Cuba Libre
Photo: courtesy of Cuba Libre
If vacationing in another country seems like an impossibility given these tough economic times, why not try a foodie staycation instead? Forget the luggage and passport – there are plenty of restaurants with food and atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re thousands of miles from home. Following are some options.
10 S. Second St.; 215-627-0666
You can’t go to Cuba, but this re-creation of Old Havana in Old City is a fine stand-in. You’ll be mojito drinking and salsa dancing in the red-and-yellow tropical setting in no time.
1405-07 Locust St.; 215-735-7700
It’s like walking into a big fat Greek home at this Avenue of the Arts taverna with an indoor courtyard, whitewashed walls, blue ceiling and fish straight from the Greek islands.
133 E. Gay St.; 610-431-2800
No euros required to enjoy a romantic French repast thanks to this West Chester Gallic; just be sure to book way ahead.
1436 South St.; 215-545-8644
BYOR (bring your own rum) to this Avenue of the Arts Jamaican, where you can get your groove on to the reggae and enjoy some authentic jerk chicken and goat curry.
517 S. Leithgow St.; 215-925-5929
For a Moroccan getaway, head to this South Street eatery where you can sit on cushions, eat with your hands and (on weekends) watch the belly dancers gyrate. Having to knock to be let in only heightens the sense of adventure.
– Jeff Freier