(At the beginning of each month I find out which columns weren’t picked up by the magazines, and I will post them here)
Bonnie Camarda, Salvation Army, Dominique Casimir-German of Jefferson Health, Ellen Yin of founder and co-owner of High Street Hospitality Group,, Tiffany Tavarez, of Jefferson Health, Dixieanne James of Jefferson Health
The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia (the Chamber) honored Ellen Yin, founder and co-owner of High Street Hospitality Group, who receive the 2025 Paradigm Award on March 20, 2025, the region’s most prestigious award for a businesswoman.”
Chellie Cameron (President of Chamber) and Lorina Marshall-Blake of Independence Blue Cross Foundation
“A true paradigm of success, Ellen Yin exemplified the spirit of innovation, dedication, and community service that drove our region forward. Her visionary leadership and commitment to excellence had not only elevated Philadelphia’s culinary scene but also inspiredcountless entrepreneurs. Ellen’s impact extended beyond her restaurants, as she continuously advocated for the growth and success of local businesses, their employees, and residents across the region. We were fortunate to have her as a leader of our business community,” said Chellie Cameron, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia.
Karen Buchholz,Executive Vice President of Administration for Comcast Corporation, Dominique Casimir-German of Jefferson Health, Emily Bittenbender, Bittenbender Construction and Joseph Cacchione, Jefferson CEO
Anne Prisco, Tiffany Tavarez, Kim E. Fraites-Dow, Girl Scouts and Benjamin Armstrong of PECO
Gabe Procaccino, The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia and Abe Ibrahim,Truist Bank’s corporate & commercial banking division
Susan Aldridge of Jefferson University and Lisa Satteson, executive Vice President and CHR
Dave Velazquez PECO President and CEO and Jami Wintz McKeon, Chairperson of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius
Maria Wing, Tiffany Newmuis and Kathryn Epps
Legends, woman pioneers: Jane Pepper and Judy Wicks
Soledad Alfaro and Mike Innocenzo, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Exelon (PS Mike and I discovered recently we went to the same high school Paul VI, and still have mutual friends today.)
Congrats Ellen Yin, well deserved recognition. A force, humble, a connector, respected and a leader in the community.
Social season is in full swing. It’s actually very exciting to see so much support for charities, organizations and individuals. Thank you all for always saying hi, or dropping a note. Socially Yours, HughE
The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation launch of their Phambassadors program. This initiative seeks to enlist more than 10,000 enthusiastic advocates for Philadelphia over the next two years, building a vibrant community whose civic pride and impact will help define how the city is perceived and experienced in 2026 and into the future.
I was asked to be one of the super Pham’s to help get the initial word out to folks like me, and you who are huge fans of Philadelphia.
The event kicked off with a pep rally worthy of Philadelphia, with mascots, a drum line,
Swoop, Fang and legendary radio personality Patty Jackson
Philadelphia dignitaries and most importantly PHILADELPHIANS!!
Max Weisman, Comm Director for Isaiah Thomas and Brenda Exon, The Philly Flag Lady. founder of the nonprofit Partners for Civic Pride. She is known for promoting the history and display of Philadelphia’s city flag and fostering civic pride. Exon also wears costumes inspired by the flag’s design to educate children about its significance.
Invested Phambassadors who progress through the program will be invited to participate in Pham Camp, an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience designed to deepen participants’ love for Philly and equip them with the knowledge and inspiration to share it with the world.
Nicole Cashman and Cashman & Associates was on hand to organize the event, and corral the parade participants as they entered Love Park for the rally.
Councilman Mark Squilla, City Rep Jazelle Jones with Ben Fileccia (c) Senior Vice President | Strategy and Engagement at the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association
With a nostalgic nod to summer camp, Pham Camp brings people together through discovery, celebration, and hands-on learning. Phambassadors will gain insider access, discover hidden gems, and tap into the vibrant energy that sets Philadelphia apart, leaving them inspired, informed, and ready to represent the city. There’s also a Pham Clubhouse, located at 15th and JFK at that visitor center.
Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation
“Philadelphia has an X Factor—a grit, passion, and an undeniable energy that only those who have experienced it can understand. But too often, the outside world sees an incomplete version of our city’s story. The Phambassador program is here to change that,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “This initiative will create a powerful platform that unites Philadelphia’s most passionate advocates to amplify the city’s strengths and redefine its global reputation.”
The Phambassador program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing participants to engage at different levels based on their interest and availability.
“As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, we have an incredible opportunity to tap into the people who know Philadelphia best — our residents — to amplify and celebrate everything that makes our city so special,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “The Phambassador program is a powerful extension of Visit Philadelphia’s Civic Pride work, which treats the city itself as our sixth team — one we root for through good times and bad. We’re unlocking the pride that already lives here, giving residents more ways to share their stories, represent their neighborhoods and show off their favorite small businesses. There’s nothing like Philadelphia pride, and we’re thrilled to team up with the Visitor Center to bring this to life.”
Phambassador Michelle Freeman, Witty Gritty and Ronnie Polaneczky, the Phambassadors Organizational Recruitment Outreach Strategist,
Whether by supporting civic events and promoting good news online, volunteering to welcome visitors at key events, or helping uncover Philadelphia’s hidden gems, there is a place for everyone in this citywide movement.
Sheila Hess a natural selection for a Phambassador. Does anyone love this City more than she. She’s also the coordinator for us super Pham’s.
Don’t forget to stop by the Selfie Station at 16th and JFK, as Kathryn, Nicole and Matt Ray, Chatterblast did yesterday.
COME JOIN ME: If you’re interested in becoming a part of this exciting movement, head to www.phambassador.com/sign-the-pledge to sign up and receive updates on upcoming events, exclusive experiences, and ways to get involved.
As a Phambassador, you’ll join a dynamic community of people who care deeply about Philadelphia—its culture, neighborhoods, and future. You’ll have the chance to connect with others, share your voice, and help showcase what makes Philly such a vibrant and welcoming city.
To learn more or to officially become a Phambassador, visit www.phambassador.com. Follow @phl.phambassadors on social media and use the hashtags #JoinThePham and #Phambassadors to stay in the loop. Look out for Phambassadors popping up at beloved Philly events all through May, including First Friday in Old City and the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run Expo, with more appearances to be announced.
This past weekend The Philadelphia Show hosted their 63rd annual antiques, art, and design show featuring over 40 of the country’s leading dealers.
Formerly known as The Philadelphia Antiques and Art Show, the show was held for years at the Navy Yard, and moved to the East Terrace of the Philadelphia Museum in 2019.
Myles Hamilton, Matt Hamilton, Emily Campan and Anne Hamilton
Anne Hamilton, 2018 Show Co-Chair, and long time supporter and Philadelphia Museum of Art Board of Trustees, was there with her family. During our conversation she purchased the art work behind where I was standing. The Gladwell & Patterson studio can thank me later.
Chelsea Beard, Amanda Hinckle-Soviak and Lynda BeardD Deone Pawell and Aaron AbellFrederick Lavalley and Louis Marchesano, Senior Curator of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs at Philadelphia Museum of Art
Jermaine Jenkins, Director of Development + Strategic Partnerships at Design Philly and Benjamin Gillespie, Ovuud, creates custom lighting
This year, The Philadelphia Show proudly launches its first-ever Design Committee, a dynamic new initiative bringing together influential voices from the worlds of interior design, antiques, fine art and decorative arts. Tasked with elevating the fair’s engagement with the art, design and local community, the committee will help foster new conversations around the intersection of antiques, fine art, and collectible design, reinforcing The Philadelphia Show’s reputation as a premier destination for collectors, designers, and tastemakers alike. Congrats to Jermaine for being included in this impressive inaugural list (List)
Kelly Kinse, Sarah Coulson, Susanna Saunders and Leslie Ann Miller
Sasha Suda the museum’s George D. Widener Director and CEO with family and friend
Ty Austin
Julie Jensen Bryan and Vickey Manning
Jen Abbott-Tillon and Tayarrsha Poe
Chris Held and Dante Porcelli, Designer/Craftsman at Groundwork
Jermaine Jenkins, Ellen Caplan, Board Chair Philadelphia Museum of Art Board of Trustees and Melissa Heller
More photos to come in August Philly Style Magazine.
Philadelphia Author Padraic Maroney Dives Into Death’s Design in His Explosive New Book on the Final Destination Films – Escaping Death: The Unauthorized Story Behind the Final Destination Movies. An unflinching look behind the scenes of one of horror’s most iconic and twisted franchises—exploring the accidental genius, backstage conflicts, and eerie real-life events that paralleled the deadly fate sequences that made Final Destination a cult phenomenon.
Last week Maroney held a book launch party to celebrate the official release of his latest book: Escaping Death: The Unauthorized Story Behind the Final Destination Movies, at one of the best named eateries in Philly, as well as one of the best vegan places according to my vegan hubby Mike Toub>> Monster Vegan.
Lizzy F. Anthony Feola, Brian Finnerty, Padraic Maroney and Rayna Barnard
Friends and family filled the room to capacity to celebrate Maroney’s 2nd book. It took Maroney three years of research and interviews in order to complete the Final Destination book. “My aim is to celebrate the franchise, but also let people know what it was like to be on set through the stories from the people who were there. While the chances of these situations arising in real life are slim, it’s never zero. Many of the memorable moments from the franchise are inspired by true events,” said Maroney.
Meghan Rasmussen, John Masino III, Lynn Masino, Mallory Wolff and Judy Wolff
This unauthorized exposé pulls back the curtain on how a modest X-Files spec script snowballed into a box office juggernaut and sparked a cultural obsession with fate, death, and Rube Goldberg-style doom. Through interviews, leaked memos, and untold stories from the set, this book/documentary (depending on your vision) uncovers:
The origins of the original idea—and how it almost never got made
The battles with studios over gore vs. suspense
Behind-the-scenes near-death experiences that spooked the cast and crew
The evolution of practical effects into CGI nightmares
Canceled scripts, spin-offs, and the franchise’s odd connections to real-world tragedies
Final Destination producer Craig Perry popped in for a visit during the launch party.
Fan theories, Easter eggs, and the creeping idea that Death really does have a design. And did someone say Easter eggs, Maroney told those in attendance that the front and back cover of the book was full of Easter eggs!!
Colleen Baillie, Mark Anderson, Ruth Wright and Anthony FlaminiHey that’s me!! Nicole Michalik, aka Nik the Web Chick you can listen to her everyday on WXTU, author Padraic Maroney and Dr. Jennifer Caudle, DO, FACOFP, is a board-certified osteopathic family medicine physician who appears on social media and television to talk about health (Photo taken by Mike Toub)
Padraic Maroney is an entertainment writer with nearly three decades of experience and the author of It All Began With A Scream, a behind-the-scenes deep dive into the Scream movie franchise. When he’s not immersed in horror films or writing about them, he’s either attempting to master the drums or hitting the pavement in pursuit of race medals. He proudly completed the New York City Marathon in 2021—an experience he swears was more terrifying than any horror film he’s ever watched. Pick up his latest book Escaping Death: The Unauthorized Story Behind the Final Destination Movies
It’s back, Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary! Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants. I remember going to the first one, where only a handful of restaurants participated, but the following year it was a Citywide celebration, with a lot of support.
Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary!
Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants.
For 2025, this year’s restaurant line-up reads like a who’s who of the region’s most award-winning restaurants, with notable names such as Barclay Prime, Bistro Romano, Buddakan, Butcher and Singer, DaVinci & Yu, El Vez, Frankford Hall, Gilda, Giorgio on Pine,Good Dog Bar, LMNO, The Love, Mamajuana Cafe, Morimoto, P’unk Burger, P.J. Clarke’s, Parc, Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti, Sophie’s BBQ, Stina, Talula’s Garden, Taqueria Amor, The Continental Midtown, The Dandelion, Villa Di Roma, Wilder and many more. Hours vary by restaurant. Reservations are encouraged in advance.
“My favorite part of the event is the community aspect and simplicity of it,” said Action Wellness Development Coordinator Kevin Vuernick. “I have made it a point to dine out during this event for as long as I can remember. Inevitably you always see a longtime friend or acquaintance who is also dining out to support the cause. Going out to eat is something so many of us do regularly without thinking about it. The hardest part for me is deciding where to eat! The decision about whether to go to an old familiar haunt or go to one of the wonderful new places or somewhere I have yet to try is always the most difficult. But each year the one thing I know is it is always so rewarding.”
Funds raised from Dining Out For Life (DOFL) Philadelphia go to Action Wellness to support more than 2,000 clients and their families through the provision of life-sustaining services. HIV and its impact is felt especially by those in low-income and historically marginalized communities. According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health there are 18,000 people living with HIV in Philadelphia.
For a full list of restaurants or to make an advance donation, visit diningoutforlife dot com/Philadelphia. Watch for updates by following on social media at @DineOut4LifePHL and share your meal using #DOFL2025 #DineOutEndHIV.
Super Bowl Champ Brandon Graham Launches Crooked Tea in Philly at Ladder 15
Over the weekend, the Crooked Tea 🍋 team made a big splash in Philly, teaming up with two-time Lombardi Trophy winner and former Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham,
who brought the energy to Ladder 15 in Center City on Saturday, April 12, to celebrate the official launch of Crooked Tea, a new hard iced tea brand.
Brandon rolled deep with lots of fans, influencers, and friends
Saturday night quickly turned into an unforgettable Philly moment when Brandon surprised everyone by hopping behind the bar and passing out cans of Crooked Tea.
The crowd got the full Crooked Tea experience—chilled cans, live selfies, nonstop laughs, and a taste of what the brand stands for: bold flavor, high energy, and unapologetic vibes.
The inaugural Philadelphia Montessori Charter School (PMCS ) “Montessori Moves” was held on March 8th at Vie. Over $100,000 was raised to support the Philadelphia Montessori Charter School. Think Philly dancing with the stars-style event where 8 philanthropic/business leaders showed off their best moves!
Amanda Wilson (Ex Dir of Montessori Charter School of Philadelphia) and Carmelina Berardi (winner raising most money raise $24,000 )
PMCS excels at providing children in Kindergarten through 4th grade with a Montessori education in an environment that nurtures the whole child, celebrates inclusion, embraces innovation, and encourages collaboration with families. Carmelina Berardi won top fundraiser and Stefanie McCarthy and Gretchen Ralston tied for best dance!
Laura and Justin Stefanick
Nick and Kristen Pantaleo
Tali Shani Ben-david makes her moves
Natelie Jackson and Stephanie Williams
Laurie Trongone, Camille Doherty, Andrea Ronca and Amy Ritter
Dominique Yannuzzi, Anna Iuliano, Liliana Dicicco and Carmelina Berardi
Dana Fiumara,, Jason Manus and Jill Longstreth
Ryan and Kate Banks
Jalen Millevoix and Avi Ben David
Julie Lynn and Jennifer Sherlock
Jen chose bachata as I’ve always wanted to learn this sensual style dance. “Thanks to @stormballroomdancecentre for everything they showed me including a sense of community.” She raised over $4,000 for the kids.
Serena Saunders, Ahyana King and Michelle Hamilton
Carmelina Berardi: “Wow, what a magical night! Thank you so much to everyone who supported me by donating money and attending the event! With your help, I was able to raise $24,000 for @pmcs2227 and learn some new moves too! Thank you to my instructor @eric_groysman@vibe_dancesport and to @lynsie.feinberg for putting together such an amazing event! Special thank you to the best cheering squad ever, my @shopskirt girls and my friends and family who are always there to support me, Grazie di cuore 💗”
At the kickoff event, both organizations celebrated their long-standing partnership, which has already resulted in the planting of tens of thousands of trees across our region. And they’re not just talking the talk— Matt Rader, President, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, David Velazquez, President and CEO of PECO, PHS and PECO Volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help unload and sort over 900 trees that volunteers will plant throughout the week.
It’s a great example of corporate-community collaboration making a lasting impact on our environment and neighborhoods. Thanks!!
At the Constitution Center yesterday, folks gathered to announce activities surrounding the 2nd annual Red, White & Blue To Do celebrations.
Celebrate 250 Years of Independence Where It All Began! Join us on July 2, 2025, for the spirited Red, White, & Blue To-DoParade and block party as we launch a year-long tribute to America’s 250th birthday! Throughout 2026, take part in 52 Weeks of Firsts—a full year of one-of-a-kind events commemorating the nation’s revolutionary roots. And don’t forget the Red, White, & Blue To-Do Kids Parade—a charming nod to July 2, 1776, the historic day Congress cast its vote for independence.
The two photos from Red White & Blue provided by the Philly Rep office. In this photo is Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and executive director of Philadelphia250 and Michael Newmuis, Philadelphia’s 2026 Director.
There’s a lot happening as we gear up for America 250, but let’s get through 2025 first! Well—speaking of firsts—I can’t help but share how excited I am for one incredible event happening in 2026:
“The 52 Weeks of Firsts,” running from January through December 2026, will showcase Philadelphia’s incredible creativity and rich, diverse history. As Amy Needle, President and CEO of Historic Philadelphia, Inc., puts it: “Each week in 2026, the Philadelphia Historic District partners will highlight a historic first from across the city, celebrating Philly’s trailblazing legacy and its powerful impact over the past 250 years—an impact that still shapes the way we live today.”
It’s going to be the largest and longest celebration of its kind—and I can’t wait!
Last week Mike and I had a great night out at No Name Pops’ She’s Got Soul—a powerful tribute to soul and R&B classics, featuring the amazing Capathia Jenkins with the Pops. The music was fantastic and the energy in the room was electric and had everyone dancing in the aisle.
After the show, we attended a lovely reception where some big news was announced: the No Name Pops will officially be known as The Philly Pops again starting July 1! This is thanks to a generous gift from the family of original conductor Peter Nero, who retained the rights to the name after the previous organization faced some challenges.
Same talented musicians. Same iconic sound. New management—and a fresh chapter ahead.
For my fellow empty-nesters who keep asking me for fun things to do? The Philly Pops should be at the top of your list.
Their first official concert under the revived name is on July 3 at Independence Mall—a beloved Philly tradition returning just in time for the America 250 festivities.
Just a little chit chat on hump day. Hope you’re week is going well.
Jen Su is a media personality, known for her work in radio and television, as well as her singing career. She has covered red carpets worldwide including the Cannes Film Festival, the Grammy’s as well as NY Fashion Week and can be found at many of the elevated events here in Philly. Last week she hosted a fashion show at Neiman Marcus, featuring their hottest looks as well as some of Philly’s favorites from the Fashion Incubator, who is hosting FashCon Philly Friday at Moore college.
Golda Collings, GM Neima Marcus, Jen Su and Kris Flynn, Philly Mag
Jen, dressed in an off-the-shoulder violet silk gown with ostrich feather sleeve by Christian Cowan, talked about her life journey as a TV news anchor and fashion correspondent. “Sometimes you might see my Instagram and think that my life on the red carpet is so glamorous,” said the Philly native on stage. “There’s actually so much stress behind the scenes, from all the credential and travel logistics, to getting the interviews, to filing the stories as quickly and accurately as possible, so I sometimes forget to savor the moment.”
Melissa Leonard and Gregory Jerome
Karen Cox and Donna Coghlan
Fashion designer Nancy Volpe Beringer and Deborah Van Cleve
Jen Su does much more than red carpet events, she’s a philanthropist as well. “I’ll also be involved in the upcoming CHOP: The Runway on May 19th – bringing together fashion and philanthropy.” “But I feel eternally grateful,” added Jen . “After my son was airlifted to CHOP (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia) when we lived overseas in 2017, he endured 3 years of chemo and treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Today he is cancer-free and CHOP saved his life. I’m inspired by the resilience of these young kids.”
Paul Rimar, Conrad Booker and
Philly designers included Nancy Volpe Beringer of Project Runway and Philadelphia Fashion Week; Elmira Vandenberg , Designer in Residence of the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator (PFI); Priscilla Carvalho of Priscilla Couture; Jeanette Limas, of PFI, Philly Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week; and Conrad Booker, a PFI alum and Board Director who has been published in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and the New Yorker.
Jee Mint Cao, Gina Lizzo, Main Line Today and Jaimi Blackburn, Fearless Restaurants
The who’s who of the Philly fashion scene was in attendance sipping on champagne and gourmet lite bites, with DJ Eddie Tully on the decks. This Saturday Tully is spinning at his quarterly Matinée Dance Party at VINYL
Philly Fashion Week’s Kevin Parker; Philly Fashion Incubator’s Elissa Bloom; Fox 29’s Drew Anderson; GM of The Bellevue Carissa Dalske; wedding dress fashion maven Deborah Van Cleve; NYFW fav Ramillionaire (above)
Jet Set with Jen Su, was a joyful fusion of high-fashion whimsy and effortless travel glam. Featuring 12 striking looks, the collection showcases iconic names—Balmain, Oscar de la Renta, Dolce & Gabbana—interwoven with cool-girl labels like IRO and La Pointe. Think: cobalt blue power suits, butter yellow flowing dresses, sequined separates, and flirty florals with peplum flair. Whether you’re boarding a yacht or brunching in the city, there was something for everyone.
Jane Levin, Elissa Bloom, Priscilla Carvalho, Janet Workman, Tracey Evelyn Reed, Diadem Abayoda, Caitlyn Ellerbeck and Sheilisa McNeal of the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator
What are you doing Friday? Jen Su will also be one of the featured speakers and moderators joining the “godmother of New York Fashion Week” Fern Mallis, celebrity designer Milan Harris (Milano Di Rouge), and other top fashion personalities at this Friday’s (April 11) highly anticipated Philadelphia Fashion Incubator’s FashCon Philly, a fashion industry conference at Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia. Tickets and info on fashconphilly.com.
PS Last week I chitchatted about columns which aren’t picked up by my outlets. I over submit to each outlet, but until the magazine gets published I don’t know which ones they don’t run. Going forward I will publish them here, but they’ll be a few months old as I want you to know about these events, often yearly events you should attend.
The TASTIES AWARDS celebrated the year’s best achievements in artisan Food, Drink, and outstanding Restaurants and Chefs,
Sue Daugherty, Executive director of MANNA. Proceeds from the evening went to MANNA with Ben Fileccia, Senior Vice President | Strategy and Engagement · Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association
Hosted by the Delicious City podcast, Dave Wez, Chef Eli Kulp and Marisa Magnatta, the Tasties is Philadelphia’s first-ever chef and restaurant awards show, celebrating the innovation, dedication, and excellence that make our food scene one of the best in the country.
Fred Singer and Ellen Yin
Guests gathered Sunday, February 2nd, 2025 at Live Casino to celebrate all the good in the Philadelphia culinary scene. Notable chefs, owners, experts in the food scene walked the red carpet, before enjoying a sit down dinner of Philly fare, entertainment and the awards show.
Ange Branca, Kampar Philly (*Which was closed due to a fire shortly after this event) and Thanuja Hamilton, MD a traveling foodie. Rob Wilson and Priscilla Jimenez, Kline & SpectorRuth Uselton and Sarah DillonJason Cichonski, Consulting, Catering, plus @tulippastawine@littlenoodlepastaco. @atticorooftop , @messinasocialclub and Eddie Konrad, Chef / partner @messinasocialclub Season 16 @bravotopchefDan, Sadie, Diane and Kristina Burke
The Burke family presented the Jim Burke Award For Culinary Excellence for Chef of the Year: Dionicio Jiménez. Chef Burke was a promising chef on the scene when I first came onto the scene in 2007. He and his wife Kristina Burke, owned a popular Bella Vista restaurant named James from 2007 to 2011. I remember at the opening they sent everyone home with a cataloupe, which represented a dish they served. It was heavy, but delicious. Sadly In 2022 he died at age 49, following his two-year battle with lung cancer.
Christina Kallas-Saritsoglou, Philly Thrift for AIDS and Bobby Saritsoglou, Chef/Owner of the very popular Stina in South Philly.
Roland Bui and Sandy Sanchez-Bui
Thanks to Mike Toub, the Hubby for shooting these photos, as I was still wearing a sling, and in much pain. I can never thank him enough for all that he did for me, us. xoxo
And The Winners Are:
WINNERS OF THE TASTIES
Hero of Hospitality Award: Mayor Cherelle Parker
Best Emotional Support Sandwich: Bronco Cutlet at Farina Di Vita
Cocktails: Friday Saturday Sunday
Hospitality: Vernick Food & Drink
Best Late-Night Joint: Messina Social Club
Next Level Neighborhood Spot: Royal Tavern
Standout Baker or Pastry Chef: Chris Dipiazza
Best Pop-Up or Supper Club: Habibi
Breakout Chef: Melissa McGrath
Dish Wizard: Elvin of Provenance
Icon: Zahav
Most Crave-Worthy Pizza Joint: Char
Best New Restaurant: Illata
Jim Burke Award For Culinary Excellence for Chef of the Year: Dionicio Jiménez
Restaurant of the Year: Kayala
What a great event, equally terrific podcast, hosted by three of the kindest Philadelphians. Go Phils!!
