Vanessa Jackson has come to be known as The Cheesecake Lady, and rightfully so. This Elkins Park shop opened in 2018 (originally opened in Jenkintown in 2014) and has people coming from all over to try the delicious desserts made by Jackson herself. With over 40 flavors to try, these mini cheesecakes are delectable and the perfect-sized treat. Be sure to arrive early and check their Instagram for updates, as they are known to sell out quickly!
Food & Drink
Jezabel’s Cafe
Simple, tasty, and fresh, this Café focuses on creating a little piece of Argentina in the heart of West Philly. Jezabel Careaga opened the café back in 2010, and has been crafting up Argentinian classics ever since. They specialize in empanadas and coffee, but one truly can not go wrong with anything on the menu.
Dock Street Brewing Company
Named after the historical Philadelphia seaport district (and how in the late 1700s it was the largest producer of beer in the country), this brewery specializes in small batch, artisanal beer. Dock Street is perfect for a fun hangout centered around trying craft beverages and cocktails, plus non-alcoholic options, as well. They host events throughout the year, too, including live tattooing, comedy shows, spirits tastings, and more, to keep the party going! Stop in for a brewery tour to see how the magic is made.
OK Produce
OK Produce offers a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables conveniently located inside Reading Terminal Market. Stock up on some produce for the week and get to cooking!
Cosmic Cafe
Cosmic Café is the perfect stop at the end of Boathouse Row for refreshments, snacks, or a meal. Owner Beg Botto is a QIDP (Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional) and brought this background to the café. Cosmic Café employs and trains people with developmental disabilities in order to help coach them on important life skills that are useful in this role and beyond. Stop in to try breakfast all day, or grab a locally brewed beer on the patio (21+).
Viva Leaf Tea Products
Christa Barfield founded Viva Leaf Tea Co. with a “farm-to-cup” approach to tea. Viva Leaf Tea Co. offers high-quality tea with ingredients coming locally from their small farm right here in PA. They use sustainable farming practices to harvest the power of herbs in creating many blends of artisanal teas and honeys with a wide array of flavors. Stop by their Germantown shop to treat yourself or a loved one to their new favorite cup of tea!
Cloud Cups
From funky flavors like lucky charms and french toast stracciatella, to classics like vanilla and chocolate, Cloud Cups serves up artisanal gelato that is heavenly to try. Galen Thomas has perfected his gelato recipes to keep customers coming back, and has made a name for himself as a “Gelato Artist.” Come in for a scoop (or two!) and try this creamy, decadent dessert in Fishtown.
Farina Pasta and Noodle
What started out as a ghost kitchen during the pandemic turned into a full-time restaurant as a result of its popularity and success. Drexel graduate Daniel Lee took inspiration from his time in Rome when crafting the menu for his restaurant. Today, he is serving up authentic pasta dishes for all of Philadelphia to enjoy.
The Tricycle Café and Bicycle Shop
This Conshohocken shop is combining two of the greatest passions in life: bikes and coffee. Centered around creating a welcoming environment that mirrors that of the cycling community, the Tricycle Café and Bicycle Shop welcomes all who love bikes and coffee. With a rotating “featured drink” crafted by the team, and a full menu of delicious bites, the café is a cozy place to come experience. Additionally, for all cycling enthusiasts, they have a full retail shop offering bikes, service parts, and retail parts.
Yi’s Boba
Bubble tea has grown in popularity in recent years—and rightfully so! Yi’s Boba in Ardmore is a small, community-focused Boba shop serving up tasty drinks and treats for all. From milk teas and bursting tapioca balls to slushees and rolled ice cream, this family-owned drink shop is the perfect destination for a sweet treat.