On Wednesday, August 7 Philadelphia magazine hosted their annual Best of Philly Soirée at a new venue this year, the Philadelphia Art Museum.
In the past the popular event was held on Dilworth Park, and was subjected to unbearable heat waves, downpours and often both. Another winner the choice: This year there was a light mist for most of the evening.
Senzwa Ntshepe, The Connect stands in front of LED Marquee lights, and Charming Garlands balloon backdrop.
Guests were treated to delicious bites from partners and Best of Philly winning restaurants.
Danuta Mieloch and the team from Rescue Spa, celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year
Fred Stein , and Neil Stein of for The Creative Group, saved my night by providing me a pen and paper. I took too much summer off and forgot how to do my job, LOL
Greg Harm, Leisa De John Nappe, Jen Ellman, Emil de John and John Iuliano in the Wells Fargo VIP lounge.Chef/Founder, Kyle Cuffie–Scott (r) & Chef/Co-Owner Joe Lope (l) of Darnel’s Cake who served up delicious treats at the Soiree with Molly, of Bishop’s Collar in Fairmount dance to the beats of the night.
Roland Bui, Sandy Sanches-Bui, Tammy Veneza and Christy Nguyen;
One to watch: Roland Bui is the entrepreneur brainchild behind Com.unity, a marketing arm for Philly’s artists and culinary talent. Shining a light on talent, that might not always be in the spotlight, the unsung. I see him driving Philly’s restaurant scene back in the spotlight as it was a decade ago. One of the ways he highlights talent is through his collaborative dinners. The next one Monday August 26th at Bok Bar. INFO
Imani Johnson and Brianna Perrin, favorite restaurant is El Techo
Dominick Leonetti, III and his mom Maria Leonetti new owners of Bobby Chez Famous Crabcakes
It’s always fun to run into the Bobby Chez folks, when I was a kid my first job was washing dishes at Bobby Chez’ restaurant in Voorhees NJ, 40 years ago (inside the Flyers ice practice rink building). He later opened a spot in Westmont, that gained infamy.
The Fairmount Park Team, Best of Philly Playground, FDR’s Anna C. Verna Playground: Maura McCarthy, John Sigmund, Erin Quigley, Allison Schapker, and Meg Holscher
Looks like the burbs are looking good on Joe and Sarah Maiellano. A prolific writer and publicist, Sarah contributed to the 50th Anniversary issue of Philly Mag.
Will I ever see that photo Mainey Boy? LOL
Speaking of: Jermaine Jenkins, Design Philadelphia, Anthony Lehman, & Mason Snyder of Feast Your Eyes, Trina Saglimbene and Melissa Brannon, Uncommon Events
Great venue, spread out over four floors with plenty of bites and booze, live entertainment and art. People really enjoyed themselves.
The Fairmount Park Conservancy team, Best of Philly Playground, FDR’s Anna C. Verna Playground: Maura McCarthy, John Sigmund, Erin Quigley, Allison Schapker, and Meg Holscher
Imani Johnson and Brianna Perrin, favorite restaurant is El Techo
Tom McGrath, former editor of Philly Mag (and the guy who hired me over a decade ago. I can remember it as if it were yesterday. I was still a paralegal and met him on my lunch hour. I had never took a photo class or journalism class, and Philly Mag, a magazine I read all my life, my mom had a subscription, wanted to hire me for their Society/Party column, WOW!!) BTW Tom has a new book out. and Kate McGrath, Jan and Jamil Leary
New on the scene and to Philly Stephanie Lulls, of Remy Martin
Speaking of new: Popular NYC’s Levain Bakery is coming to 1518 Walnut Street, in the fall. John Farmer, Arlene DeLaCruz and Pam Levy. Looking forward to it, definitely a better spot than the now closed Carlos’ Bakery at 21st and Walnut!!
Adam Rotwit and Jen Su, on a break from covering the many celebrity red carpet events worldwide.
Then all the major mascots showed up to this years Soiree, and were excited to show off their magazine covers from over the years. It really was a special night for all in attendance. Social season is heating up, and I will be posting more on chitchat going forward. Socially yours, xoxo HughE
