My husband and I enjoyed date night in Philadelphia last weekend. The night began with dinner at Yanaga Kappo Izakaya. The happy hour menu was still available when we arrived, so we took advantage of discounted food and drink options. I ordered the rotating happy hour cocktail, which featured lemongrass and whiskey, and my husband opted for a glass of red wine. Also from the happy hour menu, we ordered spicy kaarage from the hot starters, and umami cukes and spicy tuna rice crispy from the cold starters. We enjoyed the soy-marinated cucumbers so much we ordered a second round! Beyond happy hour, we shared pork gyoza and a selection from the sushi menu. We both commented we would enjoy returning for happy hour again.

Following dinner, we wandered through the Northern Liberties neighborhood before making our way to The Fillmore for a concert. My husband wanted to see a band, Small Pools, playing at the venue’s more intimate upstairs space, The Foundry. We saw a show at The Foundry years ago and enjoyed the vibe of the smaller space. We arrived early, so we had plenty of time to grab a drink at the bar and sit. Candidly, I had never heard of the headliner or opening acts, so I was curious to experience the show. I particularly enjoyed the opening band, Rec Hall, an indie group from California. Smalls Pools was also great and brought high energy to their performance.

Good food, good music and even better company made for a fun Friday night!

— Katie Skrzek, vice president and digital director