and crisp apple strudels. But that’s all subtext in Coltrane’s version, his first recorded use of the soprano sax. Settling in with his post-Miles Davis quartet, Strawberry Mansion’s own takes the Rodgers and Hammerstein pop classic and converts it into a hypnotic loop, perfect for zoning out as you wrap presents. (Though we won’t fault you for cranking some “Dominick the Donkey” once the eggnog kicks in.) — Bradford Pearson, executive editor

To settle in, cozy up and so forth: Gilda Cafe and Market

One recent favorite Sunday ritual of mine has been going to Gilda Cafe in Fishtown for espresso and pastries. The Portuguese pastries and breakfast sandwiches are delightful; and the cafe’s decor, with its blue and yellow floral wallpaper and lace curtains, has a very cozy, grandma’s-kitchen vibe. Right now, they’re serving winter citrus and sweet potato lattes — pumpkin spice’s older, more sophisticated cousin — in the most adorable holiday mugs. — Courtney DuChene, staff writer

To hobnob with a celebrity: The Nutcracker at the Academy of Music

Some families line up for photos with Santa. But for me, the holidays aren’t complete if we don’t have a pic with the Mouse King. Now, it’s the last weekend before Christmas, which means it’s time to pack in all the stuff I meant to do all season — and for my family, that will mean seeing The Nutcracker at the Academy of Music. It means dressing up with my daughter, walking under that gorgeous chandelier, and taking pre-show pics with the characters. It means listening to Tchaikovsky while wondering why a house that throws such lavish Christmas parties can’t seem to hire an exterminator to deal with an armed rodent infestation. Maybe it’s because they’ve got so much candy dancing around, I don’t know! Regardless, it is a grand tradition. — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

To stock your library: Books and Brews

Earlier this week, I attended a book fair and swap hosted by Books and Brews Philadelphia, which has been bringing back the spirit of the Scholastic book fairs of your youth with the help of local breweries, wineries and indie book shops. (This one was held at Pray Tell, in partnership with The Head and The Hand.) I sipped on Pray Tell’s Orange Popsicle skin-contact wine while perusing new and gently used books, and, as if my to-read pile isn’t crazy enough, I went home with five novels. The next two events are happening on January 10th at Twelve 78 Brewing in Phoenixville and January 24th at Love City Brewing in Spring Garden. You’ll see me there. — Laura Brzyski, health and wellness editor

To nerd out: The Free Press’s book talk

Okay, this has nothing to do with Philly, but now that I have found this I can’t stop: Shilo Brooks, professor and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, interviews public intellectuals about the books they love for The Free Press. This episode has evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins talking about his pick: P.G. Wodehouse’s Uncle Fred in the Springtime. (I love Wodehouse.) — Roxanne Patel Shepelavy, editorial director

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The Recs: December 12th

To brighten up your holiday schedule: LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo

“You’ve seen the Wanamaker lights. You’ve walked through the Miracle on South 13th Street. But have you experienced the splendor of a 40-foot-tall penguin all aglow to a playlist that combines Elton John’s ‘Philadelphia Freedom’ and Andy Williams’s ‘It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year’? Or gazed up at a Christmas tree made entirely of pink lawn-ornament flamingoes? Or been cheerfully accosted by a flashy birdman on stilts? LumiNature is back at the zoo, and this year they’ve stepped it up more than usual with a cozy lodge containing a bar and Santa visits — a pairing parents can truly appreciate. My family and I also could not resist a ride on the zoo’s brand-new Ferris wheel — sorry, Pherris Wheel — all lit up for the season, with views of the city unmatched since the days of the dearly departed ZooBalloon.” — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

To warm up: Ukrainian Borscht at Southampton Spa

“I made the pilgrimage up to the Southampton Spa last weekend. The saunas, Turkish hammam, and the pool were nice — but I was really going for the Ukrainian borscht. Eastern Europeans know their way around root vegetables, and no dish puts them front and center like this beet-based soup. I love Ukrainian borscht. Whenever I see it on the menu, I order it. But I was not expecting that the best bowl that I’ve ever had would come from behind an unassuming counter next to a pool in a bathhouse. While the saunas warmed my body from the outside, the Ukrainian borscht warmed me from the inside with a harmonious earthy-sweet-tanginess that became heartier with every spoonful. It was just as restorative as the saunas. Pro tip: Get it after the hammam for maximum coziness.” — Kae Lani Palmisano, food editor

To remember the moms: American Delivery, a documentary

“I just wrote a story about the closing of Lifecycle Wellness and Birth Center, and in the process of reporting found the PBS documentary American Delivery. The doc offered a deep dive into the failures of the American system of giving birth — an issue with which the Philadelphia region is acutely familiar — and how we can do better. It’s also a valuable reminder about the importance of midwife-led care, and how it can help create better outcomes for people giving birth.” — Courtney DuChene, staff writer

To get festive: Wreaths from Weavers Way and shopping on Fabric Row

“Weavers Way is selling these stunning handmade wreaths (see above!) made of fresh pine and flowers grown at their farm. (I got mine at Henry Got Crops in Roxborough.) Prettier than anything I’ve seen in big box stores in years and supports local agriculture. Win/win. Also! Last week I found myself on Fabric Row for the first time in a decade and was so pleasantly surprised with all the fabulous little brick-and-mortar gift shops that have popped up in recent years. I highly recommend doing some holiday shopping on that corridor. Especially Grand Souk, a great go-to for host/hostess gifts.”  — Olivia Kram, digital marketing and community manager

To learn more about … arson (?): Born in Flames: The Business of Arson and the Remaking of the American City

“I read fairly widely, something I consider both a personal love and professional responsibility. This is especially true for nonfiction: In my 35-ish years of reading, I have yet to meet a subject I deem too obscure or niche. (Over the past year, I’ve read books on Jewish organized crime, the Ghanian independence movement, Civil War pacifists, and Frank Rizzo, to name a few stars in the constellation of interests.) So I was excited to pick up Born in Flames: The Business of Arson and the Remaking of the American City from the library the other day, about waves of arson as a mechanism for profit in the 1970s. It’s dense in the most appealing of ways, rich with detail, footnotes pushing me to the back of the book to see just how the author learned this or that tidbit. It’s mostly about the Bronx (the arson capital of the world), but since it was written by Temple history professor Bench Ansfield I’m going to allow it.” — Bradford Pearson, executive editor

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The Recs: December 5th

To take in a great show: Hadestown at the Forrest Theatre

“I saw Hadestown this past week, and can’t recommend it enough. Despite its ancient source material, Anaïs Mitchell’s Tony-winning musical that combines Greek mythology with New Orleans jazz, feels especially relevant today, with themes of economic precarity, climate instability, and systems that can grind people down. But it’s not just bleak commentary: The show frames love, art, and collective imagination as forms of resistance. That makes it feel not only timely, but quietly radical — reminding us that in tough times, believing in something better is both difficult and necessary. ‘’Cause here’s the thing: To know how it ends, and still begin to sing it again, as if it might turn out this time.’” — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

To explore a part of the human experience: Fence Sitter, the podcast

“I’m a first-time mom to an 18-month-old daughter, but for much of my life, parenthood wasn’t something I envisioned for myself. Earlier this week, I sat down with Amanda White, founder of Therapy for Women Center (flagship location is in Old City), for her podcast Fence Sitter, which features honest, nuanced conversations with people who were unsure about having kids and then finally made their decision, one way or another. In our episode, we touched on everything from navigating the tension between loving your partner and not wanting what they want to experiencing regret in those early newborn months to embracing the unexpected joys of motherhood.”­ — Laura Brzyski, health and wellness editor

To feel the music in your bones: McCoy Tyner’s Asante

“Recently, my six-year-old — out of the blue and without conversational precedent — asked if he could start listening to ‘more piano music.’ Weary of my role in our household’s growing audio battle (XPN doesn’t stand a chance against a nine-year-old girl’s sudden obsession with the Six cast recording), I agreed to find him some piano music, and turned to Philadelphia’s greatest jazz pianist, McCoy Tyner. I was familiar with Tyner’s role in John Coltrane’s quartet, but his own work was more of an unknown until I stumbled onto Asante, his African rhythm-flecked 1970 album. It’s stunning, a piece of work that feels both of the time and perfectly at home in 2025. My son has already forgotten his request, but I’m grateful that his curiosity allowed me to find this record. (P.S. Looking for something that’s not 55 years old? I’ve also been enjoying ‘So Sick,’ a jolt of a rocker from Philly trio Caring Less.)” — Bradford Pearson, executive editor

To make friends: Potlucks with strangers

“Over Thanksgiving weekend, my husband and I hosted a potluck for friends who were celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary. We planned for 10 people, but the number unexpectedly morphed to more than 30 — and I didn’t know half the delightful people who were milling about my house. Some brought guitars, and soon a jam session broke out in the living room, where someone else took over the piano. My home was filled with music and singing from people I’d met only an hour or so before. It was an absolute blast and made me recall this 2019 Inky story about local West Philly artist JJ Tiziou, who for a decade had hosted potluck house concerts for strangers, six times a year, because of the joy and community it created. I’m thinking I should start doing the same thing!” — Ronnie Polaneczky, senior editor

To cultivate happiness: A Little Free Library

“A few months ago, we installed a Little Free Library outside our South Philly home, and it has been an unadulterated joy — think spontaneous hugs, big smiles, conversation starters, book-loving children with their book-loving parents, neighbors, and strangers. One example: I was on my porch one morning when a woman came by, perused the selection and then gasped, ‘Can I take TWO books? I’m going through some things right now and these are exactly what I need.’ (You can get your own free library kit here.)” — Roxanne Patel Shepelavy, editorial director

To feel the holiday feels: Longwood Gardens

“There’s a point in your kid’s life when the concept of the holidays clicks for the first time. My daughter, Eureka, just hit that point at the tender age of two. We kicked off the festive season with a family trip to Longwood to see the holiday lights, and to say that she was excited is an understatement. She’d point to every twinkling light as if it were the first time my husband and I were witnessing Christmas, too, shouting, ‘It’s holiday! Right there!’ The rotating Christmas tree in the conservatory, the ornaments that looked like they were pulled straight out of 1950s Macy’s holiday display, the pipe organ, the outdoor light show, the holiday train set next to the booth where mom could get a Bailey’s hot chocolate: All of it was magical, as it always is. But to see it all again through a kid’s eyes was priceless.” — Kae Lani Palmisano, food editor

To celebrate Rocky … artfully: Rocky. The Complete Films

“Philly’s most famous underdog just got the Taschen treatment — and I got a little preview the famed publisher’s 320-page, $100 Rocky book this week. (It officially comes out in January.) It’s super engaging. Peppered between movie stills and behind-the-scenes shots from all five Rocky movies are old interviews and stories about Sylvester Stallone and his movies from the likes of George Plimpton, Peter Goldman, and Roger Ebert (who writes about watching Rocky with Muhammad Ali). The storytelling is compelling; the photography is saturated and gorgeous and violent; the Rocky poster gallery in the back is so fun that it could be its own coffee-table book; and the entire thing is so packed with shots, scenes and stories from our city that you can’t help but feel a sense of hometown pride. (‘Hey, I recognize that empty lot with the pile of trash in it!’) What a very cool gift for fans of the franchise and/or die-hard Philly types.”  — Christine Speer Lejeune, editor

To DVR: Craft in America on PBS

“A friend of mine who works for the arts organization Craft in America in L.A. mentioned that their PBS series of the same name will be featuring two Philly artists, Roberto Lugo (one of Philly Mag’s 150 Most Influential Philadelphians) and Colette Fu, in an episode premiering December 19th. Can’t wait.” — Ticia Albano, art director

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The Recs: November 21st

To feel the Philly love: The Philadelphia Marathon

“So it hasn’t happened yet, but I’m counting down the hours to the Philadelphia Marathon on Sunday. It’s such a fun day for us runners as we traverse the 26.2 miles through Philly’s neighborhoods and past landmarks to the finish line. One of the best parts is the spectators who show UP for the runners with their signs — some cute, some heartwarming, some hilarious — and cheers. I love everyone pounding the pavement and everyone spectating!” — Kristen Schott, deputy editor, lifestyle and weddings

To carbo-load: Manayunk Timber

“I have been living for starting my Saturdays at Manayunk’s Timber Yard. The unassuming lumber yard — yes, lumber yard — houses a bustling community of artists and features an indie bookstore, coffee stand, and, best of all, Dead King Bakery, a sourdough bakery that operates Thursdays and Saturdays with some of the best pastries I’ve had in Philly. It’s so very random (and Philly!) and makes me feel cool when I go there.” — Olivia Kram, digital marketing and community manager

To carbo-load, part II: Beignets from Brown Street Coffee in Fairmount

“The beignets sold at Fairmount’s Brown Street Coffee are always the first item to sell out, staffers tell me, and no wonder: These babies are a textural transcendence — silken, not-too-sweet custard (I like the vanilla best) cuddled by a wee pillow of sugar-dusted perfection. Locally sourced from family-owned Au Fournil, the Havertown-based French bakery founded and run by Stephane Wojtowicz (with his wife Nayla and son Clement), they’re a now my preferred way to say oui to life.” — Ronnie Polaneczky, senior editor

To earn our good-parent points: The Snow Queen at the Wilma Theater

“It’s the theater’s first foray into putting on a children’s play, but in true Wilma fashion, it does so smartly, without being childish. The modern take on the Hans Christian Andersen classic serves up enough laughs and magic to keep a young audience entertained, while also challenging them with some nontraditional choices. (The retelling is based on a script from Soviet era Russia so themes of tyranny and wealth disparity are more prevalent than, say, the magical aspects you’d expect in a fairy tale.) There are also some timely political allusions for the grownups — a child’s loved one being snatched away by an icy villain; the less subtle ‘Melt ICE’ shirts in the lobby benefiting the Latine immigrant organization Juntos.” — Laura Swartz, deputy editor, digital

To momentarily escape our harsh, harsh reality: The Creation of the Birds inside the “Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100” exhibition at the Philadelphia Art Museum

“I went to the PMA’s new surrealism exhibit, where in the very last room of the show, I was introduced to a Spanish surrealist, Remedios Varo and this particular piece, which I think makes the whole show worth it.” — Roxanne Patel Shepelavy, editorial director

To bond with mom: Jo Piazza’s Everyone Is Lying to You

I’ve been loving this book from Philly’s own Piazza, and what it says about social media and our time. Might be a good gift for holiday season: It’s a book that I like and think my mom would like too.”  — Courtney DuChene, staff writer

To wrench ourselves free from Netflix for a night: Job at Theater Exile

“If you love a psychological thriller, you can’t beat Job at Theatre Exile in South Philly — a show that was just extended through Sunday. Philly theater veteran Scott Green and Juilliard-trained Arianna Gayle give powerhouse performances. (Everyone in the theater scene is talking about them right now.) Well worth getting off your couch for this one.”  — Victor Fiorillo, senior reporter/arts and entertainment editor

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