Midtown Lunch

The weather was just right for a picnic in Washington Square Park – way less crowded than Rittenhouse, I don’t understand why more people don’t make the few block journey east. I saw the picnic as my chance to finally try a range of goodies from Talula’s Daily. Talula’s Garden is out of my budget. The addition of the newer, next door cafe allows us to experience the high quality fare at a more reasonable price plus the option of takeout.  I knew it was going to be a good meal when the woman next to me saw me get excited over all the choices, and informed me she has been eating here every day for a month.

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Friends from NYC came to visit our humble city to take advantage of the fact that so many of our bars serve amazing beer without pretension or annoying crowds. I mostly take that perk for granted, but my taste buds and liver were quickly reminded with the help of my friends.

One of our stops for beer and food was American Sardine Beer, because I can count on it for a good meal and interesting beer. Plus the patio is open, equipped with bright flowers and a tomato plant I may have stolen from.  Read more »

I think I mentioned once or twice over here, sometimes I want a sandwich (or other handheld food) that borderline grosses me out.

See, The Stockyard, this mozzerella stick topped burger, or this hotdog stuffed, pastrami topped knish.

So while looking at menus of diners in the area, I saw that Tony’s on 21st by Ranstead has a doozy. The “King Vasilios Triple Decker Club” is a cheesesteak along with all the ingredients for a BLT. The name makes no sense to me; there is nothing Greek about a cheesesteak or a BLT. Perhaps some sort of Tony’s inside joke.

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Luke’s Lobster comes to Philly and the crowd goes wild. This was pretty big news when it opened in May; bringing the Maine lobster everyone already enjoyed in New York. Luke’s occupies one of the subterranean spot on 17th street, the other being Underdogs. Tables are available, but order at the counter.

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The mosaic covered walls and hanging flowers draw you in to Black N Brew, a 6 year old cafe on East Passyunk. There is a counter and tables to sit at so you can stay a while to get some work done, though the bustling atmosphere might make it hard for some to concentrate.   The various breakfast, lunch, and drink options are written all over the walls, so don’t forget to bring your glasses. We came across the cafe while biking; one of us was looking for lunch (obviously me) and one of us was hoping for breakfast (never me),  Black N Brew was able to provide both.

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The Coventry Deli is located in a Center City office building. The menu is extensive and actually pretty fun. Its more than just a deli meat sandwich, though those are available too. Breakfast, salads, a pasta station, tons of sandwiches, snacks, and dessert are all available. Hot daily specials are also available. Zero in on what you are in the mood for, or be completely overwhelmed.

They were out of roast pork, so I was unable to order my first choice– the Cuban, which sounded amazing  with cheddar, prosciutto, and pickles alongside that pork. My only remedy was to order something even more excessive. The friendly lady preparing my sandwich behind the counter apologized upon seeing my super disappointed face, but fully endorsed my alternate choice.

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The Corner Foodery on 17th and Sansom is a genius combo of things that Philly loves,  beer and sandwiches. The beer store/ food combo comes by a collaboration of beloved neighborhood take out beer spot, The Foodery and the chef of  The Corner.

Hot sandwiches and cold cut hoagies are available with a few anti pasti options. You may take your food and beer to go, or you can eat at the tables provided.

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