Our latest issue is filled with RowHome Magazine‘s top to-do list picks! From upcoming festivals to current beer gardens, there’s something for everyone. This year, we also asked some of our writers to share their favorite hot spots – near and far – with all of our readers. Say hi if you see them there!
“Every Memorial Day and 4th of July, my family and I go to The Pub in Merchantville, NJ. We’re not big on barbecuing at home so we love to go for a great steak or baby back ribs and the huge salad bar. They’re the best! I also try to make at least one trip to Ocean City, NJ every summer. I’ve been visiting Gillian’s Wonderland Pier since I was three. They have rides for all ages and a Kohr Brothers and Johnson’s Popcorn close by. It’s a great trip because we stock up on our favorite snacks and have a great day down the shore!” – Joei DeCarlo
“George Washington’s Mount Vernon in Virginia because I love walking around the grounds and visiting the museum. The Newseum and the Mansion at O Street in DC, Harper’s Ferry and WV for a ghost tour. My favorite all-time summer road trip was through Billy the Kid country in NM – Lincoln County, Fort Sumter and of course Roswell and the UFO museum! Sedona, AZ is amazing too!” – Jane Roser
“Margate, NJ is my favorite summer hot spot. Between the beach, the nightlife and the ambiance, it is the perfect place to spend your summer!” – Dominique Verrecchio
“One of my favorite hot spots in the extreme heat of summer is The Ritz Theatre in Old City! I love movies and it’s a very nice way to spend a hot and steamy afternoon While everyone is sweltering on the beach, this is where you will find me.” – Debbie Russino
“The Palm in Center City. It’s a high-end steakhouse that closed in 2016 after 27 years in operation. Now the Palm is back with a more contemporary experience. It’s not going to be your grandfather’s Palm! The décor will be brighter, there will be a higher level of hospitality and it will be extremely family-friendly with a kids menu!” – Maria Merlino (see feature photo)
“I love being outdoors in the city. My favorite spots are Bok Bar, Spruce Street Harbor Park, the Monarch Philly Swim Club, free yoga on Race Street Pier and concerts at the Mann Center.” – Moriah Kelley
“My favorite summer hot spot is Ocean City, NJ. I love to spend the day reading on the beach, spending time with my family, the night walking the boardwalk and eating as much pizza and ice cream as my stomach will allow.” – Santina Pescatore
“So many places! I love Popi’s Italian Restaurant for their great cuisine and Bob Pantano every Friday night. There’s Johnnie Barrels, too. It’s like eating at home. The food is just like Nonna made. I also enjoy eating at Penrose Diner (most of the staff has been there for more than 20 years), Tollman Joe’s, Chick’s and T&N Homemade Kitchen where everything is made from scratch!” – Lou Pinto
“The Farmhouse in Cherry Hill! It has a delicious farm to table menu and outdoor dining!” – Stacy Murray
“I also enjoy Homegrown Coffee and Creations at 1406 Jackson Street. The owners Jimmy Rossoni and Christian Sassani are trade show industry artists! They built and created the custom tables and chairs. All of the in-store furniture is handmade and everything is driven by local artists. It’s a great spot for a cup of La Colombe coffee and for lounging in a kitschy art gallery where it’s chock-a-block with local artists’ goods. Listen to genuine 8-track music from the ‘70s too! They have bagels, pastries and grilled cheese sandwiches.” – Maria Merlino
“One of my summer hot spots would definitely be Citizens Bank Park. Even though the Phillies aren’t doing too hot, I still enjoy spending nights with friends at the ballpark.” – Nick Coppola
“Down the shore. I enjoy Memories in Margate where the Geator Jerry Blavat has been keeping the party going for more than 40 years! Johnny’s Café and Lounge because Johnny Looch is there every Saturday and Benny Marsella on Wednesdays. The Crab Trap for fantastic seafood, especially when The Star Band is playing. And 2nd Street Annie’s (Schellenger & Pacific) which is new to Wildwood with Bob Pantano there every Sunday during the summer.” – Lou Pinto
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