Dinning in Philadelphia

One of the things I miss the most about Philadelphia are the multitude of restaurants. Specifically the BYOBs.

Philadelphia has developed into a haven for the BYOB establishment. Reason for this is that liquor licenses are very hard to get and very costly, so in lieu of a wine cellar and liquor offerings. These restaurants have decided to focus solely on the food and allow patrons to bring their own beverage.

What an awesome benefit this is. Not only does it save money for those going out for a good meal, but you get the opportunity to decided on what type of wine/beverage you want and no longer are restricted to only what is offered in house.

In my time in Philly I would go to a BYOB about once a week. Exploring a different one each time, trying to hit them all. But as time progressed, the BYOBs grew and grew in popularity. To the point where there were just too many of them.

The following link is an interactive map to the locations along with information on each of them in the city. This truly is a concept I would love to see other cities across the country start to implement. Myself however, I'm in the bar business, which consists of selling drinks, so I have no plans of being the first to start this trend. But I still would love to see other people bring it to the area.Philadelphia BYOBs

This past weekend, we went to a fairly small and quaint BYOB called La Baia.

La Baia is only a short walk from my house in Philly so I have gone here a few times. Like most, they have a very tight dinning area, and a small menu. I always prefer to choose one of their specials as they seem to be always the freshest and best options the restaurant has to offer. If you are ever in the Philly area and looking for a good BYOB, be sure to check out this place. Although, there are so many good ones you really should do your homework before making a commitment. Also, be sure to make reservations, a day in advance if possible because the places fill up fast.

After La Baia, we met up with a friend of mine who is attending Med school in Philly. We ventured up to Northern Liberties to a belgium beer house called Belgium Cafe which is a sister establishment of a famous restaurant that I used to live across the street from called Monks. These places are really cool restaurant/bars to go to if you are into exotic beer. They have many different kinds and flavors from all over the world. Actually you won't be able to find any of the more common american beers. Very cool places to check out if you're in Philly, and they have some great oysters too!

The other thing I love about Philly is that each establishment in the city offers some sort of Sunday Brunch. Even the small bars put together a deal for drinks and food to start your Sunday off on the right foot. Personally I have a hard time drinking early in the day on Sundays, but I have never had a hard time eating. So I for one love brunch (as long as it doesn't interfere with football.)

This particular trip we went to brunch at the lone bar/restaurant in the newly developed graduate hospital area of the city. This is where my house is located and just a short 3 blocks from my front doorstep is the SideCar Bar. I have actually only been to the Sidecar for brunch, mostly because of its convenience but I would say it is pretty standard brunch... in a good way. Each brunch offering includes mimosa and a mix of sandwiches or some sort of breakfast plate. And the large portions of each allow you to quietly stuff yourself to help get you on the right foot for a lazy Sunday. That being said, I do not recommend Sunday brunch unless you don't have any plans for the rest of the afternoon. If you are planning on being productive, I would suggest just sticking with the coffee and bagel.