As of this morning (July 25), the nation's democrats have landed in Philadelphia and they're hungry. Positioning the convention in deep South Philly might be a smart move, logistically, but eating-wise the location is far from ideal. To fully embrace all that Philadelphia has to offer (and save everyone from continental hotel breakfasts), here's where to eat during the DNC.
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Where to Eat During the Democratic National Convention
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Schlessinger's Delicatessen
Late nights and early mornings are two constants of convention life, and that means that a serious breakfast is a must. Breakfast starts at 7 at this Center City Jewish deli, and early morning menu is full of gems like nova, eggs and onions complete with toast and more importantly, bottomless cups of high octane coffee.
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Philip's Steaks
Lunch options down at DNC HQ are limited but if you have a noonish break head over to this OG, cash-only cheesesteak spot for a real deal, Cheez Whiz-heavy taste of Philadelphia. Make sure to round out your order with cheese fries and a trip to the al fresco hot pepper bar.
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ITV
A pitstop between the stadiums and Center City seems like an ideal respite from government related goings on. Chef Nick Elmi’s new small plates and cocktails spot is an ideal halfway point to recharge over glasses of great wine and blue state sourced eats.
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Italian Market
With a brief, three day convention, downtime is going to be hard to come by. To make the most of a City of Brotherly Love visit, a trip to the Italian Market is basically the Philly version of speed dating. Stop by Paesano’s or George’s for a sandwich, grab a couple of tacos at Prima Pizza and round it out with a beer at 12 Steps down or a water ice at Obama favorite, John’s.
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Vernick Food & Drink
If there was ever an excuse to use that expense account, dinner at this Rittenhouse fave is it. From top tier service to a low key and lovely wine list and a kitchen that can hold its own on a national level, this is the place to go when impressions need to be made.
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Tai Lake Restaurant
Plenty of kitchens are extending their hours for late night convention dining, but when it comes to eating at odd hours, Chinatown is always tops. A massive menu, tanks stuffed with seafood and a bar that serves icy Tsingtaos and Johnny Walker are just a few of the reasons why this Chinatown staple is the best place to do a late dinner.
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Urban Farmer at the Logan
The newly revamped Logan Hotel has the space and swag to host top tier delegates with a cocktail menu that caters to all levels of the drink-mocracy. The beer list runs high-low with everything from Dogfish to High Life, the wine selection is a Untied Nations of varietals and cocktails run the gamut from classic to captivating.
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Oscar's Tavern
This Sansom Street mainstay is the place to get your citywide on. For the uninitiated, this Philadelphia standard consists of a cheap beer and a whiskey shot, served without circumstance and ringing in at around $5. Pros know that the Long Islands here are particularly potent and precarious.
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The Franklin Bar
All references to the British Empire aside, Philadelphia Distilling’s Bluecoat is the official sponsor of the DNC. During the convention they’re hosting an informal election of their own with a classic Martini running against the vermouth spiked Martinez. The winner of this boozy battle will be announced at the Franklin Bar on July 28 at 10 p.m.
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Wm. Mulherin's Sons
The buzziest Fishtown newcomer is miles away from both the DNC epicenter and all of the Center City hotels. That means all signs are pointing to open reservations for conventioneers who are interested in checking out pastas and wood-fired fare from one of Philly's most brilliant chefs, Chris Painter.
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