"Between the burlesque shows, jazz performances, and fire dancers, a birthday at Fabrika in Fishtown can be a real showstopper. The large dining space has a wrap-around balcony with a great view of the stage, lounge chairs and long tables, crystal chandeliers, and glowing purple light beaming down from the ceiling. Order small plates like the citrusy shrimp and scallop ceviche, pastas like the rabbit ragu or squid ink linguine, and lamb shank for the table. And if you stay out all night and need reviving, you can just come back for the drag brunch. " - candis mclean, alison kessler