City Escapes: Going Abroad Without Leaving Town
By James Zeleniak, Philadelphia Editor
Let's face it. This is the time of year when winter doldrums can turn into a mean case of the cold-weather blues. What could be a better boost than to escape to a European capital or Caribbean island for a change of scenery? If budgetary and work responsibilities keep you Philly-side, settle for a temporary escape to one these foreign-feeling locales.
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Sassafras International Cafe
48 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA
Throw back a few French Martinis and kid yourself you’re on the outskirts of St Germain des Près at this Old City classic bar that’s been here long before the nabe was littered with more trendy locales. -
Pod
3636 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA
Take a day trip to Tokyo at this famed University City sushi house boasting a conveyor belt of offerings and adjustable lighting to suit your mood. -
Warsaw Cafe
306 S 16th St, Philadelphia, PA
Perfect peirogies and hearty stroganoff combined with a store-front digs make this old-timer feel like a quick trek to Eastern Europe. -
Rodin Museum
Benjamin Franklin Pkwy at 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA
Take a walk on the Parkway and visit this atmospheric stone temple housing the largest collection of the famed sculptor’s works outside Auguste’s native France. -
Il Bar
14 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA
Philly’s long-established superior wine bar gives nod to a quick trip to the booted land and features scores of excellent wines by the glass and is famous for its flights. -
La Colombe Torrefaction
130 S 19th St, Philadelphia, PA
Grab a café au lait and head out into nearby Rittenhouse Square for a Euro-like experience. -
Avril 50
3406 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA
Pick up a copy of La Monde, Italian Vogue, a bevy of literary journals and even Asian mags with a pack of Gauloises and specialty chocolates to go. -
Rum Bar
2005 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA
With Mojito Mondays, Tiki Tuesdays, free Wednesday-afternoon rum tastings and nightly happy hours, every day feels like a Caribbean escape at this Rittenhouse-area bar ode to the islands--at least after a Rum Runner or two.
