"Why did this hotel catch your attention? The entrance to the building—the facade a handsome, modern mix of massive windows, black brick, copper, and formed-board concrete—is next to the El train on one of Fishtown’s main corridors. Guests get access to their apartment electronically, via a mobile app, though an in-person welcome can easily be pre-arranged.
What's the backstory?When it opened in early 2019, Lokal Fishtown was only the neighborhood’s second hotel. Shocking, considering the neighborhood continues to be one of the city’s buzziest places to eat, drink, shop, and hear live music. One of four locations in the homegrown brand’s collection of “invisible service” hotels—meaning there’s no front desk or concierge—this outpost was built by local, Philadelphia makers. From the architect and interior designers who envisioned the stylish spaces, to plants from 2nd Street greenery shop Stump, to custom beds made by neighborhood furniture maker Farmhaus Modern, to each framed artwork, block-printed pillowcase, and ceramic mug. This all adds up to a beautiful, cohesive space that communicates the vibe of the neighborhood before you ever leave the room.
Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Six units range from studio apartments to the “Big Jawn”—a 1,000 square foot, two-bedroom duplex with an eat-in kitchen, bar, and living room. Fishtown-based design and tattoo studio True Hand Society conceived the hotel’s interiors, giving each a clean, Scandinavian look with plenty of character from locally-handmade furniture, lighting, artwork, planters, and textiles.
One of the two bathrooms is outfitted with a massive soaking tub, and stocked with products from local skin care product line Duross & Langel. Mattresses on the queen beds are Casper, and linens are Parachute, which might make you feel right at home. Of all the lovely units, the Garden Jawn is my favorite, with an entire wall of windows and a door that leads directly out to a semi-private area of the quiet rear courtyard.
Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?There’s free, high-speed internet access in the entire building.
Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Full kitchens in every unit are equipped with dishwashers, dining ware, and all the elements to make your morning hot beverage (coffee from local brand Rival Bros., tea from Steap and Grind). Cocktail-making accoutrements like seasonal recipes, shakers, and rocks glasses come from local shop/bar Art in the Age. iPads are loaded with food delivery apps—Instacart for groceries, Caviar for meals, and GoPuff for beer and snacks—and whatever you order goes directly to your bill. While this is a nice touch for travel-weary visitors, the apartment is in the epicenter of some of Philly’s best restaurants and bars, including Pizzeria Beddia, Suraya, and Johnny Brenda’s. (iPads are also loaded with staff recommendations for dining, drinking, shopping, and more.)
And the service? “Invisible service” means the brand leans on technology to make check-in, dining, exploring the neighborhood, and everything else about your stay, seamless. Recommendations—from cocktails to shake up in the kitchen to the best dive bar down the street—are thoughtful, and make it feel like a local friend left you a list of all her favorites.
What type of travelers will you find here?Instagram influencers. Visitors from Brooklyn or the Hudson Valley, with entourages in tow: the photographer, aka husband, plus adorably-dressed children. Also, young, savvy guests who are part of a growing group that travels differently than their parents and grandparents did.
What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene?If your goal when visiting is to go beyond the city’s historic treasures and popular tourist draws, Fishtown is the place to get a true taste of the new, vibrant Philadelphia. The neighborhood is arguably the epicenter of the city’s buzzy dining scene, and cafes, shops, and local makers abound.
Is there anything you'd change?The furniture and decor in my own home, after staying here.
Any other hotel features worth noting?Tucked in the back of the building, there’s a secluded little garden, with a pebbled ground, beautifully landscaped with lush, native perennial plants. Bring out a morning cup of coffee or an afternoon beer, and revel in the quiet little oasis in the middle of a bustling neighborhood.
Bottom line: Worth it? Why? If you’re looking for a morning breakfast buffet or nightly turndown service, move along. But the invisible service hotel is perfect for visitors who really want to get a feel for Philadelphia via one of its most vibrant neighborhoods.
Also, the price is a steal when you consider how much room you get. (Up to 1,000 square feet!) It’s easily the best choice for families, or for a friend group getaway." - Regan Stephens
