Whether you’re flying in early, staying for the weekend or just sneaking in some sightseeing in between sessions, we’ve compiled a list of the must-see attractions in the City of Brotherly Love!
Philadelphia's culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, offering a plethora of dining options to suit every palate and occasion. From upscale fine dining establishments to cozy neighborhood eateries, there's no shortage of gastronomic delights to discover.
Here are just a few of the top restaurants that define Philadelphia's vibrant food culture.
1. Zahav
Tantalize your taste buds with the flavors of the Middle East at Zahav, an award-winning restaurant that showcases modern Israeli cuisine. Helmed by chef Michael Solomonov, Zahav offers an unforgettable dining experience with its innovative small plates, wood-fired grill specialties, and freshly baked laffa bread. Be sure to indulge in the signature hummus topped with tantalizing toppings like roasted mushrooms or lamb shawarma.
2. Vetri Cucina
Experience the art of Italian fine dining at Vetri Cucina, a renowned restaurant that has garnered acclaim for its exquisite tasting menus and impeccable service. Chef Marc Vetri's culinary creations celebrate the flavors of Italy with dishes like handcrafted pasta, tender roasted meats, and decadent desserts. Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience in this intimate and elegant setting.
3. Parc
Transport yourself to the streets of Paris at Parc, a charming brasserie located in the heart of Rittenhouse Square. With its classic French bistro fare and bustling atmosphere, Parc offers a taste of Parisian elegance right in the heart of Philadelphia. Indulge in traditional dishes like steak frites, moules marinières, and escargot while soaking in the vibrant ambiance of this beloved restaurant.
4. Vernick Food & Drink
Savor the flavors of seasonal American cuisine at Vernick Food & Drink, a critically acclaimed restaurant helmed by chef Greg Vernick. Known for its inventive small plates, wood-fired dishes, and impeccably sourced ingredients, Vernick offers a dining experience that is both refined and approachable. Whether you're enjoying brunch with friends or a romantic dinner for two, Vernick promises a memorable culinary journey.
5. Vedge
Elevate your dining experience with plant-based cuisine at Vedge, a pioneering restaurant that proves vegan food can be both innovative and delicious. Chefs Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby showcase the versatility of vegetables with their creative dishes, from roasted cauliflower with kimchi cream to eggplant braciole with smoked tofu. With its chic ambiance and inspired culinary offerings, Vedge is a must-visit for vegans and omnivores alike.
6. Morimoto
Indulge in the art of sushi at Morimoto, an upscale restaurant founded by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. With its sleek design and inventive menu, Morimoto offers a contemporary twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. Feast on an array of sushi and sashimi creations, as well as hot dishes like black cod miso and Wagyu beef carpaccio. For a truly unforgettable experience, opt for the omakase tasting menu and let the chef guide your culinary journey.
7. Amada
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Spain at Amada, an upscale tapas restaurant helmed by Iron Chef Jose Garces. Located in Old City, Amada offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere perfect for sharing small plates with friends and family. Indulge in classic Spanish dishes like gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), patatas bravas, and jamón ibérico while sipping on sangria or sampling from the extensive wine list.
8. Fork
Experience contemporary American cuisine at its finest at Fork, a beloved restaurant in Old City known for its innovative menu and commitment to seasonal ingredients. Executive Chef John Patterson showcases his culinary creativity with dishes that are both inventive and comforting, such as roasted heritage chicken, house-made pastas, and creative vegetable preparations. Pair your meal with selections from the thoughtfully curated wine list for a truly memorable dining experience.
9. Federal Donuts
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Federal Donuts, a local favorite known for its irresistible fried chicken and delectable donuts. Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Solomonov, Federal Donuts offers a unique menu featuring crispy, juicy chicken served with a variety of inventive glazes and seasonings. Be sure to save room for dessert and indulge in a freshly made donut in flavors like classic glazed, chocolate sea salt, or maple bacon.
10. The Love
Celebrate the joys of comfort food at The Love, a cozy restaurant in Rittenhouse Square from acclaimed chef Aimee Olexy and restaurateur Stephen Starr. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, The Love offers a menu inspired by Olexy's Southern roots and a commitment to locally sourced ingredients. Feast on hearty dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and buttermilk biscuits, all served with a side of Southern hospitality.
11. Suraya
Embark on a culinary journey to the Middle East at Suraya, a Lebanese restaurant and market in Fishtown that celebrates the vibrant flavors and hospitality of the Levant region. From mezze spreads and freshly baked bread to grilled kebabs and aromatic tagines, Suraya offers an authentic taste of Lebanese cuisine in a stunning setting. After your meal, be sure to explore the adjacent market for specialty ingredients, spices, and artisanal products.
12. Pizzeria Beddia
Savor the simplicity of perfect pizza at Pizzeria Beddia, a no-frills pizza joint in Fishtown that has gained cult status for its handcrafted pies. Founded by pizza savant Joe Beddia, this cash-only establishment offers a concise menu featuring just a few pizza options made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Be prepared to wait in line for this culinary masterpiece, but rest assured, the wait is well worth it.
13. SipWithMe Coffee
Don't forget to stop by the WithMe booth (#1810) at Apartmentalize to try a FREE barista-quality beverage from our SipWithMe device! We'll be featuring three different blends from La Colombe, which is roasted in the heart of Philly!
With its diverse array of culinary offerings, Philadelphia boasts a vibrant and thriving restaurant scene that reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. Whether you're craving creative small plates, comforting classics, or indulgent desserts, Philadelphia's top restaurants promise to delight and satisfy even the most discerning palates. So come hungry and prepare to indulge in the culinary delights of the City of Brotherly Love.
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Multifamily Excellence, Steve Boyack, COO of JVM Realty and President of JVM Management, chronicles his fascinating journey from the Peace Corps to real estate, highlighting the pivotal experiences that shaped his leadership style and business acumen.
Steve candidly delves into how his early entrepreneurial endeavors and perilous work in conflict zones ultimately taught him to value community insight, adapt quickly to new environments, and foster strong, capable teams.
In discussing his role at JVM, Steve offers valuable insight into how the company leverages tech to streamline operations and enhance asset value, emphasizing that a tech-forward approach is essential for growth and efficiency in today's market.
Steve also offers thoughtful advice for aspiring leaders, sharing examples of how he advanced his career by consistently looking for ways to make others' jobs easier, showing a willingness to learn and enthusiastically taking on new challenges.
CONNECT WITH STEVE
SUBSCRIBE TO MULTIFAMILY EXCELLENCE
Jonathan Treble, founder and CEO of WithMe, Inc., had trouble printing concert tickets years ago, a frustration that led him to start a new company that evolved into tech-enabled services for apartment buildings — and maybe even a competitive edge for apartments taking advantage of the services. Who knew coffee and printing services could become a significant play? And more services are apparently on deck.
Multifamily residents nationwide can now enjoy barista-quality coffee at the touch of a button
CHICAGO, IL - June 5, 2024 - WithMe, a leader in technology-enabled amenities for multifamily communities, has announced the national expansion of its innovative bean-to-cup coffee solution, SipWithMe.
This expansion represents a major milestone for SipWithMe, which launched in select markets in late 2021. To date, SipWithMe solutions have been installed in hundreds of communities across 30 markets. Now, multifamily properties in most major U.S. metros can bring the amenity's premium coffee experience to their residents.
"SipWithMe’s nationwide accessibility is a huge accomplishment that reinforces our mission of making people's lives better through convenient amenity solutions," said Jeff Lail, Chief Operations Officer at WithMe. "We can now rapidly meet growing demand and bring the SipWithMe experience to multifamily communities in every corner of the country."
SipWithMe eliminates the hassle of daily coffee runs for residents and property staff. The intuitive machines brew 20+ beverages in under a minute, using freshly roasted craft coffee and the highest-quality flavor powders. Residents enjoy the perk of free drinks, up to a set monthly allowance controlled by the property.
SipWithMe’s integrated technology ensures a seamless experience, with remote machine monitoring and live support available seven days a week. Robust data and analytics also enable properties to easily track usage and quantify the valuable amenity's return on investment.
To learn how you can bring SipWithMe to your community, contact WithMe. You can also visit WithMe at the National Apartment Association’s Apartmentalize conference in Philadelphia from June 20-21 at booth #1810.
About WithMe, Inc.
WithMe, Inc. makes people’s lives better every day through convenient, technology-powered amenities for the multifamily industry and beyond. WithMe’s PrintWithMe and SipWithMe solutions make resident printing and coffee simple, helping property management leaders deliver an elevated living experience and meet evolving resident needs for remote/hybrid workspaces while simultaneously decreasing spend, controlling costs, and saving time for staff. PrintWithMe powers printer amenities and staff solutions at thousands of multifamily, cafe and coworking locations across all 50 states. SipWithMe, now available in major markets, is disrupting the coffee amenity category. WithMe is an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company, as well as a 2023 Inc. Power Partner and a 2024 NAA Top Employer.
Learn more at withme.com.
In 2021, Jonathan Treble, founder and CEO of PrintWithMe, which provides printing kiosks in multifamily communities and other popular public spaces, got some advice from a client. The client suggested expanding beyond printers to serving up coffee, saying a need existed for a service provider that catered to the industry and spoke the same language.
“As a coffee drinker, I was intrigued by the idea and could see how I could make it better. Over a few months, I realized it would be worth launching a sister company to PrintWithMe,” says WithMe’s Treble. “We already had so many multifamily customers. Our sales teams are in markets coast to coast and having conversations about printers, so why not offer coffee.”
SipWithMe launched at the end of 2021 in Chicago. In just two-and-a-half years, it has expanded to nearly 30 markets, with plans to be in all major metros by the end of 2024.
The difference between a good morning and a great one can often be traced back to a simple, yet pivotal element: the coffee machine in the lobby. Your residents want to wake up (perhaps a little groggy, maybe running late), step into the common area, and be greeted by the perfect cup of coffee. And there's good reason. Plenty of evidence points to the benefits of coffee on your health and well-being. Plus, who doesn't like coffee?
Imagine the toll a subpar coffee machine takes on your residents. Starting their day on a sour note can quickly be traced back to that machine that burned the beans or dispensed coffee so weak, it tasted like dirty water. This turns what could have been a delightful amenity into an overlooked corner of disappointment. Given the high stakes that come with coffee culture today, it's crucial for multifamily property owners to make sure they're not just ticking a box, but elevating their residents' living experience. With this in mind, selecting the right coffee machine becomes an exercise in delighting your tenants, giving them a taste of luxury and making them feel at home.
But with so many options on the market, where do you begin?
The size of your apartment complex plays a critical role in determining the kind of coffee machine that will best serve your residents.
For larger complexes, durability and capacity should be at the forefront of the mind. You'll need a machine that can handle high volumes of coffee brewing throughout the day without compromising taste. You also want one that's fast. If people have to wait in long lines to get their coffee, they'll probably go somewhere else.
On the other hand, smaller complexes might prioritize customization and variety over sheer capacity. For these complexes, it's all about having a machine that delivers the perfect cup every time.
Convenience is king.
A coffee machine that offers fast brewing at the push of a button can be an absolute game-changer for your residents. Nobody wants to deal with the hassle of complicated settings on their coffee makers or wait in line for their morning brew. Look for machines that promise a quick, efficient, and user-friendly experience. You want to enhance the usability of your coffee station, but you don't want people to have to fiddle through a bunch of settings just to find the right one. Even during the busiest hours, your self-service coffee amenity should allow everyone to get their caffeine fix without a fuss.
Coffee preferences are as unique as your residents themselves. From bold espressos to creamy lattes, the ideal coffee machine offers options to suit every taste. Not only should these options be varied, but they should also taste great.
At SipWithMe, our coffee amenities aren't like your standard self-service machine. We offer tasteful machines that allow for customization and give you the opportunity to explore new flavors and brews. These options cater to every taste bud, meaning there's something for everyone.
Never underestimate the power of a visually appealing coffee station. A stylish, modern machine that matches or enhances your apartment complex's aesthetic can make an impact on tours and continue bringing value after move-in.
Especially in the digital age, a beautiful coffee amenity can double as a photo opp or video backdrop. A sleek design, intuitive interface, and even the aroma of freshly brewed coffee can contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that residents will appreciate and look forward to each morning.
Finally, the reliability of your coffee machine sometimes isn't even about the machine itself — it's about the support behind it.
A great supplier should be a partner in making sure your coffee station runs smoothly, with fast responses to issues and regular support to keep the amenity stocked. Having a dedicated provider means less downtime, happier residents, and one less thing for you to worry about.
Bring it all together and create moments of joy, convenience, and community over a cup of coffee from SipWithMe. With SipWithMe, multifamily property managers can elevate their residents' morning routine into a delightful experience that starts every day on the right note. Let us help you make every sip count and form a community of support that starts with the coffee amenity in your apartment complex.
Chicago, IL – May 21, 2024 – WithMe, Inc., a leader in technology-enabled amenities for multifamily communities, including PrintWithMe and SipWithMe, has been named a top supplier company employer in the National Apartment Association's (NAA) 2024 Top Employers Awards.
The awards recognize member organizations that succeed in creating environments focused on collaboration, innovation, and hard work. Nominees are ranked based on a rigorous evaluation process, including an employee satisfaction survey based on Net Promoter Scores (NPS).
“Our team is WithMe’s greatest asset, and being named a top employer in NAA’s prestigious program is a testament to our commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering workplace,” said Jonathan Treble, Founder and CEO. “This recognition motivates us to continue investing in our employees' growth, happiness, and overall well-being.”
WithMe is a remote-first company with over 70 employees around the globe. In the past two years, the team has grown by over 60%. WithMe employees are dedicated to supporting the company’s innovative coffee and printing amenities, which serve more than 1 million apartment homes in over 4,000 multifamily properties. To learn more about the WithMe team and explore career opportunities, visit withme.com/careers.
About NAA
The National Apartment Association (NAA) serves as the leading voice and preeminent resource through advocacy, education and collaboration on behalf of the rental housing industry. As a federation of 141 state, local and global affiliates, NAA encompasses over 96,000 members representing more than 12 million apartment homes globally. NAA believes that rental housing is a valuable partner in every community that emphasizes integrity, accountability, collaboration, community responsibility, inclusivity and innovation.
To learn more, visit www.naahq.org.
About WithMe, Inc.
WithMe, Inc. makes people’s lives better every day through convenient, technology-powered amenities for the multifamily industry and beyond. WithMe’s PrintWithMe and SipWithMe solutions make resident printing and coffee simple, helping property management leaders deliver an elevated living experience and meet evolving resident needs for remote/hybrid workspaces while simultaneously decreasing spend, controlling costs, and saving time for staff. PrintWithMe powers printer amenities and staff solutions at thousands of multifamily, cafe and coworking locations across all 50 states. SipWithMe, now available in major markets, is disrupting the coffee amenity category. WithMe is an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company, appearing on the list for the past three consecutive years, as well as a 2023 Inc. Power Partner.
Learn more at www.withme.com.
At the close of each quarter, the entire WithMe team comes together to reflect on the challenges and celebrate the triumphs of the prior three months.
Company and department performance is carefully reviewed and analyzed, laying the groundwork for the goals and areas of focus that will not only guide the quarter that lies ahead, but the remainder of the year.
As a remote-first company, WithMe’s quarterly meeting also provides a valuable opportunity for the full team to interact and recommit to WithMe’s values, which are central to everything we do.
Here are five of our most significant achievements from the first quarter of 2024:
1. We grew our team by nearly 20%.
In response to burgeoning demand for our amenities, we added new talent across sales, operations and human resources.
This continued investment in our team reinforces our commitment to delivering unparalleled service while fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity.
Each new team member brings fresh perspective and expertise, enriching our collective capabilities and propelling us forward on our mission to transform multifamily amenities.
Our team is constantly growing and evolving, and we are always searching for new rockstars who can help us further our mission to make lives better every day. Open opportunities can be found on our careers page.
2. Our PrintWithMe and SipWithMe partner NPS scores remained World Class and Excellent at 79 and 59, respectively.
As one of our core values, customer obsession lies at the heart of everything we do. We routinely survey our clients to not only gather candid feedback about their experience with our amenity solutions, but to gain perspective on the multifamily industry at large.
Achieving World Class and Excellent ratings from our partners reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional experiences, driving us to constantly raise the bar in everything we do.
By prioritizing feedback and staying attuned to partner needs, we ensure that every interaction with our amenities is marked by reliability, efficiency and value.
3. We forged new connections, strengthened existing relationships and gained important perspective on the industry by participating in 23 prominent multifamily conferences and events.
Trade shows, networking events and education sessions serve as dynamic platforms where property management leaders converge to learn, share ideas and cultivate relationships.
For us, these events aren't just about exhibiting our products—they're about listening to our clients, understanding their needs, and collaborating on solutions that elevate their experiences.
Events are also about being at the forefront of discussions surrounding community living. At every event, we gain valuable insights into emerging trends, regulatory changes and evolving consumer preferences, allowing us to adapt and innovate accordingly.
Perhaps most importantly, our presence at trade shows and involvement with apartment associations supports our commitment to building meaningful connections with our partners and industry peers. It's about being part of a larger community—a community driven by a shared passion for enhancing the everyday experiences of residents and on-site teams.
The next time you see us at a trade show or hear about our involvement with an apartment association, know that it's not just about coffee and printers—it's about shaping the future of communal spaces, one connection at a time.
To see a list of upcoming events where you can meet with the WithMe team, visit our events page.
4. We published the inaugural edition of “Partner Perks,” our quarterly client communication, and hosted the first-ever “Partner Power Hour,” a quarterly town hall webinar organized by our client success team.
The rollout of both of these initiatives marked a significant milestone in our journey to enhance our services and increase engagement with our partners.
“Partner Perks” will not only relay important product news and updates, it will also feature seasonal templates designed to help drive usage and maximize ROI.
The “Partner Power Hour” will provide a forum for open dialogue, enabling us to deepen relationships and align our strategies with client needs and expectations.
By finding new and innovative ways to foster a culture of transparency and collaboration, we empower our clients to maximize the value of our offerings and drive mutual success.
5. SipWIthMe users enjoyed nearly 300,000 barista-quality beverages, which equates to five tons of coffee beans!
Beyond mere numbers, this achievement symbolizes the role we play in brightening daily routines and fueling moments of productivity and joy. Whether powering through a morning meeting or enjoying a midday pick-me-up, each cup represents a moment of connection and rejuvenation, underscoring our commitment to enhancing multifamily living experiences one sip at a time.
If you’re interested in bringing SipWithMe to your community, complete our online form, and we’ll reach out to you with more information.
As we celebrate these accomplishments, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering unparalleled value to our partners. With the foundation laid in Q1, we look forward to an outstanding year ahead.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we continue to innovate and inspire in the months to come!
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Multifamily Excellence, Jennifer Staciokas, President of Western Wealth Communities and VP, People and Technology at Western Wealth Capital, recounts how a temporary leasing agent position in college unexpectedly kick-started her illustrious 25-year career in real estate.
Jennifer offers fascinating perspective on how she successfully built Western Wealth Capital’s property management company from scratch in less than 30 days - and in the midst of a global pandemic. From leveraging carefully built supplier relationships to the strategic use of technology, Jennifer shares the tactics that ultimately propelled the company from zero to 17,000 units in less than two years.
Passionate about fostering a people-first culture, Jennifer also shares important insight on successfully striking a balance between the conveniences offered by emerging technology and the irreplaceable value of the human touch.
SUBSCRIBE
Local, Certified Organic coffee now available to residents at participating multifamily communities
CHICAGO, IL - April 30, 2024 - WithMe, a leader in technology-enabled amenities for multifamily communities, is expanding into the San Diego and San Francisco markets with its innovative bean-to-cup coffee solution, SipWithMe. WithMe’s exclusive coffee partner for the region is Groundwork Organic Coffee Roasters, a leader in Certified Organic, ethically sourced specialty coffee.
Through the partnership, residents at participating multifamily communities in three of California’s major markets – Los Angeles and now San Diego and San Francisco – can visit the SipWithMe machine in their common area to access over 20 barista-quality beverages at the touch of a button.
“Following the successful launch of SipWithMe in Los Angeles, WithMe is eager to expand our reach to two additional cities in California,“ said Jim Carbone, Vice President of Operations at WithMe. “With Groundwork’s exceptional coffee, residents in multifamily communities across San Francisco and San Diego will enjoy sustainably sourced, convenient beverages at their fingertips.”
SipWithMe elevates multifamily residents’ living experience with a daily dose of hassle-free coffee and equips property managers with a cost-effective and time-saving amenity solution. Ordering coffee is fast and simple, typically taking less than 60 seconds. The solution’s Cup Allowance feature gives residents free coffee, with limits supporting cost control for the property. Fresh coffee and ingredients are regularly delivered, the machines are monitored remotely, and live support is available seven days a week. Additionally, usage data makes it easy for owners to track return on investment.
“Expanding our collaboration with WithMe exemplifies our shared vision to bring Organic and environmentally friendly coffee to more multifamily communities across California,” said Eddy Cola, CEO of Groundwork. “We’re delighted to see our high-quality coffee products being delivered on a broader scale.”
Groundwork produces Certified Organic, Directly Traded, and Ethically Sourced coffee that meets rigorous quality standards. As a Certified B Corporation, Groundwork’s coffee is produced with innovative, low-emission technology, and it partners exclusively with smallholder farms dedicated to sustainable practices farm to cup.
SipWithMe serves multifamily properties across dozens of U.S. markets, including most major metros. To learn how you can bring SipWithMe to your community, contact WithMe.
About Groundwork Organic Coffee Roasters
Established in 1990, Groundwork’s mission is to ethically source and share exceptional, Certified Organic coffee that inspires people to work hard, dream big, and make an impact in the world. Above all else, Groundwork’s coffee must meet a rigorous quality standard. A proud B Corp, Groundwork only makes coffee that is Certified Organic, Directly Traded and Ethically Sourced. Where they can, Groundwork purchases from farms certified sustainable by Rainforest Alliance. Groundwork is deeply involved in the long process of getting coffee into your cup—from farms to co-ops to the local Groundwork community. They never settle for anything less than the best coffee possible.
For more information about Groundwork Organic Coffee Roasters, visit www.groundworkcoffee.com/.
About WithMe, Inc.
WithMe, Inc. makes people’s lives better every day through convenient, technology-powered amenities for the multifamily industry and beyond. WithMe’s PrintWithMe and SipWithMe solutions make resident printing and coffee simple, helping property management leaders deliver an elevated living experience and meet evolving resident needs for remote/hybrid workspaces while simultaneously decreasing spend, controlling costs, and saving time for staff. PrintWithMe powers printer amenities and staff solutions at thousands of multifamily, cafe and coworking locations across all 50 states. SipWithMe, now available in major markets, is disrupting the coffee amenity category. WithMe is an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company, appearing on the list for the past three consecutive years, as well as a 2023 Inc. Power Partner.
Learn more at www.withme.com.