Philadelphia: Jack's Firehouse Restaurant and Bar

For over 20 years, Jack’s Firehouse, located on 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue and 5 blocks from the Art Museum, has been serving patrons food and drink. I remember back in the late 80s when Jack’s Firehouse was one of the first places to open in the up and coming neighborhood of Fairmount, Philadelphia. It is amazing how much development has occurred in trendy Fairmount over the past two decades.


Jack’s Firehouse was actually a 19th century Firehouse and contained much of its charm from wood planks to the fireman’s brass pole. I liked the interior’s dark mahogany wood bar and walls. I also noticed a row boat suspended from the ceiling. Outside seating was made available, weather permitting.


During a recent trip to Philadelphia, my friend Heidi and I stopped to have an after dinner drink. I ordered this bright blue spirit.

Jack's Firehouse Hook and Ladder Martini

Jack’s Firehouse served both dinner and lunch. I was surprised to see the restaurant offer both a Saturday and Sunday Brunch. Although I have not eaten here, I liked Jack’s Firehouse’s atmosphere as an eclectic back drop for enjoying great conversation and tasty drinks.


Want more information:
Jack’s Firehouse
2130 Fairmount Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 232-9000
Go to: Jack's Firehouse

Czech Republic: Prague’s Astronomical Clock - The Orloj

A couple of years ago, I had a chance to visit Czech Republic with my friend Jen. It was a fabulous city which is organized into old and new sections. The architecture was aesthetically pleasing to view. Today's post will be about the Astronomical Clock. 


The Orloj was situated on the south wall of the city in front of a square where many tourists socialized. Apparently from 8am to 8pm the clock on the hour, every hour, would activate. During these times of the day the locals crowd the square and stood in front of the clock to watch the animated figures move.  Upon further research I discovered that the clock contains a zodiac ring, old Czech time scale, and Sun and Moon schedules.  Also a present day calendar was added.

The Orloj, Prague, Czech Republic

The clock’s figures included a character who represents “Vanity” (man who looks at himself in the mirror) “Death” (skeleton) and a “Turk” which tells of entertaining events and “Greed” (character with a bag of money).
I found this guide online to better understand how to read the Prague's clock. Check out the link below:
Guide on Reading Prague's Town Clock
If you plan a visit to the city of Prague, make note to view the Astronomical Clock. 

Italy: Santa Margherita Ligure

While visiting friends in Chavannes - de - Bogis, Switzerland, a plan was crafted to visit The Cinque Terre.  The Cinque Terre is composed of 5 small villages along the coast line of Italy.  Trails, boats, and trains can reach these carefully constructed homes which hug the rugged landscape. My friend Kathy recommended that we stay in the small port town of Santa Margherita Ligure for this trip.  Margherita is set on the gulf of Tiquilio and is located next to the town called Portofino.  This area is referred to as the Italian Riviera.

Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy

Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy

While driving in Kathy's SUV, we paid close attention to the narrow roads that we shared with pedestrians, cars, bicycles and motor scooters.  I immediately noticed that the tree lined streets were filled with colorful, fragrant oranges.
  

Oranges in Santa Margherita

We spied our hotel in the distance and pull up to the front entrance.  Greeted graciously by hotel staff we walked through the hotel to view the Gulf of Tiquillo. Below is a picture of the back of the hotel.

Hotel in Santa Margherita Ligure overlooking water

 Our views from our hotel were gorgeous.  Tired from our car trip from Switzerland, we quickly unpack and make our way into commercial section of the town.  In addition to orange trees, palm trees are plentiful.  Having passed by gift shops, food stores and cafés, the town of Santa Margherita felt self contained and was very walkable.

Town Square in Santa Margherita LIgure, Italy

Santa Margherita Ligure

I also noticed that fishermen bring their weathered boats into port.  Our group wanted to drive over to visit the neighboring port town called Portofino.  As we approached the entrance into Portofino we were informed by officials that the road was closed off to the town due to the large number of cars that were already allowed in the town.  An insiders travel tip, go to Portofino early in the day!

Boats in Santa Margherita Ligure

Port of Santa Margherita Ligure

Contemplating traveling the The Cinque Terre?  Make sure you plan a stop to see the port town of Santa Margherita Ligure.  You'll enjoy both destination spots!

Great Architectural Details found in Santa Margherita Ligure 

Philadelphia: Charlie's Jeans

About three years ago, my urban friend Sharon first introduced me to Charlie's Jeans located on 233 Market Street in Philadelphia. At that time I bought a pair of Citizens of Humanity boot cut jeans.  These jeans are one of my favorite pair of casual pants.


During our recent visit to Philadelphia, Heidi, my roommate back in college, and I decided to pay another visit Charlie's Jeans.  To avoid paying for parking we took the public transportation bus # 48 into Center City Philadelphia.  While riding on the bus we found out from a local resident that Charlie's opened a new store at 1735 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130.


Having jumped off the bus, precisely at the right time, we proceeded to walk down commercial Chestnut Street. Immediately I noticed the orange awning.  I knew that we had arrived at the right place.

Charlie's Jeans on 1735 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia,PA

Heidi and I were immediately greeted by Charlie's Jeans store assistants Andre'a, Monet and Leandra.  Everyone working here was super attentive to our needs.  What I love about Charlie's Jeans is that the store staff can just look at your body type and will suggest several types of jeans that will look amazing on your body.


Here are a couple of pictures of the interior of the Charlie's Jeans on Chestnut Street.

Inside Charlie's Jeans, Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

Charlie's Jeans, Chestnut Street, Philadelphia

Charlie's Jeans, 1735 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia

While Heidi and I were looking around the store,  we discovered so many fresh and modern clothing styles displayed.  I worked with store assistant Andre'a to find another fun pair of jeans. I also wanted to buy a casual top to go along with the jeans. 

Sebastian McCall Jeans
       Trouser         Classic Boot cut    Classic Boot cut
Glacier Wash     Dreamer Wash     Whirlpool Wash

Specializing in jean fit for 14 years, Sebastian McCall (owner of Charlie's Jeans) created his own denim line early last year, which corrects all jean issues.  The fabric is made to keep it's shape, you'll have perfect pocket placement and no gaping out at the waist. Sebastian McCall jeans are truly the perfect fitting jean.

Sebastian McCall Straight Leg Colored
Denim, Deepteal, Russet & Nuggat

I bought a pair of Sebastian McCall straight legged denim jeans.  Andre'a made arrangements to have the pant length altered and have them shipped to my home.  I purchased the jeans on a Saturday and they arrived on my doorstep on the following  Wednesday ready to be worn.  Now I call that "Amazing Customer Service!"

Charlie's Jeans also carries shoes and 
ultra comfortable stylish tops.

Shoes sold at Charlie's Jeans, Chestnut Street, Philadelphia

Sebastian McCall's Drape Top in Stripe and Inspire Rinse Ro Jean

I also purchased a navy stripes top similar to the top pictured above. 

Want more information about Sebastian McCall and Charlie's Jeans,
Go to: Charlie's Jeans


Visiting Philly?  I highly suggest that you take the time to Charlie's Jeans in person!


Charlie's Jeans 
1735 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-564-2495


Charlie's Jeans
233 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-923-9681

Philadelphia: Window Flower Boxes

A great way to dress up the outside of your home is with creative flower boxes.  When visiting Europe every city and town has a plethora of window flower boxes.

While I was in Philadelphia this past weekend I thought I would take some pictures of windows on Delancey Street near Rittenhouse Square and also in the Fairmount neighborhood near the Art Museum.

My friend Sharon has a fantastic flower box for her row home. 

See picture below.

Here a couple of flower boxes found on Delancey Street in Philadelphia, PA.

Delancey St, Philadelphia, PA

Delancey Street, Philadelphia

Delancey Street, Philadelphia

Delancey Street Window Flower Boxes, Philadelphia

I thought the flower boxes found in the neighborhood of Fairmount near the Art Museum were just as beautiful.

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia,

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

Fairmount, Philadelphia

 When selecting the plants for your window's flower box, consider your lifestyle.  If you travel a great deal over the summer months you might want to consider plants that require less water.  Annual flowers add a great deal of color and are best to plant in your flower box if you are frequently available to tend to them.  


According to Southern Living's article "Window Box Basics" here are a couple tips in planning your window box.  


1. Be sure that window boxes have drainage holes.
2. Make sure the filled boxes are not too heavy.
3. Plant according to season.
4. Don't forget to water.


One more thing to remember when designing what goes in the Window Flower Box, make your box visually appealing by planting a Thriller (something tall), a Spiller (something that trails the sides), and a Filler (bright colorful flowers).


Consider using flower boxes to dress your home!


Want more tips on designing Window Flower Boxes:
Southern LIving Magazine "Window Box Basics"

Philadelphia, Fairmount: Bastille Day Festival

The Fairmount neighborhood of Philadelphia holds an annual celebration that recognizes France's independence from the Monarchy - Bastille Day!  This past Saturday while I was walking the streets to the Eastern State Penitentiary I saw so many French flags.  I loved this charming flower box filled with red geraniums and lush green vines.

French Flags in honor of Bastille Day, Philadelphia, PA

 Making a quick stop at Rembrandt's Restaurant I made my way to the front entrance of the State Penitentiary.  I came across these festival signs.

Sign at Bastille Day Festival, Philadelphia, PA

Scheduled Events at Bastille Day, Philadelphia

After looking at the sign above, I noticed that I had just arrived in the nick of time to watch the costume judging contest. 

Marie Antoinette, Fairmount Day Bastille Festival, Philadelphia

Costume Parade at Fairmount Bastille Day Festival, Philadelphia

Costume Parade at Bastille Day Festival, Philadelphia

After the costume parade winners were announced by Sharon Tice, Owner of Sponsor Philly Events.  A group of French Revolutionaries got up on stage and sang "La Marseillaise." At this point Marie Antoinette began her climb to the top the Eastern State Penitentiary, "the Bastille."  Two famous characters showed up as well.  In the picture below, can you find a Stormtrooper and Darth Vader?

Marie Antoinette, French Revolutionaries - Bastille Day Festival, Philadelphia

Marie Antoinette yells, "Let them eat Tastykake", Philadelphia

Next, Marie Antoinette yells out the modified version of "Let them eat Tastykake" and the street crowd below was showered with 2000 Tastykake delectable desserts.  Look closely at the photo above.  You can actually see some of those delicious desserts flying through the air.

Throughout the day event participants attended a major block party in front of the Eastern Penitentiary.  Food tents sponsored by local restaurants prepared a variety of entrees and appetizers that were available for purchase at the festival.  Also later that evening several Fairmount Restaurants offered French specials.  Those restaurants that served the specials included: London Grill, Trio and The Belgian Cafe.

Currently, the prison does not house any inmates but offers tours and also hosts special events throughout the year.

Want to experience Bastille Day without having to travel to France, consider attending Fairmount Bastille Day Festival next year.  Vive La France!

Fairmount Bastille Day at Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia

 
For more information about Eastern State Penitentiary:
Eastern State Penitentiary

Delaware, Rehoboth Beach: The Henlopen City Oyster House

Since we are in the dog days of summer, I thought I would suggest another popular seaside restaurant, The Henlopen City Oyster House on 50 Wilmington Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

The Henlopen City Oyster House, Rehoboth, DE

The place was packed so we ordered drinks at the bar while we waited to be seated.

Our group of 8 had the opportunity to sample several of the dinner entrees.  Not being a big seafood eater I ordered the Marinated Grilled Lamb Loin with baby carrots, baby turnips, brussel sprouts and lamb demi.  If you like lamb, order this entree!

A big winner was the Lobster Mac and Cheese.  This creamy dish includes shell pasta, parmesan, cognac and blown butter bread crumbs.  This was no Kraft macaroni and cheese!   Those who ordered this creamy dish had to take half of their portion in a to go box.

Several of our party ordered the Blackened Redfish.  This dish was served over Creole crawfish jambalaya. Spicy and flavorful!

Lastly, my friends enjoyed the Pan Seared Scallops kale with Italian sausage, roasted fennel, apple, sunchoke, couscous, w/ port wine reduction. For those who were wondering what are sunchoke?  Sunchoke (Jerusalem artichoke) look like pink-skinned ginger root and have a sweet nutty flavor that is similar to the taste of water chestnuts.

The Henlopen City Oyster House has a raw bar and serves steamers, soups, salads, appetizers, sandwiches, entrees, and desserts.  The Oyster House also offers a kids menu too.

When visiting Rehoboth Beach this summer, consider The Henlopen City Oyster House for dinner.

Circular Booth at The Henlopen City Oyster House, Rehoboth Beach

For more information go to: The Henlopen City Oyster House

The Henlopen City Oyster House

50 Wilmington Avenue

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware  19971

302-260-9193

Turkey, Istanbul: Hereke Silk Rug

Noticing that I need to focus on on Furnishing blog posts, I thought I would blog about the amazing Hereke silk rugs I discovered on my last trip to Istanbul, Turkey.

I met with Jim, Store Owner of CKM Carpets, and was delighted to see the variety of choices of oriental, tribal, and silk carpets.  After being offered apple tea, Jim and his store staff unfolded dozens of handmade rugs.  I could not resist the silk carpets.  I had to have the Hereke.

Hereke Silk Rug, Istanbul, Turkey

Close up view of the Hereke Rug, Istanbul, Turkey

The Hereke is made of pure silk.  From what I read, the weaver usually spends more than 11 months to expertly weave this type of rug.  Noteworthy of Hereke silk rug construction, the reverse side is just as beautiful as the side that is displayed.


You might be wondering, "How did Hereke rugs get their name?"  Upon further research I discovered that there was town in Turkey called Hereke.  Two hundred years ago Sultans established the town to be the production center for silk rugs.  


Hereke carpets are double knotted using Turkish knots.  This helps make the carpet be more durable.  Jim, Owner of CKM, Fine Arts and Carpets, showed me how silk carpets provide two different effects.  The 45 degree angle in Hereke silk rugs causes them to have a distinctive appearance when viewed from opposing ends.

I found Jim of CKM very helpful and his carpets were fairly priced.  Besides carpets he sells Turkish kilm rugs, lamps and ceramic tiles. 

Want more information on CKM Fine Arts and Carpets: CKM Carpets

CKM Fine Arts and Carpets
Alemdar Cad No: 6 C/D Sultanahmet 33410
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: 00 90 212 522 51 63