Penn's View Hotel, expensive to very
expensive, (800) 331-7634,
www.pennsviewhotel.com. In keeping with
its historic neighbors like
Independence Hall, Penn's View
dates back a century or two. But this charming,
antique-filled inn has all the modern amenities to go along
with it, as well as an authentic Italian trattoria serving
more than 120 wines by the glass.
DINING
Bar Ferdinand,
moderate, (215) 923-1313,
www.barferdinand.com. Despite the fact
that its owner is a fashion designer turned interior
decorator, this tapas restaurant gets it right, from the
Moorish decor to the mouthwatering plates of Serrano ham,
smoked trout, and more. Weekly beer and wine specials help
pamper your pocketbook too.
Tiffin Store, inexpensive to moderate,
(215) 922-1297,
www.tiffinstore.com. The new
brick-and-mortar outpost of this online Indian-food delivery
site serves up the same healthful delicacies two new ways: as
prepackaged, ready-to-take-home meals or straight to your
plate in the 30-seat dining room. The tiffin (a British term
for a light, hot snack or meal) consists of your choice of
two entrées plus rice, raita, dal, and pickles.
EXPLORING
The riverfront. Put on your walking or running shoes and
enjoy the miles of paved path along the Schuylkill River
(
www.schuylkillriver.org). Or head to
Trophy Bikes (215-222-2020,
www.trophybikes.com) and rent some wheels
for as little as $25 a day (includes lock, helmet, and
map).