In the Valley (ITV Philly)

"Going to a bar and grabbing cocktails can be a little tense when you’ll probably know what the person really thinks about you around drink three. But this casual East Passyunk spot next to Townsend EPX is built for nightcaps (their cocktails are some of the best around), sharing small plates, and hanging out under string lights without stress. They have a full dinner menu with everything from charcuterie and roasted duck breast topped with a blood orange marmalade to a brown butter cake to end the night. After a few sips of the coconut-heavy White Lotus, you’ll figure out if they’re looking for a friend or someone to take to their cousin’s wedding." - Candis Mclean

"Nicholas Elmi, chef-partner of In the Valley, expressed his displeasure on Instagram after the reversal of liquor laws in Pennsylvania." - Elazar Sontag

"After ITV Philly and neighboring sister restaurant Laurel shut down earlier this year, the popular spot became home to a few pop-ups including Curiosity Doughnuts and Heavy Metal Sausages. Often blasting some Metallica while churning out his seasonally flavored sausages, Chef Patrick Alfiero pre-sells each batch through his Instagram each week. And for the donut lovers stopping by to try Curiosity, you’ll find flavors like Cinnamon Toast Crunch, pumpkin with eggnog glaze, and toffee crumbs for $3 a pop on Fridays (8am-sellout), and Saturday and Sundays (9am-sellout). -CRM" - Carlo Mantuano, Candis Mclean

"Nick Elmi’s ITV, the newly reopened cocktail bar next door to Laurel, is evoking beach life with the Caribbean favorite Painkiller, here made with Jamaican rum, brandy, chai-infused coconut milk, pineapple juice, and orange juice. It’s $60 for a liter. Individual cocktails, like the Essential with tequila, blood orange, lime, and bitters, are available too. Order online for pickup." - Rachel Vigoda

"Nick Elmi’s ITV is covered up on the East Passyunk Avenue restaurant strip." - Rachel Vigoda