Old City District Presents 25 Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day: Shop, Dine, Stay Over

Show your love for the ones you love and Old City businesses this Valentine’s Day! Old City businesses are offering virtual and in-person experiences, shopping deals, one-of-a-kind gift ideas, and unique dining options. There are many ways to celebrate your sweetheart and support local businesses this Valentine’s Day weekend, February 12-14, 2021. Be sure to check with the businesses before your visit, wear a mask, keep your physical distance, and follow all federal and local safety guidelines and protocols.

VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON EXPERIENCES

Chocolate & Beer: A Valentine’s Event
Friday, February 12th, 2021 from 7:00 – 8:30pm, via Zoom
Arch Street Meeting House
320 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
https://www.historicasmh.org/events

Looking for a way to celebrate Valentine’s Day and Meet Quaker History? Join Arch Street Meeting House for an extraordinary craft beer and Cadbury chocolate tasting on Friday, February 12th at 7pm!

Designed for two, enjoy a relaxing evening for you and your sweetheart as ASMH staff and volunteers create an amazing, personalized experience by hand-delivering your valentine’s treats the day before the event. Tickets include a variety of craft beer from Conshohocken Brewing Company, Duclaw Brewing Company, and Breckinridge Brewing Company, as well as candies from the delicious and Quaker-founded, Cadbury Chocolates. For an added bonus, VIP ticket holders will also receive additional chocolates from Shane Confectionery, America’s Oldest Continuously Operating Confectionary shop that’s located right here in historic Philadelphia! With this thoughtful gift, you and your loved one will be ready to go for a 30-minute hosted tasting, prior to a 45-minute presentation from Dr. Katherine Turner. $50 general admission, $60 VIP admission, priced for two people.

Please Note: This product contains alcohol and must be of the age of 21 or older to purchase a ticket. This product cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 21.

*Prior to purchasing a ticket please be aware that we are only able to deliver within the Philadelphia Metro area, including Philadelphia County, Lower Bucks, Montco, and Upper Delaware County. If you are outside of this delivery radius and interested in this event, you may arrange a pickup from Arch Street Meeting House.

*To ensure everyone’s health and safety, all Arch Street Meeting House staff and volunteers will be following strict health guidelines by wearing masks, gloves, and maintaining a social distance of at least six feet.

Tipsy History: A Love Story
Friday, February 12 - Sunday, February 14, 2021, 5:00, 6:00, and 7:00pm
Betsy Ross House
239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
http://historicphiladelphia.org/

Love is in the air at the Betsy Ross House this Valentine’s Day weekend. For the most unique date in town, grab your plus one and join Betsy, herself, for Tipsy History: A Love Story Friday, February 12 through Sunday, February 14.

You’ll hear a love story for the ages when you meet a young Betsy Ross just after her elopement with husband John. She faces the condemnation of her Quaker community for marrying outside her religion. Will she choose faith and family or true love?

Then, couples will head into the House for a special love-themed tour and finally, a walk around the corner to Art in the Age to warm up with a delicious, handcrafted cocktail, featuring that most patriotic of ingredients in Betsy’s time … chocolate!

Tours, which run about 90 minutes, will be timed and tickets limited to allow for proper social distancing. Masks are required. Tipsy History: A Love Story will run 5:00pm, 6:00pm, and 7:00pm on Friday, February 12 through Sunday, February 14. Tickets are $25 per person and must be purchased in advance at historicphiladelphia.org.

Hitched & The Groomsman Suit
61 and 65 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
https://tryhitched.com/
https://thegroomsmansuit.com
Take a Valentine’s Day photo in front of Amberella’s love and wedding inspired art mural located outside of The Groomsman Suit and Hitched on 2nd and Arch Streets. Tag each brand on social to be featured!

Kick Axe Throwing
232 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
800-850-6756
https://www.kickaxe.com/philly
Sweet Axe Valentine’s Deal: For $159 you get a private range and bottle of champagne.

Paris Fit Studios
221 Vine Street, Suite B, Philadelphia, PA 19106
https://getparisfit.com/
Couples Membership, $143, includes access to over 200 classes all month long, two (30) minute group training sessions, entry to the Fit For Love Contest

Fit For Love Contest: The couple with the best results by February 29th will win two (1) month free gym membership at Paris Fit Studios and win a sponsored date night

GIFT IDEAS

BONeJOUR Pet Supply
53 N. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-574-1225
www.bonejourpetsupply.com
We have Valentine's cookies, Valentine's Bocce's Treats, Valentine's party collars with hearts, and Valentine's toys (champagne and roses!)

Kindred Collective
149 N. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-845-5647
https://kindredbrynmawr.com/
14% off storewide on Valentine's Day (Sunday, February 14, 2021) in-store and online

Mere Argyris Fashion Studio
15 N. 2nd Street, Suite 106, Philadelphia, PA 19106
https://www.mereargyris.com/
Valentine's Day couples photoshoot to either give as a gift to someone or purchase for themselves. $80.

Midnight Lunch Studio
20 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
https://www.midnightlunchstudio.com/

Midnight Lunch Studio will be selling a carefully and thoughtfully curated Valentine’s Day gift box featuring a dainty white gold heart necklace, organic candies and chocolates, a candle and other festive goodies and accessories. These will be available starting January 24th in store and online. $78 each. Additionally, we will be selling luxury floral arrangements on February 12-14th, in-store only. $49 each.

NE Flower Boutique
60 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
267-570-7707
https://www.neflowerboutique.com/pages/old-city-flowers
Long Stem Roses Bouquet, Heart Shaped Arrangements (fresh roses and “forever” roses options available), I Love U Box, and many more arrangements to choose from.

The Wellness Refinery
216 Church Street, 1st Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19106
267-457-3980
https://www.wellnessrefineryphl.com/
We will be offering Galentine’s & Valentine’s Day themed self-care gift sets ranging from $50-90. We will also be featuring fresh floral bouquets and eucalyptus from Myrtle & Magnolia for purchase on weekends. And lastly, we are bringing back our discounted two person private infrared sauna sessions. The sessions will be 14% off in honor of the holiday all month long. Individuals booking must be from the same household!

RESTAURANTS

La Famiglia Ristorante
8 S. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-922-2803
https://www.lafamiglia.com/
Now taking reservations for Valentine’s Day. We will offer our regular menu with specials indoor and outdoor.

Panorama Wine Bar
14 N. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-922-7800
www.PanoramaWineBar.com
Valentine's 3 Course Menu, $75 per person, includes complimentary glass of Prosecco. Available Friday, February 12 - Sunday, February 14. (Not including tax, gratuities and beverages). *No substitutions/ menu subject to change / only menu offered. View menu and make reservations here: https://www.pennsviewhotel.com/panorama/calendar/valentines-weekend

1st Course Choice of one:
Oysters - pomegranate mignonette
Caesar - romaine, crouton, Codesa anchovy, classic caesar dressing
Lobster Bisque - lobster, sweet peppers
Eggplant Parmigiana - local eggplant, sweet pepper ragú, house smoked mozzarella, basil, parmigiano
Burrata - housemade cow’s milk burrata, olive oil-brushed crostini, arugula, honey & almond poached pear
Cavatelli - ricotta pasta, kabocha squash, cipollini onion, sage walnut pesto
Tortellini – goat’s milk burrata filled pasta, grilled tomato brodo, basil

2nd Course Choice of one:
Rigatoni – wild boar bolognese, chianti-stained ricotta
Gnocchi – buffalo milk, 24-month Parmigiano Reggiano, black truffle
N.Y. Strip – grilled 10oz strip steak, potato & cipollini terrine, oyster mushroom, beef sugo Braciola – Pennsylvania veal skirt steak, genovese, parsley, broccoli rabe, soft polenta, parmigiano
King Salmon – olive oil poached salmon, escarole, parsnip crema, pistachio, lemon

3rd Course Choice of one:
Chocolate Olive Oil Cake – dark chocolate ganache, blood orange, caramel
Tiramisu – warm espresso soaked spongecake, whipped mascarpone, dark chocolate, toasted hazelnuts
Ricotta Cake - warm apples, brown butter streusel, pumpkin, spiced crema, vanilla ice cream Fresh Mixed Berries - chilled basil zabaglione

2. Amada (To go only, delivery, pick-up)
Amada Valentine’s 4 Course to Go / Heat and Serve
Pick-up at The Olde bar - 125 Walnut
https://garcestradingcompany.com/packages#holiday
Price: $85 per person
Available: Friday, February 12th through Sunday, February 14th.
Order by: Tuesday, 2/9

Share your favorite tapas with your favorite someone! Enjoy our three course tasting menu @ Home! Includes:First course with Manchego and Serrano- Marcona Almonds, Olives, Apple; Ensalada Zanahorias- Carrot and Quinoa Salad, Avocado; and Datiles con Almendras- Bacon-wrapped Medjool Dates, Almonds, Cabrales. Second Course with Gambas al Ajillo- Garlic Shrimp; Piquillos Rellenos- Crab-Stuffed Peppers, Toasted Almonds; and Albondigas- Lamb Meatballs, Manchego, Truffle. Three Course - choice of Pintxos de Pollo- Spiced Chicken Brochette, Harissa, Pistachio OR Lamb Pintxos Morunos- Lamb Loin, Pomegranate-Tempranillo, Mint-Almond Gremolata (+$10pp), plus Bruselas- Brussels Sprouts, Sangria Raisins, Lemon & Mint Crème Fraiche, Pistachio

Diver Scallops- Jamon and Shellfish Broth, Chorizo Bilbao, Crispy Potato and Ham. Fourth and final course ends with Chocolate Pasteles- Dark Chocolate Cream. Minimum order of 2 people.

Amada (Dine-in only)
Amada Three Course Chef Tasting Menu
217-219 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-625-2450
https://philadelphia.amadarestaurant.com/
Price: $80 per person
Available: Friday, February 12th through Sunday, February 14th; on February 12th, the a la carte menu will also be available. Special Note: Amada will officially reopen for indoor dining on February 5 - in advance of Valentine’s Day Week/Weekend. Spend a romantic dinner with Garces as Amada is open again for indoor dining. For Valentine’s Weekend, enjoy from Friday to Sunday a three course chef’s tasting menu featuring Garces shared plates - including first course with Manchego and Serrano (Marcona Almonds, Olives, Apple), Zanahorias (Carrot & Quinoa Salad, Avocado) and Datiles (Bacon-Wrapped Dates, Almonds, Cabrales); second course with Gambas Al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp), Piquillos (Crab-Stuffed Peppers, Toasted Almonds) and Albondigas (Lamb Meatballs, Manchego, Truffle); third course with choice of Pintxos De Pollo (Spicced Chicken Brochette, Harissa, Pistachio) or Pintxos De Morunos (Lamb Loin, Pomegranate & Tempranillo, Mint & Almond Gremolata) (+$10 pp) both served with Vieras (Diver Scallop, Jamon & Shellfish Broth, Chorizo Bilbao, Crispy Potato) and Bruselas (Brussels Sprouts, White Sangria Raisins, Pistachio, Lemon & Mint Crème Fraîche); and fourth course/ dessert with Pasteles (Chocolate Cream Puffs, Dark Chocolate Cream). $80 per person for dine-in only Valentine’s Weekend Friday to Sunday.

The Olde Bar (Dine-in for food, dine-in or pick-up for drink specials)
125 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-253-3777
Theoldebar.com
Price: $65 per person

Fall head over heels this Valentine’s Weekend/Day with Garces and The Olde Bar! Enjoy private intimate dining in the library nooks at The Olde Bar, located in the heart of Old City Philadelphia. This special three-course fixed price dinner includes your favorites, like filet, shrimp, bass, oysters, and of course dessert. Available Friday, February 12 to Sunday, February 14, 2021.A la carte menus also available Friday and Saturday.

FIRST: Chilled Seafood Platter:
6 East Coast Oysters, Cucumber Mignonette, Tobiko
Poached Shrimp, Cocktail Sauce, Fresh Horseradish
Kampachi Crudo, Blood Orange, Morita Chile, Avocado, Lime

SECOND:
Rosemary Parker House Rolls, Black Truffle Butter
Winter Chicory Salad, Pommelo, Marcona Almond, Creamy Quince Vinaigrette

THIRD: (Choice of one per guest)
Petite Fillet, Charred Asparagus, Artichoke Escabeche, Bordelaise
**Make Steak Oscar for $15, Peeky Toe Crab, Espelette Hollandaise
OR
Striped Bass, Celery Root, Wild Mushroom, Watercress
**Add Fresh Burgundy Truffles to either $15

DESSERT; To Share
El Corazon; Milk Chocolate Mousse, Earl Grey Pana Cotta, Marcona Almond

Garces Trading Company
Breakfast in Bed Take-Out/ Heat and Serve Package
Pick-up at The Olde bar - 125 Walnut
https://garcestradingcompany.com/packages#holiday
Price: $45/person; min. order is 2 people
Available: Saturday/Sunday 2/13 & 2/14
This package requires 3 days notice.
This Valentine's Day weekend, plan on a lazy morning and enjoy breakfast in bed to start this romantic day. Includes: Deviled Eggs, Quiche Lorraine, Breakfast Burritos, Biscuits & Sausage, Gravy, French Toast with Blueberries & Maple, Sliced Fruit, Garden Salad, Bacon and Merguez Sausage. Pick-up from GTC at The Olde Bar at 125 Walnut Street.

Garces Trading Company
Valentine’s 3-Course Dinner for Two/ Heat and Serve Package
Pick-up at The Olde bar - 125 Walnut
https://garcestradingcompany.com/packages#holiday
Price: $70 per person
Available: Friday-Sunday 2/12-14th
Order by: Tuesday, 2/9
Love is in the air! Celebrate your loved one with a classic, 3-course chef's tasting menu inspired by the original Garces Trading Company. Includes: First Course: Winter Squash and Chicken Liver Tart, Pomegranate Gelee; Hudson Valley Camembert ,Saffron and Cardamon Syrup Poached Pear, Chestnut Crumble; and Paris Tartine, Smoked Salmon, Crème Fraiche, Caviar. Second Course: Poached Halibut, Melted Leeks, Kale Salsa Verde, Artichoke; Grilled Beef Tenderloin ,Celeriac, Oyster Mushroom, Glazed Shallot, Kalamata Olive, Bordelaise; and Chickpea Panisse, Blood Orange, Lentils, Harissa Mustard, Orange Vinaigrette. Third Course: Milk Chocolate Corazon, Marcona Almond, Earl Grey Panna Cotta, Pistachio

Positano Coast (Dine-in option below and take-out option below)
212 Walnut St {2nd floor}, Philadelphia
215.238.0499
Positanocoast.net
Make sure to look up at those famous open windows in Old City on Valentine’s Weekend as the expansive and sexy restaurant at Walnut and 2nd will be glowing from the inside. Positano Coast in Old City has three special ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day/Weekend this year - including a special exclusive weekend-long candlelight event. Let the Lamberti family set the scene as they present a special dinner by candlelight for the entire weekend - where the lights will be turned off in multiple spaces and dining rooms throughout the spacious Old City staple. Let them set the mood and vibe as you enjoy a night with your date - while enjoying the warm glow of the candles throughout with your wine, cocktails, dinner and dessert.

Additionally, Positano Coast will offer Oyster and Champagne Pairings all weekend long, with: Blue Point Oysters $4 each lightly salted, essence of seaweed; Rhubarb-Ginger Gin, Dry Vermouth, Sea Salt, Prosecco $12; Kumamoto Oysters $4.5 each deep-cupped with petite meat, mild brininess, sweet flavor, honeydew finish; Honeydew Infused Gin, Junmai Ginjo Sake, Lemon, Champagne $12; James River Oysters $3.5 each mild brininess, plump meat, mild flavor; Hop-Infused Grapefruit Vodka, Prickly Pear Liqueur, Brut Rose $12.

Last, for those looking to take-out and enjoy Valentine’s at home, Positano Coast will debut a special Sweetheart menu for Two - including Crab Tacos for two; Rigatoni for two; choice of Pork Chop Parmigiana or Grilled Salmon; Chocolate Delights for two; and a Bottle of Prosecco. Take-out and to-go only. $125 plus tax and gratuity. No substitutions. Available Friday, February 12 to Sunday, February 14, 2021. Please pre-order by Saturday, February 13, 2021. Sweetheart special not available for third party delivery.

Sassafras
48 S. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-925-2317
https://www.sassafrasbar.com/
Sassafras will offer five Champagne Cocktails over the Valentine's Weekend:
Lavender Champagne $9, French 75 $11, French 95 $11, Peruvian 75 $11, Airmail 48 $11

DESSERTS

The Franklin Fountain
116 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-627-1899
https://www.franklinfountain.com/

Heart Ice Cream Cakes: https://shanecandies.com/shop/seasonal/ice-cream-heart-cakes-pickup-only/

Oui Pastries
160 N. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
https://ouipastries.com/

Oui Let’s Bake: Red Velvet Cake, vanilla Icing, red wine jelly, chocolate chips. $20 pick up, $30 shipped. Chocolate Bars, $3: Dark, chocolate espresso, White, chocolate lavender, Caramel, Almond. Macaron Kits, $30: Chocolate ganache, cookie crumbs, crispy pearls, pistachio, hazelnut, coconut, black sesame, lavender, tea. Bake @ home: Chocolate Chip Cookies for two $5, Cinnamon bun $6, Croissants, Puff do Choux. Valentine’s Day Desserts: Strawberry and Chocolate Cake $6, Spicy burnt Cinnamon Caramel Mousse $6, Passionfruit lemon tart $6

Scoop Deville Old City (inside The Bourse Food Hall)
111 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-988-9998
ScoopDeville.com
Chocolate covered strawberries along with other Valentine's Day gifts and themed ice creams.

Shane Confectionery
110 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-922-1048
https://shanecandies.com/

Chocolate Heart Boxes: https://shanecandies.com/product-category/chocolate-assortments/

Personalized Gingerbread Hearts: https://shanecandies.com/shop/seasonal/molded-gingerbread-hearts/

1 Dozen Rose Bon Bons Box: https://shanecandies.com/shop/chocolate-assortments/dozen-roses-bon-bon-box/

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries Pre-Orders will go online soon, for pick up February 11-14th. Day of sales will be February 13th and February 14th for half dozen and dozen boxes respectively.

HOTELS

Penn’s View Hotel
14 N. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-922-7600
https://www.pennsviewhotel.com/
Enjoy an overnight at the Penn’s View Hotel and 3-course dinner for two Valentine's weekend.

Available Friday, February 12 through Sunday, February 14. Hotel rates starting at $285 based on room type. Please call the hotel directly to book your reservation: 215-922-7600.

Philadelphia Marriott Old City
One Dock Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-238-6000
www.marriott.com/phlmo
Romance Package includes sparkling wine, chocolate covered strawberries provided at the front desk during check in due to COVID-19 considerations. Late check out of 2:00pm. Package starts February 10, 2021 and ends February 16, 2021. The package rate is $149 per night.

Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel
41 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-922-0000
www.marriott.com/phlpr

Romance Package includes sparkling wine, chocolate covered strawberries provided at the front desk during check in due to COVID-19 considerations. Late check out of 2:00pm. Package starts February 10, 2021 and ends February 16, 2021. Package rate is $159 per night.

Thomas Bond House Bed & Breakfast
129 S. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-923-8523
https://thomasbondhousebandb.com/
We are offering a 20% discount on all room rates now through March 15th. Offer valid on any stay 2 nights or longer including weekends. Great for a Valentine’s getaway!

For more information about Old City District and Valentine’s Day happenings, visit oldcitydistrict.org.

ABOUT OLD CITY DISTRICT

The Old City District is a special services district, managed by a board of directors drawn from area commercial property owners, business people and civic organizations. Located in the most historic square mile of the United States, Old City is a unique blend of historic influence and modern lifestyles. Old City has reinvented itself from foundries, factories and warehouse spaces into the residential, retail, dining and cultural destination of the city with art galleries, restaurants, and upscale retail boutiques and historic tours. www.oldcitydistrict.org.