Philadelphia and the Countryside - Press Room

Philadelphia’s gay culture is shimmering with a vibrant day and nightlife scene thanks to new restaurants and must-see shops, boutiques and galleries throughout the city. And while visitors are encouraged to get their history straight and their nightlife gay while visiting town, they’re also free to eat, drink and shop, shop, shop. Here’s a look at some of the newest gay-friendly spots in town:

Bars & Restaurants:

• At Bindi, a modern bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) Indian bistro, partners in business and life Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran use locally grown products and fresh drink mixes. The duo also own gourmet shop

Restaurants/Cafes:

• 10 Arts by Eric Ripert – In this intimate space located inside the glitzy Ritz-Carlton, Chef Eric Ripert presents American cuisine with an emphasis on organic, locally grown ingredients. 10 S. Broad Street, (215) 523-8000, ritzcarlton.com/hotels/philadelphia
• Bindi – Guests enjoy the spices and full flavors of traditional Indian fare at this dimly lit bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) spot. Be sure to bring along your own rum or vodka to create Indian-inspired cocktails. 105 S. 13^th Street, (215) 922-6061, bindibyob.com
• Bliss – Chef Fabrizzio Pace puts diners in touch with their inner gourmand thanks to his menu of creative contemporary

From queer gear to trendy housewares and mid-century furniture, Philadelphia’s nine-block “Gayborhood” offers a diverse shopping experience for visitors. Located within the city’s hip Midtown Village neighborhood, the gay-owned and gay-friendly boutiques and stores share the streets with lively restaurants, bars and clubs. But, best of all, clothing shopping in Pennsylvania is tax-free, making it easy for visitors to splurge on one-of-a-kind finds.
 

The Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus and the Center City District have identified the gay-owned and gay-friendly businesses throughout the region in the Philadelphia Gay-Friendly Merchant Guide, available in hardcopy form at select hotels and for