This week’s FYI Philly highlights several fresh and exciting venues, along with unique events taking place throughout Philadelphia.
One of the standout openings is the Viva Padel & Pickleball Club, which has filled a gap in the city by offering dedicated outdoor courts for both padel and pickleball.
Located at 1300 N. 8th Street, this innovative club, which opened in June, features four padel courts and four pickleball courts, catering to enthusiasts of these growing sports.
In honor of National Pickleball Day on August 8, the founders, who are three friends, are expanding their vision with plans for a second indoor facility in Flourtown this fall.
Visitors can choose to play for the day or opt for a monthly membership starting at $50.
For those looking for a unique shopping experience, the West Philly Bizarre is the perfect destination.
Taking place in Clark Park from now until November, most Saturdays will feature a collection of vendors offering a wide range of new and used items.
Unlike traditional markets, this urban flea market does not sell food, but shoppers can discover everything from clothing and home goods to artisan crafts and vinyl records, adding to the bazaar-like charm.
In the culinary world, Hen Solo in Manayunk is a new chicken joint that has garnered attention for its Star Wars-themed menu items.
With items such as the Obi-One wrap and C3-Pineapple, owner Dean Leevongcharoen has infused his love for the iconic movie franchise into the restaurant’s offerings.
Customers donning a Star Wars costume can enjoy a 10% discount off their order, blending fandom with dining at this whimsical restaurant located at 4351 Main Street.
Adding to the local culture, McGillin’s Old Ale House, Philadelphia’s oldest Irish pub, has recently opened a gift shop inside The Philadelphia Building.
Operating for three generations, the Mullins family, including Christopher Mullins, along with his parents, Chris and Mary Ellen, decided to expand their business by introducing a physical retail space this summer.
The shop features a variety of merchandise including t-shirts, hats, mugs, and imports from Ireland, allowing fans to showcase their McGillin’s pride.
In a different culinary adventure, Amma’s South Indian Cuisine is opening its latest location in Mount Laurel, NJ, amidst growing recognition for its authentic dishes.
Founded by friends Sathish Varadhan and Balakrishnan Duraisamy, the restaurant chain began in Voorhees, NJ, to bring the taste of South Indian food to the area after they yearned for a taste of home.
The Mount Laurel location is notable for being the first to feature a tandoori oven and offers a buffet with a weekday option as well as a Grand Buffet on weekends, further enriching the local dining scene.
For families looking for excitement, the Demolition Derby at Buck Motorsports Park offers a thrilling experience.
This venue has been a cherished part of the Lancaster County community for over 50 years, attracting visitors from throughout the Northeast.
The Demolition Derby, running from May through October, provides various classes for different vehicle sizes, including a special segment for youth drivers aged 13-17, highlighting the incredible talent of young competitors.
The park ensures fun for all ages with food, drinks, shopping, and behind-the-scenes experiences.
Finally, the annual Chinese Lantern Festival continues to dazzle audiences at Franklin Square with brand-new displays for its 8th iteration.
Highlights of the festival include a stunning 200-foot dragon and an erupting underwater volcano, creating a mesmerizing experience for attendees of all ages.
In addition, visitors can enjoy interactive lanterns, cultural performances, food options, and a cocktail garden, making it an entertaining outing.
Running through August 31, this year’s festival offers a pass for those wishing to return for additional visits, ensuring the opportunity to fully explore all it has to offer.
With these new venues and exciting events, Philadelphia continues to showcase its vibrant culture and diverse offerings, appealing to both locals and visitors alike.
image source from：6abc
