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Sampan has small & large plates Pan-Asian Cuisine and Happy Hour by Restaurateur Michael Schulson
Sampan is an oasis of contemporary Asian small plates located in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia’s hot Midtown Village neighborhood.
A dramatic back-lit wall mural sets the scene for artful food, emerging from the restaurant’s centrally located open kitchen while a carefully curated selection of wine, beer, sake and cocktails complement guests’ experiences.
GRAFFITI BAR
Tucked into the rear of the restaurant on a private 30-seat open-air patio, Graffiti Bar debuted in April 2010.
Serving the same acclaimed Asian food and drinks by Chef Schulson that have made Sampan instantly popular, it’s also a haven for sports fans, equipped with TVs behind the bar, and home to our daily Happy Hour.
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Open all year round, Graffiti Bar can be found down a narrow chain linked fence alley surrounded by a mural commissioned by local artist Ali M Williams. Heat lamps for chilly nights and the soft glow of candlelight make it a perfect spot no matter the season.
Every Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., Graffiti Bar offers one of the best Happy Hours in the city featuring Satays, Dumplings & Spring Rolls, Bao Buns & more. Drinks include a daily-changing cocktail, wine and beer specials.
Restaurateur Michael Schulson
Restaurateur Michael Schulson
Michael Schulson is the chef and restaurateur behind the Schulson Collective of restaurants whose imagination and ingenuity have made him one of Philadelphia’s most successful hospitality professionals.
Michael Schulson is the chef and restaurateur behind the Schulson Collective restaurant group whose imagination and vision have made him one of Philadelphia’s most successful hospitality professionals. Schulson is the owner of day-to-night destination Double Knot, along with DK Sushi, the fine-casual sushi concept located at the University of Pennsylvania; the expansive Independence Beer Garden; Sampan and the adjacent Graffiti Bar; and serves as chef-partner at Izakaya at Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.. Schulson Collective’s portfolio also includes the new-American spot, Harp & Crown, in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square, as well as contemporary izakaya restaurant, Monkitail, and cocktail lounge, Nokku, at The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida. Most recently, Schulson opened his red gravy Italian restaurant, Giuseppe & Sons, and his boutique steakhouse, Alpen Rose.
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Schulson attended and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America, working his way up the culinary chain of command in such acclaimed restaurants as New York’s Peacock Alley at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel and David Burke’s Park Avenue Café, and Philadelphia’s Le Bec-Fin and Susanna Foo. Before setting out on his own, Schulson helmed legendary kitchens in New York City (Buddakan) and Philadelphia (Pod) and traveled to Japan. He eventually learned the ability to speak conversational Japanese following his stints in prestigious Tokyo kitchens, among them Spago and the Four Seasons Hotel.
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Drink like a Movie Star: Clarendelle, Domaine Clarence Dillon Return as Official Wine Partner of 97th Oscars
Drink like a Movie Star: Clarendelle & Domaine Clarence Dillon Return as Official Wine Partner of 97th Oscars
Clarendelle & Domaine Clarence Dillon Return as Official Wine Partner of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures and Exclusive Wines Poured at the 97th Oscars Ceremony
Clarendelle and the family company Domaine Clarence Dillon announce the brand’s return as the official wine partner of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
Wine for the Academy
The Academy Awards, renowned for their glamour and celebration of cinematic excellence, also feature a notable emphasis on fine wines during their events. A substantial amount of wine is served to accommodate the numerous attendees. For instance, during the 90th Academy Awards, over 2,400 bottles of wine were provided, equating to approximately 14,000 glasses.
Annually, the Academy hosts several official events where wine is prominently featured. The most notable of these is the Governors Ball, the official post-ceremony celebration, where distinguished wines and champagnes are served to winners, nominees, and guests. In addition to the main ceremony and the Governors Ball, there are various pre-show receptions and ancillary gatherings throughout the awards season, each offering curated wine selections to complement the festivities.
These events underscore the Academy’s commitment to providing a luxurious and celebratory atmosphere, with fine wines playing a central role in the experience.
For the third consecutive year, the prestigious family-owned wine company will exclusively pour exceptional red and white wines at the 97th Oscars® ceremony.
This partnership bridges the world of fine wine and film, elevating the Oscars experience for Hollywood’s biggest stars.
In addition to delighting guests at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, Clarendelle and Domaine Clarence Dillon wines will be served at the iconic Governors Ball after the Oscars ceremony and the Official Oscars® Watch Party at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. This year, Governors Ball attendees can enjoy a glass of our elegant and contemporary wines while winners have their Oscar® statuettes engraved. The wines will also be perfectly complemented with a legendary gastronomic menu crafted by Wolfgang Puck Catering for an unforgettable evening.
“Before joining the family business, I began my career as a screenwriter, so to have the opportunity to partner with the Oscars for the third consecutive year is truly an honor,” said President and CEO of Domaine Clarence Dillon, Prince Robert of Luxembourg. “This collaboration is a natural extension of my family’s longstanding commitment and deep connection to film and the arts.”
Domaine Clarence Dillon will introduce two new wines for the star-studded events:
- La Clarté de Haut-Brion 2021: A sought-after white wine of rare delicacy with only 1,000 cases produced annually, La Clarté brings together the qualities of a fine white Bordeaux wine with fresh citrus and white flower aromas, followed by a crisp and refreshing finish of lemony brightness.
- Le Clarence de Haut-Brion 2015: Château Haut-Brion became the first Bordeaux vineyard to be named after its terroir, making the estate the first luxury brand in the world. The exquisite red Le Clarence de Haut-Brion 2015 is similar in style and elegance to its elder and encompasses all unique attributes of a fine wine with an attractive profile – smooth yet powerful, tasty and full-bodied, with notes of ripe fruit leaving an impression of freshness and volume, without heaviness.
Among the returning wine favorites are:
- Clarendelle Bordeaux White 2023: A refined and elegant wine, offering bright citrus notes of lemon and grapefruit, balanced by the smooth sweetness of pear and lychee.
- Clarendelle Bordeaux Red 2016: A wine with fruity aromas of red fruit and blackcurrant alongside floral overtones balanced by great tannic power and delicious velvety texture.
- Clarendelle Amberwine 2021: A complex, well-concentrated and modern sweet wine distinguished by its freshness and harmonious balance of floral fruit and acidity with a smooth finish.
Founded in 1935, Domaine Clarence Dillon is a family-owned group renowned for its prestigious Bordeaux estates, including Château Haut-Brion, Château La Mission Haut-Brion, and Château Quintus. Under the leadership of Prince Robert of Luxembourg, the company has earned a global reputation for excellence in winemaking, joining Primum Familiae Vini, an international association of some of the world’s finest wine producing families. Domaine Clarence Dillon has long been a supporter of the arts, with Prince Robert’s background and screenwriting playing an essential role in merging the worlds of wine and cinema by bringing Clarendelle and Domaine Clarence Dillon to the biggest night in Hollywood.
For more information, follow on Instagram @clarendelle @chateauhautbrion_ @chateaulamissionhautbrion @chateauquintus @leclarenceparis.
Philly Orders The White Lotus Season 3 with Patrick Schwarzenegger Sipping Ketel One Family Made Vodka and Tanqueray Gin
‘Sip into The White Lotus’ with Patrick Schwarzenegger for Season 3 with Ketel One Family Made Vodka and Tanqueray Gin
Ketel One Family Made Vodka, one of the bestselling and top trending vodkas (Drinks International, 2025), and Tanqueray Gin, the seven-time winner of the bartenders’ choice of gin (Drinks International, 2023), have long been at the forefront of cocktail culture, consistently shaping and elevating the craft with their unwavering dedication to quality and innovation.
The Cocktail Culture of The White Lotus: Sipping in Style
HBO’s The White Lotus isn’t just known for its biting satire and stunning backdrops—it’s also quietly shaped the world of cocktail culture. Set against the luxurious resorts of Hawaii and Sicily, the show’s characters are often seen clutching artfully crafted drinks, turning simple sips into statements about wealth, indulgence, and escapism. In Season 1, tropical classics like the Mai Tai and Pineapple Daiquiri make frequent appearances, aligning with the show’s Hawaiian setting and nodding to the tiki cocktail revival. These vibrant, rum-based drinks not only complement the scenery but also subtly underscore themes of paradise lost.
Season 2 shifts to Sicily, and with it comes a more European drinking aesthetic. Think Aperol Spritzes, Negronis, and chilled white wines, evoking la dolce vita while masking the tension simmering beneath the surface. The show’s cocktail choices aren’t just background props—they reflect character dynamics and mood. For example, Tanya’s over-the-top drink orders often mirror her chaotic, lavish lifestyle.
Since its debut, The White Lotus has inspired bartenders and fans alike to recreate its signature drinks, blending TV-inspired nostalgia with real-world cocktail trends. Whether it’s a Mai Tai or a Spritz, every glass tells a story.
In an exciting collaboration with Max and HBO, the two iconic brands invite fans of The White Lotus to experience the timeless elegance and charm that define both the series and their curated cocktail creations.
In anticipation of the series returning on February 16, on Max and HBO, Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray Gin introduce, ‘Sip into The White Lotus,’ a dynamic, multifaceted collaboration which includes series-inspired cocktails, Thailand destination giveaway, immersive events and engaging content.
“Our partnership with Max and HBO’s hit series The White Lotus is a perfect blend of luxury and sophistication. The show’s exploration of timeless hospitality aligns perfectly with the craftsmanship behind Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray Gin, both of which are synonymous with the highest standards of quality,” said Julie Yufe, Senior Vice President of Vodka, Gin and Rum at DIAGEO North America. “The show is a cultural phenomenon, creating its own universe of intrigue and vibrancy. As consumers increasingly value experiences, we’ve been intentional about crafting fan-centric moments where our brands can create memorable occasions with every sip.”
Inspired by the show’s luxurious destinations, the partnership with Max and HBO kicks off with an original short film starring actor and entrepreneur Patrick Schwarzenegger, who whisks viewers away to a dreamy Thai escape. As Patrick mixes The White Lotus Vesper Martini—crafted with Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray Gin to embody the captivating elegance fans expect from the show—he invites viewers to immerse themselves in the world of The White Lotus, exploring its story, characters, and the lavish setting of the highly anticipated new season.
“Being part of the cast of The White Lotus has been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to partner with Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray gin to bring fans closer to the unforgettable moments of season three,” said Schwarzenegger. “Just like these iconic spirits, The White Lotus is all about storytelling and savoring every experience. I can’t wait to watch the new season unfold while toasting The White Lotus Vesper Martini with friends and family.”
To toast to season three of HBO’s The White Lotus, Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray Gin have crafted exclusive cocktails inspired by the season’s stunning Thailand setting: The White Lotus Vesper Martini and The White Lotus Punch.
The White Lotus Vesper Martini is an elegant twist on the traditional cocktail, featuring Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray London Dry Gin as its smooth, classic base. It delivers a refined, refreshing tasting sip with a sophisticated balance of dry and fruity notes. A French white wine aperitif adds crispness, while lychee liqueur imparts a delicate floral sweetness. The White Lotus Punch strikes a perfect balance between tart and tropical, making it the ideal cocktail for any getaway. With a vibrant blend of Ketel One Vodka and Tanqueray London Dry Gin, it showcases tropical flavors of pineapple, mango, and lime. The gin lends a hint of herbal complexity, while the tropical fruits provide sweet, juicy depth.
The unique creations tap into a feeling of luxury familiar to a White Lotus guest while reimagining how fans can enjoy cocktails with a modern twist. Featured in The White Lotus limited-edition cocktail kits, these perfect accessories for viewing parties include everything needed to craft season three-inspired drinks at home. Fans 21+ can purchase the kits at https://www.cocktailcourier.com/pages/the-white-lotus-cocktails.
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The White Lotus Punch ¾ oz. Ketel One Vodka ½ oz. Tanqueray London Dry Gin 1 oz. lime juice ¾ oz. mango syrup 2 oz. pineapple juice
Combine all ingredients into a highball glass filled with crushed ice and stir. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and serve. |
The White Lotus Vesper Martini ¾ oz. Ketel One Vodka ½ oz. Tanqueray London Dry Gin ¼ oz. French white wine aperitif 1 bar spoon or teaspoon lychee liqueur 1 bar spoon or teaspoon butterfly pea tea
Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a lychee. |
Thanksgiving in Philly: perfect stuffing bread DOES exist – and it’s… [Find Recipe Inside]
This Thanksgiving in NYC, the perfect stuffing bread DOES exist – and it’s brioche. As in St Pierre Brioche Thanksgiving Stuffing
No Thanksgiving spread is complete without a hearty stuffing. While add-ins are a matter of preference, choosing the right bread is crucial. One underrated choice is eggy, rich brioche – and with St Pierre Bakery, you don’t need to go to France to get it.
Thanks to its butter and egg content, St Pierre’s Brioche Loaf provides the perfect balance of crisp toastiness while remaining soft and creamy inside, while its lightly sweet flavor adds a decadent quality that can still lean savory. Attached below is an approachable recipe for stuffing allowing for all the craveable crunch for the whole family with minimal effort required.
St Pierre Brioche Thanksgiving Stuffing
By @BrandiMilloy
Ingredients
1 loaf St. Pierre Brioche Bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 medium onion, diced
3/4 cup celery, diced
3/4 cup carrots, diced
1 cup mushrooms, diced
2 large eggs
1 tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
3 sprigs fresh thyme, just the leaves
1 tbsp. fresh sage, chopped
1 small apple (granny smith works well), peeled and diced
Salt and pepper
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 F. Cut brioche bread into 1” cubes and bake for about 10-15 minutes until toasted.
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Meanwhile, into a pot over medium high heat add butter until melted. Add onion, celery and carrots and cook until everything starts to soften, about 7 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes longer. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Into a bowl whisk together the eggs, herbs, apples, mushrooms, and salt and pepper. Add your cooked vegetables and mix to combine.
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Pour mixture on top of toasted bread and stir to combine. Bake stuffing for about 45 minutes. If your stuffing starts to get too brown, cover until finished baking. Enjoy!
As America’s favorite brioche brand, St Pierre’s products are widely available via grocery stores nationwide as well as Walmart.
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Philly: Local PA Hot Spot Poconos Park Unleashes Halloween Oct 28-29
On Halloween weekend, just outside Philly is Poconos Park — unleashing fun for all ages, with a slew of events from kid-friendly trick or treating to genuine thrills, even sit down dinner and a dance party.
And you’re invited!
Poconos Park is popular for its central location in North East Pennsylvania, with easy drives from NYC, Philly and the Lehigh Valley.
A scene from Poconos Park Halloween event
This time of year the road trip is gorgeous. But as you get closer, your view turns from romantic Autumn to haunted destination.
You drive deep into the dark woods, fog creeps around your car, moonlight pierces through the trees, howling wind makes screachy scratching sounds.
Just then, you expect Leatherface to run out sparking up his chainsaw – and the party hasn’t even started yet.
All of the festivities take place within walking distance at the newly-acquired Pocono Park, a huge indoor / outdoor destination that hosts concerts, theater shows, corporate events, weddings and private gatherings.
This weekend it’s transformed into a Halloween Haven.
Pocono Park manages to create Halloween for everyone, from you littlest goblin who wants candy, laughs, and no scares to the group of friends who want scares and thrills. Every Halloween and horror lover has a spot here.
For Halloween, event company From The Roots has taken over and promises thrills, smiles and memories for you, your friend and your family.
John M. Oakes who runs From The Roots, loves putting on a show and delights in every twist and turn from ultra scary, to the cutest moments.
John M. Oakes who runs From The Roots
Earlier this week, we got a preview tour of the most popular attraction – Playhouse of Horror.
It’s a fast-moving, screams around every corner, standing – crawling – jump fest. Pro tip: Go through it next to your friend who screams the most — it’ll +10 the whole experience for ya. The Playhouse is fun, fast-paced, well-designed and has the mark of any good maze, when it’s done you’re high-fiving your friends and wanting to get right back in line to go again.
But that’s not all. Oakes has a banquet planned and an 80’s throwback Dance Party.
Check out each event listed below
KID’S TRICK OR TREAT TRAIL
4 – 7 P.M.— (Children Ages 12 & Under):
Prior to sunset, children will be sent along a fright-free, wooded trail to gather candy treats, participate in interactive games, and meet a host of kid-friendly characters—with plenty of photo opportunity stations for parents along the way.
Cost is $5 per child with an accompanying adult.
PLAYHOUSE OF HORROR
6 – 10 P.M.— (Ages 13+):
Beginning at twilight, our “braver” and older guests can explore the more eerie dwellings of an authentic haunted house. Meet POCONOS PARK’s playful specters, murderous villains, and Goghoulish monsters. Take in our wonderful macabre displays and get a few jump-scares along the way. (Note: ONLY those in line before 10 P.M. will be admitted. Children aged 12 and under MUST be accompanied by an adult)
Early Bird Cost is $19.99 plus fees, Week Of Cost is $24.99 plus fees, and Day Of Cost is $29.99 plus fees. Grab a Skip The Line admission for only $39.99.
BLACK LAGOON BANQUET
5 – 8 P.M.—(All Ages):
Say “Bone-Appetit!” as we serve no tricks, just treats, at this otherworldly upscale dinner buffet. Enjoy delicious culinary treats and only the finest, delightful “spirits” curated especially for you by Event Hospitality Solutions. This family-friendly dinner will be served with paired wine from Blue Ridge Winery and distinguished ghostly guests. Tickets are LIMITED at $59.99 per guest (plus fees) and include “skip the line” admission to the Playhouse of Horror, access to the buffet, and one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink per person. (Note: Additional alcoholic beverages cost extra.)
“SCREAM! AT THE LAKE” 90’s Throwback Dance Party
Friday, Oct. 28, 9 P.M. – 1.A.M. (21+):
Calling all ghosts and ghouls to scream with delight as we turn off the lights and on the 90s tunes! Join us down at the Lake House to enjoy some scary libations at the Bloody Bar and graze on some skull candy (aka yummy bar food). Dress to kill, as we’ll be giving away prizes for the most spine-chilling, the most scandalous, and the most striking costumes! (Must show valid ID to enter) Tickets are LIMITED at $49.99 per guest (plus fees), and includes “skip the line” admission to the Playhouse of Horror.
“CURSED CAMPGROUND” Electronic Music Dance Party
Saturday, Oct. 29, 9 P.M. – 1.A.M. (21+):
After you’ve had your pants scared off inside the Playhouse of Horror, join the crowd at the Cursed Campground at the Lake House! If you dare to venture through the cursed trails of this abandoned summer camp, you will reach the most electrifying dance party in the Poconos!
Costumes are encouraged, as prizes will be given away for various spooky categories. (Must show valid ID to enter) Tickets are LIMITED at $49.99 per guest and include “skip the line” admission to the Playhouse of Horror.
For tix and more info: Haunted Poconos Park
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Philly Foodies want to know, what food and drinks does Plant-based Honey Pair Well With?
Philly Foodies want to know, what does Plant-based Honey Pair Well With?
You keep reading about plant-based honey. The environmental story, the nutrition. But how does it taste? What can you pair it with? Let’s find out in an exclusive interview with Mellody Food’s Darko Mandich.
Darko Mandich is a food entrepreneur in San Francisco. After spending almost a decade in the European honey industry as a business executive, Darko committed to reimagining the honey industry to become sustainable. Darko immigrated from Europe to California to launch Mellody, the world’s first plant-based honey brand. Darko is an advocate of saving the bees and wild pollinators.
Mellody Food’s Darko Mandich
Recently, I had a chance to talk with Darko.
You said you are a foodie. What are some incredible food pairings that you recommend with this honey?
When I like to talk about food, I always like to join food and beverage.
What does Plant-based Honey Pair Well With?
I’ll start with beverages first. I think this honey is perfect for mocktails and cocktails. It gives just enough of sweetness that someone is looking for in their alcoholic cocktail or non-alcoholic cocktail.
Will Plant-based Honey pair well With baklava
In terms of food, I would split it into savory and sweet. Sweet applications are my favorite, I just have a sweet tooth. My favorite dessert is Baklava because it comes from the part of the world where I come from. My wife, who’s a home chef, [used our honey to make] baklava and it was amazing.
We did an amazing collaboration with an upscale Italian plant-based restaurant in San Francisco Baia. They created this amazing, vegan panna cotta with our honey on top. It was culinary mastery developed by Chef Joshua Yap, who started working with Chef Matthew Kenny, who is also a well-known, plant-based chef.
Will plant-based honey pair well with a burger
In terms of savory applications, that opens a whole new world of opportunities. How we interact with stuff like pizza and honey, burgers and honey. Obviously honey and vinaigrette and olive oil, used as a dressing for salads, honey mustard, just name it.
What’s next for Mellody? What are the next steps out there for you?
Getting into as many restaurants as possible in this country. People are inquiring about the standalone product [separate from the speciality box] get it very soon at Eleven Madison Home.
Working on getting this product to as many people as possible, and just to invite everybody to participate in this mission of creating the sustainable future of honey.
I’m just excited about every tiny step in this journey until melody becomes the word for honey.
Eleven Madison Home’s The Specialty Tea and Honey Box featuring Mellody Honey
Is the honey currently available at Eleven Madison Home?
Yeah, the honey is currently available. The Specialty Tea and Honey Box launched for the Mother’s Day collection and Earth Month.
It’s a specially curated box of artisanal teas coming from different parts of the world with honey and also amazing, shortbread cookies. All plant-based, also made with our honey. That’s available right now
Sometime very soon a standalone jar [of honey] will also be available to Eleven Madison Home.
Eleven Madison Home’s The Specialty Tea and Honey Box featuring Mellody Honey
Tell us again what’s available, how to find it; and how to follow you and support you.
Yeah, follow us on Instagram and TikTok at MellodyFoods
In terms of purchasing, head to ElevenMadisonHome.com and you can purchase it there.
Saving the bees is learning more about them. Learning more about pollinators and you can do that on our social media.
And finally, if you’re equally passionate about bees and plants as we are, ask your favorite restaurant to reach out to us to offer Mellody in your favorite restaurant. It can be a vegan restaurant on non-vegan.
We are gonna work with all the restaurants that reach out to us where people ask to see our product offered, either on the menu, either within a meal, or just if you order a cup of tea and you want a side of Mellody.
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Love their flavor? Vote Cuba Libre for Philly’s Best Mojito
Love their flavor? Vote Cuba Libre for Philly’s Best MojitoFor the second year in a row, Cuba Libre has been nominated for having the best mojito in Philadelphia!If you love their tasty drinks, help them defend their title, and vote for Cuba Libre in Metro Philly’s contest.After being voted as Metro Philly’s Best Mojito in 2021, they’re trying to continue our streak! Help them win best mojito again by voting here (find them under the “Bars & Nightlife category).
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Voting is open through Sept. 8, and you can vote once per day in each category.
What makes Cuba Libre’s mojito THE BEST in the city?!
they use fresh-pressed sugarcane (rather than simple syrup!) along with fresh lime juice. Trust us – it makes all the difference!
They thank you for your support, Philly!
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