Fabulous Philly Friends

Reservation opens Sat, Jan 10, 2026 · 12:00 PM
In order to be moved off the waitlist to attend this event, there is a $25 deposit. I am doing this because there is a hold on my credit card. You can Venmo me @Randee-Frankel putting Elwood in the note, and I will move you to going. The deposit will go towards the cost of the dinner. If you do not have Venmo reach out to me and I can arrange another way to collect your deposit. We have a reservation for 10 people.

Get ready for a unique culinary journey right here in Philadelphia! Our next stop on the World Food Tour is the highly-acclaimed Elwood, where we'll experience elevated, modern Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. This is a special opportunity to savor true regional flavors in a cozy, intimate setting.

Why You Should Join Us:
Elwood is a celebrated BYOB known for taking traditional PA Dutch flavors and transforming them into sophisticated, delicious dishes. Since the entire menu is served family-style, this is the absolute best way to taste a wide variety of what they offer and share a fantastic meal together. It's the perfect chance to enjoy a genuinely unique and local culinary experience, enjoy stimulating conversations, and build lasting connections with fellow food adventurers.

What's the Plan?
We'll be gathering at Elwood to truly share the feast. Our goal is to sample a variety of their acclaimed dishes. We plan to order the delicious Pierogi and possibly the Cheese Board to start, followed by 3-4 of their impressive, large-format main entrees (such as Whole Rabbit, Striped Bass, or Beef Tri-Tip) to be passed around the table. Get ready to share and savor!

You can explore their menu and get a preview of the deliciousness here: https://www.elwoodrestaurant.com/menu/

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The Deets:

• BYOB: Elwood is a BYOB! Feel free to bring your favorite wine, beer, or spirits to complement the rich, regional flavors of the meal!
• Cost: Since everything is ordered family-style and shared, Please anticipate the total cost to be approximately $60-$95 per person (including tax and a 20% tip). To make bill-splitting easier, please bring cash.
• Allergies/Dietary Needs: The menu is highly seasonal and ingredient-focused. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, please let me know as soon as you RSVP so I can inform the restaurant in advance and confirm suitable options.
• Important: I will send a confirmation message a day or two before our visit to finalize the headcount. If your plans change, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" promptly. This allows those on the waitlist to join us and helps me adjust our reservation accordingly. We must confirm your attendance by the morning of the event.
• Location: Elwood is located at 1007 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125 in Fishtown. Street parking can be found, but public transportation and carpooling are encouraged.

Can't wait to explore the incredible and unique flavors of modern PA Dutch cuisine with you!

Reservation opens Fri, Jan 16, 2026 · 12:00 PM
Our next stop on the World Food Tour takes us across the river to the charming town of Collingswood! We’ll be visiting Kiko's Peruvian Kitchen, an intimate and highly-rated gem known for bringing authentic Andean flavors to South Jersey. With its cozy, homey vibe and vibrant dishes, it’s the perfect place to explore the rich culinary heritage of Peru.

Why You Should Join Us;
This is a rare opportunity to dine in a truly intimate setting. Visitors often mention the "bursting flavors" and the "warm, welcoming ambiance" that makes you feel like you're in a family kitchen in Lima. Whether you're a fan of fresh seafood or savory rotisserie meats, the menu here is a masterclass in Peruvian spices and traditional techniques.

What's The Plan?
We’ll gather to share a spread of authentic Peruvian specialties. The menu is diverse, featuring everything from stir-fries to creamy pepper stews. You can check out their full menu here: https://www.kikosperuviankitchen.com/

• Signature Dishes: You definitely won't want to miss the Lomo Saltado (a classic stir-fry with marinated beef and fries), the Pollo a la Brasa (succulent rotisserie chicken), or the Arroz Chaufa (Peruvian-style fried rice).
• Unique Starters & Sweets: Reviewers report that the Papa a la Huancaina (potatoes in a creamy cheese sauce) and Picarones (sweet potato and squash doughnuts) are absolute must-tries.
• Traditional Sips: Try the house-made Chicha Morada, a refreshing purple corn drink infused with cinnamon and fruit

The Deets:

• BYOB: Collingswood is a "dry" town, making Kiko's a perfect spot for our BYOB group! Feel free to bring a crisp white wine (great with ceviche) or a cold beer to pair with the savory chicken.
• Cost: We will plan to order some shared appetizers (like those amazing empanadas!) for the table to sample a variety of tastes, and then everyone can order their own entree. Please anticipate the total cost to be approximately $40-$50 per person (including tax and a 20% tip). To make bill-splitting easier, please bring cash.
• Allergies: If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, please let me know as soon as you RSVP so I can inform the restaurant in advance.
• Important: I will send a confirmation message a day or two before our visit to finalize the headcount. If your plans change, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" promptly. Because this is a very small, "cubby-size" spot, our headcount is crucial. If your plans change, please update your RSVP immediately so someone else can take your seat.
• Parking: Metered street parking is available along Haddon Avenue and side streets ($0.50 per hour). You can also use the LumberYard Garage (entrance on N. Atlantic Ave), which is just a short walk away.

Can't wait to explore the incredible flavors of Peru with you!

Reservation opens Fri, Jan 23, 2026 · 12:00 PM
Get ready for a soul-warming culinary journey to West Africa! Our next stop on the World Food Tour is Kilimandjaro, a beloved University City gem that has been serving authentic Senegalese cuisine for nearly two decades. Founded by Youma Ba, this restaurant is a local legend for its bold flavors and home-cooked feel. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience!

Why You Should Join Us:
Kilimandjaro offers a warm, intimate, and colorful atmosphere that feels like dining in a friend’s home. Known for bringing the first authentic tastes of Senegal to Philadelphia, their menu is a masterclass in West African spices. From the smoky and tender Dibi Lamb to their signature Red Snapper topped with savory marinated onions, every dish tells a story. It’s the perfect chance to try something new, enjoy a vibrant ambiance, and connect with fellow adventurous eaters in our Fabulous Philly community.

What's The Plan?
We’ll be gathering at Kilimandjaro to immerse ourselves in their diverse menu of Senegalese specialties. We’ll definitely want to sample their Fataya (savory beef patties) and Fried Plantains before diving into the main courses. You can explore their menu and get a preview of the deliciousness here: Kilimandjaro Menu

• Must-Tries: The Mafee (lamb cooked in a rich, creamy peanut butter sauce) and Thieboudiene (the national dish of Senegal—fish stewed with vegetables over seasoned rice) are absolute standouts.
• Refreshing Sips: Don't forget to try their house-made Bissap (hibiscus juice) or Ginger juice for a truly authentic accompaniment to your meal.

The Deets:

• BYOB: Kilimandjaro is BYOB! Feel free to bring your favorite wine or beer. (Pro tip: A crisp Chenin Blanc or a light lager pairs beautifully with West African spices!)
• Cost: We will plan to order shared appetizers for the table, and then everyone can order their own entree. Please anticipate the total cost to be approximately $35-$45 per person (including tax and a 20% tip). To make bill-splitting easier, please bring cash if possible.
• Allergies: If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions (especially nut allergies, as peanut sauce is a staple), please let me know as soon as you RSVP.
• Important: I will send a confirmation message a day or two before. If your plans change, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" promptly. This will allow for someone on the wait list to attend.
• Parking: Kilimandjaro is located at 4317 Chestnut Street (at the corner of 44th & Chestnut). Metered street parking is available, but please read signs carefully! There are also paid lots nearby, such as the University Square Lot at 3901 Market St.

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Can't wait to explore the incredible flavors of Senegal with you!

• When: Friday, February 6th, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Cost: Tickets are $35 for the general public. If you are a Barnes member (National, Patron, or Contributor level) or a student, tickets are $10.
• RSVP Process: To ensure everyone who signs up is actually attending, everyone will initially be placed on the Waitlist. Once you have purchased your ticket, please post in the comments section below to confirm, and I will move you to the "Going" list!
• Tickets: Buy yours here before they sell out: https://www.barnesfoundation.org/whats-on/first-friday-february-2026
• Food & Drink: Cocktails and light fare are available for purchase.
• Parking: The Barnes has a fee-based lot on Pennsylvania Avenue (between 20th and 21st Streets). Street parking is also available nearby.

Why You Should Join Us:

• Unique Experience: See the Barnes collection in a completely different light (and with a cocktail in hand!).
• Incredible Music: Catch a performance by a "Best of Philly" rapper paired with a classically trained harpist.
• Genuine Connections: Our group is all about building real friendships. This relaxed, culturally rich environment is the perfect backdrop for great conversation.
• Zest for Life: We believe in staying active and engaged—come show us how it's done!

Important: I will arrive early to find an area for us and I will post in the group where you can find me before the event. If your plans change, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" promptly so we have an accurate headcount.
Can’t wait to share this magical evening of art and music with you all!