A Pinch Of Fireworks and Citywides

Something about being halfway through this eventful year seems quite crazy to say. Yet at the same time, it’s been quite a ride this far, with lots to look forward to each week.

July 4th weekend felt a bit different this year with lots going on all around us — acknowledging that it’s more than me not eating a hot dog. Getting to enjoy moments amidst everything happening does make me thankful for where I’m at, and also makes me want to find ways to support whatever cause I can put an effort to.

That may look different to everyone because of how much is happening both here in Philly and across the country. And frankly getting stuck thinking about it can happen. Without getting too deep into it, I found this episode of 10% Happier with Dan Harris featuring Ezra Klein to have some interesting perspectives on “Sane News Consumption; The Power of Meditation; The Future of the Species; And the Message of His Tattoo”. Take a listen during a ride, work or while making dinner.

Flipping to a different type of chaos… I HAVE to mention the latest season of The Bear. Talk about a show that hits every single emotion. Without spoiling anything at all, because I can’t recommend the show enough, I’ll just say there were a lot of people cutting onions in the best ways. I love this show so much more than just because it’s about food. 11/10 recommend watching NOW.

Friday the 4th, full of a Citywide Tour and Fireworks

This year’s 4th of July was a beautiful day weather-wise, spent traversing the city in the afternoon and covering more ground at night. I happily accepted an invite to a second annual Citywide Trail during the day, and we kicked things off down in South Philly.

What’s a citywide you may ask? Other cities may have their names for it, but Philly takes pride in its beer-and-a-shot combos. Simple as that, enjoying them in some great bars with great friends.

The 2025 trail featured Philadium, McCusker’s Tavern and Tap Room on 19th. Fantastic spots across the board.

And as any good 4th does, the day rolled into a night of fireworks and more time with more great friends.

What’s Cookin’

With busy (hot) weekends carrying on, a nice Monday reset meal, followed by a long post-rain walk, is always nice to begin the week. Some highlights from the past week that inspired a few saved recipes.

Summer Greek Salad

This Monday meal was exactly what the doctor ordered. A salad with clean ingredients and a simple dressing from Love & Lemons. Plus, it’s nice to have everything prepped in the fridge for easy meals to put together throughout the week.

Chipotle Chicken Caesar Wrap from Other Half Brewing

Midweek bites to get outside at a brewery following quizzo… does it get much better? While we didn’t win quizzo, this meal, and the whole menu, were a big treat. I often say it’s hard to find a brewery that has good beer AND good food. Bravo, Other Half Brewing.

Inspo for the Week

I’m always a sucker for an easy bowl meal or a good wrap. So taking inspo from those two meals, here’s what I’ve saved over the past week:

• Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Pitas from Eating Well – grab the seasonal veg and the grill-able cheese to fill some pitas mixed with some fresh fixings.

• Tortellini Salad from Love & Lemons – another good save from the same source as the salad dressing. I love a tortellini salad as a different take on a pasta salad. I’ll be eyeing up some fresh basil and tomatoes from the market this weekend for either a side here or as a main.

• Chicken Shawarma Wraps from Recipe Tin Eats – grilled chicken in the summer is one of my favorites to make when a grill is accessible. This recipe has a great marinade for the chicken, though I will recommend for any Trader Joe’s shoppers, their already marinaded chicken. I’ve grilled it and roasted it, and it’s packed with flavor either way. Always nice to have less prep and wait time.

Not to get so hung up on hot dogs, but my plan of action is to get to Royal Tavern’s Dog Days of Summer at least once this month. For now, we’ll just bake ourselves in this heat – which I’ll take it if it means the Phillies keep winning. I got to enjoy those nice rays of sunshine with my family on Sunday afternoon for a Zach Wheeler gem.

Take care of yourself this week 🤘