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Seen but rarely noticed

Senior Wade Jacobson knows he’s special – but the offensive lineman doesn’t need the limelight

COURTESY ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Wade Jacobson, the Cougars’ redshirt senior offensive lineman prepares to block for quarterback Jeff Tuel at a home game earlier this season.

e is seen but rarely noticed, constantly ridiculed but seldom praised, indispensable but undervalued.

He is seen, but rarely noticed. Constantly ridiculed, but seldom praised. Indispensable, but undervalued. Such is the life of Wade Jacobson. It’s hard to imagine, but the 6-foot-6-inch, 300-pound offensive lineman is a mere ghost on Saturdays to the casual fan. They marvel at the gaudy numbers put up by skill position players, but fail to realize that, without Jacobson, none of it would be possible.

No. 55 for the Washington State Cougars will never see his name glorified in highlights or newspaper headlines. And if things do not go as planned, he’ll only be dragged through mud. This harsh reality comes along with the position he plays and is something the redshirt senior right tackle has come to grips with. “We’re special,” Jacobson said. “I mean that’s something as an offensive lineman we understand. It doesn’t bother us at all. It’s not (about) us. We don’t care.

See JACOBSON page 15

Didn’t make the team? Score a touchdown with The Daily Evergreen. The Evergreen is hiring sports writers for the spring semester. For more information, email desports @dailyevergreen.com.

Hut, hut, hike! The Daily Evergreen will live-tweet the game this weekend. Follow us for the updates – for better or for worse. @EvergreenSports

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 | PAGE 3

Moving forward amid turmoil

Despite a 2-7 record, the Cougars aren’t ready to throw in the towel on their season yet

WYAT TAYLOR / THE DAILY EVERGREEN

(above) The WSU football team runs out of the tunnel at Martin Stadium before their game against California on Oct. 13. (left) Freshman wide receiver Brett Bartolone misses a pass against the game against California.

s turmoil continues to swirl amongst the Washington State football program, the Cougars are set to face the red-hot No. 17 ranked UCLA Bruins in the annual Dad’s Weekend game at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Martin Stadium.

The Cougars will try to replicate their memorable performance from last year’s Dad’s Weekend game in which the Cougars upset Arizona State University 37-27. However, history is not on the Cougars side as they have not beaten a ranked opponent in their last 20 attempts, the last win coming back in 2006 against the No. 16 Oregon Ducks. The Cougars will also be without one of their most prolific players after Head Coach Mike Leach suspended Washington State’s all-time leading receiver Marquess Wilson for Saturday’s game for violating team rules. Wilson reportedly refused to finish a pushup drill during a two-hour conditioning session last Sunday and then proceeded to walk off the field only 20 minutes into the workout, according to the Moscow-Pullman Daily News. The suspension comes one day after Leach heavily scrutinized his players for their effort during last Saturday’s 49-6 drubbing against Utah. Leach, who among others things, suggested the effort of his offensive line “borders on cowardice,” defended his comments Monday afternoon and offered no apologies for his colorful assessment. “When we play real well I say we play real

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Where: Martin Stadium When: 7:30 p.m. TV: ESPN2 Radio: KTTH 770

well,” Leach said. “I may go to that yes-no thing (answering media questions with yes or no) ‘cause in this era of ridiculous political correctness there seems to be some dissatisfaction for style points. Typically, if I’m asked a question I give an honest answer and I can see that there is evidently some dissatisfaction for that.”

“

When we play real well I say we play real well. . . Typically, if I’m asked a question I give an honest answer.

“

By Drew Peterson Daily Evergreen Staff

WSU Cougars @ UCLA Bruins

Mike Leach head coach

While Leach’s criticism may be seen as harsh or unfair, he is by no way deflecting blame as he has made it clear the struggles of the 2-7 Cougars lie solely with him and his coaching staff. “As a coaching staff, I wish we could have been more precise in figuring out who can do what (and) when,” Leach said. “And that’s bouncing all over the place with freshmen… having guys settled into position so they constantly get reps there, that’s been a challenge and that’s been something that with a crystal ball we certainly would have done better at and wish we could have speculated better.” Without the distractions from the week, the Cougars already had their hands full with the Bruins who dismantled the Arizona Wildcats 66-10 last Saturday to improve to 7-2 overall,

See FOOTBALL page 9

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SPORTS WEEKEND

Cougs to play Eastern

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Women’s hoops travel for tourney From Staff Reports

WYAT TAYLOR / THE DAILY EVERGREEN

Sophomore guard DaVonte Lacy looks for an open teammate to pass to against St. Martin’s Tuesday in Beasley Coliseum. From Staff Reports

points each against Concordia last weekend. Winford also After winning their first added seven assists in the game of the 2012-13 season game. in an exhibition matchup Two other players finished Tuesday, the Washington in double figures for the State Cougars will try to win Eagles, while the Cougars had another on their home court three players with double-digit against Eastern Washington points Tuesday night. University at 4:30 p.m. However, the Eagles did Saturday. commit 16 turnovers against These two teams met last Concordia. WSU only had season, when the Cougars beat 12 turnovers against Saint the Eagles 75-49 in Pullman. Martin’s. This will give the However, in a matchup durCougars a chance to presing the 2009-10 season, the sure EWU into being just as Cougars won by a smaller careless with the ball in their margin, with the final score matchup. being 67-61. The Cougars will have to Eastern Washington travplay better defense in order to els to Pullman after a 96-70 make that happen, however, as blowout win against Concordia Head Coach Ken Bone did not like the way his defense played University in a home exhibiagainst Saint Martin’s. tion game Sunday. “Defensively, we started The Cougars will have out the game, Saint Martin’s their hands full defending scored 11 points within about senior guard Kevin Winford the first 4.5 minutes of the and senior forward Collin game,” Bone said. “I thought Chiverton, who scored 18

our defensive energy and effort needed to be better.” Bone said the Cougars played well defensively at times. He highlighted a point in the game during which WSU held their opponent to nine points in 12 minutes. Both teams also struggled from the free-throw line in their first games of the year. The Cougars shot 63.2 percent from the foul line while the Eagles shot 72.7 percent. EWU has a balanced team this season, with eight upperclassmen and eight underclassmen. WSU sways more toward the younger side, with 10 of 16 players being underclassmen. The game will start at 4:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon in Beasley Coliseum. This is the second of three games the Cougars will play at home before going on the road to play Pepperdine University on Nov. 16.

tournament. Villanova went 19-15 last Coming off two decisive season, and they made it to the exhibition wins, the Cougars third round of the postseason hope to carry their success into Women’s National Invitation the regular season as they start (WNIT) tournament. their nonconference schedule South Dakota State ended with the Best Buy Classic in the 2011-12 season with a Minneapolis on Saturday. 24-9 record after winning the The Cougars will open Summit League tournament the tournament against the and losing in the first round of Gophers on Saturday at 10 a.m. the NCAA tournament. They If they win, they will move beat the Cougars 63-58 on on to face the winner of the Nov. 20, 2011, going 2-0 in Villanova-South Dakota State their exhibition games. game on Sunday at 11 a.m. For junior forward Hana If the Cougars lose their first Potter, this trip will also be a game, they will play the loser visit home, as she hails from on Sunday at 9 a.m. Minneapolis-suburb St. Louis Last year, the Gophers finPark, Minn. ished with a 19-17 record that “I’m just excited to be out included winning last year’s there playing in front of friends version of this tournament and family, and I think this and the postseason Women’s game is a good way to go into Basketball Invitational (WBI) next weekend,” Potter said.

Swimming comes home to Pullman

KYLE KOCH / THE DAILY EVERGREEN

Junior Kelly Tannhauser competes in the 200-yard Backstroke against Seattle University Oct. 12 at Gibb Pool. Tannhauser finished in first with a time of 2:06.81. From Staff Reports

prevalent in the win column, the Cougars feel they After a rough road trip have shown a great deal of to Los Angeles that featured improvement, and it’s credlosses to USC and UCLA, the ited to the coaching staff lead by Head Coach Tom Jager. WSU swim team aims for a “I am really impressed with victory in front of their home crowd this Friday in Pullman the individual performances,” against the Northern Arizona Johansson said. “As a team we have gotten a lot faster University Lumberjacks. and stronger both in and out The Cougars (2-5) perof the water. Tom really has formed well in their only us working a lot harder than home meet of the season last year and he is definitely in a convincing win against Seattle University on Oct. 12. one of the reasons we’re doing a lot better.” In addition to maintaining In their meet last year, a perfect home record, the the Cougars fell to the Cougars look to improve their Lumberjacks 161 - 133 on the record against non-Pac-12 road in Arizona. However, opponents. They have won this time around they know two out of their last three what they need to do in order meets against non-conference to come out victorious. foes. “We need to finish hard Players are excited about and support each other returning home and giving and cheer each other on,” their fans a show. Johansson said, “We know “It is always fun to swim we are good enough to beat at home,” junior Emma them.” Johansson said, “It is a speThe Cougars face off cial moment when the crowd against Northern Arizona University this Friday in goes crazy after you win an Pullman at 5 p.m. at Gibb event.” Pool. Though they may not be

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 | PAGE 5

The dunker from Down Under

Brock Motum’s determination has brought him all the way from Australia and is serving him well in Pullman By Chris Shaw Daily Evergreen Staff

One word comes to mind when looking in the eyes of senior forward Brock Motum — determination. Without determination, it is hard to imagine anyone going through the rigorous training schedule Motum experienced growing up in his home country of Australia. After receiving a scholarship to the Australian Institute of Sport at the age of 18, Motum began a year-and-a-half long regimen that included an hour of shooting at 7 a.m., followed by class, weight training, team practice, dinner and two hours of study hall. The athletes who went to the institute played games every Friday and Saturday and had an off-day on Sunday. Recover, rinse, repeat. After his stint there, Motum came to Washington State to play. “I was always motivated to stick with it,” Motum said. “It was a challenge, but I knew it was more or less of a stepping stone to college life and university life because it was school and it was basketball. I think it prepared me a little better than regular high school students over here.” Before Motum moved to

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WYAT TAYLOR / THE DAILY EVERGREEN

Senior forward Brock Motum takes the ball to the hoop against St. Martin's Tuesday in Beasley Coliseum. the U.S., he lived in Eight Mile Plains and grew up with his mom, dad and younger sister. He played volleyball in ninth and 10th grades but he focused mostly on basketball from the age of 7, when it became his main passion. “I was too skinny to play

football, and I would’ve got smashed in rugby,” Motum said. “I was a little skinny dude, skinny frame and I always got crushed and, basketball, I just loved it and I love getting better.” Because the Cougars have recruited more Australian players, Motum has been given the

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chance to help those players if they ever get homesick or need insight from a veteran who has been at the school for a while. The senior is always looking to improve on various areas of his game and dreams of playing in the NBA after he graduates. Motum said he thinks of

NBA star Dirk Nowitzki as a role model because of the way the Dallas Mavericks forward plays and also how he handles himself off of the court in interviews. Motum saw Nowitzki play during the 2006 NBA Finals series, when he watched his first NBA game at the age of 16. But before he can start following in Nowitzki's footsteps as an NBA playre, he said the Cougars need to win a lot of games and he needs to keep getting better in order to make that dream come true. Motum downplayed his personal goals and put his team first, saying there’s no point in him being happy and everyone else being upset after losses. “If we all win, then everybody’s happy,” Motum said. “And that’s the main thing to me, as long as everybody’s happy.” Motum said basketball is his No. 1 passion. He said getting better is an endless journey that keeps him motivated. “It’s like a never-ending thing,” Motum said. “You can never, ever be perfect at one skill. I always had an ambition to try to be such a complete player. You wake up and you have one thing to work on and the next day it’s a totally different thing. You just keep going until you get better at everything.”

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Cougs’ failed expectations Sports with Sean

By Sean Quinton

xpectations define the sports world. They set the bar for players, coaches and fans alike and ultimately label teams as a success or failure. When expectations are not met, we as fans, are let down. Emotionally crushed. When they are exceeded, we rejoice. In much the same way fans set expectations for their teams whether they are based on fact and talent or merely blind optimism, coaches have similar expectations. Last weekend, I expected the Cougars to play a close-fought game with the Utah Utes, the second-worst team in the Pac12, and dare I say, sneak out a win on the road. Instead, those short-lived expectations came towering down in the form of a 49-6 embarrassment. In a season marked by disappointment, last weekend’s loss was only the most recent chapter in a nearly decade-long series of Coug fandom. While fans have endured worse losses and worse seasons, this season feels different. Expectations and hopes have only set Cougar nation up for a harder fall. Boy does it sting. A team once was projected to win up to eight games now is grappling with a coach publicly crucifying his players, a suspended star in Marquess Wilson and a 2-7 record. After winning four games last season and ranking in the top-10 of college football in passing yards, the Cougars now rank 119th in the nation in scoring and will likely end the season with half their win total from a year ago. While these results were ATHLETIC MEDIA SERVICES

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certainly not expected of the Cougars this season, Head Coach Mike Leach and Athletic Director Bill Moos are not ready to concede to a losing culture. Despite the losses, a change in philosophy is taking place. Moos addressed that philosophy in a radio interview Wednesday. “We’ve got too many Cougars… that are numb to losing,” Moos said. “Losing has got to hurt. Winning is great, and you savor wins. But until losing hurts, you’re not going to get where you want to go.”

In a season marked by disappointment, last weekend’s loss was only the most recent chapter in a nearly decade-long series of Coug fandom. The immediate returns are not pretty. There’s no way around it, the Cougars are terrible this season. But the difference this season lies in the leadership. While many players and even fans may chalk the 2-7 record up as a standard fall in Pullman, Leach and Moos are far from numb. This team needed a wake-up call and they’re getting one. As is evident this season, Leach and Moos are going to do things their way in order to build a winning culture at WSU, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a ‘tough’ team. Call it tough love. “I know that we’ve got to get tougher. I’ve said this before that football is a tough sport and in order to be successful, you have to have tough players,” Moos said. “The way you have tough players is having tough coaches, and our coaches are tough, and in the end we’re going to have a tough football team that is productive. This season is about instilling that tough culture. It may not be pretty now, but the long-term plan is still in phase one. And while fans have been patient for far too long already, the wins will come — I expect them to. Sean Quinton is a senior communication major from Seattle. He can be contacted at 335-1140 or by desports@dailyevergreen.com. The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of the staff of The Daily Evergreen or those of Student Publications.

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Soccer begins NCAAs

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 | PAGE 7

Volleyball fails to chop the Cardinal The Cougars were unable to break Stanford’s undefeated conference record Wednesday

said. “In the third, our passing broke down and we made a lot of unforced errors. We have to play really well to beat the No. 1 team in the country and it By Brett Gleason just didn’t happen.” Daily Evergreen Staff The Cardinal spread the The WSU volleyball team wealth around on offense, with took on No. 1 ranked Stanford three players recording doubleon Wednesday for the second digit kill totals. Carly Wopat, time this season, this time get- Rachel Williams and Brittany ting swept 3-0. Howard recorded 12, 11 and 10

ED DEOCAMPO / THE DAILY EVERGREEN

Junior defender Rachael Doyle runs the ball down the UW half of the field on Nov. 2 at Lower Soccer Field in Pullman. By Derek Harrison Daily Evergreen Staff

The WSU soccer team is in Portland today to face the No. 4 seed Portland Pilots in the first round of the NCAA Championship tournament. The Cougars (12-6-1) are no stranger to the NCAA Championships, with four appearances in the last five seasons. However, the team

has not had much success in the postseason. They hold a 3-6 record overall, and the second round is the furthest they have advanced to. WSU is also familiar with Portland (11-4-4) having played the Pilots 13 times since 1990. The Cougars have failed to put up a win against the Pilots with a 0-13-0 series record. The Pilots defeated the Cougars 1-0 last season in

Portland. “We have a history with Portland. They’re familiar opponents,” senior defender Mariah Cameron said in a press conference. “I think everyone’s very excited to get a chance at them again.” Despite a poor record against Portland, the Cougars ended the regular season with

See SOCCER page 13

Jen Greeny WSU volleyball head coach

WSU (12-15) took the Cardinal to five sets in Pullman two weeks ago, but failed to keep the momentum after winning their two first conference games of the season last week, while Stanford (23-2) kept their undefeated 15-0 conference record intact. “I thought we came out well and put the pressure on them early,” WSU Head Coach Jen Greeny said in a press release. “Jaicee Harris was doing some great things and our defense as well. But with a great team like Stanford, you have to finish it.” The Cougars made the first two sets competitive, falling 25-20 in the first and 25-21 in the second, before falling 25-15 in the decisive third set. “At the end of the first set, we made some mistakes and the same in the second. We were right with them, but those costly errors get you,” Greeny

“

I thought we came out well and put the pressure on them early. But with a great team like Stanford, you have to finish it.

kills respectively. Both Wopat and Williams recorded 1.5 blocks on the night, while Madi Bugg contributed 22 digs. The Cardinal out-hit WSU 0.339-0.142 and out-blocked the Cougars 8.5-4. Sophomore outside hitter Jaicee Harris led the Cougar offense with 13 kills and a 0.220 hitting percentage, trailed by junior middle hitter Marcelina Glab and sophomore middle blocker Ver’Leea Hardaway, who each had six kills. Senior right side hitter Rachel Todorovich recorded the only two solo blocks on the defensive side of the net for WSU, while junior setter Camryn Irwin tossed up 24 assists. Irwin and freshman defensive specialist Kate Sommer also combined for 27 digs in the match.

ED DEOCAMPO / THE DAILY EVERGREEN

Redshirt freshman right side Stephanie Logan spikes the ball against Utah on Nov. 2 in Bohler Gym.

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THE DAILY EVERGREEN | 9

FOOTBALL

Washington State

COUGARS X Y LT LG C

RG RT H Z QB RB

T NT E BUCK SAM MIKE WILL CB SS FS CB

P K KO LS H PR KOR

80 18 84 1 87 63 77 77 50 60 70 69 66 55 69 19 25 84 18 10 12 3 34

OFFENSE

DOMINIQUE WILLIAMS (6-2, 187, FR)* Kristoff Williams (6-2, 209, So)* BOBBY RATLIFF (6-2, 194, SO)* Gino Simone (6-0, 184, Sr) Andrei Lintz (6-5, 250, Sr)* GUNNAR EKLUNK (6-7, 286, FR)* John Fullington (6-5, 300, Jr) JOHN FULLINGTON (6-5, 300, JR) Taylor Meighen (6-3, 286, Sr) ELLIOT BOSCH (6-4, 271, JR)* Zach Brevick (6-5, 270, Jr)* JAKE RODGERS (6-6, 300, SO)* Matt Goetz (6-4, 272, Jr)* WADE JACOBSON (6-6, 300, SR)* Jake Rodgers (6-6, 300, So)* BRETT BARTOLONE (5-10, 179, FR) Bennett Bontempts (6-0, 191, Jr) GABE MARKS (6-0, 167, FR) Kristoff Williams (6-2, 209, So)* Jeff Tuel (6-3, 221, SR) Connor Halliday (6-4, 189, So)* CARL WINSTON (5-8, 192, SR) -ORTEONDRAY CALDWELL (5-8, 189, FR)

NOVEMBER 10 • 7:30 PM MARTIN STADIUM SS-26

XAVIER COOPER (6-4, 298, FR)* Steven Hoffart (6-4, 274, Sr)* IOANE GAUTA (6-3, 305, JR) Kalafitoni Pole (6-1, 277, So)* DESTINY VAEAO (6-5, 256, FR) Matthew Bock (6-2, 252, Jr)* TRAVIS LONG (6-4, 245, SR) Logan Mayes (6-3, 241, So) CYRUS COEN (6-0, 215, So) Eric Oertel (6-1, 210, Jr) DARRYL MONROE (6-1, 228, FR)* Jared Byers (6-0, 218, Jr)* JUSTIN SAGOTE (6-0, 220, JR) Chester Su’a (6-1, 224, So) DANIEL SIMMONS (5-10,184, SR)* Nolan Washington (5-11, 182, Jr)* DEONE BUCANNON (6-1, 192, SR) Taylor Taliulu (5-11, 184, FR) CASEY LOCKER (5-11, 192, JR)* -ORTYREE TOOMER (5-11, 200, SR)* ANTHONY CARPENTER (6-0, 190, JR)* Damante Horton (5-10, 174, Jr)

46 10 49 46 46 49 65 47 4 1 19 23 18 35

MICHAEL BOWLIN (6-4, 204, JR) -ORWES CONCEPCION (6-0, 174, FR)* ANDREW FURNEY (5-10, 218, JR) Michael Bowlin (6-4, 204, Jr) MICHAEL BOWLIN (6-4, 204, JR) -ORANDREW FURNEY (5-10, 218, JR) ALEX DEN BLEYKER (5-10, 224, SO) Ryan Saparto (5-11, 224, So)* DAVID GILBERTSON (6-1, 204, JR)* Gino Simone (6-0, 184, Sr) BRETT BARTOLONE (5-10, 179, FR) Leon Brooks (5-7, 166, Jr)* KRISTOFF WILLIAMS (6-2, 209, SO)* Marcus Mason (5-9, 190, So)

LT LG OC

LILB-35

LOLB-43

RILB-6

ROLB-11

RT LCB-22

LDE-56

RDE-99

RCB-21

NT-98

Y F QB

FB LT-63

X-80

LG-77

C-60

RG-69

RT-55

Y-82

DEFENSE

96 94 95 98 97 71 89 83 42 21 13 37 51 45 24 2 20 30 22 15 4 6

BRUIN DEFENSE

FS-7

Z-84

H-19

QB-10

COUGAR OFFENSE COUGAR DEFENSE

LDE

RDE

RB-3

LOLB LILB

SS-20

FS-22

RILB ROLB

WILL- 51

MIKE-13

BUCK-89

SAM-42

LCB SS

CB-4

NT-95

T-96

E-97

CB-6

RCB

SPECIAL

PK X-9

LT-77

LG-56

OC-54

RG-60

RT-70

Y-8

Z-1

KO P LS H

QB-17

PUNT RETURN

TB-23 FB-41

BRUIN OFFENSE

KICKOFF RETURN

UCLA

BRUINS OFFENSE

9 18 77 56 56 64 54 51 60 76 70 78 8 3 33 21 17 12 11 4 41 44 23 6 1 88

JERRY JOHNSON (6-4, 218, SR)* Tyler Scott (6-2, 205, Fr)* TORIAN WHITE (6-5, 285, FR)* Xavier Su’a-Filo (6-4, 310, SO) XAVIER SU’A-FILO (6-4, 310, SO) Greg Capella (6-3, 290, Jr)* JAKE BRENDEL (6-4, 295, FR)* Tre Hale (6-2, 275, So) JEFF BACA (6-3, 295, SR) Alexandru Ceachir (6-5, 305, So) SIMON GOINES (6-7, 324, FR) Brett Downey (6-6, 305, Sr)* JOSEPH FAURIA (6-7, 255, SR)* Darius Bell (6-0, 230, Jr)* STEVEN MANFRO (5-9, 192, FR)* Kenneth Walker (5-9, 175, Fr) BRETT HUNDLEY (6-3, 223, FR)* Richard Brehaut (6-2, 230, Sr) Jerry Neuheisel (6-1, 195, Fr) Kevin Prince (6-2, 225, Sr)* DAVID ALLEN (6-2, 225, SR)* Phillip Ruhl (6-0, 235, So)* JOHNATHAN FRANKLIN (5-11, 195, SR)* Jordon James (5-8, 193, So) SHAQ EVANS (6-1, 201, JR)* Jerry Rice, Jr. (5-10, 182, Jr)*

56 94 98 92 99 90 43 15 35 30 6 33 43 40 22 10 26 19 7 4 21 9

DATONE JONES (6-4, 275, SR)* Owamagbe Odighizuwa (6-3, 270, Jr) SEALI’I EPENESA (6-1, 310, JR) Brandon Willis (6-2, 280, So) CASSIUS MARSH (6-3, 275, JR) Donovan Carter (6-1, 305, Sr)* DAMIEN HOLMES (6-2, 250, SR)* Nate Iese (6-4, 237, Fr)* JORDAN ZUMWALT (6-3, 235, JR) Aaron Porter (6-1, 230, Fr) ERIC KENDRICKS (6-0, 230, SO)* Ryan Hofmeister (6-2, 225, So)* ANTHONY BARR (6-4, 235, JR) Keenan Graham (6-2, 247, Jr)* SHELDON PRICE (6-2, 180, SR) Fabian Moreau (6-0, 180, Fr) ANDREW ABBOTT (5-8, 180, SR)* Dalton Hilliard (5-11, 198, Sr) TEVIN McDONALD (5-11, 185, SO)* Stan McKay (6-1, 205, Jr)* AARON HESTER (6-1, 207, SR)* Marcus Rios (6-0, 180, Jr)

15 17 18 15 18 17 48 53 18 11 33 6 33 25

KA’IMI FAIRBAIRN (6-0, 171, FR) Justin Moreno (5-10, 175, So)* JEFF LOCKE (6-0, 207, SR)* Ka’imi Fairbairn (6-0, 171, Fr) JEFF LOCKE (6-0, 207, SR)* Justin Moreno (5-10, 175, So)* KEVIN McDERMOTT (6-5, 247, SR)* Christopher Longo (6-4, 203, Fr)* JEFF LOCKE (6-0, 207, SR)* Jerry Neuheisel (6-1, 195, Fr) STEVEN MANFRO (5-9, 192, FR)* Jordon James (5-8, 193, So)* STEVEN MANFRO (5-9, 192, FR)* Damien Thigpen (5-9, 185, Jr.**)

DEFENSE

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Emma makes waves in foreign waters Swedish-native Emma Johansson struggled to adapt in the United States, but found her place in the pool By Michael-Shawn Dugar Daily Evergreen Staff

Hailing all the way from Bjarred, Sweden, Emma Johansson has definitely made a splash in her three years here at WSU. The junior butterfly and freestyle swimmer has spent the last two years growing as a competitor and now looks to flourish and reach her goals to qualify for the NCAA Championships as well as shatter some school records. Ever since she was a babym, Johansson knew she had a love for being in the pool. Growing up with two parents who had swimming backgrounds, Johansson started swimming at a very early age and just never gave up the sport. Johansson said she has been swimming since the age of three and it’s pretty much “in her genes” since she grew up in a swimming family. Johansson has close relationships with her parents, especially with her father Lennart. “He has really helped me a lot,” Johansson said, “He is like my external confidence booster. He helps calm my nerves before races and afterwards, whether I’m happy or sad he always makes me feel better.” In addition to her parents being swimmers Johansson said her aunt Maria swam in the 1984 Olympics which is a place Johansson hopes to find herself someday.

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Emma Johansson swims the butterfly during s Like most young athletes, Johansson had a role model to whom she looked up to an aspired to be like. In this case, that role model was Swedish swimmer Therese Alshammar. “When I was younger I looked up to her,” Johansson said. “It’s funny because her old coach from when she was younger actually coached my team for a short time and he told me that I looked just like her. At the time that was really huge for me.” Most WSU swimmers come from different parts of the state

of Washington but Johansson’s hometown is a little farther than just a five hour drive to the west side. Johansson was born in Fladie, Sweden and swam for head coach Niklas Olsson at Simklubben Hajen in Lomma, Sweden. Johansson admits that coming over to America was very scary for her but Cougar swimming fans are grateful she was able to face that fear and come represent WSU. Johansson considered a variety of schools but ultimately she felt like WSU was the right move for her. “I called and emailed a lot of dif-

ferent schools and talked to a bunch of different coaches,” said Johansson, “WSU was just strong academically and swimming wise it was like right on my level, so it just seemed like a perfect fit.” Johansson said the transition from Sweden to the United States took a toll on her physically as well as mentally with getting familiar with the language in addition to the new coaches. Overall, she says her experience here in the states has been a pleasant one and she points out the strong bond in and out of the pool between her teammates and coaches. “It’s a lot more fun to swim here,” Johansson said, “ you work more as a team and everyone cheers each other on all the time in practice and during meets. I like that part a lot; it really makes things a lot easier.” This being her third year swimming at WSU Johansson has often seen her team fall short in a lot of meets but through all of the negative, she is able to stand tall and look at the positives in her career. Johansson said her freshman year was when she spent time becoming tougher due to the more difficult training regimens. Also in that year she marched straight into the record books after posting a 55.58 time in 100 meter butterfly at the Pac-10 Championships which ranks sixth all

See SWIM Page 12

Questions percolating at Washington State By Bud Withers The Seattle Times / MCT

SEATTLE – At UCLA, firstyear football coach Jim Mora says, "We've got a bunch of really good kids here. It's been a lot of fun." At Arizona, first-year coach Rich Rodriguez says his player attrition "is not nearly as much as I thought. We've been demanding, but our guys have hung in there so far." And at Arizona State, firstyear coach Todd Graham recalls his introduction to his players, saying, "When I took this job, I said, 'I (inherited) every one of you to be successful. For every one of you that don't make it, I consider that a failure on my part.' " You may have noticed the first-year coach in Pullman, Mike Leach, is not phrasing things quite so glowingly. So, as the post-Utah, postMarquess Wilson tempest percolates at Washington State, the questions are many and the answers are elusive. Is Mike Leach just that different? Are the Cougars so severely under-talented that upheaval was inevitable? Are the 40 losses in four years from 2008 through 2011 evidence enough to know that the transition would be wrenching? However, we add the fractions in that equation, it's inescapable

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that what's going on at WSU is far different from what Mora, Rodriguez and Graham have experienced. Mora, speaking on Tuesday's Pac-12 coaches conference call, says "two or three guys transferred out" in the UCLA handoff. Rodriguez says the number is "one or two" at Arizona. Graham puts ASU's attrition at "about seven." The turnstile at WSU numbers 18, although somebody inside the program told me last week it was much higher, presumably including walk-ons and others who might have been given a tryout in the spring. So what's so different in Pullman? Yes, the legacy of losing is deeper. The three other programs had bowl seasons in the past few years. But narrow the focus to, say, the past two years. The Cougars played toe-to-toe with UCLA (losing two fourth-quarter games), beat Arizona State last year, and the Arizona program Rodriguez inherited went 4-8 in 2011 _ as did WSU _ and fired its coach at midseason. None of that suggests the Cougars were light years behind those other programs. Another head-scratching element is the positive face Leach put on five days before the BYU

See LEACH page 12

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 | PAGE 11

PAGE 12 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

SPORTS WEEKEND

SWIM | Continued from page 10 time in WSU history. During her sophomore season gaining confidence was the main focus and it began to show as she finished first in the 100 meter butterfly on multiple occasions and posted a time of 54.55 in the Pac-12 Championships, passing her old mark and moving up to fourth on the all-time WSU list. As for this year Johansson said she sees dramatic improvement in her performance and she only hopes to get stronger and more confi-

dent as the season goes on. Thanks to heavy recruiting and hard work, Johansson sees a bright future for herself as well as for the entire Cougar swimming program. “Tom and Adrianna have been working hard recruiting so I think the program will get a lot better and continue to move forward at a fast pace,” said Johansson. Johansson said she does plan to continue

swimming after she leaves WSU because she truly believes she has the potential to be Olympian and she wants to take her career as far as possible. With the team getting better every meet, Johansson will continue to work towards her goal to be an Olympian as well as an NCAA Champion. Hopefully by the time it’s all said and done Johansson will fight, fight, fight for Washington State and win the victory her and her teammates have been working so hard for.

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Last dash for the NCAA Championships

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Senior runner Andrew Kimpel races this season in Lewiston. By Evan Baron Daily Evergreen Staff

After a disappointing finish for both the men and women at the Pac-12 Championships, the WSU cross-country teams hope to bounce back Friday in Seattle when they compete in the NCAA West Regionals. “We’ll be ready,” WSU crosscountry coach Tim Riley said in a press conference. The stakes are high for this race: If the Cougars do well, they may clinch a spot at the NCAA championships in Louisville, Ky. Last season, the men’s crosscountry team ran a disappointing race at the Pac-12 Championship meet but came back strong at the NCAA West Regionals, finishing in fourth place overall, which earned them a spot at the NCAA Championship meet. The WSU men’s cross-country team will have their top-runner, Andrew Kimpel, back this Friday. After a leg injury sidelined Kimpel for two weeks, Riley said Kimpel is ready to lead his team to success. “He’ll be good to go,” Riley said. “Having him there will really give the rest of the guys confidence.” The 10-kilometer race, similar to about six miles, will be the longest race the men have competed all year long. In order to prepare for this length of a race, Riley said the men have based their training off of a 10-kilometer cross. “We’ve tapered it down a bit now,” Riley said. “They should be fresh and ready to go.” The WSU women also hope to

see better results this weekend, as they also struggled at the Pac-12 championships, finishing in 12th place. Junior runner Ruby Roberts said everyone on the team has had one-on-one meetings with Riley, who has helped them prepare for this race not only physically, but mentally as well. “He has given us some goals to shoot for,” Roberts said. “He’s been telling me that this potentially is the last race, so I should treat it that way and go all out.” Many of the of the WSU women runners have never competed in a meet of this size before, except senior Caroline Austin and junior Ruby Roberts. Roberts said she has been helping the freshmen prepare for this race and is trying to give advice to them. “I just tell them, ‘Do your best, that’s all you can do,’” she said. Austin Roberts gives the Cougars their best chance of winning on the women’s side, Riley said. “For the rest of the women, they need to close out the season on a good note,” he said. A good note for Roberts would be defeating Oregon State University as a team or finishing in 14th place or better. “As a team we definitely want to beat Oregon State,” Roberts said. “We were only three points behind them at Pac-12s.” Both the women and men will look for redemption this weekend beginning today at Jefferson Park in Seattle.

LEACH | Continued from page 10 opener. He talked about players having had a "really dedicated offseason," that they've worked "incredibly hard" and, referring to the consistent quality of fallcamp practices, said "I've not had a team I could say that about." Somewhere between August and November, all that went away. No doubt Leach's style, his give-a-rip attitude about singling players out with pungent criticism, is at the heart of the controversy. A parent of a player told me he'd been called in recent days by parents of two recruits committed to WSU, wanting a read on Leach. So part of Leach's immediate challenge, and ultimately his success in Pullman, is going to hinge on his ability to persuade prospects he's a guy you'd want to play for, and not a wack job.

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And what's more ... _ USC coach Lane Kiffin doesn't back away from the growing perception that his dad and defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin is an NFL strategist who might not be hip to stopping the college spread-option offense: "I think that's a fair observation. We've given up some big numbers to running quarterbacks over our years here, so I'm not going to be defensive about that." The big number last week was 730, Oregon's school-record total yards. _ Some cretin who apparently created a false Twitter account impersonated UCLA freshman cornerback Randall Goforth and tweeted inflammatory comments toward USC. "It's sickening," said Mora, calling the perpetrator "the lowest form of life." The opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of the staff of The Daily Evergreen or those of Student Publications.

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SOCCER | Continued from page 7 three consecutive home wins — the last being a 1-0 victory against rival UW. Junior forward Micaela Castain led the Cougars in points for the season and scored the only goal in the match against the Huskies. The game-winning goal was her 11th of the season. Castain and two other Cougar soccer athletes received recognition when the Pac-12 announced honors earlier this week. Along with Castain, senior forward Brandi Vega and junior defender Rachael Doyle were selected to the AllPac-12 Conference Women’s Soccer Second Team due to their performance this season. The Pilots finished their regular season with a 5-0 win at home against San Francisco. Portland has shut out eight opponents this season and holds a 6-4-2 record at home. Portland junior forward Amanda Frisbie leads the team in goals and assists for the season with 12 and eight, respectively. Head Coach Keidane McAlpine said in a press con-

ference Monday he is glad his team does not have to travel far to compete in the tournament. “Keeping our travel in this time zone gives us a chance to, one, make sure our academics stay in focus but, two, also get the proper rest and preparation time,” McAlpine said. WSU will take the field against Portland at 7 p.m. You can follow live updates of the match on Twitter @ EvergreenSports.

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Senior Brandi Vega pressures the Husky defense Nov. 2 at the Lower Soccer Field.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 | PAGE 13

Hawks offense continuing to improve Curtis Crabtree The Associated Press

A frustrating loss at St. Louis in Week 4 sent Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll in search of ways to make his offense more productive. Russell Wilson and the Seahawks' offense had scored more than 20 points just once in four games and were converting just 28 percent of third down opportunities for the season. Against the Rams, Seattle was just 2 of 9 in third down conversions and 0 for 5 when attempting to pass in those situations. Wilson and the passing offense had not been able to throw for more than 160 yards in a game and his three interceptions were costly in the 19-13 loss to the Rams. Following the game, Carroll decided to look at tape of the Washington Redskins and how they were using rookie Robert Griffin III. What Carroll saw was an offense suited perfectly to the abilities of Griffin. The Redskins and offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan had installed a large grouping of plays from the

zone-read offense Griffin had been familiar with at Baylor University. It gave the Redskins the opportunity to maximize the abilities of Griffin and create favorable situations for their offense. "They're way ahead of everybody else in terms of their commitment to a really college style of offense and it's been very effective," Carroll said. Griffin earned NFC player of the week honors in the first start of his NFL career and threw for 300-plus yards in two of his first four games as a pro. "I was impressed with how much they got out of it," Carroll said. Seattle has used more zoneread concepts in recent weeks to augment their traditional zone running scheme. It has given Wilson the opportunity to keep the ball and run and for the Seahawks to use play-action to take shots down the field. "It gives guys space to let them make some decisions and get free," Wilson said. "It's just a change-up really more than anything." The changes have helped Seattle improve their production

on third down and in the red zone as Seattle has scored touchdowns on six of the last eight red zone possessions the last two weeks. "There's some things we've taken, some things that we haven't," offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said. "(Griffin) and Russell are two different style quarterbacks as well. Not saying that they both can't do the same things but there's some things that he can do that we wouldn't ask Russell to do and there's probably things that we ask Russell to do that they wouldn't ask him to do." The zone-read offense is not something the Seahawks are going to go to extensively — Seattle still prides itself on being a power running team — but in limited doses it has given Seattle an added dimension offensively. "It just opens you up to the possibility of some things to do," Carroll said. "It was a good move for me and it's helped us a little bit. I was influenced a little bit more than I thought when I first looked at. You see some of our stuff coming to life and it's helping us."

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FOOTBALL | Continued from page 3 while grabbing sole possession of first place in the Pac-12 South Division. “I think they’ve got good players,” Leach said. “They’ve got big strong powerful guys… really I think that they brought some elements together that were there and kind of emerging at times last year, so I think they’ve done a good job. They’re a talented team.”

secutive games. While Hundley is the type of playmaker that clearly has a huge impact on the Bruins, the UCLA offense undoubtedly runs with the legs of senior running back Johnathan Franklin. Franklin currently ranks No. 4 in the nation in rushing with 1,204 yards, and his 162yard, two-touchdown effort last Saturday against the Wildcats moved him past Gaston Green as UCLA’s all-time leading We’re going to keep rusher. On the defensive side of the moving and keep ball, the Bruins present a big and athletic unit that will surely test playing ball. a Cougar’s offensive line that has yielded 16 sacks in the last two games. The Bruins are currently Jeff Tuel ranked No. 6 in the nation in senior quarterback sacks, collect more than three sacks per game, while sophomore linebacker Eric Kendricks The Bruin offense is led by currently leads the Pac-12 in dynamic freshman quarterback tackles. Brett Hundley, who has thrown While many people are countfor 2,478-yards and 21 touching the Cougars out after such a downs this season. The freshman controversial week and overall from Chandler, Ariz., has already disappointing season, starting inked his name in the UCLA quarterback Jeff Tuel vowed that record books and become the his team will come together and first Bruin quarterback to throw continue to fight through the final for over 300-yards in three con- three games of the season.

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PHOTO COURTESY STANFORD DAILY

Sophomore linebacker Cyrus Coen sacks Stanford junior quarterback Josh Nunes on Oct. 27 going to keep moving on and we 7:30 p.m. This will mark the first “There’s a lot of flak coming in from the outside about this time that a WSU game in Pullman are going to keep playing ball.” program, the coaching staff and will be aired by an ESPN network For those who cannot brave the players,” Tuel said. “You’re not the cold, Saturday’s game will be since 1990; a game also played going to break us as players. We’re televised on ESPN2 beginning at against the Bruins.

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JACOBSON | Continued from page 2

COURTESY ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Offensive lineman Wade Jacobson was set on playing baseball, but in high school, he was encouraged to switch to football. If we lose a game, we take it as our fault. If we win a game, we don’t get any recognition. We just know we did our job out there.” It takes thick skin to carry out the dirty work of an offensive lineman, which is something Jacobson had plenty of opportunities to develop, growing up in Hollister, Calif. While other kids his age were playing with bats and balls, Jacobson was busy tossing hay bales and roping cows. “Being a country kid I grew up on a ranch and just rodeo lifestyle,” Jacobson said. “That’s the first sport I ever picked up.” But soon, the self-described “oddball” of the family gained interest in other sports and decided to steer away from the farm life, putting his brute strength to work in more conventional sporting venues. As a child, Jacobson’s first love came between the chalkencrusted lines of the baseball diamond, saying he never really took much interest in football — not by his own fault, however. He was excluded from participating in youth leagues because he was too heavy for his age group and too young to move up to a higher division. But while attending San Benito High School, Jacobson’s age finally caught up to his body. He was deemed a perfect fit for Head Coach Chris Cameron’s offensive line and became a two-year letter winner at left tackle. Jacobson was a solid player for the Haybalers, but after his senior season he essentially lost his interest in football and had his mind set on resuming his baseball career. That was until one of his coaches urged him to take a look at playing college football. “I played baseball my whole life and that was basically what I wanted to do,” Jacobson said. “But after high school one of my coaches was like, ‘You should play junior college football.’ And me being 200 pounds, I’m like, ‘I’m

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too small for it, I’m not gonna be good enough.’” But Jacobson was good enough. He enrolled at nearby Gavilan College, a small junior college in Gilroy, Calif., where a calorierich diet helped him pack on 125 pounds in a little more than six months. The reconstruction of Jacobson’s body propelled him to a starting role on the Rams offensive line, mostly at right tackle, where he played every game and earned the team’s most improved player award. His play drew the interest of a few colleges including the University of North Carolina, but Jacobson decided to hold out and see what his options were after playing another season at Gavilan. This proved to be a wise decision. Jacobson was voted the No. 1 lineman in the league and was named All-Coast Conference, All-Region and third-team AllAmerica after his second year with the Rams. His stellar play earned him a three-star junior college prospect rating and scholarship offers from San Diego State, San Jose State, Arizona, Nevada and Washington State. But after an initial reluctance to sign with the struggling program, a few official visits to the Palouse sold him on making Pullman his new home. “Just being a country kid, that means all to me and that’s why I fell in love with Pullman,” Jacobson said. “Coming from California, there’s so many people you don’t know. (In Pullman), anywhere you go you could strike up a conversation for 20-30 minutes, talking about the most random things… You can’t find that anywhere other than Pullman.” While Jacobson found a home away from home, the Cougars found their new starting left guard. In his first season at WSU, Jacobson earned a varsity letter by starting 11 games at the position.

He worked his way over to the right side of the line to become the starting tackle for the Cougars during the 2011 season. He started the first four games for Washington State before his season abruptly came to a halt. “Everything was going great,” Jacobson said. “It was one of those senior seasons where everything was falling into place. Everything was going good and you know one little hit and I go down.” Jacobson suffered a significant back injury that forced him to miss the final eight games of his senior season. Even worse, a grim diagnosis showed he would never be able to play football again. “First person I called was my dad, just telling him, you know, it’s going from potentially going to the NFL to nothing,” Jacobson said. “It just all came crashing down. I mean, that’s the biggest thing I feared.” But Jacobson set his fears aside and was determined to return from the devastating injury. He applied for a medical hardship waiver from the NCAA to return to WSU for another season while also starting the grueling rehab process after his back surgery. “It was very complex,” Jacobson said. “If you have a simple knee surgery or shoulder surgery, you work that part of your body. Well, mine happened to fall right in the middle of my body. I worked my legs, my upper body, my core, just everything. I mean, football is hard, but rehab is tough.” It took Jacobson more than six months to return to health and even longer for him to hear back from the NCAA. But in early March 2012, Jacobson finally got the news he had been waiting for: he had been granted another year of eligibility. “I mean, waiting for six, seven, almost eight months to hear word... I think the first words that came out of my mouth were probably ‘Hell yeah,’” Jacobson said. “Finally knowing for sure that you get to play another year — that was it. ‘Hell yeah.’” Jacobson, now healthy, is on the tail end of his redshirt senior season. He has returned to anchor the starting right tackle position and heads a unit that has been the focus of much criticism throughout the Cougars 2-7 start. While Jacobson takes the criticism to heart, he realizes how close he was to losing it all and cherishes the opportunity to even be out on the field. “Coming back, getting my extra year, I’m just blessed to be out there to step on the field one more time with these guys,” Jacobson said. Even though Jacobson has been a part of some of the most trying times in Washington State football history, he has treasured the unyielding support from the Cougar fan base. “They always showed up,” Jacobson said. “It would be pouring down rain or snow and there are always fans in the seats. That’s why I want to put a smile on their faces. They do all that for us and it means so much.” While fans may remember and appreciate Jacobson’s plentiful contributions and unwavering commitment to the Cougars, to most fans he will likely remain unknown. Such is the life of Wade Jacobson.

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 | PAGE 15

Trufant brothers take over CenturyLink Field By Tim Booth The Associated Press

In many ways, the Trufant name is near the top of the football hierarchy in Washington SEATTLE — Marcus Trufant has played in a Super Bowl and a state. All three were prep stars Pro Bowl, and is now in his 10th in nearby Tacoma, all three were season with his hometown team. standouts at state universities and all three beam with pride Yet for all those experiences, one of the most special moments about their roots. They have touched every in his football career with the level of football in the state of Seattle Seahawks will come this weekend when he takes the field Washington. The three were prep standouts at Wilson High against his younger brother Isaiah of the New York Jets, and School in Tacoma. Marcus was a after youngest brother Desmond, star at Washington State, Isaiah a senior at Washington, plays on at Eastern Washington and the same field the night before. Desmond now at Washington.

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Before any professional athlete, it was always big bro trying to do what he does and trying to be like him. Isaiah Trufant New York Jets cornerback

Three brothers, all playing the same position, two of which are already in the NFL with a third very likely to join the professional ranks next season. And this weekend, all three will take their places on the turf at CenturyLink Field in a span of less than 24 hours. On Saturday night, Desmond will play the final home game of his college career when the Huskies host Utah. About 14 hours after the youngest Trufant walks off the field, Isaiah’s Jets will face Marcus’ Seahawks. There is no guarantee any of the three will be playing in the NFL next season. Desmond will likely be an upper-round draft pick when April comes around, but Marcus and Isaiah both have contracts that expire at the end of the 2012 season. So while this weekend doesn’t feature all three in the same game, being on the same field just a few hours apart will be cherished by the entire Trufant clan, especially their parents Lloyd and Constance. The halfMarcus, half-Isaiah jerseys have already been made for Sunday, but only after everyone breaks out their No. 6 Washington jerseys for Desmond on Saturday night. “It’ll be a big day for us,” Desmond said. “(I’m) proud of my brothers, what they’re doing and we’ve got to keep it going as a family, keep producing, keep doing good things.”

Marcus has spent his entire NFL career with Seattle. Isaiah started his pro career playing indoor football in Spokane. “Growing up, he was the guy I always looked up to and wanted to be like,” Isaiah said. “Before any professional athlete, it was always big bro trying to do what he does and trying to be like him. Even though I was a smaller guy, I would strive to be successful like he was. I’m just grateful to be able to play against him on a professional level.” Marcus was the prototype for the family. Lean and quick, with the size at nearly 6-foot tall and ability to be physical at the line. He was an all-everything in college at Washington State and is now going on a decade as part of the Seahawks secondary. Desmond is Marcus 2.0. The same height. The same build. But perhaps with more natural talent and knack for the position than his oldest brother. In the middle is Isaiah, who fit none of the molds typically cast for NFL cornerbacks and doesn’t have the college pedigree of his brothers, yet has found a niche after working his way up through the lowest levels of pro football to get his shot in the NFL. His brothers say Isaiah is the best athlete of the three, yet took the longest road to finally reach the NFL. Three brothers, one swath of turf, one memorable weekend for the Trufant family.

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PAGE 16 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

SPORTS WEEKENED

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2012 Football Preview

Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

Contents 4

Cover story

Video board

Offense preview

Opponent previews

10 34

Defense preview

Season predictions

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2012 Football Preview

COVER STORY

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A CHANGING LANDSCAPE USC in middle of college football culture shift Isabelle Khurshudyan

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W hen t he footba l l tea m took victory over Nebraska in the Capital One Bowl last season, USC President Harris Pastides, an avid sports fan, was swept up in the moment. He was caught up in the celebration over the team’s 11th win, a program-

high, and he led the fans in Orlando, Fla. , i n a “G ame – Cock s” cheer, admitting later it wasn’t his most presidential moment. But as the news from State College, Pa., came out in the following months, Pastides said he was swept in the opposite direction. High-rank ing Penn State officials had allegedly concealed their knowledge that Jerry Sandusky, an assistant football coach, was molesting adolescent boys on campus.

Once the “Oh my God” reaction had passed, Pastides said he began thinking introspectively. He asked himself if that situation could have happened at South Carolina. What would have happened if it did happen at USC? Has t he cha ng ing cu lt u re a nd landscape of college football made the sport too powerful on a campus? As college football continues to grow and evolve, t he G amecock s f ind themselves in the middle of one of the

sport’s most captivating seasons. In between realigning conferences, future playoff scenarios and a jawd roppi ng sc a nda l at one of t he premier institutions, USC is coming off its most successful season ever and is faced with the same question as college football: Where do you go from here? “I not only thought of it, but I am concerned that college football can get too big, and that’s why there’s a

COVER ● B32

2012 Football Preview

OFFENSE

Lattimore not changing running style Star tailback said rushing attack will be spread out Isabelle Khurshudyan

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After everything changed for South Carolina tailback Marcus Lattimore last season with one play against Mississippi State, the junior is determined for everything to stay the same. The play, where Latt imore was blocking for sophomore running back Bruce Ellington and tore his ACL, causing him to miss the remainder of the 2011 season, has replayed in Lattimore’s mind over and over again. The conclusion: He wouldn’t change anything. “Anybody who would have been out there blocking like I was would have

torn their ACL,” Lattimore said. “I’d never had a serious injury, so I’m not really even concerned about doing what I do. The way I run is the way I run. I know I’m going to be healthy.” T hough Lat t i more’s br u i si ng, downhill running st yle isn’t going anywhere, he said he expects the rushing attack to be more spread out with the depth the Gamecocks have at running back this season. Ellington, senior Kenny M iles , sophomore Brandon Wilds , redshirt f resh ma n Shon Ca rson a nd t r ue freshman Mike Davis could all be fixtures in the backfield, along with dual-threat quarterback Connor Shaw. Carson is out indeﬁ nitely with a wrist

RUSHING ● B9

Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

Tailback Marcus Lattimore said he’s confident he’ll be healthy in 2012.

Shaw brings consistency as starter Junior quarterback looks for breakout year following preseason without competition Paulina Berkovich

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At this point last season, the biggest question surrounding the Gamecocks’ passing game was who would be their starting quarterback. Connor Shaw started USC’s season opener against East Carolina in 2011, struggling to put up 21 yards in the first quarter before being pulled for Stephen Garcia. But he won his next start in commanding fashion, leading USC to a dominating 54-3 victory against Kentucky. This year, the junior signal caller is not only USC’s undisputed N o. 1 quarterback, but a player his teammates expect to step up and lead them. Shaw will continue to take advantage of his running game while looking to improve the Gamecocks’ passing offense. “Connor is a player. His dad is a head high school coach,” said coach Steve Spurrier at SEC Media Days. “That sort of tells you his upbringing. He’s been around football his whole life, pretty much dedicated to that. He doesn’t

Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

USC coach Steve Spurrier wants to see quarterback Connor Shaw become a better passer. have a lot of outside interests other than be the best quarterback he can to help our team win games and be successful, and hopefully win an SEC [championship].” Shaw struggled with his reads at times last year, and Spurrier acknowledged he is better on the

ground than in the air, but the Gamecocks will rely on Shaw to lead both aspects of their offense. “Connor is a running and passing quarterback. He’s both,” Spurrier said. “I’ve never quite had [a quarterback] that’s been maybe a little bit better runner than he is passer. Hopefully he’ll be a little bit better passer this year, but he’s still going to keep running the ball because that’s what he does very well.” But unless the passing game is successful, the Gamecocks will not force that aspect of their offense. “I think the last four games of the season, [Shaw] was the highest-rated passer quarterback in the country,” Spurrier said. “We only threw 18 passes per game. We were pretty much a 40, 45-run, 20-pass type team last year. We may be that way this year. If we can’t throw it very well, we’re not going to try to.” After last year’s uncertainty at the position, the key thing USC will look for from its quarterback is consistency. “We’ve struggled with just one quarterback a

PASSING ● B9

2012 Football Preview

OFFENSE

Receiving corps takes on new face Sanders leads group without Jeffery Kyle Heck

KHECK@DAILYGAMECOCK.COM

When wide receiver Alshon Jeffery was taken by the Chicago Bears with the No. 45 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the South Carolina Gamecocks lost 33 percent of their catches, 40 percent of their receiving yards and 41 percent of

their receiving touchdowns from the last two seasons. The depart ure of Jef fer y lef t a tremendous void in the Gamecock receiving corps, one the team has worked all summer to fill. With the addition of freshman wide receiver Shaq Roland and the return of wideouts like junior Ace Sanders and senior D.L. Moore , wide receivers coach Steve Spurrier Jr. believes his group will be just ﬁne in 2012.

Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

Wide receiver Ace Sanders is the leading returning receiver from last year.

“D.L. Moore has got a chance to be a really good player,” Spurrier Jr. said. “He’s had an excellent preseason, so I’m really counting on him to have his best year as a Gamecock. Hopefully, DeAngelo (Smith) comes in there and gets ready for his opportunities to play. Jeffery had 49 catches a year ago, and I think we’ll be able to replace that. We’ll probably spread it out a little bit more this year and should have a good season.” As for Sanders, he takes over Jeffery’s No. 1 spot and No. 1 jersey. With that top spot comes added responsibility for the 5-foot-8-inch, 175-pound Florida native. While Jeffery was able to out jump defenders for the ball, Sanders will use his quickness and route running to separate himself from opposing secondaries. A positive for Sanders this summer has been the consistency at the quarterback position, unlike his

previous two seasons on campus. “It has been a big improvement working with the same quarterback,” Sanders said. “We don’t have to go through working with two of them now. Only time will tell, but I feel really conﬁdent in what we’ve got going on.” In addition, Sanders has become a veteran on the team, and that means the younger receivers, like Roland, now look up to him. The new role is one Sanders has embraced. “I try my best to guide the guys in the right direction,” Sanders said. “It has been a lot more teaching this year, more of me being a coach and a player. It has been a learning experience.” Sanders is eight inches shorter than Jeffery, but with only three receivers on the roster who are taller than 6 feet 1 inch, there isn’t expected to be much

RECEIVING ● B9

2012 Football Preview

OFFENSE

Offensive line to rely on Johnson, newcomers Starting spots up for grabs late into preseason camp Paulina Berkovich

PBERKOVICH@DAILYGAMECOCK.COM

The departure of starting left tackle Rokevious Watkins left a major question mark for USC’s offensive line, making returning players crucial to the unit’s success this year. The Gamecocks will rely on the leadership of senior center T.J. Johnson, who has started ever y game South Carolina has played in the past two years. Along with sophomore starter A.J. Cann, Johnson will anchor a line on which several returning players will see a greater role. The rotation for tackles has yet to be determined by South Carolina, but the team will need strong play from reserves

as well as starters. “Ideally, I would like to end up with a four-man rotation,” said offensive line coach Shawn Elliott. “We have six tackles. An ideal situation is to get two great ones and two really good ones to back them up.” Sophomores Cody Gibson and Mike Matulis are front-runners for starting spots as tackles, and Elliott praised the work they’ve done in training camp. “Cody has worked really hard,” Elliott said. “He’s gotten strong over the summer. He’s done a lot of good things over the summer. Mike is working hard also.” Matulis was almost redshirted last season, until an injury to Kyle Nunn made him indispensable to the offensive line. Gibson will see more time on the field after playing in seven of South Carolina’s last 10 games in 2011. He has high expectations for himself entering Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

Center T.J. Johnson (55) has started every USC game for the last two years. this season. “I don’t want to give up any sacks or pressures like that,” Gibson said. “I want to be the best I can. I am not going to settle for anything less than that.” Freshman Brock Stadnik has also impressed coaches in camp, but he will probably not have a major role on this year’s team unless there is an injury. “[Stadnik] is fitted to play the inside position. He probably can play all three of them,” Eliott said. “I don’t envision him cracking the two deep right now. I think he needs to have some time to develop, get strong — probably sit, have a redshirt year. But you know, injuries play a huge role in that.” On the outside, the Gamecocks will look for continued improvement from Cann, who started every game as a redshirt freshman last season. “Now [Cann] is coming into his second full year at being that guy at left guard,” Elliott said. “He is knowing what to do; he is conﬁdent in what he is doing. He is a strong and mobile athlete. I expect a big

year out of him.” Although junior Ronald Patrick will likely move into the starting lineup at right tackle, coaches still expect him to improve his technique. Patrick played in nine games last season, including the last six. “Ronald has done well this fall,” Elliott said. “He has to get a little better with his footwork, but that comes with repetition. He is as solid as I think he should be. He’s got to get a lot better to be a really good football player. But I think he will be OK.” As a unit, the offensive line is prepared to start the season strong and contribute to the success of South Carolina’s passing game. “We are deﬁnitely coming together and clicking a lot better,” Gibson said. “Just reading blitzes better, making calls, being vocal, just understanding our assignments better.” Comments on this story? Visit dailygamecock.com/sports

2012 Football Preview RUSHING ● Continued from B6 injury. “The whole season that’s what we’re going to do — we’re going to share the load,” Lattimore said. “With all of the talent we’ve got, we’ve got to share the load.” Lattimore hasn’t taken more than a handful of carries in scrimmages, but running backs coach Everette Sands told reporters he’s looking to Lattimore to get 75 percent of the snaps in a typical game. M iles’ role cou ld involve more receiving, which he’s been successful at through preseason scrimmages, diving for an 18-yard pass in the Gamecocks’ last open scrimmage. Head coach Steve Spurrier said Miles solidiﬁed himself as the No. 2 running back. Miles has also seen Latt imore’s conﬁdence in his knee return. “In the last scrimmage, he felt a whole lot better after getting hit around and knocked around a little bit and getting a feel for it,” Miles said. “There’s a lot of things you can learn from a Heisman candidate and a guy like Marcus Lattimore,” Davis said. “He tells me what to do and what things to look out for and he’s a great role model.”

PASSING ● Continued from B6 little bit here and there,” Spurrier sa id. “At t i mes Stephen G a rcia played very well. Sometimes Blake Mitchell, Chris Smelley, all those guys played prett y well at times. But we didn’t have a real consistent game-after-game-after-game type quarterbacking.” With no quarterback competition to worry about ahead of this year’s opener, Shaw said his focus during training camp was different from 2011. “I t h i n k I ca n foc us more on winning ball games now,” Shaw said. “Nothing is set in stone. I still have to compete to the best of my abilities in fall camp, but it is different than last year ... I expect myself to take my game to the next level.”

OFFENSE Davis said he’s unsure if coaches i ntend for h i m to red s h i r t t h i s season, and he doesn’t have a personal preference. With Carson out indeﬁnitely and Wilds’ sprained ankle, running back depth has thinned in the preseason. Freshman Kendric Salley is a likely redshirt candidate, having not practiced yet as he recovers from a knee injury suffered last fall. “My thought is to make sure I have three guys ready to go,” Sands said. “The top two guys will get the bulk of the reps, but I want to have three ready to go.” The injury didn’t change Lattimore’s style, and it didn’t change his cemented spot as the No. 1 rusher for the team. Powering forward for a ﬁrst down in a short yardage situation at a scrimmage, the crowd applauded the hard-nosed running it’s used to seeing from its star. “I just block it out and remember how hard I worked for those nine months, knowing that I’m strong enough to be able to take a hit or be able to make that cut,” Lattimore said.

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Ot her players have noted t he le ader sh ip Sh aw br i ng s to t he Gamecocks. “Connor is a tremendous leader,” said free safety D.J. Swearinger at SEC Media Days. “He went into the spring knowing he’s the starter, and this is his team this year. We look up to Connor, and Connor’s going to be a great quarterback this year.” USC averaged 181 passing yards per game last season, and it will look to grow that total behind Shaw. “[Shaw] showed up ready to roll in August,” said quarterbacks coach G.A. Mangus. “We expect him to play well.”

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RECEIVING ● Cont. from B7 Ror y A nder s on a nd cha nge i n t he route running from a year ago. “The only thing that is really different is the player s t hat a re out there,” Sanders said. It won’t only be wide receivers ma k i ng up for lost production, as several tight ends have also made their mark over the summer. He ad coac h Ste ve Spurrier has repeatedly praised the efforts of f resh ma n t ight ends Jerel l A d a m s , Drew O wens and Kelv in Rainey. Owens missed all of the preseason with a k nee i nju r y, wh ile Rainey missed some of t he preseason wit h a concussion. With the return of

Justice Cunningham , who combined to catch 26 passes for 330 yards and four touchdowns last year, more t ha n one tight end could be on the ﬁeld at the same t ime. Tight end sets became popular in the N FL last year, as the New England Patriots were successful with it in their offense. Adams, a Fork Union Military Academy transfer, has particularly impressed Spurrier with his ability to use his 6-foot-6-inch frame to his advantage. “I knew he was a guy who could really play basketball,” Spurrier said. “If you can play b a s k et b a l l , you c a n usually run and catch, a nd he c a n r u n a nd

catch. He’s a talent.” When the Gamecocks take the field against Va n d e r b i lt n e x t Thursday, there will be a noticeable difference in who is running down the sideline in the No. 1 jersey; however, the 2012 group is ready to get out and prove they will be just ﬁne this season. “Everyone is excited about the Vandy game,” Roland said. “First night (of college football), national television — I’m sure it’s going to be crazy.”

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2012 Football Preview

DEFENSE

B10

Swearinger, returners ﬁght for starting spots Gurley, freshmen impress coaches during preseason practices Paulina Berkovich

PBERKOVICH@DAILYGAMECOCK.COM

N ot hing about t he Gamecocks’ secondary is set in stone except that playing time is anyone’s to win. South Carolina has lost multiple key defenders, including first-round draft pick Stephon Gilmore and senior Akeem Aug uste, who recently under went surgery for a right thigh injury that is projected to keep him out of the lineup for four to ﬁve weeks. Veterans D.J. Swearinger, Jimmy Legree and Victor Hampton will look to lead the secondary, but they will have

to compete for time on the field with incoming freshmen who impressed the coaching staff during training camp. Swearinger started all 13 games last year, playing a key role on a defense that tied for second in the SEC with 19 interceptions. The senior safety expects USC’s defense to develop into one of the top units in the country in 2012. “I think our defense is one of the best in the nation, not just in the SEC,” Swearinger said at SEC Media Days. “We’ve got to work to earn it though, and we’re working hard in the offseason to try and get in the No. 1 spot this year.” Legree, a junior who played safety last

SECONDARY ● B14

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2012 Football Preview

DEFENSE

B11

Clowney takes on spinner package Taylor to lead defensive line with improved strength, knowledge of playbook Paulina Berkovich

PBERKOVICH@DAILYGAMECOCK.COM

The biggest advantage of South Carolina’s defensive line is speed — and the Gamecocks have both the players and the schemes to exploit that strength. De spite t he depa r t u re of l i nemen Melv i n Ingram and Travian Robertson, USC returns two elite defensive linemen in senior Devin Taylor and sophomore Jadeveon Clowney. Taylor begins the season with increased strength and speed, and Clowney has the beneﬁt of a year of college football experience. With these improvements, the two Gamecocks are prepared to lead the defensive line in accomplishing their greatest task: affecting the quarterback. “I don’t gage [success] by sacks,” said defensive line coach Brad Lawing. “Affecting the quarterback is the most important thing. I hope our pass rush will be good. We’ll see. Every year is a new year.”

Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

Jadeveon Clowney returns for his sophomore season with improved defensive knowledge. Taylor, who started every game in 2011, came into camp able to bench 30 pounds more than last season.

“I wanted to focus on my strength [in the offseason], as well as my speed and agility, and keep those maintained because that’s one thing you can’t lose. You have to do it to get better,” Taylor said. “I’ve progressed tremendously [as far as strength], a lot more than even I thought I was going to do.” Last year, Clowney was among the top 10 in the nation in both sacks and forced fumbles, including one sack that led to the game-winning touchdown against Georgia. He played mostly as a defensive end, but this year he will have a different role for USC. “We have a spinner package,” Lawing said. “We plug [Clowney] into the pass rush ... We use that guy as a picker, move him around. Sometimes he may be up the middle, he may be over at tackle or guard. He may be the guy coming in from outside. We move him around. We call that our spinner package.” Lawing said the spinner package was originally created for Eric N orwood and Melvin Ingram. Clowney, Lawing said, has the talent to succeed in different positions. One major improvement he

D-LINE ● B13

B12

2012 Football Preview

DEFENSE

Linebacker corps anchored by senior leadership Wilson, Bowens, Holloman top 3 after preseason Kyle Heck

KHECK@DAILYGAMECOCK.COM

For senior linebacker corps, Aug. 30 can’t come soon enough, as linebackers Shaq Wilson said he and Reginald Bowens have been watching film of Va nderbilt’s of fense since spring practice. W i lson, who c a l ls Bowen s h is “brother from another mother,” said he, Bowens and fellow senior safety D.J. Swearinger turn on some music to go with the silent ﬁlm and study the Vanderbilt offense. The dedication, even months before the season opener, is just one of the ways the veteran group is setting the standard for the young reserves.

All-American spur Antonio Allen was one of the leaders of the 2011 defense after racking up 88 tackles, 9.5 for loss, forcing four fumbles and intercepting three passes. While Allen is now playing in the N FL , Wilson, Bowens, Swearinger and another senior, spur DeVonte Holloman, are looking to replicate that success. On the most recent depth chart, the three seniors are listed at the three linebacker spots (including the spur position, which is a hybrid safet y) heading into the 2012 season. The experience will prove valuable to Holloman, who is moving from his strong safety spot to take over the spur position. After seeing the kind of success Allen had at the position last year, Holloman is ready for the opportunity. “Everybody wants to go on to the next level, so my mindset isn’t any different than anyone else,” Holloman said. “I

want to be a little bit more physical (than Allen), but I want to be just as productive as he was, if not more so.” The senior leadership now present in the middle of the defense provides linebackers coach Kirk Botkin with the added luxury of swapping out players during games. “I’ve got three seniors at the Mike and Will (linebacker spots) and a senior at spur, so if they get a little tired, we can expel you for a couple plays,” Botkin recently told reporters after practice. “So I tell those guys to go as hard as you possibly can, until you get tired.” From the player’s perspective, the veteran experience allows for more harmony between the positions. “We all have the same goals, and we want to go out on top,” Holloman said. “We have a lot of guys coming back — a

LINEBACKERS ● B15

Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

After playing last season at strong safety, Holloman (21) is the spur.

B13

DEFENSE

D-LINE ● Cont. from B11 has made over last year is the ability to quickly make reads. “The difference with [Clowney] between last year and this year as far as seeing is that the game is much more slowed down to him,” Taylor said. “He’s able to read plays more and actually act off it rather than just play off talent coming straight out of high school.” Senior Aldrick Fordham joins Taylor and Clowney as a major force on the defensive line, playing both tackle and end. “[Fordham is] a good football player, very intelligent, knows our scheme inside and out,” Lawing said. “I have a lot of confidence in him. He’s always where he’s supposed to be. He’s an experienced football player. I wish he was a redshirt junior instead of a senior.” Gerald Dixon, Gerald Dixon Jr. and Deon Green, all redshirt freshmen, will be ready to take the field for the Gamecocks if needed. Freshman Darius

2012 Football Preview English , who is listed as a defensive end, will also have an opportunity to earn playing time, although he will not challenge Fordham for his spot. “[English] is a guy that’s very talented, and I just have to decide what to do with him,” Lawing said. “If he can help us win, we’re about winning now. He showed signs of being a very talented player ... He’s not a first- or seconddown end right now. He’s a pass rusher.” USC’s defensive line has shown i m p r o v e m e nt i n u n d e r s t a n d i n g assignments, and led by Taylor and Clowney, it will take advantage of speed to affect opposing quarterbacks. “We’ve made a lot of progress as far as guys knowing what to do,” Lawing said. “When you know your assignments, when you have a lot of confidence in that, you can play fast, and we’re getting better at that.” Comments on this story? Visit dailygamecock.com/sports

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2012 Football Preview

DEFENSE

B14

Chris Keohane / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

D.J. Swearinger (36) said USC’s defense is one of the best in the nation. SECONDARY ● Cont. from B10 fall, will see action as a cornerback this season, and he is confident he will be able to contribute to the secondary from what he called his more natural position. “My [strengths] would be bump and run — get up on the line. I can reroute the receiver pretty good and just run with them,” Legree said. “This year I am excited. I have a chance to redeem myself, so I am just ready to step in and make big plays.” Hampton will compete for time at the cornerback position after recording 14 tackles and one interception for the Gamecocks last year. After serving a suspension at the beginning of the 2011 season, the redshirt sophomore returned to play in South Carolina’s last 10 games. “[ H a m p t o n] h a s a l w a y s b e e n important,” assistant special teams coordinator Grady Brown said. “Victor is doing a good job. He’s a really good football player. He has a high football IQ. He comes to practice to work every day, and we expect him to play a big part in our success this year.”

Despite t he ex per ience t hat Swearinger, Legree and Hampton bring to the table, Brown said the nature of positions in the secondary makes it possible for new players to succeed even without previous experience. T.J. Gurley, Chaz Elder and Ahmad Christian are three freshmen who may earn substantial playing time. “I don’t know if I would say [they] ‘have to play,’ but more so, they may be ready to play,” Brown said of the freshmen. “If guys come in, they’re moving around, making checks and making plays, we’ll get them on the ﬁeld if they can make plays for us.” Even with players from last year missing, South Carolina’s secondary has the depth to replace their production and be one of the top units in the SEC. “A lot of those guys are gone — we’ll miss them tremendously — but we believe we’ve got the players that can step in and ﬁll those shoes,” Swearinger said. Comments on this story? Visit dailygamecock.com/sports

B15

DEFENSE

LINEBACKERS ● Cont. from B12 lot of leaders — so we’re just out there talking and communicating. It’s a whole lot better when there is a lot of minds thinking.” W h i le sen ior Da ma r io Jef fer y is no longer the starter at one of the linebacker spots, expect the Columbia native to battle Bowens, who is currently No. 1 on the depth chart, for playing time. “Day in and day out, they’re all pushing each ot her,” Bot k in said. “Competition brings out the best in everybody, so you never know. But if we were to play today, Reginald would start.” Senior Quin Smith and sophomore Sharrod Golightly are also expected to get playing time at the linebacker and spur positions, respectively, though Golightly is suspended the first three games of the season for a violation of team rules. In addition, freshman Jordan Diggs has been pushing for playing time

2012 Football Preview and, according to Botkin, is a “really sharp player.” With the recent groin injur y to defensive back Akeem Auguste , the Gamecocks will now likely start Victor Hampton and Jimmy Legree, who have a limited amount of experience, at the two cornerback spots. With the lack of game experience on the corners, the veterans up the middle understand they will be the leaders of the defense this season. Since most are seniors, it will be the last opportunity they have to make an impact on the Gamecocks. “We want to do everything right,” Wilson said. “We want to show the young guys how it’s done, how you do everything at full speed. That’s how we got to the top and that is how we are going to go to the top. It’s our last go-round, and we have to do things the right way.” Comments on this story? Visit dailygamecock.com/sports

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2012 Football Preview

VIDEO BOARD

B16

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The highly anticipated addition of a much larger, high-definition video board is still set to be completed and ready to go by USCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ rst home football game on Sept. 8. Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s football game attendees watched replays on a video board that clocked in at 20 feet high and 29 feet long. That size left USC at the No. 10 spot out of the then-12 SEC schools for video board size. Now, with the increase to a high-deďŹ nition 36-foot high, 124foot wide board towering over the end

zone, the university sits comfortably at No. 3 in the conference. A c c o r d i n g t o We s H i c k m a n , university spokesman, the new video board will cost $6.5 million, all from private donations. USC President Harris Pastides saw the new video board recently when he visited the marching band at the stadium. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am so psyched ... I spoke to them, then I looked over my shoulder and there was the new scoreboard. It blew me away,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be great in the daytime, but a night game with the colors, I think the technology is the best. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m excited about that.â&#x20AC;?

BOARD â&#x2014;? B17

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VIDEO BOARD

BOARD ● Continued from B16 The renovations to the video board fall in line with the $200 million master plan of facilities that included a new baseball stadium and facility, the Dodie Anderson Academic Enrichment Center and the new Carolina Tennis Center. “We have spent millions of dollars throughout our athletics venues to enhance our presentation in an effort to recruit the best and the brightest student-athletes, but this one is geared toward the fans,” Hickman wrote in an email response. “The in-stadium experience at Williams-Brice Stadium is going to be fantastic with the addition of the new video board.” Pastides said he hopes for a boost in attendance from the completion of the board. “I hope we’ll increase attendance,” he said. “Even though we have good attendance, I’d like it to be perfect attendance, so to speak.” Outside of the stadium, in the space formerly occupied by the farmers market, a brand new $15.5 million tailgating area has also been built. It is funded by athletic revenue bonds and is also expected to be completed by the ﬁrst home game. “I’m excited about the farmers market,

Andrew Askins / THE DAILY GAMECOCK

The new video board will be completed by the first USC home football game.

2012 Football Preview which will have a new name,” Pastides said. “I think it’s going to be called Carolina Park ... The whole thing is going to be a better experience. I always thought it was an A-plus experience, but if that was A-plus, then this will be A-double-plus.” A USC spokesman confirmed that the “Carolina Park” name for the tailgating area is one of the names being considered, but has not ofﬁcially been chosen. The area will include approximately 3,000 parking spots — each with a 10-foot-by-10-foot “tent zone” — 368 of which will be “VIP” spots that will include power and cable television connections, according to Hickman. Pricing for season passes for the spots ranges from $750 for the VIP section to $250 for a spot in the back of the lot. Hickman said Gamecock Club members have already purchased all of the approximately 2,000 reserved spaces. “ T he e xc it e me nt a nd de m a nd for this new tailgating area has been extraordinary,” he wrote. The area will also have four bathroom buildings, an amphitheater for the band and cheerleaders and a centrally located grassy promenade dubbed the “Garnet Way.” The promenade will be lined with scarlet oaks, and it will be home to new traditions like the “Gamecock Walk,” a parade of football players, marching band members and cheerleaders on their way to the stadium. Hickman said the area will also soon be used for an indoor practice facility and football practice ﬁelds, as well as an outdoor entertainment venue. In addition, the video control rooms in Williams-Brice Stadium will be upgraded to include “appropriate air conditioning for rooms of this nature and acoustical measures in the ceilings and walls,” according to Hickman. Before the recent renovations, the control rooms had not been updated in more than a decade. Isabelle K hurshudyan contributed reporting to this story. Comments on this story? Visit dailygamecock.com/sports

CAR OLINA 2012

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2012 Football Preview

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

2012 OPPONENT PREVIEWS Kyle Heck

KHECK@DAILYGAMECOCK.COM

Week 1: @VANDERBILT (6-7, 2-6 SEC IN 2011) Head Coach: James Franklin (6-7 record in one season at Vanderbilt, 6-7 career coaching record) In Frank lin’s f irst season, t he Commodores won six games, which was t wo more than the previous t wo seasons combined . Despite shaky quarterback play, Vanderbilt still averaged 26.7 points per game and returns most of its ﬁ repower this season. Senior running back Zac Stacy returns after rushing for 1,193 yards and 14 touchdowns last season . The top ret urning wide receiver is Jordan Matthews, who caught 41 passes for 778 yards and five touchdowns last season . The quarterback position should be a little bit more stable this year as

Jordan Rodgers, brother of Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers , is expected to be t he N o. 1 g uy for the season. Rodgers passed for 1,524 yards and nine touchdowns to go along with 10 interceptions in limited playing time in 2011. The Commodores do lose the services of cor nerback Casey Hey wa rd, who pic ked of f se ven pa s s e s a season ago; however, Trey Wilson returns for his senior season after intercepting three passes his junior campaig n . A big reason for t he t u r narou nd last season was t he Commodores’ abilit y to score in t he red z one. Va ndy scored 77 percent of the time when inside its opponents’ 20-yard line, and

Courtesy of MCT Campus

Vandy coach James Franklin has high expectations for this year’s squad. 58 percent of t hose possessions went for touchdowns. With a year of coaching experience under his belt, Franklin’s team should only improve this season. Expect the

Commodores to put up a tough ﬁght when the Gamecocks come to town on the ﬁ rst night of college football.

Week 2: EAST CAROLINA (5-7, 4-4 C-USA IN 2011) Head Coach: Rufﬁn McNeill (1114 in two seasons at ECU, 12-14 in two-plus seasons overall) The G amecock s opened t heir 2011 season against the Pirates, and after a tight ﬁ rst half, USC pulled away for a 56-37 victory. ECU isn’t expected to be as formidable this season after the graduation of AllConference quarterback Dominique Davis , who torched USC for 260 yards and four touchdowns in the game last year. Expect the Pirates to still toss the ball around in their spread offense . Last season, ECU t hrew it 524 t imes in 12 games. R io Johnson, Shane Carden and Cody Keith are all battling it out to take over t he quarterback ing duties. However, the Pirates return

all of their top receivers from 2011, so whoever takes over the signal calling duties will be in good shape. Sophomore Justin Hardy is the top ret urning receiver af ter hauling in 64 catches for 658 yards and six touchdowns last season . Overall, the Pirates return four receivers who caught more than 40 passes last year. In addition, ECU returns its top three tacklers from a year ago. Sophomore linebacker Jeremy Grove, who racked up 122 tackles as a f resh ma n i n 2011 , ret u r ns along wit h junior safet y Damon Magazu (80 tack les in 2011) and senior linebacker Daniel Drake (74 tack les) . ECU has a 5-11 career record against the Gamecocks.

PREVIEWS ● B21

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2012 Football Preview

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

Week 3: ALABAMA-BIRMINGHAM

(3-9, 2-6 C-USA IN 2011)

PREVIEW ● Continued from B20

Perry threw for 410 yards and four

Head Coach: Garrick McGee t ou c hdow n s . Per r y ’s t o p t h r e e

(ﬁrst season as head coach) McGee takes over a Blazer team that got off to an 0-6 start last year and one that has struggled mightily recently. McGee spent the last two seasons as offensive coordinator for the Arkansas Razorbacks , where he helped the Hogs torch the Gamecocks two years in a row. USC should be careful with UAB because the Blazers return a lot of talent from last year’s — albeit unsuccessful — team. The Blazers return a junior quarterback in Jonathan Perry, who made eight starts as a freshman. In those eight starts, Perry completed 58 percent of his passes for 2,042 yards and 10 touchdowns, and he also rushed for 294 yards and three touchdowns. In a game against Memphis last season,

receiving targets return, including junior Jackie Williams, the leading returning wideout with 58 catches and 607 yards last year. Williams did not catch a touchdown last season but rushed for three . The Blazer’s also return an experienced defense where 10 of the 12 projected starters are upperclassmen. Senior safety Jamie Bender has racked up 213 tackles in his two years at UAB, including 119 in 2011. Bender’s 9.92 tack les per game were good enough for 24th in the nation. UAB is looking for a resu rgence u nder t he of fensiveminded McGee and has the weapons to give USC a run for its money.

PREVIEWS ● B22

2012 Football Preview

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

B22

Week 4: MISSOURI (8-5, 5-4 BIG 12 IN 2011) PREVIEWS ● Continued from B21

Courtesy of MCT Campus

Missouri returns its top receiver from last season, senior T.J. Moe.

Head Coach: Gary Pinkel (85-51 in 11 years at Missouri, 158-91-3 in 21 seasons overall) The Tigers are entering their ﬁ rst season of SEC play, joining Texas A&M as the other Big 12 school to figuratively move east. Missouri is expected to compete right away as they return one of the top quarterbacks i n t he cou nt r y i n ju n ior Ja me s Franklin . In 2011, the dual-threat quarterback rushed for 981 yards and 15 touchdowns while passing for 2,865 more yards and 21 touchdowns. In addition, Franklin completed 63 percent of his passes and threw just 11 interceptions in 13 games. Pinkel is entering his 12th season as coach of PREVIEWS ● B23

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2012 Football Preview

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

PREVIEWS ● Continued from B22 the Tigers and his team is returning a lot of talent from the Independence Bowl-winning team from last year. Junior running back Henry Josey is back after a sophomore campaign where he rushed for 1,168 yards and nine touchdowns while averaging a whopping 8.1 yards per carry. Also,

the top four receivers from a year ago ret u r n for t he Tigers, w it h senior T.J. Moe as the top returnee, with 54 catches 649 yards and four touchdowns in 2011. Not only is the offense stacked, but Missouri’s top ﬁve tacklers and top two sack leaders from last season are back in uniform.

Week 5: @KENTUCKY (5-7, 2-6 SEC IN 2011) Head Coach: Joker Phillips (11-

14 in two seasons at Kentucky and overall) A year af ter ear n i ng a bowl appearance, Phillips’s team took a step back with a 5-7 campaign in 2011. The downfall of the 2011 Wildcat team was inconsistency at the quarterback position. Sophomore Maxwell Smith has been named the starter for 2012 after a freshman season that saw him complete 55 percent of his passes for 819 yards and four touchdowns and four interceptions in eight games

played. Smith is looking to improve on last year and will have a little help as the top two receivers, La’Rod King and Matt Roark, return . King was one of the SEC leaders with seven touchdown catches to go along with 40 receptions and 598 yards , and is the most dynamic returning player for the Wildcats. The defense lost its top three tacklers from a year ago, including All-SEC linebacker Danny Trevat ha n , who had 143 . Sen ior

PREVIEWS ● B24

2012 Football Preview

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

PREVIEWS ● Continued from B24 linebacker Ronnie Sneed returns, however, after compiling 71 tackles and picking off two passes in 2011. A little more pressure will be placed

B24

on Phillips as he is expected to ﬁnally carr y the Wildcats over the .500 mark . With relative inexperience at

PREVIEWS ● B25

Courtesy of MCT Campus

UK coach Joker Phillips is on the hot seat this season after a poor 2011.

2012 Football Preview PREVIEWS ● Continued from B24 the quarterback position, Phillips will likely rely on the running game more this year, with sophomore back Josh Clemons returning after compiling 279 yards and two touchdowns last year. The Wildcats hope to better

OPPONENT PREVIEWS against the Gamecocks this year, as last year t hey were blow n out in Columbia, 54-3, in quarterback Connor Shaw’s coming out party.

Week 6: GEORGIA (10-4, 7-1 SEC IN 2011) Head Coach: Mark Richt (106-38

in 11 seasons at Georgia and overall) After a 0-2 start last season (losses to Boise State and South Carolina), Bu l ldog fa ns were ca l l i ng for Richt’s departure; however, UGA proceeded to win 10 games in a row en route to an SEC Eastern Division championship. After the strong ﬁnish to 2011, expectations are once again sky-high for the Bulldogs, reflected by their N o. 6 rank ing in the A P preseason poll . However, spirit s were dampened a bit when highly

touted returning running back Isaiah Crowell was k icked of f t he team earlier in the summer. Despite that, UGA does return a sure 2013 National Football Leag ue f irst-rounder in junior quarterback Aaron Murray. Murray passed for 3,149 yards with 35 touchdowns and just 14 interceptions while completing 59 percent of his passes last year. He will get his toptwo wide receiver prospects back in senior Tavarres King (705 yards, eight touchdowns in 2011) and sophomore Malcolm Mitchell (665 yards, four

Courtesy of MCT Campus

After an 0-2 start last season, coach Mark Richt led UGA to an SEC East title.

touchdowns). While Murray did lose tight end Orson Charles to the NFL, the Tampa native is talented enough to do without him. On defense, the Bulldogs return safety Bacarri Rambo, who had eight interceptions last fall, and outside linebacker Jarvis

B25

Jones, who had an impressive 13.5 sacks last season . The game will likely be the most important one of the season for the Gamecocks as the two teams are favorites in the SEC East.

Week 7: LSU (13-1, 8-0 SEC IN 2011) Head Coach: Les Miles (75-18 in seven seasons at LSU, 103-39 in 11 seasons overall) A f ter look ing like one of t he best teams in the history of college football t h rough 13 games last year, the Tigers were beaten by conference rival Alabama 21-0 in the BCS National Championship game to end the season on a sour note . The Tigers have had an interesting offseason starting with the dismissal of Heisman f inalist cornerback Tyrann Mathieu, who had 76 tackles, two interceptions and two defensive touchdowns last year while also being a force on special teams. LSU did

receive some good news when former Penn State quarterback Rob Bolden announced his transfer to the Tigers. The move was great for LSU as both Jarret Lee and Jordan Jefferson, who ﬂ ip-ﬂopped at quarterback last year, are gone . Bolden and junior Zach Mettenberger are expected to compete for the starting job. The Tigers lost star receiver Reuben Randle to the NFL, taking out a big chunk of receiving yards, touchdowns and receptions. LSU does return its top tackler and sack leader from a year ago in senior safety Eric Reid

PREVIEWS ● B26

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2012 Football Preview

OPPONENT PREVIEWS PREVIEWS ● Cont. from B25 (76 tackles, two interceptions) and junior defensive end Sam

Montgomery (49 tackles, 13.5 for loss, nine sacks) .

Week 8: @FLORIDA (7-6, 3-5 SEC IN 2011)

Courtesy of MCT Campus

Louisiana State head coach Les Miles led the team to a No. 2 ranking last season.

Head Coach: Will Muschamp (7-6 in one year at Florida and overall) In Muschamp’s first year as head coach, the Gators went t hrough a lack luster season that UF fans are not used to seeing. Florida averaged just 25.5 points per game in 2011, a low for its standards, and its leading receiver was running back Ch r is R a i ney w it h 381 yards . Both Rainey and speedster Jeffery Demps are gone, leaving the Gators with a depleted backfield. Senior Mike Gillislee is the leading returning rusher with 328 yards

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and two touchdowns last season. Meanwhile, tight end Jordan Reed is the leading returning receiver with 307 yards and two touchdowns last season . At the quarterback position, sophomores Jeff Driskel and Jacoby Brissett are still in a tight competition for the starting spot . Whoever comes out on top will need to improve on the 13 passing touchdowns in 13 games last year if the Gators hope to have more checks in the win column. UF does return quite a bit of talent on defense,

PREVIEWS ● B27

Carolina 2012 home schedule Sept. 8: East Carolina Sept. 15: University of Alabama Sept. 22: University of Missouri Oct. 6: Georgia Oct. 27: Tennessee Nov. 10: Arkansas Nov. 17: Wofford

tailgate tips: Stay Hydrated. If Consuming alcohol, count your drinks and know your limits. Make sure you eat a full meal. Have a designated driver if you or your friends decide to drink. Don't mix alcohol and other drugs. Cheer on the gamecocks in Williams-Brice Stadium!!

2012 Football Preview PREVIEWS ● Continued from B26 with senior linebacker Jon Bostic back after a 94-tackle, three-sack season last year. In addition, junior linebacker

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

B27

Jelani Jenkins returns after racking up 75 tackles in 2011.

Week 9: @TENNESSEE (5-7, 1-7 SEC IN 2011) Head Coach: Derek Dooley

(12-13 in two seasons at Tennessee and overall) After a successful ﬁ rst season as the Volunteers’ coach, Dooley’s team took a step back last season, winning just one SEC game. Injuries played a huge role in the decline as UT lost both its top receiver and quarterback in a matter of weeks. Overall, the Volunteer team is extremely young, h av i n g pl aye d 47 f re s h me n i n Dooley’s two years on campus. In a game against Memphis, seven true freshmen started . The good news for the Vols is that those freshmen have now grown up and will play important roles on the 2012 team.

On the most recent depth chart for UT, 16 upperclassmen are slated to start . Quarterback Tyler Bray is one of the top junior signal callers in the nation. Before suffering an injury in the eighth week of 2011, Bray led the SEC in total offense. The Califor n ia nat ive ret u r ned against Vanderbilt and f in ished 2011 with 1983 yards to go with 17 touchdowns and six interceptions in seven games. Junior receiver Justin Hunter also returns from a thirdweek injury that sidelined him for the rest of the 2011 season. Through those three games, Hunter had 314 receiving yards ; however, junior

PREVIEWS ● B28

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Courtesy of MCT Campus

Junior linebacker Jelani Jenkins returns after tallying 75 tackles in 2011.

2012 Football Preview

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

PREVIEWS ● Continued from B27 wideout Da’Rick Rogers , who had 1,0 4 0 yards receiv i ng a nd n i ne touchdowns last year, is suspended indef initely to start t he season . On defense, the Vols do lose the services of defensive back Austin

B28

Johnson, who had 81 tackles and four interceptions last season. They return sophomore linebacker A.J. Johnson, who notched 80 tackles a season ago.

PREVIEWS ● B29

Courtesy of MCT Campus

Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray missed the second half of last season.

B29

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

2012 Football Preview

Week 10: BYE Week 11: ARKANSAS (11-2, 6-2 SEC IN 2011) PREVIEWS ● Continued from B28 Head Coach: John L. Smith (ﬁrst season as Arkansas head coach, 132-86 career record in 19 seasons) The Razorbacks have had a rather interesting offseason. Former head coach Bobby Petrino, who led the Hogs to a Sugar Bowl in 2010 and a Cotton Bowl victory last season, was ﬁ red after an extramarital affair was exposed. While that puts a damper on the 2012 Razorback season, the Hogs still return a lot of talent. Senior quarterback Tyler Wilson returns after a huge junior season where he passed for 3,638 yards, 24 touchdowns and just six interceptions in 13 games. In addition, Wilson completed 63 percent of his passes in 2011. Junior running back Knile Davis also returns

Courtesy of MCT Campus

Tyler Wilson is Arkansas’ quarterback. after missing all of last season with a knee injury. In 2010, Davis rushed

PREVIEWS ● B30

2012 Football Preview

B30

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

PREVIEWS â&#x2014;? Continued from B29 for 1,322 yards and 12 touchdowns and averaged six yards a carry. Arkansas does lose its top two receivers from a year ago. While losing their top two tacklers from 2011, the Hogs do return senior linebacker Alonzo Highsmith, who had

80 total tackles, 12.5 for loss and 4.5 sacks last year. There is no telling how the departure of Petrino will affect the team, but the good news is that Smith has plent y of coaching experience. The Razorbacks have dominated the Gamecocks of late, winning three straight in the series.

Week 12: WOFFORD (8-4, 6-2 SEC IN 2011) Head Coach: Mike Ayers

(162-111-1 in 24 years at Wofford and overall) Ayers leads a team that, since 2002, has had the second-highest winning percentage in the FCS, behind perennial national power Appalachian State. The last time the Terriers visited Columbia, in 2008, the Gamecocks just squeaked by, 23-13. The Terriers ran a successful triple-option attack that produced 365 rushing yards and 32 points per game last year. Senior fullback Eric Breitenstein returns after rushing for 1,474 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2011. Over the last two years, the

5-foot-11-inch , 230-pound bruiser has accounted for 41 touchdowns. Junior half back Donovan Johnson also returns after a 967-yard, nine-touchdown season in 2011. The Terriers do return little experience at the quarterback position with junior Brian Kass, the most experienced player after seeing action in six games last year. Three freshmen and one sophomore make up the rest of the signal callers. On defense, Wofford returns junior linebacker Alvin Scioneaux, who terrorized defenses last season for 85 total tackles, 17 for loss and 8.5 sacks in 12 games.

PREVIEWS â&#x2014;? B31

B31

OPPONENT PREVIEWS

Week 13:

2012 Football Preview

@CLEMSON (10-4, 6-2 ACC IN 2011)

WELCOMES YOU TO THE

PREVIEWS ● Continued from B30 Head Coach: Dabo Swinney (29-19 in four years at Clemson and overall) The Tigers got off to an 8-0 start last season before losing four of their final six games, including a 70-33 loss to West Virginia in the Orange Bowl to cap off the season. Clemson returns virtually all of its firepower from a team that averaged 441 total yards and 34 points a game last season. Junior quarterback Tajh Boyd burst onto the scene last year, throwing for 3,828 yards to go along with 33 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 14 games. Boyd gets two of his favorite receiving targets back, including AllAmerican Sammy Watkins, who had 82 catches for 1,219 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, and DeAndre Hopkins (72 catches, 978 yards, five touchdowns in 2011). Senior running back Andre Ellington is also back after rushing for 1,178 yards and 11 touchdowns despite

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Clemson coach Dabo Swinney’s Tigers return the bulk of the starters. missing a game to injury. On defense, the tackles leader from last season, safety Rashard Hall, is back after amassing 89 tackles in 2011; however, the Tigers do lose the services of Andre Branch and have a very inexperienced offensive and defensive line. Comments on this story? Visit dailygamecock.com/sports

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B32

2012 Football Preview

COVER STORY COVER ● Continued from B4

balance — because I want it to be big,” Pastides said. “The freshmen who are here this year are excited about that ﬁrst home football game. I don’t want it not to be big. “My point is, don’t you ever compromise the wellbeing of one person, whether it’s a student, a visitor to campus or certainly not a child because of your wanting to protect something about the athletics program.” Pastides said the desire to protect a football team at any cost stems in part from a culture where sport is the “tail that wags the dog.” After some selfdescribed “soul searching,” he said he doesn’t think USC has that culture. Though the Penn State scandal was horrific, Pastides said lessons can be taken from it. He called it a “shot across the bow” — a warning to universities across the nation to install the necessary changes to prevent something similar from happening there. Though Penn State caused college football to pause in that regard, the sport moved forward in another, with the approval of a four-team playoff to take affect in 2014 to determine a national champion.

The current Bowl Championship Series uses a voting system that pits the top two teams against each other. While discussion about a playoff has been going on for years, Pastides said hesitation abounded especially in the Southeastern Conference, the home of the last six national champions. Ultimately, Pastides, as a fan, understood why sports fans wanted to see a system similar to college basketball’s, where a champion isn’t crowned by seemingly arbitrary voting. “There was always t hat year when t he big championship game wouldn’t satisfy me that the two very best teams were in it,” Pastides said. “It was always, always one of the very best teams, but the other one, I might have felt wasn’t in that game.” With change, criticism of change naturally follows. Is a four-team playoff enough, or should the change have been more drastic? “Well, if I were calling the shots, I would have eight teams going to play,” said USC head football coach Steve Spurrier at SEC Media Days. Pastides has his reservations, though. “There are a lot of people saying, ‘If it could just be eight teams,’” Pastides said. “I’m concerned about adding games. I’m concerned about playing football deep into the basketball season. I’m concerned about student distraction.”

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Along with the coming playoff, this season will mark the ﬁ rst season the SEC has had 14 teams, as Missouri and Texas A&M join. From a player’s perspective, senior defensive lineman Devin Taylor said he doesn’t pay very much attention to changes around the sport. “You just kind of focus on what we have to do ahead of time right now, as far as preparing for Vanderbilt and everything and getting that rolling,” Taylor said. As for changes on his own team, Taylor always hears the question about how the Gamecocks will replace former All-American defensive lineman Melvin Ingram. Offensively, the receiving corps has new look without wide receiver Alshon Jeffery. Change is inevitable for the sport and for the Gamecocks, though some things stay the same. Fans and opponents alike have come to expect classic Spurrier quips about Georgia or how USC’s schedule is unfairly challenging. Does Pastides still get a laugh out of Spurrier’s one-liners? “I do,” he said. “We understand each other, and I understand where he’s coming from.” Comments on this story? Visit dailygamecock.com/sports

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B34

2012 Football Preview

SEASON PREDICTIONS

Isabelle Khurshudyan

Paulina Berkovich

Sports Editor

Assistant Sports Editor

National Championship: Southern Cal 24, LSU 17

National Championship: LSU 34, Michigan State 20

SEC Championship: LSU over Georgia

SEC Championship: LSU over South Carolina

Heisman: Southern Cal quarterback Matt Barkley

Coach of the Year: Southern Cal coach Lane Kiﬃn

Coach of the Year: Ohio State coach Urban Meyer

South Carolina record: 11-2

South Carolina record: 11-3

Surprise BCS Bowl team: NC State

Surprise BCS Bowl team: Georgia Tech

Kyle Heck Staff Writer National Championship: Southern Cal 24, Florida State 17

SEC Championship: South Carolina over LSU Heisman: Southern Cal quarterback Matt Barkley Coach of the Year: Southern Cal coach Lane Kiﬃn South Carolina record: 12-2 Surprise BCS Bowl team: Missouri

Be sure to check out our weekly football Blitz special sections this semester!

The first will preview the season opener against Vanderbilt and will run on the day of the game â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Thursday, Aug. 30. The following Blitz sections will print on Fridays before each game.

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P R E S E N T S

RogerEbert’s 14th Annual

FilmFestival 2012

April 25-29, 2012 The Virginia Theatre 203 W. Park, Champaign www.ebertfest.com Illustration by Kagan Mcleod

Special Support Provided by Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance and Steak ‘n Shake

This year’s festival is dedicated to

Paul Cox

“

You will understand me when you see me dance.

”

Schedule of Events Film Screenings Wednesday, April 25, 2012 7:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. 10:15 p.m.

Joe Versus the Volcano The Truth About Beauty and Blogs Phunny Business: A Black Comedy

Thursday, April 26, 2012 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 10:30 p.m.

Big Fan Kinyarwanda Terri Kind Hearts and Coronets Hosted by Patton Oswalt NOTE: This screening is at Foellinger Auditorium and is free and open to the public.

Friday, April 27, 2012 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m.

On Borrowed Time Wild and Weird with the Alloy Orchestra A Separation

Saturday, April 28, 2012 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m.

Higher Ground Patang Take Shelter

Panel Discussions Illini Union 1401 Green Street, Urbana, IL Free and open to the public

Thursday, April 26, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. The Personal and Political in Film Moderated by Nate Kohn Pine Lounge, 1st Floor 10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Far Flung Correspondents: What’s New Around the World? Moderated by Omer Mozaffar Pine Lounge, 1st Floor

Friday, April 27, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Underrepresented Cinematic Voices Moderated by Eric Pierson Pine Lounge, 1st Floor 10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. ON DEMAND: Movies Without Theaters Moderated by Jim Emerson Pine Lounge, 1st Floor

Sunday, April 29, 2012 12 noon

Citizen Kane

Post-Festival Screening Sunday, April 29, 2012 4:30 p.m.

Antwone Fisher

The Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance is pleased to announce that they will have a special showing of “Antwone Fisher” immediately following the close of Ebertfest (April 29). The AntiStigma Alliance is a community collaboration which works to address and challenge the negative impact of stigma. This screening will be at the Virginia Theatre at 4:30 p.m. and is free to the public.

Live On-air Interview Wednesday, April 25, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Jim Turpin’s (WDWS-AM 1400)Ebertfest Interview

Workshop Saturday, April 28, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Shooting Your Short Film Presented by Don Tingle General Lounge, 2nd Floor

Special Presentation Saturday, April 28, 2012 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. The Tree of Life: Making Movies Using Scientific Data Moderated by Donna Cox and Robert Patterson Pine Lounge, 1st Floor

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14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Contents Welcome from Roger Ebert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Welcome from the University of Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Welcome from the Festival Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Movie Reviews wednesday, apRil 25, 2012 Joe Versus the Volcano (7:00 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 The Truth About Beauty and Blogs (10:00 p .m .) 40 Phunny Business: A Black Comedy (10:15 p .m .) . . 40

Virginia Theatre Renovates Wurlitzer Organ . . . . . . . 13 ThuRsday, apRil 26, 2012 Complete Schedule of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Big Fan (1:00 p .m .)

Important Information about the Festival . . . . . . . . 17

Kinyarwanda (4:00 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terri (8:30 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Kind Hearts and Coronets (10:30 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . 50

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44 46

Dining Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Roger Ebert – Casting a Lens on C-U . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Festival Guests

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Festival Sponsors

23-34

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A Look Back at Last Year’s Festival

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79-81

Special Thanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

FRiday, apRil 27, 2012 On Borrowed Time (1:00 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Wild and Weird accompanied by the alloy orchestra (4:00 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 A Separation (8:30 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 saTuRday, apRil 28, 2012 Higher Ground (1:00 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Patang (4:00 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Take Shelter (8:30 p .m .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Parking Information and Area Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Festival Dedication – Paul Cox

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sunday, apRil 29, 2012 Citizen Kane (12 noon) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

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Welcome

to the 14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival This year's festival is dedicated to Paul Cox

From Roger Ebert

omething nice happened to us while we were preparing the schedule for Ebertfest 2012, which plays April 25-29 at the Virginia Theater in Champaign-Urbana, Ill. We’d invited Patton Oswalt to attend with his “Big Fan.” He agreed and went one additional step: “I’d like to personally choose a film to show to the students, and discuss it.” That sounded to me like a splendid idea, embodying the spirit of this festival, which combines the love of good films with volunteerism. This is a rare festival where no business takes place. No films are bought or sold. No deals are signed. It’s simplicity itself: We join in a classic 1920 palace, 1,600 of us, and watch a film as it should be seen, on a vast screen with perfect sound. Then we talk about them afterwards. The festival and the theater come to us through the work of countless volunteers from the University and the community of Champaign-Urbana. On a more mundane level, the considerable cost of the festival isn’t met by ticket sales, and is offset by our generous sponsors, who you’ll see thanked on the screen before every screening. Oswalt’s choice to show and discuss is a natural for him: Robert Hamer’s “Kind Hearts and Coronets” (1949), starring Alec Guinness – who plays eight different members of the same family, men and women, ranging in age over six decades. Sir Alec’s other roles in a long career included Hitler and Obi-Wan Kenobi. The movie will be shown free and open to the public at 10:30 p.m. April

26 in Foellinger Auditorium (a new day and time made necessary because of a change in the shooting schedule of Oswalt’s new film). Patton Oswalt himself suggests the same versatility; think of the gulf between his characters in “Big Fan” and 2011’s “Young Adult.” In seeing “Big Fan” I was struck by how deeply he penetrated to the heart of the character, sidestepping obvious openings for easy comedy and asking himself what many of us must have wondered: Who are those people who seem to live on sports talk radio, as allknowing experts on firstname terms with the host? “Big Fan” illustrates something I believe: The more specific a performance is, the more universal it can become. The film plays at 1 p.m. April 26. Now I’d like to discuss the rest of our selections in the order they will appear. As always, they were selected by me, in consultation with the festival director, Nate Kohn. My wife Chaz, who will reprise her popular role as emcee, also had major input. “Joe Versus the Volcano” (1990) will play at 7:00 p.m. April 25, as our opening night film. No film has almost played in Ebertfest more often than this one. Nate may be able to confirm that it’s been shortlisted in at least ten of the past years. Something always came along to crowd it out. Because it was often rumored to be a selection, people started to badger me about when they’d finally be able to see it, and we

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

determined that this would be the year. As you will see, John Patrick Shanley’s film is so visionary and epic in conception that it really requires a big screen like the Virginia’s to make its ideal impact. I can’t wait to see again that early scene of dark skies lowering over its factory – a vast block of ugli-

ness set down in the middle of a field of mud. Tom Hanks stars as the worker who hates his job so much he welcomes a death sentence from his doctor. In the spirit of Alec Guinness, Meg Ryan plays three different roles in the film: As Joe’s secretary, and both daughters of Granamore (Lloyd Bridges), who wants to hire Joe to be a human sacrifice. As I wrote in my review: “I had

not seen this movie before. Most movies, I have seen before. Most movies, you have seen before. Most movies are constructed out of bits and pieces of other movies, like little engines built from cinematic Erector sets. But not ‘Joe Versus the Volcano’.” I continue to believe it deserves greater recognition, and cannot understand why I gave it 3.5 stars instead of four. “Joe” will be followed on opening night by a documentary and a short spotlighting the prosperous new generation of AfricanAmerican comedians. In John Davies’ “Phunny Business: A Black Comedy,” at 10:15 p.m. April 25, we learn that an amazing number of those careers were launched by a black comedy club in Chicago named All Jokes Aside. Name the successful black comedians since 1990 who didn’t begin there, and you’d be making a very short list. The film is fascinating for its memories of big names early in their careers, but also for its inside look at Raymond C. Lambert, the businessman who ran it with precise professionalism and steered it through the high seas of Chicago finance and politics. There’s an ironic lesson of some sort to be learned when the club is finally undone by its own success. And a sad old lesson when it confronts racism. Ray Lambert will be with us in person. Also John Davies, the director, who began in Chicago television an unthinkable number of years ago by producing for Gene Siskel and me. Also live! on our stage! will be the rising young African-American comedienne Kelechi Ezie, who will show her short “The Truth About Beauty and Blogs,” at 10:00 p.m. After both films screen, she and Lambert will discuss the current situation in her business, as contrasted to the All Jokes Aside scene 20 years ago. On Thursday, April 26, after “Big Fan,” we’ll show another of this year’s new discoveries, “Kinyarwanda,” at 4:00 p.m. The film was made on a tight budget and shooting schedule and uses all local actors in Rwanda, but

it could not be more effective or look more professional. Watching it made me realize that “Hotel Rwanda,” powerful as it was, gave the view from the top, and “Kinyarwanda” puts us inside the situation at ground level. Rwandans commit the murders, suffer from the murders, recover and repent. Interlocking vignettes establish a vivid group of characters. Each one adds to the mosaic. Characters from one turn up in another. Gradually a powerful outcome is arrived at. Finally Muslims and Catholics link hands to face the bloodthirsty killers. What we’re seeing is South Africa’s truth and reconciliation process at work in another situation. Among our guests will be Alrick Brown, the Jamaican writer-director; Cassandra Free-

entire world, including his troubled home life, his peers, and the solace he finds in solitude. Both Wysocki and Azazal Jacobs, the director, will be with us in person. “On Borrowed Time,” a documentary filmed largely during the most recent two years of Paul Cox’s life, will play at 1:00 p.m. Friday. Ebertfest has had no better friend than Cox, who has visited us for the screenings of three of his films, “A Woman’s Tale,” “Innocence” and “Man of Flowers” (he holds the festival record). From the day in 1983 I saw “Man of Flowers” at the Chicago International Film Festival, I’ve considered Paul one of the most principled, sensitive and gifted of directors, and his warmth will be known to the many who’ve met him here. Paul very nearly died in 2009.

It’s simplicity itself: We join in a classic 1920 palace, 1,600 of us, and watch a film as it should be seen, on a vast screen with perfect sound. man, who plays Lieutenant Rose, and other members of the production team. “Terri,” at 8:30 p.m. April 26, contains two immediately convincing performances, by Jacob Wysocki as an overweight and bullied 15-year-old, and John C. Reilly as an assistant principal. It’s easy to imagine that Reilly might also have been bullied in school. The film shows how their relationship deepens and develops, and enlists our sympathy for a fat kid who wears pajamas to school “because they fit.” At a time when bullying is being much discussed, the film could not be more timely. But it isn’t a simple message movie; it’s a subtle and warm-hearted exercise in empathy. Wysocki, a rising young star, also stars in “Fat Kid Rules the World,” which just won an Audience Award at SXSW. What I admire about this film is how observantly it creates his character’s

His life was saved by a liver transplant on Christmas Day of that year, which came at the last moment after a heartbreaking series of delays. David Bradbury had already started making this documentary when Paul received his terrifying diagnosis, and continued to film as Paul confronted the prospect of death. Cox is considered one of Australia’s national treasures, and we see here how his vision and spirituality helped sustain him through the crisis. Paul will be joined on stage by Nate Kohn, who has become his close friend. This year’s Ebertfest is dedicated to Paul Cox. The Alloy Orchestra returns to Ebertfest for the 12th time this year. Known globally for their original compositions which accompany silent films, they’re based in Cambridge, Mass. Devoted lovers of silent films, they’ve made many converts; festivalgoers have told me they began

to explore cinema’s first 30 years after being introduced to silent films by the Alloy. On their travels, they usually showcase feature-length films. But especially in the early years, a great many films were shorts. They’ve compiled a special program sampling those riches, and call it “Wild and Weird,” playing at 4:00 p.m. Friday. We will be joined in the orchestra pit and onstage by the Alloy’s members, Roger Miller, Ken Winokur and Terry Donahue. This screening is sponsored by Steak ‘n Shake. “A Separation,” at 8:30 p.m. Friday, scarcely needs my introduction after winning this year’s Academy Award for best foreign film. But it was scheduled for Ebertfest 2012 long before that happy day, and Nate and I had it on our schedule soon after I saw it at the Toronto festival in September 2011. It was my choice for the best film of last year. This is an extraordinary film, taking on an intractable moral dilemma and considering it in such observant terms that we learn an enormous amount about the Iranian society and its people. Given the constraints on filmmakers in Iran, where the director Jafar Panahi is now in prison, “A Separation” is an impressive feat for its director Asghar Farhadi, who focuses on the personal stories involved and leaves it to the audience to determine right and wrong. “I like to put a question mark around the issues I’m concerned about,” Farhadi told me in an interview. “This is a way of inviting the viewer to critique, without my views getting in the way. I prefer to add numerous question marks to every issue. I think a cinema that asks questions is preferable to a cinema that is stylistically critical.” Farhadi has told us he hopes to attend the screening. Remember the astonishing visuals in Terrence Malick’s “The Tree of Life”that evoked the Big Bang and the evolution of life? Those were created in Urbana by by the Advanced Visualization Lab and the eDream Institute at continued on next page

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Welcome from Roger Ebert continued from previous page the National Center for Supercomputing Applications, which specialize in scientific visualizations for movies and large-screen productions. How were they done? There’ll be a demonstration of NCSA’s techniques from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday in the Pine Lounge of the Illini Union, with moderators Donna Cox and Robert Patterson. “Higher Ground,” at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, is a triumph for Vera Farmiga, who directed and stars in it. It shows us a woman whose need for religion, and her relationship to it, changes over the years. We see her as a child, as a young woman of about 20, and again around 40. It is especially perceptive in showing the way that belief, for her, is founded to begin with on personal relationships with fellow believers and her church, and later deepens and is challenged by her accumulating life experience. Like “Terri” and “A Separation,” this is a film about issues which avoids a message. It doesn’t tell us what to believe, nor does it judge what the heroine believes. It stands aside from a set interpretation of right and wrong, and shows us the character Corinne in context, as she tries to make the right decisions for herself. The screenwriter, Carolyn S. Briggs, will appear in person. “Patang,” at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, was an entry in the 2011 Chicago Film Festival, when I first viewed it. I immediately thought of it for Ebertfest. I was struck by the skill of its director, Prashant Bhargava, in introducing a large number of characters and organically showing us how they interacted, particularly within a family. The movie has interlocking stories that are clear enough, but it doesn’t follow a rigid narrative map. It reminds me more of Robert Altman’s gift for plunging into the middle of a community of characters and giving them freedom. What a delight it was to learn more about the filmmaker. Bhar-

gava was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, went to grade school and the Kenwood Academy. About 25 years ago, his father, Vijay Bhargava, started taking my film class in the University of Chicago’s Fine Arts Program. He was one of my favorite students; we sat next to each other in the back row, munching on oatmeal cookies (I munched, anyway). He and his family made many trips home to relatives in India, and from what he observed there, Prashant was inspired with the idea of this film. He told me: “Dad spent over 25 years working in the administration of Michael Reese Hospital. After 20 years of attending your class and supporting my career as a director and designer, he has taken up acting! He has taken over 25 classes at Chicago’s Act One Studios.” Prashant, his father, and many actors and crew members will attend the screening. “Take Shelter,” playing at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, is the second Ebertfest film directed by Jeff Nichols and starring Michael Shannon. “Shotgun Stories” played here in 2008. This film struck me immediately as featuring one of the best performances of the year, and the failure of the Academy to nominate Shannon is an indication of the fairly narrow range of films it considers. It seems clear to me that Shannon and Nichols must have worked closely together to create the tension in this film between reality and paranoia. Curtis, the family man played by Shannon, seems disturbed in ways we can’t quite put our finger on. Yet the events that terrify him seem real enough. Again this year the nation is being punished by one horrible tornado after another, and if a father takes dramatic steps to try to protect his family, isn’t that justifiable? The film does a masterful job of creating its family (Jessica Chastain is effortlessly convincing as the wife), and Nichols has a sure touch for small town life.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Michael Shannon in a scene from “Take Shelter.”

Scenes like the pancake breakfast are filled with small visual details that will be familiar to anyone who has ever attended one. And consider the scene when the wife tells her husband it is time for them to go outside again. The acting, the direction and the camera strategy are uncanny. This screening is sponsored by the Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance. Michael Shannon, Jeff Nichols and Sony Pictures Classics co-president Michael Barker will be present in person. “Citizen Kane” plays at noon on Sunday. It is often voted the greatest film ever made, but I imagine everyone in the theater will have seen it before. So why show it? Two reasons: (1) More than most films, it benefits from additional viewings. And (2) several years ago, when I could still speak and all of my troubles were in the future, I recorded a commentary track for the Warner Bros. DVD. It was named by Variety’s Video Premiere edition as the best commentary track of the year. It occurred to me that playing the commentary track might be a way to sneak my speaking voice back into Ebertfest. In the early years of the festival, one of my great joys was to participate in the onstage discussions after each film. These days I love the sessions led by our guest moderators. But indulge me and allow my voice to be heard one more time in the Virginia. Using the scene-by-scene

technique, I’ve often gone through “Kane” and other films with an audience. The ground rules are simple: We show the film. When anyone in the room sees something they want to discuss, they call out “Stop!” and we freeze the frame and discuss it, sometimes nudging the film forward or back one frame at a time. In the early days, we did this on 16mm. Then laserdiscs. Then DVDs. Now we have the new Blu-ray 70th anniversary edition. I make no claims to be a distinguished expert on “Kane,” but when you look at a film with thousands of eyes joining you, it’s likely that sooner or later you’ll have discussed just about everything discussable. Over the years, I did this process many times with my film class in the University of Chicago Fine Arts Program, and at the Conference on World Affairs at the University of Colorado at Boulder. I also did it at the Canadian Center for Advanced Film Study, the Smithsonian Institute, the American Film Institute, the Virginia Festival of American Film, the Philadelphia Film Festival, the Hawaii Film Festival, the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and the Savannah Film Festival. Savannah 2004 was the last time I did it. That year one of the students at the Savannah College of Art and Design observed something not pointed out in any of my sessions in the previous 30 years. I want you to watch for it. Wait for the scene where young

Charlie Kane’s parents sign the document making Mr. Thatcher his legal guardian. In the background, through the window, you can see the boy playing in the snow with his sled. The adults stand up and walk into the back of the shot to watch him through the window. Now I will quote from the article I wrote from Savannah: The scene ends as the three adults walk back towards the window. “Stop! The chair moved!” somebody shouted. “Just as the camera tracks past the chair on the lower right,” the voice said, “the chair moves out of the way.” We reversed the film and looked at it again. The voice in the dark was correct. The chair movement isn’t even subtle. An unseen hand clearly yanks the chair away from the path of the camera. But because our attention is naturally on the moving actors and not on an obscure chair in the corner, we miss it. We miss it so completely that in my 30 years of “Kane” shotby-shots nobody had ever spotted it. Until now. “Thank you for the chair,” I told the audience, quite sincerely.

Our sponsors and volunteers make the festival possible. Many sponsors have been with us all 14 years; some are with us for the first time this year. Chaz has been my right hand in the planning of Ebertfest 2012. Nobody will ever know how hard Nate Kohn and Mary Susan Britt and her staff work on the festival. Nate, an Urbana native now professor at the University of Georgia and administrator of the Peabody Awards, helps me choose the films. He obtains the prints and permissions. He and Mary Susan work with our guardian angel, Mary Frances Fagan of American Airlines, to arrange transportation here. Mary Frances is another C-U native, so you can see we haven’t forgotten our roots. Steven Bentz and his cheerful staff at the Virginia Theater put out the welcome mat. The Champaign Park District and the

Champaign Police Department are always helpful. Local volunteers act as drivers and guides for our guests. Betsy Hendrick throws her now-legendary Saturday night party. Where would we be without our fabled projectionists James Bond and Steve Kraus, with the help of Travis Bird, who bring their own digital projectors to complement the theater’s vintage 35/70mm projectors? A shoutout to our good friend Bertha Mitchell, who serves her famous downstate barbeque from the tent in front of the theater. Try it! You’ll like it! The Illini Union plays host for most of our guests in the heart of the campus. Our sponsors and volunteers make the festival possible.

Many sponsors have been with us all 14 years; some are with us for the first time this year. Volunteers serve in many ways, including serving as drivers and guides for festival guests. Our festival couldn’t happen without our dedicated sponsors and volunteers. We thank them for their loyalty and continuing support. The festival is a production of the College of Media of the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, whose dean, Jan Slater, has been generous in her support and encouragement. Leone Advertising is our invaluable webmaster at ebertfest.com; Carlton Bruett is responsible for the posters and the look of the festival; The Daily Illini, my other alma mater, produces this splendid program. A special thank you to our leading sponsors the Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance and Steak ‘n Shake. And very special thanks to University President-designate Robert Easter and his wife Cheryl, and Chancellor Phyllis Wise, for their generous support.

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Greetings

from the University of Illinois

Festival represents the preservation of art and higher culture Dear Ebertfest Fan,

his will be my first Ebertfest since becoming Chancellor. Yet, because of its loyal fan following, I feel as if I already know how this signature event magically transforms our campus and our community into what I am going to boldly call Sundance Midwest. Am I overstating the significance of a five-day feast of films, lectures, appearances and spirited conversations among film buffs? I don’t think so. Almost from the day I arrived I have heard of the lasting and positive impact our

alumnus Roger Ebert has made on our incredible arts scene here in Champaign-Urbana. He is truly amazing. I am thrilled that you are supporting Ebertfest and supporting the arts. The intersection of the arts and higher education is so vital for the health of a university community. Art museums, film and music festivals, and performing arts centers on university campuses have the responsibility of being on the cutting edge of discovery, just like scientific research must be. In our ever expanding world, our push to globalize, the arts have the potential to be the

glue that allows cross cultural exchanges. To whatever extent the arts are ignored or starved, will mean that our ability to enhance cross cultural exchange will be less than optimal. Art and higher education preserve our culture. They preserve our civilization by creating critical thinkers. They challenge us. They preserve beauty. They create spaces of contemplation and reflection. In the words of poet James Oppenheim they give us bread and roses. Thank you for being here. See you at the Virginia Theatre!

Phyllis Wise Chancellor, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

College of Media thanks Ebert, organizers, fans for appreciation Welcome to Ebertfest!

he College of Media at the University of Illinois is proud to be your host for Ebertfest. We appreciate your support and delight in your enthusiasm for what the next few days bring to ChampaignUrbana. Ebertfest is a very special time in our community. It’s a time that we welcome movie lovers from around the world who will make Champaign-Urbana their home for a week. It’s a time when we roll out the red carpet for the industry guests who come to share their experiences making these films. It’s a time that the University of Illinois and Champaign-Urbana come

together to welcome home our native son and alumnus who takes great care in choosing the films we need to see. The College of Media is proud to be your host for Ebertfest and our pride is only intensified by the 14 years of its success and its far-reaching effects. We are so grateful to Roger and Chaz for their loyalty and support. While the name Roger Ebert is known by many, we are so fortunate to know the man. Thank you for keeping us near to your heart, and sharing your love of the movies and moving making with all of us. Your homecoming every April is an event like no other. We all owe a debt of gratitude to Mary Susan Britt and Dr. Nate Kohn who organize and

direct this festival. It requires logistics that would humble ordinary humans. And they work tirelessly and graciously to make this event the best each year. Many thanks to our sponsors who return each year to make Ebertfest possible. And to our own community volunteers and students – your support means the world to us. Finally, thanks to all of you – the movie lovers. Your love of the art of storytelling and filmmaking keeps us looking towards the future. Thank you for your support and for joining us for this annual tribute to great movies and to a great movie critic.

Jan Slater Interim Dean, College of Media

Enjoy the show!

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

Join us!

from the Festival Director

Ebertfest remains true to original celebration of great movies

t is a great privilege to welcome you to the fourteenth annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival, a special event of the University of Illinois’ College of Media in partnership with the greater Champaign-Urbana community and lovers of movies everywhere. Our festival has changed little over the years, remaining true to Roger’s original vision: the celebration and shared enjoyment of great movies, as they were meant to be seen by those who made them. Ebertfest is all about the films. We give no prizes, have no categories, and no business is done at our festival. That’s how we conceived the festival and that’s how it still is today. In 1997, when Roger hosted a screening of “2001: A Space Odyssey” at the Virginia Theatre as part of the University’s birthday party for HAL the computer, we got to talking about what makes a successful film festival. We agreed that movies are best seen on a really large screen. And watching a movie is not something to be done alone – it is a communal activity, bringing

Nate Kohn Festival Director

together friends and strangers in a mutual emotional adventure. When we sit in the darkened Virginia, both alone and together, we enter another world, transported for a couple of hours from our everyday lives into the wondrous dreamscapes of shared imagination. That is what this festival is all about – about sharing, and community, and Roger Ebert, and the love of great movies. Together at this festival, we are seeing – and by seeing, we are celebrating – movies that Roger considers worthy of our full attention, films that reveal and reflect the wonder of the human condition. We are honored to bring these movies to you, to share Roger’s choices with you. And we are seeing them as the women and men who made them intended them to be seen – with state-of-the-art projection and sound on a screen the full width of the Virginia Theatre. For that, we thank our cinema designer James Bond, projectionist Steve Kraus, and all the people at the Virginia Theatre and the Champaign Park District. We also thank Michael Barker of Sony Pictures Classics, DuArt Film and Video, Reid Brody – Filmworkers, First Independent Pictures, Visigoth Pictures, ATO Pictures, David Bradbury, Khushi Films, and Marilee Womack of Warner Brothers for graciously providing us with their very best 35mm and digital prints. I also want to thank all of our sponsors, volunteers, festival pass holders and individual ticket holders for their welcome participation in this endeavor. We look forward to their unwavering support, and yours, as our festival

We are celebrating ... movies that Roger considers worthy of our full attention, films that reveal and reflect the wonder of the human condition. continues to blossom each year in the Central Illinois spring. A particular thanks goes out to our Film Circle Sponsors: Roger & Chaz Ebert, Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance, American Airlines & American Eagle, Steak ‘n Shake, and Betsy Hendrick; and to our Diamond Sponsors: Leone Advertising, Shatterglass Studios, L.A. Gourmet Catering, Fandor and The News-Gazette. Among those, we extend a hearty welcome to our newcomers, Steak ‘n Shake and Fandor. Roger has to be Steak ‘n Shake’s biggest booster. In the early years of the festival, Roger, Chaz, Dusty, Joan, and other guests would invariably end up at Steak ‘n Shake after the last show on Thursday night and carouse there until the wee hours. In the past few years, our Far Flung Correspondents always include Steak ‘n Shake as a part of their tour of festival landmarks. And of course Mary Susan and I have been known to frequent the South Neil Street branch on more than one occasion during the festival. We look forward to a long and fulfilling association with Steak ‘n Shake. And Fandor is fast becoming the place on line to watch the best in independent films. During the festival they will be recording our panel and after-film discussions and making them available

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

on fandor.com. Watch for their team and welcome them to the festival. One of our most dedicated sponsors, the Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance, in addition to sponsoring our showing of “Take Shelter,” is this year sponsoring a free post-festival screening of “Antwone Fisher.” Please plan to attend at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, in the Virginia Theatre right after “Citizen Kane,” the concluding film of this year’s festival. We thank the AntiStigma Alliance for realizing the power of film to change minds and attitudes, for supporting our festival, and for all the good they do year after year in Champaign County. Finally, I want to recognize Associate Festival Director Mary Susan Britt, Dean Jan Slater, and President-designate and Mrs. Robert Easter and Chancellor Phyllis Wise, without whose hard work and enthusiastic support this festival would not be possible. This festival is Roger Ebert’s gift to his hometown, and for that we thank him and his wife Chaz. They are a remarkable team, and it is an honor to work with them. So as the lights dim and the curtains open, please sit back and let the festival once again embrace you.

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Richard T. Jameson, editor, Film Comment (1990-2000)

Now Playing at a Bookstore Near You

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

A star of the silents gets a brand new look By Jill Disis, Daily Illini Staff Writer

ne of the Virginia Theatre's oldest residents is back — and it's return has been music to patrons' ears. The Wurlitzer pipe organ, a staple since its installation and opening on December 28, 1921, spent a year away from the theatre to undergo renovations. But on March 31, patrons were treated to the organ's rededication ceremony that also celebrated the theatre's 90th anniversary. Steven Bentz, the director of the theatre, called the renovation “a lot of excitement.” “You can really feel it in your bones when all the stops are out and it's really playing at full volume,” he said. “That's in large part due to the improvements that were made during the renovation. … (It was) totally disassembled and then patiently and lovingly put back together.” The venture started, appropriately, out of love. Jill Knappenberger made a large donation to the theatre's owner, the Champaign Park District, specifically to renovate the theatre's historical pipe organ. It was made to honor the memory of her late husband, Gaillard — a music lover and musician. The donation helped kick start the renovation process. Bentz said the organ started life as the music accompaniment for the silent movies the theatre used to play. The instrument was meant to replace an entire group of musicians when a company could not afford to have an entire pit orchestra in a theatre. But even then, Bentz said the sound quality was not as versatile as what has been accomplished by

the renovation. “Thanks to the recent improvements … it is now a full concert organ,” he said. “It can play a full concert program at the kind of volume that is required.” One of the most noticeable things about the new look is actually a throwback to its original design — the fine, dark mahogany finish. Brian Davis of John-Paul Buzard Pipe Organ Builders in Champaign, who worked on the renovation process, said the finish resembles the exact original look the organ had back in 1921. It's a bit different than the white paint finish that patrons might be used to. “Originally, it was a dark stained mahogany and that was a standard for the Wurlitzer Company,” Davis said. “At some point somebody repainted it … added some gold and details and fanciness to the model. There is a model like that at Radio City Music Hall — one of the few that everyone knows about. They painted it white like Radio City Music Hall and made it stand out like that. We wanted to go for an original finish.” Davis said other renovation work performed included polishing and fixing the organ's pipes, many of which had been smashed or damaged, and rebuilding the counsel and keyboard. They also used electronics to replace many of the wires connecting the counsel to the basement, where the instrument's wind and regulation system begins. “We stuck through to the original design on that but tried to simplify some of the

You can really feel it in your bones when all the stops are out and it's really playing at full volume. - Steven Bentz -

An organist plays the Virginia Theatre's renovated pipe organ on April 6, 2012. The organ received a new finish and new pipes among other changes during the past year. Photo by Joseph Lee, The Daily Illini

Electronics replace some of the old wiring of the instrument, but much of the organ — especially the main counsel from the keyboards to the pipes to the petals — play like the instrument did before. Photo by Joseph Lee, The Daily Illini

(components).” he said. “It's kind of the mix of the best of both worlds.” Bentz said the company included some other new components, including a “full fanfare of special sounds” ranging from drums to horns and even a glockenspiel. “The thing that is so delightful about the restoration of this instrument is to see and feel the power that has been brought out with this renovation,” he said. Davis called the organ's recent recital a success, saying

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

he's happy with the work accomplished. “That made all of the hard work and — literally — sweat and blood worth it, to get people really excited and laugh their heads off at the first recital.” The organ isn't the only part of the theatre with a new look. Bentz said the theatre itself will “go dark” in May for a renovation of the auditorium. It will reopen in March or April of 2013. In the meantime, some of the theatre's special programming over the summer and fall will take place outdoors.

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Schedule

of events for Roger Ebert’s Film Festival Presented by the College of Media April 25-29, 2012 FILM SCREENINGS Wednesday, April 25, 2012 7:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. 10:15 p.m.

Joe Versus the Volcano The Truth About Beauty and Blogs Phunny Business: A Black Comedy

Thursday, April 26, 2012 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 10:30 p.m.

Big Fan Kinyarwanda Terri Kind Hearts and Coronets Hosted by Patton Oswalt NOTE: This screening is at Foellinger Auditorium University of Illinois campus Free and open to the public

Friday, April 27, 2012 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m.

On Borrowed Time Wild and Weird with the Alloy Orchestra A Separation

Saturday, April 28, 2012 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m.

Higher Ground Patang Take Shelter

Sunday, April 29, 2012 12 noon

Citizen Kane

All films except "Kind Hearts and Coronets" will be shown at the Historic Virginia Theatre, 203 W. Park Ave., Champaign, IL. Roger and festival guests will appear on stage after each film to join the audience in discussions about the films. Festival passes ($135), individual tickets ($13) and student & senior citizen tickets ($11) are on sale at the Virginia Theatre box office, at 217-356-9063.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

SPECIAL POST-FESTIVAL SCREENING Sunday, April 29, 2012 4:30 p.m.

Antwone Fisher Free and open to the public

The Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance is pleased to announce that they will have a special showing of "Antwone Fisher" immediately following the close of Ebertfest (April 29). The Anti-Stigma Alliance is a community collaboration which works to address and challenge the negative impact of stigma. This screening will be at the Virginia Theatre at 4:30 p.m. and it will be free to the public.

LIVE WDWS ON-AIR INTERVIEW Please Tune In to WDWS-AM 1400! Wednesday, April 25, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Jim Turpin’s (WDWS) Ebertfest Interview

ACADEMIC PANEL DISCUSSIONS Illini Union

1401 Green Street, Urbana, IL Free and open to the public

Thursday, April 26, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.

The Personal and Political in Film Moderated by Nate Kohn Pine Lounge, 1st Floor 10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Far Flung Correspondents: What's New Around the World? Moderated by Omer Mozaffar Pine Lounge, 1st Floor

ACADEMIC PANEL DISCUSSIONS

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Friday, April 27, 2012

Free and open to the public

9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Underrepresented Cinematic Voices

9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Moderated by Eric Pierson Pine Lounge, 1st Floor 10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

ON DEMAND: Movies Without Theaters Moderated by Jim Emerson Pine Lounge, 1st Floor

WORKSHOP Free and open to the public

Saturday, April 28, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Shooting Your Short Film Presented by Don Tingle Illini Union – General Lounge, 2nd Floor You have a script, actors and locations. Now what do you do? This workshop will show you how to shoot your short film. Directing, camera work, lighting, sound… and the all important craft services. We’ll break it down and demonstrate techniques, skills and equipment. Beginning and intermediate filmmakers will benefit from this workshop. Our focus is on how to get the “big budget” look for little or no money, whether you are shooting with professional equipment or a cell phone. We’ll discuss the sequence of events that happen on set, roles and responsibilities of cast and crew, what shots to get, where to put and how to move the camera, image composition and creativity, simple lighting techniques and skills that will help you produce your movie. Filmmaking is a rapidly becoming a competitive sport with juried festivals and on-line contests. Weekend filmmakers are breaking new ground telling compelling stories with creative visuals and reaching worldwide audiences. This workshop is appropriate for all age groups. Mr. Don Tingle is the Workshop Director for the Alabama Filmmakers Co-op. Don has presented over 100 workshops on various aspects of low budget and amateur moviemaking for the North Alabama community and multiple regional film festivals. Don has served as host and moderator for panel discussions at festivals and has interviewed actors, screenwriters and filmmakers. Don created and operates a filmmaking summer day camp for kids and is programmer and host of Huntsville’s annual Rocket City Short Film Festival.

The Tree of Life: Making Movies Using Scientific Data Moderated by Donna Cox and Robert Patterson Illini Union – Pine Lounge, 1st Floor The Advanced Visualization Lab (AVL) and eDream Institute at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA), University of Illinois, develop scientific visualizations for movies and large-screen productions. Their latest works include Terrance Malick’s The Tree of Life (TTOL), nominated for 2012 Academy Awards. AVL’s astrophysical scenes for TTOL include a visualization of the first stars in the universe going supernova and a flight through the Milky Way galaxy. AVL will present their unique process making animated scientific imagery and focus on virtual camera work, cinematic treatment and the challenges of rendering science for movie entertainment. The panel will include a demonstration of NCSA’s visualizations at the Illini Union. http://avl.ncsa.uiuc.edu/ edream.illinois.edu/

DIRECTIONS TO THE ILLINI UNION: From the Virginia Theatre to the Illini Union: • Turn RIGHT (south) onto N. NEIL STREET • Turn LEFT onto E. SPRINGFIELD AVENUE • Turn RIGHT onto S. WRIGHT STREET • Turn LEFT onto W. GREEN STREET • The Illini Union will be on the right.

FOR FESTIVAL INFORMATION For more information contact: Mary Susan Britt at marsue@illinois.edu or 217-244-0552. Go to www.ebertfest.com to read our Official Festival Blog by Roger Ebert’s Far Flung Correspondents and others. All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

Information

What you need to know about the Festival

TICKET INFORMATION • A Festival Pass to all 12 screenings is $135. • Individual tickets are $13 Student and Senior Citizen tickets are $11. • Festival passes and tickets are available at the Virginia Theatre, 217-356-9063 or www.thevirginia.org. • Festival passes can be purchased online at www.ebertfest.com or www.thevirginia.org. • All the films are screened at the historic Virginia Theatre, 203 W. Park Ave., Champaign, IL.

PANEL DISCUSSIONS Panel discussions will be held at the Illini Union, 1401 W. Green St., Urbana, IL in the Pine Lounge on the 1st floor and the General Lounge on the 2nd floor. • Thursday, April 26, 2012 • Friday, April 27, 2012 • Saturday, April 28, 2012

FESTIVAL UPDATES Updated schedules and information will be posted on the festival’s website: www.ebertfest.com.

THEATRE GUIDELINES • Theatre doors will open ONE HOUR prior to the FIRST screening of the day. This applies to everyone (all passholders – VIP and Festival – and individual ticket holders). • Seating for each film will begin approximately 30 minutes before each screening time. Seating is general admission only. NOTE: Some seats will be reserved for special guests of the festival. Please respect the designated areas.

• Only festival passholders are allowed in the theatre between screenings. Please wear and have your pass visible at all times! Festival staff will be checking for them. • A festival pass guarantees seating to all 12 screenings. Shortly before each film begins, any empty seats will be sold to individual ticket holders waiting in line. Latecomers cannot be guaranteed admittance. NOTE: Passholders – please arrive 15 minutes before each screening. • Passes/tickets cannot be refunded or exchanged. • The Virginia Theatre is equipped with wheelchair-accessible restrooms and adjacent companion seating. The Virginia Theatre has five slots for wheelchair patrons. Please call the theatre 217-356-9063 before the festival begins to arrange seating. NOTE: For every patron in a wheelchair only one companion may accompany a person requiring a wheelchair spot. All other accompanying patrons will need to sit elsewhere.

FESTIVAL MERCHANDISE

TICKET POLICY

During the festival, you’ll find great merchandise in the east lobby of the Virginia Theatre.

SOLD OUT FILMS If you want to see a film that is sold out, go to the Virginia Theatre Box Office 30 minutes before the screening time and wait in the rush ticket line. Shortly before the film begins, any empty seats will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. NOTE: At every festival since 2002, all patrons waiting in line for tickets for sold out films were able to get in.

The number of festival passes sold is limited to 1000. An additional 500 seats are reserved for individual ticket holders and sponsors. We want to make sure that everyone who wants to attend the festival — be it for one film or all of them — can be accommodated.

NO RECORDING, PLEASE ... Copyright law strictly prohibits the use of any type of unauthorized video or sound recording equipment (including cell phones).

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live on the Internet at

www.ebertfest.com

• Assisted listening devices are available upon request at the Virginia Theatre. A single earpiece bud, ear speaker, or neck loop may be used by a patron to help enhance their enjoyment of the performance. Devices may be obtained at the box office before the show, and a personal credit card or driver’s license will be held by the theatre staff until the device is returned at the completion of the performance. For specific questions about the assisted listening devices, please call the box office at 217-356-9063. • No outside food or drink in the Virginia Theatre • Smoking is prohibited in the Virginia Theatre.

www.ebertfest.com

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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Dining tips

Festival restaurant sponsors

f it's mid-afternoon and you’re hungry or if it's late night and

you need a quick bite to eat … Champaign-Urbana has dining options for everyone. We greatly appreciate our generous restaurant sponsors and encourage you to join us in patronizing them, not only during the festival but throughout the

Cowboy Monkey

Guido's

http://www.cowboy-monkey.com Cowboy Monkey is more than just a watering hole! We have some of the best food in town including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, fish tacos, and many other gourmet dishes. Full lunch menu and beer garden open. Open 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.

Upscale sports bar. Newly remodeled bar and grill in downtown Champaign. Pool tables and dart boards. Open daily 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m. Food served until 12:00 midnight on weekdays and 1:00 a.m. on weekends.

6 Taylor Street, Champaign, IL (217) 398-2688

year. They are our subjective favorites among the many great restaurants in the ChampaignUrbana area. For a more complete list, check out the Champaign/

Garcia's Pizza In A Pan 313 N. Mattis Avenue Champaign, IL 61821 (217) 352-1212

Urbana Dining Guide: visitchampaigncounty.org

Boltini Lounge http://www.boltinilounge.com Boltini has quickly become de rigueur for downtown folks. Intimate seating and a beautiful interior soothe you as you peruse the best-chosen list of liquor in town. Light fare includes small plates, cheese plates, salad and soup, flat breads, tacos, sandwiches and desserts. Outside seating. Open 4:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. daily. 211 N. Neil Street, Champaign, IL (217) 378-8001

Great Impasta http://www.greatimpasta restaurant.com Downtown Urbana’s favorite pasta restaurant with over 50 variations of pasta made fresh daily. Excellent wine selection, fresh seafood specials, and a relaxing atmosphere. Free parking. Monday thru Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 156 Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL (217) 359-7377

2 E. Main Street, Champaign, IL (217) 359-3148

Jupiter’s Pizzeria & Billiards http://www.jupiterspizza.com/ Located in downtown Champaign, Jupiter’s offers the perfect formula for a good time: beer, pizza and billiards! Our pizza was voted, “Best Pizza in ChampaignUrbana” in 2001. We offer traditional thin crust pizza as well as gourmet specialty pizzas for the more adventurous. Enjoy our fine selection of domestic, imported and microbrewer beers. Open daily until 2:00 a.m.

all day long. But don’t forget to check out our specialty entrees available at night. We also have an amazing array of liquors, beers, and wines to complement your meal. Open 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m. daily. 32 E. Chester St, Champaign, IL (217) 351-7775

Soma Ultra Lounge http://www.somaultralounge.com Exclusive Ultra Lounge. Open 8:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Available for parties Sunday through Tuesday evenings. 320 N. Neil St., Champaign, IL (217) 359-7662

Steak 'n Shake Three locations in Champaign-Urbana

39 Main Street, Champaign, IL (217) 398-5988

1709 S. Neil Street Champaign, IL (217) 352-5001

Seven Saints

2010 North Prospect Avenue Champaign, IL (217) 398-1606

If you are looking for the complete experience, you’ll find it here. Conveniently located on University just east of Walnut Street, Seven Saints offers a great selection of salads, unique sliders, soups, and gourmet sandwiches

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

2009 North Kenyon Road Urbana, IL (217) 344-3855

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Casting a lens on Champaign-Urbana By Joe Ward, Daily Illini Staff Writer

oger Ebert wrote in his review of “The Tree of Life” that the film reminded him of childhood in Urbana “where life flows in and out through open windows.” “About a town that somehow, in memory, is always seen with a wide-angle lens.” That wide-angle lens is sure to be cast on Urbana once more with Ebert’s 14th annual film festival, a weekend of culture that contributes more to the romantic portrayal of life in Urbana that Ebert so frequently evokes. Beyond shout-outs in high profile movie reviews, Ebert has done more for ChampaignUrbana than perhaps any other University alumnus. His contributions to the University, the city’s culture, and even The Daily Illini are invaluable, according to sources who’ve benefitted from Ebert’s generosity.

A young Roger Ebert during his college years.

Ebert and wife Chaz donated $1 million for the creation of a film studies center that will be named after the Pulitzer prize winner. Also, Ebert is planning to gift the University library system footage from his syndicated television show and has said he will donate more materials to the library in the coming years. Angharad Valdivia, department head of Media and Cinema Studies, said the creation of the Roger Ebert Center for Film Studies would have a tremendous impact on the University. “It won’t compete with a NYU or UCLA, but it would be very great to have such a program here at Illinois,” she said. Media and Cinema Studies majors benefit greatly from the local film festival, Valdivia said, because of the possibility of interaction with people on the production side of film. “He gets national figures, amazing people, to come to Champaign-Urbana, where you can actually interact with them,” she said. “Unlike (Los Angeles) you can get engagement that is close to oneon-one.” The film festival puts Champaign-Urbana on the cultural map for the weekend, but it has many other tangible effects, too. According to Terri Reifsteck of the Champaign County Convention and Visitors

He gets national figures, amazing people, to come to Champaign-Urbana, where you can actually interact with them. Unlike (Los Angeles) you can get engagement that is close to one-on-one. - Angharad Valdivia -

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Roger Ebert donated $1 million for the creation of a film studies center at the University that will be named after him. Ebert has donated footage from his syndicated television show to the University. He also says he will donate more materials to the University library system in the coming years.

Bureau, the festival is a boom to business in the downtown area, particularly to establishments close to the Virginia Theatre. She said people from out of town stay in area hotels for multiple nights and frequent local restaurants and bars during their stay. Ebert’s time with and subsequent support for The Daily Illini has been well recorded. He interjected when the company debated changing the paper’s name due to it’s Native American

connotations and recently helped spearhead a funding initiative for the nonprofit Illini Media company. But perhaps even more impressive is the body of work he left for discovery by any DI staffer who decides to casually browse the paper’s archives library. A former editor-inchief, Ebert covered events as far flung as apartheid in South Africa (which he documented in a beautifully written multipart series following a student

That was Roger in a nutshell: He was a sponge soaking up every new experience offered by life as he ventured outside what had been a fairly narrow background growing up in Central Illinois. - Karen Petitte trip) and as personal as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, where his weighty, contemplative prose would console the most grief-stricken student of the day. Wrote Ebert’s former editor Karen Petitte in a commemorative publication celebrating Illini Media’s 100 years: “That was Roger in a

nutshell: He was a sponge soaking up every new experience offered by life as he ventured outside what had been a fairly narrow background growing up in Central Illinois.” A narrow background viewed through a wide-angle lens, maybe “The Tree of Life” director Terrence Malick should buy the rights to that movie.

Karen Petitte, the editor-in-chief of The Daily Illini during Roger Ebert's tenure. Here she poses during her school years with a copy of the DI. Petitte says Roger was like a "sponge" soaking up information.

JOIN US AT The Great Impasta IN URBANA

Avoid the Crowds 156 LINCOLN SQUARE • URBANA, IL • (217) 359-7377

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Roger and Chaz, CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR

ON BORROWED TIME | Ebertfest 2012

14th festival!

OPENING NIGHT | Ebertfest 2011

Welcome l. u a P , k c ba

t the n e s e r p e r You soul d n a t r a e h st. of Ebertfe

BetsyHouse

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A WOMAN’S TALE | Ebertfest 2000

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Paul Cox, filmmaker

INNOCENCE | Ebertfest 2002

MAN OF FLOWERS | Ebertfest 2007

Guests

A warm welcome to our 2012 Special Festival Guests

he following are invited special guests for the

festival. As always, their attendance is contingent on factors over which we have little control, such as unforeseen changes in their work schedule. But we hope that most, if not all, will be with us — plus additional surprise last-minute guests.

Joe Versus the Volcano (Wednesday, April 25, 7:00 p.m.) STEPHEN GOLDBLATT ((cinematographer, director of photography) was born on April 29, 1945 in Johannesburg, South Africa and moved with his family to London when he was seven. By the time he was 20, Goldblatt was already working as a professional photographer for the Times Newspaper Group, capturing memorable images that appeared on the covers and pages of many British and European newspapers and magazines. Goldblatt’s photographs ranged from the somber portrayal of Churchill’s funeral to rock stars including The Beatles and The Who. In between photographic assignments, Goldblatt attended the Guildford School of Art and the Royal College of Art Film School. Goldblatt’s early film work is represented almost exclusively by Granada’s documentary television

series, "Disappearing World." From 1975 onwards, he focused his career on cinematography, eventually working on notable films like "The Hunger," "Cotton Club," "Lethal Weapon", "Joe Versus the Volcano," "Prince of Tides," and many others. It is however, Goldblatt’s work with director Mike Nichols on "Angels in America," "Closer," and "Charlie Wilson’s War" that clearly demonstrates his closest artistic collaboration to date. His most recent films include "Julie and Julia," directed by Nora Ephron, and "The Help," directed by Tate Taylor. In the late 1990’s, during a “film sabbatical” and after many years of leaving his still cameras at home, Goldblatt began to photograph his life and surroundings again. He lives with his wife, Deborah, in Berkeley, California and has three grown children. When he’s at home, Goldblatt enjoys tending to his pond and koi fish, gardening, playing his guitar, reading every day, and attempting to master the art of husbanding.

The Truth About Beauty & Blogs (Wednesday, April 25, 10:00 p.m.) KELECHI EZIE (writer, coproducer, actress) is an actress, singer and writer from Buffalo, New York. She is a graduate of Princeton University, where she earned a degree in History and Theater, and won the Walter Phelps Hall Prize in European History for her original thesis Reading What Is There: Africans in Early Modern England. She moved to New York shortly after to pursue an acting

career, and began working in plays and musicals. Ezie wrote, co-produced and starred in "The Truth About Beauty and Blogs," which is her first screenplay. She is currently writing a series based on the film's main character Vanessa, as well as her first feature film.

Phunny Business: A Black Comedy (Wednesday, April 25, 10:15 p.m.) JOHN DAVIES (producer, writer, director) began his career as a producer on the PBS movie review series "Sneak Previews" with Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert. Moving to Los Angeles in the 90s he executive produced the Showtime documentary "It’s Black Entertainment," the Court TV documentary "Hip Hop Justice" and the ESPN documentary "Politics & The Games," a look at the political history of the Olympics. In addition, he produced numerous network comedy specials for "Comic Relief" and was Emmy nominated for producing and writing "A Comedy Salute To Andy Kaufman" for NBC. John also created and executive produced series like "Second City Presents" for the BRAVO network, "Movie Club with John Ridley" for AMC and the NBC summer comedy series "The Rerun Show." More recently he was the co-creator and executive producer of the hit MTV series "Run’s House," winner of the NAACP award for Outstanding Reality Series and executive produced its spin-off series, "Daddy’s Girls." John is currently developing a scripted series inspired by "Phunny Business: A Black Comedy," his latest documentary.

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

RAYMOND C. LAMBERT (producer, writer) has a broad-based business background working with both publicly traded and privately held companies in entertainment, investment banking, and consumer products. The creator of All Jokes Aside comedy clubs, he has served as a consultant on comedy and talent to producers at NBC, HBO, Comedy Central, and BET. He earned an Associate Producer credit for the feature film "Slow Burn" and served as a writer and producer of the documentary film "Phunny Business: A Black Comedy," which chronicles the rise and fall of All Jokes Aside. In addition to his business and creative accomplishments, Raymond devotes his charitable energies to the Chicago Public Schools iMENtor Program, the 21st Century Youth Project, and was recently selected to serve on the Gene Siskel Film Center Advisory Board. An avid runner, Raymond has completed the New York City, Chicago and Boston Marathons. Raymond earned his undergraduate degree in Marketing from Morehouse College, with honors, and his MBA in General Management from The Darden School at the University of Virginia. REID BRODY (producer) is a seasoned media and entertainment executive with an accomplished track record of success. As founder and president of Filmworkers Club, he has created and built a highly successful post-production service provider with facilities in Chicago, Dallas and Nashville. Filmworkers’ various units include a digital production studio, a motion graphics design firm, and the only motion picture film lab in the continued on next page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Mike & Michelle Wellens proudly support

2012 Ebertfest! We cordially invite you to come see Michelle sing with her band, the Gavin Stolte Project.

They Rock! July 1, 6:30pm–8:00pm Hessel Park Champaign Park District Summer Concert Series

July 11, 6:30pm–8:00pm Crystal Lake Park Urbana Park District Summer Concert Series

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REUNIONS BUSINESSES CHURCHES SCHOOLS

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14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Midwest. Brody is also co-founder and principal of 2DS Productions, an independent movie and entertainment company, which produced "Nothing Like the Holidays" for Overture Films in 2008 and currently has three movies set for production in 2012. Brody is an accomplished writer, director, songwriter and music producer as well. He resides in Chicago. ALI LEROI (comedian) is the Emmy®-winning executive producer/director of the new hit TBS series "Are We There Yet?," which begins its syndication run in June 2012. Based on the hit film of the same name, LeRoi partnered with Joe Roth of Revolutions Studios, Ice Cube, and Matt Alvarez of Cubevision to develop the show for TV. LeRoi is also the co-creator of the critically acclaimed comedy "Everybody Hates Chris," inspired by the childhood experiences of comedian Chris Rock and currently in syndication. He is a Golden Globe® nominee, a two-time NAACP Image Award winner, a WGA nominee and winner of the 2007 AFI TV Program of the Year award. Major motion picture credits include producing and co-writing "Head of State" and "Down to Earth," as well as producing cult-favorite "Pootie Tang." Although most comfortable in his positions of show-runner and director, LeRoi occasionally lends his voice or musical talents to his productions, having voiced several characters and written pieces of music for several episodes of the series and films he’s produced. LeRoi was formerly a stand-up comic, and toured extensively with his close friend Bernie Mac, before transitioning into television, where his career took off. LeRoi is currently developing a new slate of projects back at home in LA. Originally from Chicago, he has been married for 19 years and has two sons.

Big Fan (Thursday, April 26, 1:00 p.m.) ROBERT SIEGEL (director) is a New York-based screenwriter and director. His directorial debut, Big Fan, was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance 2009. The film also earned nominations for Best Picture at the 2010 Gotham Awards and the John Cassavetes Prize at the 2010 Independent Spirit Awards. Siegel is also the writer of the Darren Aronofskydirected film "The Wrestler," for which Siegel earned a Best Original Screenplay nomination at the 2009 WGA Awards. From 1996 to 2003, Siegel served as editorin-chief of the satirical newspaper The Onion, where he won the 1999 Thurber Prize For American Humor and edited the #1 New York Times bestselling book "Our Dumb Century." A native of Long Island, N.Y., he lives near Union Square with his wife and son. PATTON OSWALT (actor) won critical acclaim in Robert Siegel’s feature film "Big Fan" (2009), which made its debut at Sundance in January 2009 and was distributed by First Independent Pictures. Patton recently filmed his new Adult Swim live-action TV series "The Heart, She Holler," film "Scoutmasters" with Johnny Knoxville, and starred alongside Charlize Theron in "Young Adult," receiving a Critic’s Choice nomination for Best Supporting Actor. As a comedian, Patton has shot four TV specials and two critically acclaimed albums. In August 2009 he released his third album, as well as a Comedy Central One Hour Special "My Weakness Is Strong," which received a Grammy nomination for "Best Comedy Album." He now tours regularly, headlining both in the United States and United Kingdom. In addition, he has a bi-monthly show at the new Largo at the Coronet Theater in Los Angeles. Patton was a series regular on Showtime’s "United States of Tara," and played Spence on "The King of Queens" on CBS for nine seasons. He appeared on "The Sarah Silverman Program,"

"Flight of the Conchords," "Seinfeld," "Reaper," "Aqua Teen Hunger Force" and "Tim and Eric’s Awesome Show, Great Job!" He also recurred on SyFy’s new series "Caprica." Patton is a regular contributor to "Countdown with Keith Olbermann," "Real Time with Bill Maher" and Lewis Black’s "Root Of All Evil." Patton appeared in Steven Soderbergh’s feature film "The Informant!" and "Observe and Report" with Seth Rogen. Patton starred in "The Comedians of Comedy," which was shot as an independent feature film, a TV series and a long-running tour. Patton has also appeared in more then 20 films, including "Magnolia," "Starsky and Hutch" and "Reno 911!: Miami." Patton provided the voice for Remy, the rat, in Pixar’s Oscarwinning "Ratatouille." He also voices characters on "Word Girl" and TBS’s "Neighbors from Hell." Patton’s first published book "Spaceship Zombie Wasteland" has recently been released and was on the New York Times Best Seller List for January 2011. In May 2011, Patton filmed his newest hour special "Patton Oswalt: Finest Hour" which airs on Showtime and Comedy Central.

Kinyarwanda (Thursday, April 26, 4:00 p.m.) ALRICK BROWN (producer, director, writer) has a MFA from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. A filmmaker and teacher, he has found his calling writing, directing and producing narrative films and documentaries often focusing on social issues affecting the world at large. For over two years he served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Cote d’Ivoire. The interactions with the people of his village and his overall experiences in West Africa have informed his creative expression; an expression first fostered by his birth in Kingston, Jamaica and migration to, and upbringing in Plainfield, N.J. A fluent French speaker, he graduated from Rutgers University with a BA in English and a Masters

in Education. Since then he has devoted his energy to changing the world by giving a voice to the voiceless and telling stories that otherwise would not be told. Brown’s collective work has screened in over 40 film festivals, national and international, and received numerous awards. He and his co-producer, received the HBO Life Through Your Lens Emerging Filmmaker Award to produce their critically acclaimed documentary "Death of Two Sons." In 2004, he was one of four NYU students featured in the IFC Documentary series "Film School," produced by Academy Award-nominee Nannette Burstein. In 2007 he addressed the Motion Picture Association of America on C-SPAN. "Kinyarwanda" marks Brown’s feature film directorial debut. ISHMAEL NTIHABOSE (executive producer, writer) is a Rwandanborn filmmaker who after working on "Sometimes in April," "Shooting Dogs" and "Shake Hands with the Devil" as an assistant, decided that he was ready to step out on his own. As executive producer he brought together a team of international filmmakers to bring his first feature film, "Kinyarwanda," to life.

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DARREN DEAN (producer) came to film late in life, writing, directing and producing the award-winning short, "Sleep Over." He followed that up as co-writer and producer of "Prince of Broadway," which has won 18 prestigious awards internationally to date. Dean, also a respected journalist, is currently in preproduction as writer/producer on the big screen adaptation of Will Eisner’s "A Contract With God." TOMMY OLIVER (producer) began his filmmaking career during his junior year at Carnegie Mellon University resulting in the indie film "Sofia For Now." After college, Tommy co-founded film production company, Black Squirrel Films where he produced several award winning shorts, commercials and the feature film "Blank." He is currently in continued on next page

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April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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pre-production on the big screen adaptation of Will Eisner’s "A Contract With God." DEatRa HaRRis (co-producer) Deatra L. Harris has written, produced and directed several short films, including "Addicted" and "A Woman’s Worth," which have shown at film festivals across the United States as well as internationally. She holds a BA in MIS/Math from Bowling Green State University and is currently developing a feature length narrative and animation. CassaNDRa FREEMaN (actor) is an established star of both stage and screen. She has appeared on Broadway in "Seven Guitars" and on TV in "Guiding Light," "All My Children," "Shark" and "Numb3rs." On the big screen, Freeman came to international recognition with roles in Chris Rock’s "I Think I Love My Wife" and Spike Lee’s "Inside Man," where she starred alongside Denzel Washington. She is a graduate of both Florida State University and NYU’s prestigious acting programs. EDouaRD BaMpoRiki (actor) is an award-winning filmmaker, actor and poet. As a young Rwandan artist, he has received national and international attention for his stories of hope, unity and reconciliation. Bamporiki was born in a small village in the Western province, educated in Rwandan schools and lives in the capitol city of Kigali. His feature debut in Lee Isaac Chung’s "Munyrangabo" yielded him a Best Actor nomination in Cannes. In 2008, he wrote, directed, starred in and produced "Long Coat," which won first prize in African Film at the Focus Future Film Festival in New York. HaDiDja ZaNiNka (actor) A Burundi born Rwandese, Hadidja makes her film debut in the demanding role of Jean in KINYARWANDA. Returning to Rwanda with her family following the Genocide in late 1994, she is currently completing her studies in Travel and Tourism and aspires to take the film world by storm.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Terri (Thursday, April 26, 8:30 p.m.) aZaZEl jaCoBs, (writer, director) son of avant-garde filmmaker Ken Jacobs, was born in 1972 and raised in New York’s lower Manhattan surrounded by important and innovative artists. He went to undergraduate school at the film department of SUNY Purchase and received his Masters from the American Film Institute in 2002. During his study, he made the experimental piece "Nobody Needs To Know." Two years later he teemed up with fellow filmmaker Gerardo Naranjo to make the micro budget feature "The GoodTimesKid," which found a small, but loyal following and was released by Benten Films in 2009. Azazel’s award-winning "Momma’s Man" premiered at Sundance 2008, and quickly became one of the most lauded films of the year, winding up on many "best of" lists. It was distributed domestically by Kino International. Manohla Dargis in the NY Times declared it "independent film defined." "Terri," a coming of age comedy/ drama, premiered in competition at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival and internationally in competition at the Locarno Film Festival. It was released domestically by ATO Pictures in July of 2011. jaCoB WYsoCki (actor) landed his first professional acting job with a recurring role on the ABC Family series "Huge." He followed this up with a critically-acclaimed turn in the 2011 Sundance standout "Terri," starring in the title role opposite John C. Reilly. Jacob received a Gotham Award nomination for Breakthrough Actor for "Terri" and was highlighted by The Huffington Post as one of 2011’s Fresh Faces in Movies. Jacob will next be seen in Matthew Lillard’s directorial debut "Fat Kid Rules the World," set for its world premiere at the 2012 South by Southwest Film Festival. He most recently completed production on the

Universal Pictures comedy "Pitch Perfect," set in the world of competitive a capella, and the independent feature "Drones" directed by Rick Rosenthal. Jacob regularly performs with the ComedySportz improv troupe at the National Comedy Theater in Hollywood and is a member of the viral video sketch group Bath Boys Comedy. He can be found on the Web at bathboyscomedy. blogspot.com and on Twitter (@ Jacob Wysocki).

Kind Hearts and Coronets (Thursday, April 26, 10:30 p.m.) NOTE: This screening is at Foellinger Auditorium on the University of Illinois campus. Free and open to the public. PAtton oswAlt (actor) won critical acclaim in Robert Siegel’s feature film "Big Fan." Oswalt will host the special screening of this film at Foellinger Auditorium.

On Borrowed Time (Friday, April 27, 1:00 p.m.) PAUl CoX, (director) born in Holland and living in Australia, is an auteur of international acclaim and is one of Australia’s most prolific filmmakers with 39 features, shorts and documentaries to his name. Paul has been the recipient of numerous special tributes and retrospectives at film festivals across the world including a major retrospective at the Lincoln Centre in New York City.

Wild and Weird:

The Alloy Orchestra plays 10 fascinating and innovative films 1906-1926 (Friday, April 27, 4:00 p.m.) tHE AlloY oRCHEstRA is a three-man musical ensemble,

writing and performing live accompaniment to classic silent films. Working with an outrageous assemblage of peculiar objects, they thrash and grind soulful music from unlikely sources. Performing at prestigious film festivals and cultural centers in the US and abroad (The Telluride Film Festival, The Louvre, Lincoln Center, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the National Gallery of Art, and others), the Alloy Orchestra has helped revive some of the great masterpieces of the silent era. An unusual combination of found percussion and state-ofthe-art electronics gives the Orchestra the ability to create any sound imaginable. Utilizing their famous "rack of junk" and electronic synthesizers, the group generates beautiful music in a spectacular variety of styles. They can conjure up a simple German bar band of the 1920s or a French symphony. The group can make the audience think it is being attacked by tigers, contacted by radio signals from Mars or swept up in the Russian Revolution. Terry Donahue (junk percussion, accordion, musical saw, banjo), Roger Miller (synthesizer, precussion) and Ken Winokur (director, junk percussion and clarinet).

A Separation (Friday, April 27, 8:30 p.m.) PEYmAn moAdi (actor) was born in 1972 in New York City to Iranian parents. When he was 5, his family moved back to Iran. He’d hoped to return to New York to study film, but remained in Iran, where he graduated from the Karaj Azad University with a degree in metallurgical engineering, as his parents wished. In the late 2000s, Moadi began his career in film, known initially for his screenplays, and later as an actor, director and even costume designer. An continued on next page

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

accomplished screenwriter, his most famous dramas are "Café Setareh" (2006) and "Coma" (2004). But his true love was acting, and his debut was in Asghar Farhadi’s "Darbareye Elly" (2009), which was Iran’s submission for an Oscar in 2010. He re-teamed with Farhadi in 2011 with his highly acclaimed performance in "A Separation" ("Jodaeiye Nader az Simin"), which earned him the Best Actor award at the Berlin Film Festival and Best Actor nomination at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards. Also a stage actor and director, he was seen on stage in Tehran performing "Drought and Lie," and is currently directing "The Snow on the Pines," currently in production.

Higher Ground (Saturday, April 28, 1:00 p.m.)

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14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

CAROLYN S. BRIGGS (writer) holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Arkansas. Her 2002 memoir "This Dark World: A Memoir of Salvation Found and Lost" (BloomsburyUSA, 2002) has been reissued as "Higher Ground: A Memoir of Salvation Found and Lost" (Rowman & Littlefield, 2011). She wrote the screenplay adaptation of the film "Higher Ground" (Sony Pictures Classics, 2011). She is currently writing essays for Religion Dispatches and a screenplay adaptation of "Of Time and Memory." Briggs is an associate professor of English at Marshalltown Community College in Iowa.

Patang (The Kite) (Saturday, April 28, 4:00 p.m.) PRAShANt BhARGAvA (director) released his first feature film, "Patang" after six years in the making. His short film "Sangam" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, garnering several awards and distinctions. The film was distributed by Film Movement and Mubi and broadcast on Arte/ZDF,

The Sundance Channel and PBS. Prashant started out in the arts as a graffiti artist in his hometown of Chicago. He went on to study computer science at Cornell University and theatrical directing at The Actors Studio MFA program. For the past fifteen years, he has directed and designed commercials, music videos, title sequences and promos. JAIDEEP PUNJABI (producer) vIJAY BhARGAvA (executive producer) RANJANA BhARGAvA (associate producer) SEEMA BISWAS (actor) NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI (actor)

Take Shelter (Saturday, April 28, 8:30 p.m.) JEFF NIChOLS (director) is a writer and director born in Little Rock, Arkansas. His feature film debut, "Shotgun Stories," was nominated for a 2008 Independent Spirit Award, won the Grand Jury Prize at the Seattle International and Austin Film Festivals, and won the FIPRESCI International Jury Prize at the 2007 Viennale. Roger Ebert (Chicago Sun-Times) and David Edelstein (New York Magazine/NPR) included "Shotgun Stories" in their lists for Best Films of 2008. Nichols second feature,"Take Shelter," debuted at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival and is being released by Sony Pictures Classics. "Take Shelter" was awarded the Critic’s Week Grand Prix at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and was nominated in five categories at the 2012 Independent Spirit Awards. Nichols is currently in post-production on his third feature, "Mud," starring Matthew McConaughey and Reese Witherspoon. He is a graduate of the North Carolina School of the Arts, School of Filmmaking and now lives in Austin, Texas.

MICHAEL SHANNON (actor), Academy Award® nominee, is currently in production on season three of Martin Scorsese's HBO series, "Boardwalk Empire," co-starring Steve Buscemi and Kelly Macdonald, in which he portrays Nelson Van Alden, a dedicated senior agent with the Treasury Department who has a strong interest in controlling bootlegging. Upcoming, Shannon has David Koepp's "Premium Rush," opposite Joseph Gordon-Levitt, scheduled for an August 2012 release. Next, he will be seen in Zack Snyder's Superman reboot, "Man of Steel," opposite Henry Cavill, Amy Adams and Diane Lane (July 2013). Recently, Shannon completed Ariel Vromen's "The Iceman," the true story of mob killer Richard Kuklinski, played by Shannon, opposite Chris Evans, Winona Ryder and Ray Liotta. In 2011, Shannon starred in "Take Shelter" in which he reteamed with director Jeff Nichols. Shannon plays a working-class husband and father who questions whether his terrifying dreams of an apocalyptic storm signal something real to come or the onset of an inherited mental illness he's feared his whole life, a role which earned him a 2012 Independent Spirit Award Best Actor nomination. In his first collaboration with Nichols, Shannon starred in "Shotgun Stories." Shannon was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar® for his role as a psychologically troubled neighbor's son in Sam Mendes’ "Revolutionary Road," opposite Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet and Kathy Bates. Shannon has over 30 film credits including Liza Johnson's "Return," Marc Forster's "Machine Gun Preacher," Floria Sigismondi's "The Runaways," Werner Herzog's "My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done" and "Bad Lieutenant," Sydney Lumet's "Before the Devil Knows Your Dead," Oliver Stone's "World Trade Center," William Friedkin's "Bug," Curtis Hanson's "Lucky You," Michael Bay's "Bad Boys II," Curtis Hanson's "8 Mile," David McNally's "Kangaroo Jack," Cameron Crowe's "Vanilla Sky,"

Michael Bay's "Pearl Harbor," John Waters' "Cecil B. DeMented," Noah Buschel's "The Missing Person," and Shana Feste's "The Greatest." Shannon also maintains a strong connection to the theater. In 2010, he starred in Craig Wright's off-Broadway play, "Mistakes Were Made." Shannon’s portrayal of Felix Artifex, a small time theater producer, who gets in way over his fast-talking head when he takes on an epic about the French Revolution, earned Shannon numerous nominations including a Lortel Award for Outstanding Lead Actor, a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor, an Outer Critics Award for Outstanding Solo Performance, and a Drama League Award for Distinguished Performance, as well as a listing on Time Magazine's Top 10 Plays and Musicals. Additional theater credits include "Our Town" (Barrow Street Theater), "Lady" (Rattlestick Theater), "The Metal Children" (Vineyard Theater), "Woyzeck" (Gate Theater), "The Idiot" (Lookingglass Theater), "The Little Flower of East Orange" (Public Theater), "The Pillowman" and "Man From Nebraska" (Steppenwolf Theater), "Mr. Kolpert" and "The Killer" (Red Orchid Theater), "Bug" (Barrow Street Theater, Red Orchid Theater and Gate Theater), and "Killer Joe" (SoHo Playhouse, Next Lab Theater and Vaudeville Theater). Michael Shannon grew up in Lexington, Kentucky and began his professional stage career in Chicago, Illinois. MICHAEL BARKER (distributor) is the Co-President and Co-Founder of Sony Pictures Classics (SPC), which distributes, produces, and acquires independent films from the US and around the world. In 1992, Barker co-founded the company with Tom Bernard, and in January 2012, Sony Pictures Classics celebrated their 20th Anniversary. Over the past 25 years, Barker has worked with many of the world's finest independent filmmakers including Pedro Almodóvar, Robert Altman, Woody

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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Allen, Hector Babenco, Ingmar Bergman, Frances Coppola, David Cronenberg, Guillermo del Toro, James Ivory/Ismail Merchant, Jim Jarmusch, Norman Jewison, Neil LaBute, Ang Lee, Richard Linklater, Louise Malle, David Mamet, Errol Morris, Wim Wenders and Zhang Yimou. The recent Sony Pictures Classics slate includes Asghar Farhadi’s Academy Award® nominated film "A Separation," Roman Polanski’s "Carnage," John Michael McDonagh’s "The Guard," Jeff Nichols’ "Take Shelter," Pedro Almodovar’s "The Skin I Live In" and David Cronenberg’s "A Dangerous Method." Sony Pictures Classics also released Woody Allen’s Academy Award® nominated film "Midnight in Paris," which has made almost $60 million at the box office and is Allen’s highest grossing film in North America. Sony Pictures Classics marked their 5th collaboration with the iconic director on his upcoming film, "Nero Fiddled." Other upcoming releases include the Academy Award® nominated films Agnieska Holland’s "In Darkness" and Joseph Cedar’s "Footnote," as well as Whit Stillman’s "Damsels In Distress," Nadine Labaki’s "Where Do We Go Now?," Jonathan Demme’s "Neil Young Journeys," Tanya Wexler’s "Hysteria," Lawrence Kasdan’s "Darling Companion" and Gareth Evans’ "The Raid." At Sundance 2012, Sony Pictures Classics most recently acquired Malik Bendjelloul’s "Searching for Sugar Man" and Lee Toland Krieger’s "Celeste & Jesse Forever." Honors bestowed on Barker’s films include 27 Academy Awards® (23 of those at Sony Pictures Classics), including 10 for Best Foreign Language Film and 124 Academy Award® nominations (101 at Sony Pictures Classics), including 5 for Best Picture ("Midnight in Paris," "An Education," "Howard’s End," "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "Capote") as well as 12 Opening Night Presentations at the New York Film Festival. He has also received the Honors Award from the Directors Guild

of America, France’s Chevalier Order of Arts and Letters from the French Minister of Culture, the GLAAD Media Award, a retrospective at the George Eastman House in Rochester, New York, the Gotham Industry Lifetime Achievement Award from the IFP, and the FINDIE Spirit Award. Barker serves on the Board of Directors for the American Museum of the Moving Image, as well as on the Entertainment Media and Technology Dean’s Advisory Board at NYU’s Stern School of Business, and is a member of the Visiting Committee to the Division of the Humanities at the University of Chicago. Barker was previously the co-founder of Orion Classics (1983-1991), which released Akira Kurosawa’s Oscar®-winning film "Ran." Barker was also an executive at United Artists (19801983) where he released films by R.W. Fassbinder ("Lola," "Veronika Voss") and François Truffaut ("The Last Metro"). He has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas.

Citizen Kane (with Roger Ebert commentary track) (Sunday, April 29, 12:00 noon) DAVID BORDWELL (author, scholar) is retired from teaching at the University of WisconsinMadison. He has written several books on film aesthetics and history, and he is a particular fan of silent movies, 1940s Hollywood, and Asian filmmaking. A collection of his essays, "Poetics Of Cinema," was published in 2007. He and Kristin Thompson, who have collaborated on "Film Art: An Introduction" (10th edition, 2012), write about film regularly at www.davidbordwell. net/blog. Some of their online essays have been collected in "Minding Movies: Observations about the Art, Craft, and Business of Filmmaking" (University of Chicago Press, 2011).

2012 Panelists & Special Guests ALI ARIKAN is the chief film critic of Dipnot TV, a Turkish news portal and iPad magazine, and one of Roger’s FFCs. Ali is also a regular contributor to IndieWire’s Press Play blog, where he recently co-produced a video essay series on Steven Spielberg, and "The House Next Door," Slant Magazine’s official blog. In addition, his writing appears on various film and pop-culture sites on the blogosphere. He tweets @ aliarikan. Ali’s first encounter with the awesome power of cinema was when he saw Ray Harryhausen’s "The Clash of the Titans" at the now-defunct Akün Sineması in Kavaklıdere, Ankara, Turkey. This led to an interest in both cinema and Greek Mythology, eventually paving the way for a lifelong immersion in the arts. His eclectic and somewhat idiosyncratic cinematic interests include the films of the ‘movie brats,’ Alfred Hitchcock, Jewish comedy, film noir and biographies. Originally from Ankara, Ali has lived in Cologne, Durham and London. He currently resides in Istanbul. OLIVIA COLLETTE is a journalist based in Montreal, Canada. She has contributed to RogerEbert.com, Roger's FFCs and The Spectator Arts Blog, and is set to write a piece for an upcoming World Film Locations book. Her film essays tend to reflect an innate fascination with music, languages and mythology. Read Olivia's thoughts on all manner of pop culture at her blog "Livvy Jams." JIM EMERSON is a writer and film critic whose film experience includes screenwriting, producing, editing, exhibiting, marketing, publishing, journalism, criticism, video essays and academic study. He is the founding editor-inchief of and a contributor to RogerEbert.com, where he has a blog called "Scanners" and oversees "The Demanders." He also tweets @jeeemerson. In the mid-1990s Jim was the editor of Microsoft Cinemania, a multimedia movie encyclopedia on CD-ROM and the web, which is where he first started working

with Roger. He has contributed to old media and new. C.O. “DOC” ERICKSON, an executive producer, has over 50 years' experience as a producer and production manager on many of Hollywood's biggest films. He began his career at Paramount Pictures, serving as production manager on five Alfred Hitchcock films: "Rear Window," "To Catch A Thief," "The Trouble with Harry," "The Man Who Knew Too Much" and "Vertigo." He left Paramount to become John Huston's associate producer on "The Misfits, Freud and Reflections in a Golden Eye." He was production manager on Joseph L. Mankiewicz's "Cleopatra." He also spent three years supervising film production for Brut Productions and later became associated with Robert Evans on "Chinatown, Players," "Urban Cowboy" and "Popeye." Other producer/production credits include "55 Days at Peking," "Blade Runner," "Groundhog Day," "Fast Times at Ridgemont High," "Magic" and "The Lonely Guy." DANN GIRE, Daily Herald film critic, serves as president and founding director of the Chicago Film Critics Association. When he was a student at Eastern Illinois University in 1974, he saw The Exorcist at the Orpheum Theater in Champaign, and his life was never the same. Dann has been named a contributing critic/correspondent for "Ebert Presents." SCOTT JORDAN HARRIS is an English film critic and sportswriter. He is online arts editor of "The Spectator;" editor of the books "World Film Locations: New York" and "World Film Locations: New Orleans;" and senior editor of "The Big Picture" magazine. He is one of Roger’s Far-Flung Correspondents and has written for the BBC, "Fangoria" and "The Guardian." He is covering Ebertfest 2012 for "Sight & Sound," "The Spectator" and BBC radio’s "The Film Programme." ODIE HENDERSON, a globetrotting computer programmer by trade and movie lover by hobby, has contributed to Slant Magazines’s "The House Next Door" blog since 2006. Additionally, his work has

Film is philosophy brought to life.

Have a great festival Bill Schroeder

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

appeared at "Movies Without Pity" (2008) and numerous other sites. He currently runs the blog "Tales of OdieNary Madness" and is the troublemaker behind the "Black History Mumf" series at the "Big Media Vandalism" blog. WAEL KHAIRY is an Egyptian national film critic writing for a number of local publications. He has written several reviews and essays for two World Film Locations books published in the UK. His revolution-related tweets were published in the bestseller, Tweets from Tahrir. Wael is also one of Roger’s FFCs and also writes ads for BBDO, the most awarded multinational advertising agency in the world. Besides his website "The Cinephile Fix" and the Chicago Sun-Times blog, Wael also writes regularly for "The Spectator’s" Arts Blog. Wael graduated from the American University in Cairo with a major in Communications of Media Art and minors in both Accounting and in Film, which he completed at UCLA. KEVIN B. LEE is a film critic, video essayist and film distributor. He contributes to "The Demanders" column on RogerEbert.com. He is editor of the IndieWire Press Play video blog, and a contributor to Fandor's Keyframe blog. He is also VP of Programming and Education at dGenerate Films, which specializes in distributing Chinese independent films. CHRISTY LEMIRE, co-host of "Ebert Presents At the Movies," is the film critic for The Associated Press, based in LA. She also cohosts the YouTube show "What the Flick?!" She has been writing reviews for the AP for 12 years and in 2004 was named the first full-time film critic in the news organization's history. Christy filled in for Roger several times on "At the Movies" in 2007 and has appeared on "The Charlie Rose Show," "Good Morning America" and "The View," to name a few. She also covers the Oscars®, Golden Globes® and many other awards shows each year. A third-generation LA native, Christy is a member of the LA Film Critics Association and the Broadcast Film Critics Association.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

JEFFREY LERNER is an awardwinning producer/writer of numerous highly acclaimed special features, new media, 3D and interactive content found on DVD/Blu-ray disc and digital download releases of feature films and TV programs from the major studios. Highlights include "American Horror Story" (Season 1), "Horrible Bosses," "Sex and the City 2," "Glee" (Seasons 1-3), "Due Date," "The Hangover," "Cedar Rapids," "Harry Potter (1-5)," "Batman Begins," "Good Night and Good Luck," "Nip/Tuck," "ER," "Citizen Kane," "Casablanca" and "The Right Stuff." Jeffrey is currently a vice president of the Producers Guild of America and serves as chairman of the Producers Guild's AP Council. He was awarded the Video Premiere Awards' Best Audio Commentary for the "Citizen Kane" audio commentary he produced and that will be heard at the festival. Jeffrey currently works with Blue Collar Productions in Los Angeles (www.bluecollar.com). He is also a graduate of The University of Michigan and holds an MFA from The Florida State University's College of Motion Picture Arts. NELL MINOW reviews movies and DVDs each week for Beliefnet. com and radio stations across the country as "The Movie Mom." Her Movie Mom blog includes interviews, features, giveaways, and commentary on media, culture, and values. Nell’s book, "The Movie Mom's Guide to Family Movies," includes more than 500 classic films with suggested questions for family discussion. Her writing about film has appeared in the Chicago SunTimes, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, and Parents, Parenting, and Child Magazine, and she has been profiled in the Ladies' Home Journal, Washington Post and The New Yorker. JANA MONJI, made in San Diego, lost in Japan several times, has written about theater and movies for the LA Weekly, LA Times, and currently, Examiner.com and the Pasadena Weekly. Now living in LA, she has found her inner Latina dancing Argentine tango. This year, she celebrates her second short story publication in the Asian American Literary Review.

OMER MOZAFFAR is a part-time instructor at various colleges throughout the Chicago area, including the University of Chicago and Loyola University. He usually lectures on Theology, Mysticism, History and Literature. He works extensively in children's curriculum development. He is one of Roger's FFCs. He is a nice boy. MICHAL OLéSZCZYK is a film critic, translator and festival programmer based in Kraków, Poland. He earned his PhD in film studies with a dissertation on Pauline Kael's film criticism. He regularly contributes to many Polish outlets, and has been an occasional contributor to "Fandor" and "Slant" Magazine. He published the first Polish book on the films of Terence Davies, as well as a translation of J. Hoberman and Jonathan Rosenbaum's Midnight Movies. His blog is "Last Seat on the Right." ERIC PIERSON is a film and TV teacher and scholar, with a strong interest in the ways that film and TV shape popular culture. He teaches in the Communication Studies Department at the University of San Diego, where he also serves as department chair. Eric has written on a variety of topics that range from film distribution in the 1970s to hate group recruiting via the Internet. Among the journals in which his work has appeared are "Screening Noir" and "The Journal of Mass Media Ethics." His most recent work, "The Promise of Roots," will appear in "Watching While Black: Centering the Television of Black America," scheduled for publication in January. Eric can also be seen in the documentary, "Infiltrating Hollywood: The Rise and Fall of the Spook Who Sat By The Door." Eric is a UI graduate with degrees in Theater and Communications. DAVID POLAND is the creator and publisher of moviecitynews. com, host of the half-hour online interview series DP/30, and he still finds time to stir it up daily on The Hot Blog. STEVE PROKOPY is the Chicago editor for Ain't It Cool News, where he has contributed film

reviews and interviews under the alias "Capone" since 1998. He is also a frequent guest on Chicago Public Radio's Filmspotting movie review show. Steve received a BA in journalism from Northwestern University in 1990. KRISHNA SHENOI is an 18-year old Indian boy who has been obsessed with movies for as long as he can remember. He's a lover of Steven Spielberg, Ray Harryhausen, movie soundtracks, superhero films, The Eels, and his mother's food. His passion for film viewing and film making began early on. When he was seven or eight, he used to make home movies with an old Sony camcorder, building blocks, clay models, or whatever he could find, employing very rough stop-motion animation techniques. Today, he still creates short films, paintings and digital art, all of which you can see on his website, Artistic Scrapyard. He is extremely proud to be Roger's youngest FFC and will be coming to Illinois from Bangalore along with his mother for his second Ebertfest. GERARDO VALERO is Roger’s FFC from Mexico City, where he lives with his wife Monica. He’s been following Roger since the mid-1980s, collecting his "Movie Yearbooks" since 1989 and contributing entries to his "Little Movie Glossary" for the past eleven years. Since 2009 Gerardo has been writing essays for RogerEbert.com, and for the last year has been writing a daily blog on Mexico’s Cine-Premiere Magazine His favorite films are Steven Spielberg’s "Jaws" (1975) and Francis Coppola’s "The Godfather I / II," their ranking depending on which one of them he’s seen more recently. PABLO VILLAÇA, a film critic since 1994, has written for many Brazilian movie magazines. In 2002, he became the first LatinAmerican critic to be part of the Online Film Critics Society and is still its only Brazilian member, being elected its first non-English speaking Governing Committee member in 2011. He published columns in English on websites such as Hollywood Elsewhere and

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Who cares about April showers when we have Ebertfest? Spring is so special in C-U now!

Thank you, Roger and Chaz! Ann Beddini and Barbara Hulseberg

is an eventual collaborator of the acclaimed site Movie City News. In 2001, he won a theater award for adapting an old children's fairytale for the stage and in 2005 he published his first book, "O Cinema Além das Montanhas" ("Cinema Beyond the Mountains"), a biography of film director Helvécio Ratton. He’s currently working on two books: the first collection of his film criticism and a behind-the-scenes look on the production of a major Brazilian film. He is also currently the film critic of Cinema em Cena, the oldest Brazilian movie website (which he created back in 1997). He also teaches Film Theory, Film Language and Film Criticism courses all over Brazil, having taught more than 1,000 students since 2009. In 2007, he was the only non-US film critic to be invited by the Museum of the Moving Image and the New York Times to participate in a weeklong seminar on Film Criticism. In 2008, he directed his first short film "Ethics" and in 2009, he acted by special invitation as temporary director of the International Film Institute, which operated from LA. In 2011, he

wrote and directed his second short film, "Blind Death," which will start being exhibited in 2012. GRACE WANG is a writer, producer, and one of Roger Ebert’s Far Flung Correspondents. She is a contributing author to various publications including The Spectators Arts Blog, the books "World Film Locations: New York and World Film Locations: BeiJing," and has worked as a Programming Associate and Social Media Coordinator for the Toronto International Film Festival and Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival. Grace is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese and muses at Etheriel Musings and @etherielmusings. In her spare time she practices as a lawyer, daydreams on public transport, and has a weakness for red shoes and good people. Grace has lived and worked in eight countries on three continents. She currently resides in Toronto, Canada. Go to www.ebertfest.com to read our Official Festival Blog by Roger Ebert’s Far Flung Correspondents and others.

Crystallography— Defining the Shape of Our Modern World An Exhibition at the Rare Book & Manuscript Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 30 April—7 July 2012

Curated by Gregory Girolami & Vera Mainz

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Ontologize! Play Stradjectives™, an interactive visualization of audience impressions. Visit s4e.2wav.com with your mobile browser.

In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the discovery of X-ray diffraction, this exhibition displays twenty key texts from over 500 years in the history of crystallography.

www.library.illinois.edu/rbx Uncover & Discover

visually striking, data-centric custom software development for web, mobile, embedded & cloud

The Rare Book & Manuscript Library 1408 W. Gregory Dr., Room 346 Urbana, IL 61801 Open M-F 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

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American Airlines and American Eagle® proudly salute Roger Ebert and the University of Illinois College of Media for hosting the 14th Annual Ebert Film Festival.

Service provided by American Eagle. AmericanAirlines and American Eagle are marks of American Airlines, Inc. oneworld is a mark of the oneworld Alliance, LLC. © 2012 American Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved.

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3/19/12 10:48 AM

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JOB #: A0452 TITLE: SALUTE AD UPDATE – WORLD PRINT PRODUCER: NORITA JONES PROJECT MANAGER: DOUG JACKSON ART DIRECTOR: BERNARD PARK

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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Date: 3/19/12

Joe Versus the Volcano 36

Shanley’s bizarre world far from average “Joe” By Roger Ebert

radually during the opening scenes of "Joe Versus the Volcano," my heart began to quicken, until finally I realized a wondrous thing: I had not seen this movie before. Most movies, I have seen before. Most movies, you have seen before. Most movies are constructed out of bits and pieces of other movies, like little engines built from cinematic Erector Sets. But not "Joe Versus the Volcano." It is not an entirely successful movie, but it is new and fresh and not shy of taking chances. And the dialogue in it is actually worth listening to, because it is written with wit and romance. The movie announces its individuality in its opening shot, which is of a loathsome factory — a vast block of ugliness set down in the middle of a field of mud. Into this factory every morning trudge the broken spirits and unhealthy bodies of its employees, among them the ashen-faced Joe (Tom Hanks), who has felt sick for years and believes that the buzzing fluorescent tubes above his desk may be driving him mad. The factory is a triumph of production design (by Bo Welch, who also designed "Beetlejuice"). It is a reminder that most movies these days are rigidly realistic in their settings, as if a law had been passed against flights

Stephen Goldblatt, "Joe Versus the Volcano" director of photography, is one of this year's Festival guests.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

"Joe Versus the Volcano" movie poster

of fancy like this factory that squats obscenely in the center of the screen. The entire movie breaks that law and allows fantasy back into the movies again. Like "Metropolis," "The Wizard of Oz," "Ghostbusters" or "Batman," this movie isn't content to photograph the existing world — it goes to the trouble of creating its own. In the factory, Joe hunches in his little corner, quailing at the attacks of his boorish boss (Dan Hedaya) and hardly daring a peek at the office secretary

(Meg Ryan), whose huge typewriter seems ready to crush her. He hates his job. Hates, hates, hates it. He barely has the strength to crawl out to a doctor's appointment, where he learns that a Brain Cloud is spreading between the hemispheres of his brain. He will feel terrific for four or five months, and then he will die. The death sentence is a liberation. Joe quits his job, and is almost immediately offered another one. A man named

Like "Metropolis,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “Ghostbusters” or “Batman,” this movie isn’t content to photograph the existing world – it goes to the trouble of creating its own.

WEDNESDAY 7:00pm

“Joe Versus the Volcano” achieves a kind of magnificent goofiness. Hanks and Ryan are the right actors to inhabit it, because you can never catch them going for a gag that isn't there. Graynamore (Lloyd Bridges) owns an island that is rich in a rare mineral. The island is inhabited by natives who must be placated. They need a human sacrifice for their volcano. Since Joe is going to die anyway, Graynamore reasons, why shouldn't he go out in style by leaping into the volcano? Sounds good to Joe. And meanwhile the movie has been developing into a duet between whimsy and romance. The writerdirector, John Patrick Shanley, is the same man who wrote Norman Jewison's wonderful "Moonstruck" and the astonishingly bad "The January Man." Now he is back on the track again. The best thing about his direction is his own dialogue. The characters in this movie speak as if they would like to say things that had not been said before, in words that had never been used in quite the same way. En route to the island, Joe meets one of Graynamore's daughters and then the other. Both are played by Ryan, who has three different kinds of fun with her three characters: grungy, waspish and delectable. They set sail for the South Seas. Everything leads to the moment when they stand on the lip of the fiery volcano, wondering whether they should risk fate by jumping in. Only in this movie could jumping into a volcano be considered risking fate, rather than certain death. "Joe Versus the Volcano" achieves a kind of magnificent goofiness. Hanks and Ryan are

the right actors to inhabit it, because you can never catch them going for a gag that isn't there: They inhabit the logic of this bizarre world and play by its rules. Hanks is endearing in the title role because, in the midst of these astonishing sets and unbridled flights of fancy, he underplays. Like a Jacques Tati, he is an island of curiosity in a sea of mystery. Some of the movie's sequences are so picaresque they do themselves in: The native tribe, for example, is a joke that Shanley is unable to pull off. What's

strongest about the movie is that it does possess a philosophy, an idea about life. The idea is the same idea contained in "Moonstruck": that at night, in those corners of our minds we deny by day, magical things can happen in the moon shadows. And if they can't, a) they should, and b) we should always in any event act as if they can.

BEHIND THE SCENES JOE VERSES THE VOLCANO (1990) Rated PG Written and Directed by John Patrick Shanley Cast: Tom Hanks as Joe Meg Ryan as Patricia/Angelica/ DeDe Lloyd Bridges as Graynamore Abe Vigoda as Chief of the Waponis Robert Stack as Dr. Ellison Dan Hedaya as Mr. Waturi Amanda Plummer as Dagmar Running time: 94 minutes Print Courtesy: Warner Bros.

Abe Vigoda in a scene from "Joe Versus the Volcano."

Tom Hanks in a scene from "Joe Versus the Volcano."

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

preceded by film short The Truth About Beauty and Blogs

Phunny Business: A Black Comedy 40

Documentary highlights influential night club By Roger Ebert

hat Second City was for "Saturday Night Live," a Chicago comedy club was for virtually every black comedian who emerged in the 1990s. All Jokes Aside was a black-owned enterprise that seemed to have infallible taste in talent, perhaps because it was the only club in the country that didn't relegate blacks to "special nights" or "Chocolate Sundays." Its opening-night act was Jamie Foxx, then unknown. It introduced or showcased talents such as Bernie Mac, Cedric the Entertainer, Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Carlos Mencia, A.J. Jamal, Sheryl Underwood, George Wallace, Bill Bellamy, Dave Chapelle, Adele Givens, and on and on, including the personnel of the touring Kings of Comedy and Queens of Comedy. "Phunny Business: A Black Comedy" is a most unexpected documentary about the rise of a club that often sold out three houses a night for 10 years, wasn't on the radar of many Chicagoans and closed, in a way, as the victim of its own success: When the young comics it launched made it big, they found more money doing concerts on big stages than

Raymond C. Lambert, "Phunny Business"

gigs in a small room. This is a film not so much about black comedians, although we see and hear a lot of them, but about black entrepreneurs. Raymond C. Lambert, who co-founded the club, began as a stock trader for the

work in Chicago. Turned out, it would. He opened on Wabash Avenue in the South Loop, booked the best of a new generation, insisted on impeccable manners, dress and training for his staff, made headliners wear suits and ties, and drew affluent crowds. He was also providing almost the only venue in the nation for black female comedians, the threatened subspecies of a threatened species, and booked black gay comics at a time when that was unheard of. He even booked one white comic, Honest John, who backstage one night advised Deon Cole, "try some of this real California weed instead of that Chicago &#!+," after which Cole went onstage and found himself suddenly gifted with telescopic tunnel vision. The film goes in depth about business details, including the peculiarity that All Jokes Aside paid its performer their full fees, promptly, with checks that didn't bounce, no matter how many tickets had been sold â&#x20AC;&#x201D; an achievement few comedy clubs of any description could boast, then

This is a film not so much about black comedians, although we see and hear a lot of them, but about black entrepreneurs. firm of the black Chicago millionaire Chris Gardner (who himself inspired the character played by Will Smith in "The Pursuit of Happyness"). After a visit to Budd Friedman's Improv in Los Angeles, he wondered why a club like that wouldn't

John Davies, the director of "Phunny Business."

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

WEDNESDAY 10:00pm

BEHIND THE SCENES PHUNNY BUSINESS: A BLACK COMEDY (2010) Not Rated Written by John Davies and Raymond C. Lambert Directed by John Davies

A frame from "Phunny Business."

Today Lambert says he looks back with satisfaction. He created All Jokes Aside at a time when it was needed, and it achieved what it set out to achieve ... and now. One of Lambert's partners was a woman named Mary Lindsey, herself a trader at the CBOE, who supervised talent with a firm hand, a ready tongue and dress code inspections. The film, directed by John Davies, has access to a lot of archival footage, going back to the earliest days when the "stage" was a curtain on a back wall. We get bites from many of the comics, but no extended stretches; the narration and editing often seem to be upstaging the comedians. I would have preferred more comics and fewer montages about Chicago's weather, women and food. It is also safe to say that we see enough of Raymond Lambert in the film, from the opening titles onward. He's heard not as a doc-style talking head, but in scripted material that sells itself a little too hard. The comedians come across as more

relaxed and natural. Former Sun-Times comedy reporter Ernie Tucker shares warm memories, as do Second City's John Kapelos and Tim Kazurinsky. The club on Wabash was the victim of larger paychecks paid by big stages (like the Chicago Theatre, not far away), a rent that doubled, and gentrification as the South Loop underwent a boom. Lambert invested $1 million in a move a mile north to the "entertainment district," only to face ruinous delays in getting a liquor license (despite a record of 10 years with no incidents). White and Asian owners of nearby galleries and restaurants signed a petition protesting about a change in the "ambience" of the area — meaning, "more blacks." So it goes. Still, it was a grand run, and it is good to have it memorialized. Today Lambert says he looks back with satisfaction.

He created All Jokes Aside at a time when it was needed, and it achieved what it set out to achieve, and on its stage many of today's most successful black actors and comedians got their start. Consider that Jamie Foxx, his opening night act, went on to win an Academy Award. And Foxx still gives back: He was the headliner at this year's benefit for the Gene Siskel Film Center.

Cast: Narrated by John Ridley Featuring Doug Banks, Bill Bellamy, Cedric the Entertainer, Mike Epps, Jamie Foxx, Chris Gardner, Adele Givens, Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Honest John, Raymond C. Lambert, Ali LeRoi, Bernie Mac, Carlos Mencia, J.B. Smoove, Aries Spears, Sheryl Underwood, George Wallace, George Willborn, Damon Williams and Michael Winslow Running time: 84 minutes Print Courtesy: Reid Brody — Filmmakers

THE TRUTH ABOUT BEAUTY AND BLOGS 13 minute short film

Kelechi Ezie is an actress, singer, and writer from Buffalo, New York. She is a graduate of Princeton University, where she earned a degree in History and Theater, and won the Walter Phelps Hall Prize in European History for her original thesis Reading What Is There: Africans in Early Modern England. She moved to New York shortly after to pursue an acting career, and began working in plays and musicals. Kelechi wrote, coproduced and starred in The Truth About Beauty and Blogs, which is Kelechi Ezie - Writer, her first screenplay. She is currently Co-Producer, Actress, "The Truth writing a series based on the film's About Beauty and Blogs" main character Vanessa, as well as her first feature film.

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

Richard D. Mohr & Robert W. Switzer offer for your consideration... Kenneth Anger Matthew Barney Sadie Benning Stan Brakhage Mary Ellen Bute Maya Deren Ken Jacobs George Kuchar Mike Kuchar Gregory Markopoulos Jonas Mekas Jack Smith

Congratulations Roger & Chaz!

Remember to buy New Zealand Wines Use Piccadilly in Champaign

Wishing you the best, Marsha Woodbury

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Big Fan

The darker side of sports comedy By Roger Ebert

aul is a short, chubby 35-year-old man who lives with his mother and works the night shift as a parking-garage attendant. His mother screams at him that he only dates his own right hand. But there is another Paul, "Paul of Staten Island," who is a regular caller to a sports radio station, defending his beloved New York Giants against the hated Eagles fan "Philadelphia Phil." This Paul is proud, articulate and happy. He and his best (or only) friend, Sal, never miss a Giants home game. They're tailgaters. They park in the Giants parking lot and watch the game on a TV set that runs off his car battery. Behind them, inside the towering stadium walls, star player Quantrell Bishop leads the Giants toward a championship. "Big Fan," one of the more thought-provoking sports movies I've seen, is the directorial debut of Robert Siegel, who wrote "The Wrestler." A comedy with dark undertones, it asks: What kind of a man listens to and calls sports talk radio compulsively, even at 2 a.m.? Even out of season? Even on, say, Thanksgiving? He should get a life, do you think? That's what his mother thinks. Paul believes he has a life, a glorious life, as a Fan.

Patton Oswalt stars as Paul in "Big Fan."

I've known such people. They identify so strongly with their idols that it's a kind of derangement. They are their city, their team, their heroes. When their team loses, they bleed. Supporters of a rival team are their enemies. Pro athletes get paid. Pro fans work pro bono. For anyone to describe himself as a team's "No. 1 Fan" is kind of pathetic. One night Paul (Patton Oswalt) and Sal (Kevin Corrigan) are out late eating pizza when they see

the great Quantrell Bishop (Jonathan Hamm) at a gas station. They tail him. He is driven to a dicey neighborhood in Staten Island for murky purposes (a cocaine buy, is my guess). Then he drives into Manhattan, and Paul and Sal follow him into a lap-dance emporium. They approach "QB" to praise him, and he's nice enough at first. Then they recklessly tell him they've been following him all the way from the shady neighborhood. Are they implying a shakedown?

A comedy with dark undertones, it asks: What kind of a man listens to and calls sports talk radio compulsively, even at 2 a.m.? Even out of season? Even on, say, Thanksgiving? Robert Siegel directed "Big Fan."

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

FRIDAY 1:00pm

Patton Oswalt, best known as a stand-up comedian, brings a kind of brilliance to his performance. QB explodes and hammers Paul, who awakens three days later in a hospital after emergency surgery for bleeding in the brain. QB is suspended. Paul is not eager to testify against him. A detective (Matt Servitto) tries to question him. He says he can't remember. "Can't – or won't?" the cop asks. His hunch is correct. When Paul's shyster brother files a multimillion-dollar lawsuit against QB, Paul refuses to cooperate. He can't think of Quantrell Bishop as the man who nearly killed him. That's because, in a sense, Paul is Quantrell Bishop. Without QB, there is no Paul there.

Then the film follows Paul more deeply into the consequences of his obsession. I've seen films about fanatic sports fans before, in particular, frightening films about British football hooligans, who organize into armed gangs. Paul is a more common American type, one who is especially tiresome to sportswriters, who they zero in on with a combination of fascination and resentment: Who are you to pass judgment on my team? Patton Oswalt, best known as a stand-up comedian, brings a kind of brilliance to his performance. He plays a man limited in curiosity, confidence and ambition. He

sounds good on the radio because he's listened to thousands of hours of sports radio, which largely comes down to the same verbal formulas repeated time and again. Alone in his toll booth late at night, he scripts words for "Paul from Staten Island" and reads from legal pads, striding back and forth in his bedroom while his mother, next door, shouts for him to shut up so she can get some sleep. This isn't only, or even, a sports movie. It's about leading a life vicariously. There's a movie out now called "Surrogates," about a future time when people recline at home hooked up to brain sensors, and lead their lives through more attractive and younger android versions of themselves. This practice is going on now. Quantrell Bishop is Paul's surrogate. Disconnect him, and Paul is a body on a bed, dreaming with his right hand.

BEHIND THE SCENES BIG FAN

(2009) Rated R Written and Directed by Robert Siegel Cast: Patton Oswalt as Paul Kevin Corrigan as Sal Marcia Jean Kurtz as Paul's mom Michael Rapaport as Philadelphia Phil Matt Servitto as Velardi Jonathan Hamm as Quantrell Bishop Gino Cafarelli as Jeff Running time: 88 minutes Print Courtesy: First Independent Pictures

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Kinyarwanda

Genocide up close and personal By Roger Ebert

thought I knew something about Rwanda, but I didn't really know very much. I was moved by "Hotel Rwanda" (2004), but not really shaken this deeply. Not like this. After seeing "Kinyarwanda," I have a different kind of feeling about the genocide that took place in Rwanda in 1994. The film approaches it not as a story line but as a series of intense personal moments. The characters speak both English and the nation's own language, Kinyarwanda. The film's co-writer and director, a Jamaican named Alrick Brown, says he was surprised the first time he learned that all Rwandans speak the same tongue. Here was a nation in which the members of one tribe, the Hutu, set about to massacre the members of another tribe, the Tutsi. Yet were they really even members of different tribes? There is a scene in which this is discussed. Since time immemorial, people in Rwanda more or less got along. When Belgium colonized the nation, "ethnic scientists" came in with their calipers and found that the skulls and ribcages of two groups were somewhat different. Although they were already recognized as tribal groups before the Europeans arrived, it was

Ishmael is a small boy who is sent out to buy cigarettes for his father when he overhears some soldiers talking about searching for guns and Tutsi.

convenient for the Belgians to name one of these groups, the Tutsi, the ruling class, and the Hutu as subservient. That led to a perhaps inevitable Hutu revolt, and some 500,000 to 1 million members of both tribes died. This dreadful massacre was ignored by the world, apart from the ineffectual U.N. "peacekeeping mission" we saw in "Hotel Rwanda." What Brown does in "Kinyarwanda," working with research by his executive producer Ishmael Ntihabose, is to weave together several compact interlocking stories to connect events before, during and finally after the genocide. The U.N. is hardly to be seen. Rwandans commit the murders, suffer from the murders, recover and repent. Here over an unspecific period of several months, we see South Africa's truth and reconciliation process at work.

The vignettes establish a vivid group of characters. Jeanne and Patrique (Hadidja Zaninka and Marc Gwamaka), a young couple from different tribes, are in love. Lt. Rose (Cassandra Freeman), the head of a military unit trained in Uganda, hopes to bring peace. Emmanuel (Edouard Bamporiki), the head of a Tutsi killing unit. Father Pierre (Mazimpaka Kennedy), a Catholic priest. The Mufti of Rwanda (Mutsari Jean), head of the nation's Muslims. Perhaps most memorable, a small boy named Ishmael (Hassan Kabera). Each vignette adds to the mosaic. Characters from one turn up in another. Gradually a powerful outcome is arrived at. The Mufti issues an edict declaring that the nation's Muslims must not participate in killing and must open the mosques to places of shelter for all, regardless of tribe or religion. The

What Brown does in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kinyarwandaâ&#x20AC;? ... is to weave together several compact interlocking stories to connect events before, during and finally after the genocide. Director Alrick Brown says he was surprised that all Rwandans speak the same tongue.

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

thursdAy 4:00pm

None of the actors in “Kinyarwanda” are stars, and their characters all live in the same world. priest tries to operate his church in the same way, but lacks the courage. Yet finally Muslims and Catholics link hands to face the bloodthirsty killers. I mentioned Ishmael. This is a beautiful little boy who is sent out to buy cigarettes for his father, and overhears some soldiers searching for guns and "cockroaches." Cockroaches are the Hutu name for Tutsi. His father is hiding some Tutsi. He helpfully tells the soldiers where they can find cockroaches and leads them home. How this is resolved I will not say, but ask yourself this: Has Ishmael made

a childish error or does he do some agile last-minute thinking? For all its greatness, "Hotel Rwanda" nevertheless used the conventional Hollywood

technique of a movie star as a protagonist to serve as the audience's entry point. None of the actors in "Kinyarwanda" are stars, and their characters all live in the same world. By the equal weighting and linking of their stories in rotation, Brown prevents us from anticipating who will prevail. The criticism of this approach by Variety's critic is unfortunate. Here is a powerful film.

BEhINd thE sCENEs KINyArWANdA (2011) Not rated Written and Directed by Alrick Brown Cast: hassan Kabera as Ishmael Edouard Bamporiki as Emmanuel Cassandra Freeman as Lt. rose Marc Gwamaka as Patrique hadidja Zaninka as Jeanne Mazimpaka Kennedy as Father Pierre Cleophas Kabasita as Francine Abdallah uwimana as the Imam Kena Onyenjekwe as sgt. Fred Running time: 96 minutes Print Courtesy: Visigoth Pictures

"Kinyarwanda" approaches the Rwandan genocide as a series of personal moments.

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April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Terri

If the pajamas fit, wear them By Roger Ebert

found a rare absorption while watching Azazel Jacobs' "Terri," the story of a fat kid who is mocked at school. Movies about high school misfits are common; this is an uncommon one. Terri, so convincingly played by Jacob Wysocki, is smart, gentle and instinctively wise. His decision to wear pajamas to school "because they fit" may be an indication that later in life he will amount to a great deal. He has character. All of that lies ahead in this story, which observes him for two or three weeks as he survives some turning points. Terri's parents are not in the picture. He lives in a cluttered little house with his Uncle James (Creed Bratton), whose books and music indicate he was once a much different man. Now he is drifting into senility, and Terri cares for him with quiet affection. The house is in a wooded semi-rural area, which Terri cuts through to reach the school. He has been missing a lot of school days and is called in by Fitzgerald (John C. Reilly), the assistant principal. This is a school administrator unlike those we usually see,

offering kindness, anger and hard-won lessons learned in his own difficult life. He and Terri slowly begin to communicate person to person, and this process is subtly constructed by Jacobs. Indeed, the entire film moves at a human pace, not prodded by impatience or a desire to rush through the story. To view "Terri" after the manic thrashing of "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" was soothing and healing. It demonstrates how films can engage us in human life, rather than mocking it. There are two more important characters. Chad (Bridger Zadina) is another of Fitzgerald's problem children, a morose, slouching outsider driven to pluck hairs from his head. Heather (Olivia Crocicchia) is a pretty young student who Terri observes during a home economics class as a boy takes liberties with her body. When this threatens to lead to her expulsion, Terri steps up and defends her to Fitzgerald, in a way that shows he respects her and empathizes. Terri and Heather begin a friendship based on shy notes using mostly smiley faces. This leads to a strange and uneasy evening involving the two of them, Chad, a bottle of booze, and some of Uncle James' pills. This session, like the rest of the film, has a timing and sympathy that sets it apart from many similar scenes I've seen. There's an element of Terri's life left for us to make of what we will. Told by his uncle to set some mousetraps in the at-

Azazel Jacobs directed "Terri," the story of a fat kid who is mocked at school. Jacobs is attending this year's festival.

tic, Terri captures some mice and lines up their bodies on a log in the woods. Later he sees a bird of prey gobbling one of them, and his face fills with wonderment. He catches more mice and keeps baiting the log. Does this make him an unwholesome sadist? Not at all. The movie invites no hasty conclusion. In honesty, I believe his reaction isâ&#x20AC;Ś normal. Five characters: Terri, Fitzgerald, Uncle James, Chad, Heather. All original. None limited by story conventions. None seen by me in previous movies. Observed with attention and sympathy. Not oversimplified, although it would help to know more about Heather. And a kid who is fat, and weird, but much more than fat and weird.

Terri, so convincingly played by Jacob Wysocki, is smart, gentle and instinctively wise ... He has character. Jacob Wysocki, a guest at this year's film festival, stars as Terri.

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

thursdAy 8:30pm

BEhINd thE sCENEs tErrI

(2011) rated r Written by Patrick deWitt Directed by Azazel Jacobs Cast: Jacob Wysocki as terri John C. reilly as Asst. Principal Fitzgerald Creed Bratton as uncle James Bridger Zadina as Chad Olivia Crocicchia as heather Miles tim heidecker as Mr. Flemish Justin Prentice as dirty Jack

Jacob Wysocki and John C. Reilly in a scene from "Terri."

The actor Jacob Wysocki is unknown to me, but he brings such quiet confidence to the role that he creates absolute

conviction. A newcomer, he goes one on one with the masterful John C. Reilly in scenes of actual communication be-

Don Tingle presents

MovieMakers

tween two people rarely seen in any movie. He's more of a John Candy than a Chris Farley, if you get what I mean.

Running time: 105 minutes Print Courtesy: AtO Pictures

Thanks Roger!

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Ebertfest 2012 Don Tingle

Festival Director, Rocket City Short Film Festival Oct. 2012 Workshop Director, Alabama Filmmakers Co-op A non-profit volunteer community organization since 1977 For Information Contact: DonJTingle@aol.com

CelluloidCatastrophe.com Aaron Hines

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Joe Bennett

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Hosted by Patton Oswalt at Foellinger Auditorium • Free and open to the public

Kind Hearts and Coronets 50

Eccentric villain central to this murder-comedy By Roger Ebert

the years after World War II, there emerged from the Ealing Studios of England a series of comedies so dry and droll, so literate and cynical, that the phrase "Ealing comedy" described them and no others. Many starred Alec Guinness, then in his 30s, so anonymous in appearance that he was told by an early teacher, "you will never make an actor." It was like that until the end of his days; once, while dressed as Hitler for a costume fitting, he stepped outside and failed to raise the eyebrow of a passing policeman. While the other great actors of his generation – Olivier, Gielgud, Richardson – attracted crowds wherever they went, Guinness could, he reported, go to the cinema without ever being asked for his autograph. If he was unremarkable in person, he played a series of remarkable characters in the movies, each one a newly-minted original. He was shy, stammering Herbert Pocket in "Great Expectations" (1946) and two years later the diabolical Fagin in "Oliver Twist." He blew up "The Bridge On the River Kwai" (1957), was an eccentric painter in "The Horse's Mouth" (1958), a genial colonel in "Tunes of Glory" (1960) and the same year a vacuum-cleaner salesman as "Our Man in Havana." He was a desert prince in "Lawrence

Patton Oswalt, star of "Big Fan," will host a special screening of "Kind Hearts and Coronets" at Foellinger Auditorium.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

A scene from "Kind Hearts and Coronets."

of Arabia" (1962), a Soviet official in "Dr. Zhivago" (1965), an imperturbable Indian doctor in "A Passage to India" (1984) and Cromwell, Disraeli, Father Brown, Scrooge and of course Hitler. Little wonder his autobiography is titled "Blessings in Disguise." It is an injustice that he is best remembered as Obi-Wan Kenobi in the "Star Wars" movies, which he told me were boring to make because he spent most of his time standing alone in front of a back-projection screen, reciting dialogue. Consider how unnecessary such special effects were in "Kind Hearts and Coronets" (1949), in which Guinness plays eight different members of the same family, of both genders and a sixdecade age span, by doing relatively subtle things with makeup, posture and behavior. Because he was nobody he could be anybody, and here he creates characters who are pompous, silly, inconsequential, or even actually nice to Louis. ("I was glad," says the hero of the film about his employer Ascoyne D'Ascoyne, "after all his kindness to me, that I should not have to kill him.") The film began a classic run

of Ealing comedies, which continued with "The Lavender Hill Mob" and "The Man in the White Suit" (both 1951) and "The Ladykillers" (1955), in which a sweet little old lady buys the story that her new roomers, all crooks, are actually musicians. Their rehearsal sessions are priceless. All of these Ealings were being revived with new prints when I was in London in August 2002. The big screen underlined the quality of the black and white cinematography, which in the case of "Kind Hearts" seems to owe something to "Citizen Kane" – another film that begins at the end and then circles back with narration. The opening scene of "Kind Hearts and Coronets" shows Dennis Price as Louis Mazzini, a newly-minted Duke who has methodically tried to murder his way to the title. In the last night before he is to be hanged, Louis writes his memoirs, and as he reads them aloud we journey back through his life. His mother, we learn, was a daughter of the aristocratic D'Ascoyne family, who ran away with an Italian tenor and was disowned. After the tenor died on the day of the boy's birth, his mother's ap-

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Price is impeccable as the murderer: Elegant, well-spoken, a student of demeanor. peals to her family were coldly rejected, and mother and son were reduced to a life of genteel poverty. But Louis' mother always held out the hope that he might someday inherit the title (which in the D'Ascoyne family descended through women as well as men). After his mother dies, she is cruelly barred from the D'Ascoyne family crypt, Louis buries her in "a hideous suburban grave" and vows revenge. He pastes the family tree onto the back of his mother's painting of the family home, where she spent her happy early days, and one by one he crosses off D'Ascoynes as they die. A "fortunate epidemic of diphtheria" carries off one, but Louis will have to personally murder some of the others, and as he takes a sixpenny tour of the family seat he wonders how he will get close enough, observing sadly, "It is so difficult to make a neat job of killing people with whom one is

not on friendly terms." Price is impeccable as the murderer: Elegant, well-spoken, a student of demeanor. That is what gets him a job in the family bank, where an uncle takes pity on him. The uncle and all of the other D'Ascoynes are played by Guinness (the list includes the Duke, the Banker, the Parson, the General, the Admiral, Young Ascoyne D'Ascoyne, Young Henry, and Lady Agatha D'Ascoyne). What is intriguing is that all of these characters, while obviously members of the same family, are not obviously Guinness, unless we insist on thinking of them in that way. One tactic that helps his impersonations is the tendency of the director, Robert Hamer, to shoot mostly in long and medium shot, generally avoiding closeups that can be too carefully scrutinized. Guinness plays D'Ascoynes who are tall, short or stooped, young or old, male or female,

Alec Guinness plays eight different members of the same family in "Kind Hearts and Coronets."

finding the characters largely in his body language and a few wigs or beards. It is helpful, probably, that the focus of most of the scenes is on young Louis; it is significant, somehow, that the actor playing eight characters is not given top billing and the movie is not about him. The methods of Louis' murders are in the spirit of George Orwell's famous essay "Decline of the English Murder" (1946), in which he regretted the modern practice of simply shooting people and being done with it. Praising the ingenuity of an earlier generation of English murders, Orwell examines those crimes "which have given the greatest pleasure to the British public," finding that poison is the preferable means, and that an ideal murderer is a member of the middle class who hopes to improve his social position or get hold of a legacy. "Kind Hearts and Coronets," set circa 1900, admirably meets his criteria. One D'Ascoyne is dispatched by poison, another is blown up at tea, and a third is swept over a waterfall after Louis unties his boat. (The victim was spending an illicit weekend with his mistress at the time, and Louis observes: "I was sorry about the girl, but found some relief in the reflection that she had presumably during the weekend already undergone a fate worse than death.") My favorite murder involves a suffragette D'Ascoyne who is demonstrating in a hot air balloon when Louis shoots her down, observing "I shot an arrow into the air/She fell to earth in Berkeley Square." In the course of his rise to the Dukedom, Louis conducts parallel affairs, one with a woman he loves, the other with a woman he needs. Sibella (Joan Greenwood) is the daughter of the family where he boarded after his mother's death; she loves him, but believes he has no prospects, marries a boring man, and then begins to call on Louis. Green-

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

BEhIND ThE SCENES KIND hEARTS AND CORONETS (1949) Not Rated Written and Directed by Robert hamer Cast: Dennis Price as Louis Mazzini Valerie hobson as Edith D'Ascoyne Alex guinness as The Duke/The Banker/The Parson/The general/ The Admiral/young Ascoyne/ young henry/Lady Agatha Running time: 106 minutes Print Courtesy: Ealing Studios

wood's performance is luscious, with her little lisp and air of languorous petulance. The other woman, Edith (Valerie Hobson), is the widow of one of his victims, and well-placed with money and position in society. When the amoral Louis is not with the one he loves, he loves the one he's with. Despite its murders and intrigues, its betrayals and blood feuds, "Kind Hearts and Coronets" has a dry and detached air, established by the memoirs of Louis, who maintains a studied distance from the evils he has committed. Wounded by the slights to his mother, he essentially believes the D'Ascoynes are asking for it. The movie is unusually dependent on voice-over narration, objective and understated, which is all the funnier by being so removed from the sensational events taking place. Murder, Louis demonstrates, and Orwell would agree, can be most agreeably entertaining, so long as the story lingers on the eccentricities of the villain rather than on the unpleasant details of the crimes.

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

“

Melissa Merli covers Ebertfest like the dew. – Roger Ebert

”

Start smart with Melissa’s daily coverage of Ebertfest in the pages of The News-Gazette.

Stay smart with continuing coverage online at news-gazette.com.

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

This year's festival is dedicated to Paul Cox

On Borrowed Time

Poetic tribute to a fine friend of Ebertfest By Roger Ebert

was Nate Kohn, his close friend, who broke the news to me that Paul Cox was seriously ill and required a liver transplant. That set in motion an exchange of emails between Paul and myself that spanned his darkest days. All three of us got together at Cannes 2009, and I fear we were all sharing the same gloomy thoughts. Was this the final time we would ever see one another? At the last moment, when all hope seemed to be fading, Paul received a transplant in December 2009, on Christmas Day. He is now back in the starting lineup. Ebertfest has no better friend than Paul Cox. His "A Woman's Tale" was shown here in 2000, his "Innocence" in 2002, and his "Man of Flowers" in 2007. That was the year he joined his friend Werner Herzog onstage, and mentioned that Werner had at one time lived in a tent in Paul's Melbourne back yard. It didn't surprise me in the least that the two were friends. Not only are they both great filmmakers, but they both work entirely outside the limitations of commercial cinema. They make exactly the films they want to make, exactly how they want to make them. Our email exchanges in 2009

Wendy Hughes is featured in the documentary. She has worked with Cox.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Paul Cox, the director featured in "On Borrowed Time." Cox is a guest at this year's film festival.

were fraught with concern. Paul was faced with a discouraging series of challenges before he could even qualify for a transplant. Imagine how it must feel when life itself seems just beyond your grasp. Paul is more spiritual than I am (not in a religious sense, but in a cosmic sense). He was open to thoughts on ethereal planes, and indeed some years earlier he'd communicated with Chaz about a dream he'd had about my health. He was a great support for Chaz during my own

darkest days. Now he called on this spirituality and his friends all over the world to help him through. I'd heard that David Bradbury was working on a documentary about Paul, and if ever there was a film destined for Ebertfest it's this one. Finally seeing it, I was surprised by how poetic it was. How well it evoked Paul's gentle and wise spirit, his laughter, his determination to press on. How it would help someone know and understand this heart and soul of

Ebertfest has no better friend than Paul Cox. His “A Woman's Tale” was shown here in 2000, his “Innocence” in 2002, and his “Man of Flowers” in 2007.

FRIDAY 1:00pm

I saw my first Cox film ... at the 1983 Chicago International Film Festival, and that's where I first met him. It took ten seconds for us to become friends. the cinema. It is visually very beautiful, which is altogether appropriate for a subject whose own films are so painterly and often concerned with artists. Since we will be attending the North American premiere, I think that's enough for me to write about the film itself. But I'm not finished with Paul. What psychic GPS system must we share that so often brings us together? I saw my first Cox film, "Man of Flowers," at the 1983 Chicago International Film Festival, and that's

where I first met him. It took ten seconds for us to become friends. Since then we have meet at many film festivals: Toronto, Cannes, Hawaii, Telluride, Calcutta, who knows? Two stories illustrate his personality: 1. At Cannes, sitting next to him at a screening, I felt him trembling with anger at a cretin who was steadily texting throughout the movie. "He has no idea," Paul told me, "how close I came to snatching that cell phone from his hands and smash-

ing it to bits beneath my heel." 2. At Calcutta, our seats were so positioned that we could see directly into the open door of the projection booth, where the projectionists were playing cards. The screening of Paul's film did not go well. The framing was off, the focus was bad, one reel was out of order, and – this is the strangest part – I seem to clearly recall that at one point the film was shown upside down. I'm not an expert, but I believe that's physically impossible. Yet that's what I think I saw with my own eyes. What was Paul's response? Did he tear the door from its hinges and beat the projectionists over the head with it. No, he did not. Confronted with the most incompetent projection he had ever witnessed, one that transcended reality and entered the realm of legend, Paul was … amused.

BEHIND THE SCENES ON BORROWED TIME (2011) Not Rated Written by Mike Rubbo Directed by David Bradbury Cast: Narrated by David Wenham Featuring Paul Cox, David Wenham, Gosia Dobrowolska, Philip Adams, Bob Ellis, Julia Blake, Terry Norris, Tony Llewellyn-Jones, David Stratton, John Clarke, Chris Haywood, Aden Young, Wendy Hughes, Bob Jones Running time: 87 minutes Print Courtesy: David Bradbury

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Film screening sponsored by: Steak 'n Shake

Alloy Orchestra

Wild and Weird

featuring the 56

A delightful, not-so-silent program By Roger Ebert

he first time I saw the Alloy Orchestra perform with a silent film was at the Telluride Film Festival, a place where I've been introduced to so many of the pleasures of the movies. I was able to invite them to Ebertfest in the early 2000s, and they've been back every year since, except for one year when the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra played. As everybody knows, "silent" films were invariably accompanied by music, although few of them must have enjoyed the resources of the Alloy. (Sneak down to the orchestra pit, say hello to Terry Donahue, Ken Winokur and Roger Miller, and get a glimpse of some of their more unusual instruments, including a chamber pot). "Wild and Weird," the Alloy's special program this year, consists of short silent films handpicked by the Alloy's members. Most of their bookings are with features, and by compiling this selection they're able to suggest additional riches from the early

As everybody knows, “silent” films were invariably accompanied by music, although few of them must have enjoyed the resources of the Alloy.

Many of the short films included in the program show how early filmmakers were very attached to special effects.

The Alloy Orchestra

Alloy Orchestra is a three-man musical ensemble, writing and performing live accompaniment to classic silent films. Working with an outrageous assemblage of peculiar objects, they thrash and grind soulful music from unlikely sources. Performing at prestigious film festivals and cultural centers in the U.S. and abroad (The Telluride Film Festival, The Louvre, Lincoln Center, The Academy of Motion Pictures, the National Gallery of Art), Alloy has helped revive some of the great masterpieces of the silent era.

TERRY DONAHUE (junk percussion, accordion, musical saw, banjo), KEN WINOKUR (director, junk percussion and clarinet) and ROGER MILLER (synthesizer, percussion).

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

An unusual combination of found percussion and state-of-the-art electronics gives the Orchestra the ability to create any sound imaginable. Utilizing their famous “rack of junk” and electronic synthesizers, the group generates beautiful music in a spectacular variety of styles. They can conjure up a French symphony or a simple German bar band of the '20s. The group can make the audience think it is being attacked by tigers, contacted by radio signals from Mars or swept up in the Russian Revolution.

FRIDAY 4:00pm

years. Then, as now, some of the most experimental work is done in short subjects. This program is especially timely right now in the aftermath of the success of Martin Scorsese's "Hugo," which centered on the rediscovery of the French film pioneer Georges Méliès and his work. Only Scorsese would have been bold enough to attempt such a project. Although his famous "A Trip to the Moon" is on the Alloy's "Wild and Weird" DVD, it won't be included in the program at Ebertfest, in order to free time for their eclectic selection of shorts that have possibly never been seen before by our audience. Many of them show how the earliest filmmakers were intoxicated by the magic of special effects. Méliès himself began as a magician who used film to per-

BEHIND THE SCENES WILD AND WEIRD (2011) Rated PG Written and Directed by Various (including Buster Keaton, Georges Méliès, Ferdinand Zecca, Segundo de Chomon, Winsor McCay)

Stop motion, superimposition and dissolves are a few of the techniques used.

form "tricks" at a time when few audiences would have been sophisticated about the techniques he was using. The first filmmakers delighted in digging into the new medium up to their elbows: Stop motion, superimposition, dissolves, optical shots. I will leave it to you to dis-

cover the pleasures of the Alloy's treasures, but cannot resist pointing out that "Those Awful Hats" (1909) is not only the shortest film directed by D. W. Griffith but also, I would argue, the most dramatic and arguably the first cinematic use of the deus ex machina.

Cast: Various (including Buster Keaton, Georges Méliès) Running time: 80 minutes Print Courtesy: Film Preservation Associates

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April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

A Separation

No rules can account for human feelings By Roger Ebert

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A

Separation" is a film in which every important character tries to live a good life within the boundaries of the same religion. That this leads them into disharmony and brings them up before a judge is because no list of rules can account for human feelings. The film involves its audience in an unusually direct way, because although we can see the logic of everyone's position, our emotions often disagree. The movie takes place in present-day Iran, a modern nation that attempts to live under Islamic law. The film's story has no quarrel with Islam, but it demonstrates that the inflexible application of the letter of the law may frustrate the spirit of the law. This is true in all nations under all religions and all laws. Laws are an attempt to regulate hypothetical situations before they may arise. If laws were replaced by principles, they might be a better fit with human nature. Imagine this situation. Nader and Simin (Peyman Moadi and Leila Hatami), a happily married middle-class couple in Tehran, have a sweet 11-yearold daughter, Termeh (Sarina

Simin and Nader are a happily married couple in Tehran who are torn by tragedy.

Farhadi); Nader's senile father also lives with them. They have agreed in principle to move abroad, where they hope Termeh's prospects might be better. Simin is ready to leave now. Nader wants to stay for his father's sake. "But he doesn't know you!" his wife says. "No, but I know him." Both are correct. Here we have the universal dilemma of Alzheimer's. At an impasse, Simin moves to her mother's apartment, and as a necessity sues for divorce, although the two want to remain married. Nader hires a caregiver for his father. She is Razieh (Sareh Bayat). She keeps the nature of her job a secret from her husband, Hodjat (Shahab Hosseini), who as a strict Muslim, would never allow her to work in a

man's household without his wife present. Nader returns one day to find his father tied to the bed and Razieh absent. She has a good reason for this, but Nader doesn't know it and neither do we. He fires her, and she accuses him of pushing her downstairs and causing a miscarriage. Hodjat sues Nader for manslaughter. One of the witnesses will be Miss Ghahraii (Merila Zare'i), the daughter's tutor, who is sincere but may not be as reliable as she thinks herself. That's what you must know about the plot. The case ends up in the office of an official interrogating judge (Babak Karimi), whose task is to hear evidence and evaluate it. He is a fair man, open-minded, and all the witnesses testify

Laws are an attempt to regulate hypothetical situations before they may arise. If laws were replaced by principles, they might be a better fit with human nature. Peyman Moadi stars as Nader in "A Separation."

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

FRIDAY 8:30pm

The writer-director, Asghar Farhadi, tells his story with a fair and even hand. His only agenda seems to be to express sympathy. as truthfully as they can. But none of them have possession of all the facts, and the findings must be in accordance with religious law. Nader and Simin are moderate Muslims. Razieh is so religious that she questions whether she can change the underpants of a man, even though he is so old and sick. What drives her is the family's desperate poverty. The writer-director, Asghar Farhadi, tells his story with a fair and even hand. His only agenda seems to be to express empathy. Although the judge

may be tending against our own sympathies, we understand why he does so and may be correct to do so. That a director can make such a sympathetic film in such a troubled time is a tribute to his strength of character. The actors, as sometimes happens, create those miracles that can endow a film with conviction. Moadi and Hatami, as husband and wife, succeed in convincing us their characters are acting from genuine motives; they love each other and want the best for their family, but are divided on how to

act. That this leads them into a manslaughter case is by unhappy chance. Nor is the judge eager to punish. "A Separation" provides a useful portrait of Iran today. Some inflamed American political rhetoric has portrayed it as a rogue nation eager to start nuclear war. All too many Americans, I fear, picture Iranians as camel-riding harem-keepers. Certainly some of Iran's punishments for adultery that we read about seem medieval. But this film portrays a more nuanced nation, and its decent characters are trying to do the right thing. To untangle right and wrong in this fascinating story is a moral challenge. I'd love to see the film with wise judges from American divorce courts and hear their decisions. Sometimes the law is not adequate to deal with human feelings.

BEHIND THE SCENES A SEPARATION

(2011) Rated PG-13 Written and Directed by Asghar Farhadi Cast: Peyman Moadi as Nader Leila Hatami as Simin Shahab Hosseini as Hodjat Sarina Farhadi as Termeh Sareh Bayat as Razieh Merila Zare'i as Miss Ghahrail Kimia Hosseini as Somayeh Sahabanu Zolghadr as Azam Running time: 123 minutes Print Courtesy: Sony Pictures Classics

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April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

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All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Higher Ground

Growing into, and out of, Christianity By Roger Ebert

era Farmiga's "Higher Ground" is the life story of a woman who grows into, and out of, Christianity. It values her at every stage of that process. It never says she is making the right or wrong decision, only that what she does seems necessary at the time she does it. In a world where believers and agnostics are polarized and hold simplified ideas about each other, it takes a step back and sees faith as a series of choices that should be freely made. The woman's name is Corinne. We see her as a child, a teenager around 20 and an adult around 40. As a child, she invites Jesus into her life in a conventional mainstream Protestant sort of way. Later, she is born again, with full immersion and all the rest of it, after she and her husband credit God for saving them and their child from tragedy. Later still, she finds her evangelical congregation enforcing uncomfortable conformity upon her. I would like to say "Higher Ground," which marks Farmiga's directorial debut, never steps wrong in following this process, but it does. Sometimes it slips too easily into satire, but at least it's nuanced satire based on true believers who are basically nice and good people. There are no heavy-handed portraits of holy rollers here, just people whose view of the world is narrow. There are also no outsize sinners, just some gentle singersongwriters who are too fond of pot and whose lyrics are parades of cliches. Corinne is played as a girl by McKenzie Turner, as an adult by

Sometimes it slips too easily into satire, but at least it's nuanced satire based on true believers who are basically nice and good people. 62

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

Vera Farmiga plays Corinne Walker in "Higher Ground." The movie is her directorial debut.

Vera Farmiga and as a teenager by Farmiga's sister, Taissa. At all of these stages in life, the character's face reflects awareness and intelligence, along with an inbred independence that makes her a little reluctant to go along with the crowd. At the discussions held by her prayer group, we can see her drawing a line between those who are thoughtful and those who are passive conformists. Corinne reads widely. She thinks about the Scriptures. She has opinions. She doesn't respond well when an older woman advises her that when she speaks out, it sounds too much like preaching. God forbid a woman should have an opinion. Yet the preachers she comes into contact with are not bad men. The film carefully avoids stereotyping them. It's just that as she grows older, her congregation becomes a group where the others feel more included than she can. They accept. Even the men consider male dominance a duty, not a pleasure. Corinne has a best friend,

Annika (Dagmara Dominczyk), she confides in. They share thoughts about sex and other things. (Farmiga might have been wise, however, to avoid the easy laugh when each woman draws her husband's penis. There is a statement to be made, but there must be a more subtle way to make it.) Unhappiness strikes the group. I will not supply details. I observe, however, that a person who suffers great misfortune is unlikely to be comforted by the

Carolyn Briggs wrote the screenplay. She is attending this year's festival.

SATURDAY 1:00pm

assurance that God's will has been done. (In the case of my own misfortune, I prefer to think that God's will had nothing to do with it. People who tell me it did are singularly tactless.) Ask yourself during the film where you think it takes place — which American state? I looked up the locations on IMDb and was surprised. Its location doesn't fit regional stereotypes. Nor do its characters. These are decent people, trying to do the right thing, and Corinne is a decent person who believes she must decide on the right thing for herself. When others inform her what that is, why are they rarely eager to have her input? Vera Farmiga is such a warm actress. I don't know if she could play cruel. John Hawkes, who plays her alcoholic father, can play cruel — but not in a physically violent way. His is the kind

BEHIND THE SCENES HIGHER GROUND (2011) Rated R Written by Carolyn Briggs and Tim Metcalfe Directed by Vera Farmiga Cast: Vera Farmiga as Corinne Joshua Leonard as Ethan "Higher Ground" is the story of a woman who grows into, and later out of, Christianity.

of cruelty that shows a child her father is weak and pitiful, and doesn't deserve her respect. Perhaps that's how she began to doubt at an early age the paternalism of her social group. We see the seeds of imagination growing through her reading. People in books sometimes

do things we can understand because we have come to know those people. Non-readers are likely to think they know what people should do because — well, they just should, that's all. You can read this in a book: "The unexamined life is not worth living."

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Dagmara Dominczyk as Annika Norbert Leo Butz as Pastor Bill Bill Irwin as Pastor Bud John Hawkes as CW Taissa Farmiga as Teenage Corinne Running time: 109 minutes Print Courtesy: Sony Pictures Classics

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tasty gourmet pizza 39 main street All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Patang

Stranger in a wondrous land By Roger Ebert

visited India only once, for less than two weeks, but I left a part of my heart there. I can't say I know it well, but I know how it made me feel, and it seemed impossibly exotic and absolutely comfortable at the same time: I was curiously at home in a strange land. At an event in my hotel, I met a police chief's wife, who invited me to her home for dinner. Just like that. The families seemed to function in the ways of families I knew. The fact that so many people in this far-away land spoke English made it more accessible to me. I loved the way so much of the talk circled around philosophy. I developed a particular love of the exuberant music, colors, scents and tastes. It occurred to me that no women

During the story, Hamid, a young boy, is delegated by a kitemaker to deliver a parcel of kites to a family home.

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

can fail to look well-dressed in a sari. But these are all superficial tourist truisms. I have learned more in my reading, but so could you. It's in the movies where I find sensual and instinctive insights. I like Bollywood, and the classicism of Ray, but there's one area of Indian films I've missed, or remain ignorant of: The lowbudget indie scene. Sometimes, all over the world, such films are freed of the lockstep of plot and have a better feeling for the thing itself. A new film named "Patang" in this year's Chicago International Film Festival opened a new world for me. It plunges head-first into a family based in Ahmedabad, where India's largest annual kite festival is celebrated. It reflects the way Indians live in each other's pockets (to borrow the British expression). Homes and businesses, temples and roadways, are all crowded close together, neighbors know one another, and it's all held together by a network of the most baffling and chaotic traffic in the world. This film is joyous, but more than that: It's lovely in its construction. The director, Prashant Bhargava, born and raised in Chicago, knows what his basic storyline is, but reveals it subtly. The story in outline would be simple enough for a made-for-TV movie. There is nothing simple about "Patang." The bare bones of the story: An affluent uncle from Delhi named Jayesh (Mukkund Shukla) pays a much-delayed visit back home to his family in Ahmedabad, bringing along his daughter Priya (Sugandha Garg), who hasn't seen these relatives in years. He meets his mother Sudha

Prashant Bhargava directed "Patang."

(Seema Biswas), his grandmother Amma (Pannaben Soni), and his nephew â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the son of his brother, who died of a heart attack. The nephew, Chakku (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) resents the way this distant man descends grandly on the small-town relatives and feels he has the right to make suggestions and changes. There are many more details, but that's all I choose to reveal. The story line becomes fully clear only towards the end. In form "Patang" looks almost like a cinema verite documentary of this family, surrounded by the city and the kite festival. Although it was years in the making, many key shots were obtained during the festival itself, and we see the skies over the city filled with thousands of dancing, dueling kites, as every single rooftop is occupied by people. Below in the streets, bands, fireworks and food vendors create a tumult. There is a little romantic subplot, involving the daughter from Delhi and Bobby (Aakash Maheriya), who begin a flirtation on the rooftop and continue it during a motorbike ride. The family house itself is a character, and there are a few

This film is joyous, but more than that: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s lovely in its construction.

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So is the mystery of the nephewâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s resentment, which is explained obliquely by indirect dialogue. We are immersed in the life and sort it out for ourselves. extended shots of its graceful, playful architecture and happy colors. Many interiors involve a photograph of the dead brother, whose soul seems to inhabit it. Meals are prepared and shared on a table in the street. The food looks delicious; fingers are often used. People are teased to perform songs. Gossip and chatter run wild. No attempt is made to lay all this out logically; indeed, we only gradually come to know who the characters are. It's clear enough, but not underlined and pounded home. We meet a young boy named Hamid (Hamid Shaikh), who is delegated by a kitemaker to deliver a parcel of kites to this family home on the big day. His mission ends badly. A search goes up for Hamid. Meanwhile, on a bridge, Priya and Bobby begin a flirtation. Both are good looking. Her eyes dance with merriness. They've been together a few hours. In a lesser film, this would be a love story with

Jaideep Punjabi produced "Patang."

a happy ending. "But Bobby," she says, "we hardly know each other. Do you expect me to leave behind thousands of friends in Delhi?" He does. Now watch carefully. Their flirtatious conversation is filmed in close-ups and closer-ups. The effect is intimate and sensual. In one shot only, cigarette smoke coils from her mouth. We never otherwise see her smoking. This establishes in a moment that she is more worldly than the boy. She kisses him, but that will be that: This is only a few-days visit. Back at home, the frenzy of the kite-flying takes over. We learn that the kite strings are coated with powdered glass, and the idea is to cut another kite out of the sky and rule the clouds. This is never explained in so many words. We have to observe for ourselves that the kite-fliers protect their fingertips with tape. Such facts are embedded in the film, to be discovered

in context. So is the mystery of the nephew's resentment, which is explained obliquely by indirect dialogue. We are immersed in the life and sort it out for ourselves. The effect is curiously like being invited into this home and learning while we stay. Prashant Bhargava was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, went to grade school and the Kenwood Academy. How did his background produce such a lovely and successful indie film in India? From my point of view, the story begins about 25 years ago, when his father, Vijay Bhargava, started taking my film class at the University of Chicago's downtown extension division. Vijay was smart, affable, good company. He always saved a seat for me in the back row. During the complete silent features of Buster Keaton, we worked our way through oatmeal raisin cookies and peach Snapple. He loved movies, knew a lot about them, and when I was going to the Calcutta Film Festival he set me up with his cousin, who showed me all over town, including the Victoria Memorial, an architectural wedding cake that he regarded with a certain pleasure, considering Victoria had once appointed herself Empress of India. Last week I was signing my book at Barnes & Noble at Webster Place. Since I can't speak, I like to shake everyone's hand before a signing. There in the line was Vijay! I hadn't seen him since before my surgery in 2006. He introduced me to his son, Prashant, who had made a film that played at the Berlin and Tribeca festivals, and others. They gave me a DVD. I brought it home and was delighted by it. Prashant told me his dad spent over 25 years working in the administration of Michael Reese Hospital. "After 20 years of attending your class and supporting my career as a director and designer, he has taken up

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

BEHIND THE SCENES PATANG (2011) Not Rated Written and Directed by Prashant Bhargava Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Chakku Seema Biswas as Sudha Sugandha Garg as Priya Aakash Maheriya as Bobby Pannaben Soni as Amma Azur as Azur Mukkund Shukla as Jayesh Hamid Shaikh as Hamid Hameed as Hameed Running time: 94 minutes Print Courtesy: Khushi Films

acting!" he told me. "He has taken over 25 classes at Chicago's Act One Studios. He is a gardener as well, and recently completed a master gardening course at UIC." As for his mother, Ranjana Bhargava, who catered the meals of the cast and crew of his film: "For over 35 years, Ranjana has spearheaded efforts to serve the needs of women, immigrants and other marginalized communities in Chicago. She has led and managed numerous non-profit organizations, including Apna Ghar, a domestic violence shelter serving predominantly Asian women and families. She now teaches vegetarian Indian cooking on the South Side of Chicago in our home." Prashant attended Cornell, majored in computing, moved into film titles, music videos and live action commercials. "The seeds for the movie 'Patang' were based on the memories of my uncles' dueling kites," he said. "In India kite flying transcends continued on next page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

Patang continued from previous page boundaries. Rich or poor, Hindu or Muslim, young or old â&#x20AC;&#x201C; together they look towards the sky with wonder, thoughts and doubts forgotten. Kite flying is meditation in its simplest form. "In 2005, I visited Ahmedabad to experience their annual kite festival, the largest in India. When I first witnessed the entire city on their rooftops, staring up at the sky, their kites dueling ferociously, dancing without inhibition, I knew I had to make this film in Ahmedabad." And so he did. "Inspired by the spiritual energy of the festival," he told me, "I returned the next three years, slowly immersing myself in the ways of the old city. I became acquainted with its unwritten codes of conduct, its rhythms and secrets. I would sit on a street corner for hours at a stretch and just observe. Over time, I connected with shopkeep-

Priya's love story is unconventional. The meeting with her beau is brief and does not end happily.

ers and street kids, gangsters and grandmothers. This process formed the foundation for my characters, story and my approach to shooting the film. "I found myself discovering stories within Ahmedabad's old city that intrigued me. Fractured relationships, property disputes,

the meaning of home and the spirit of celebration were recurring themes that surfaced. The film's joyful message and its cinematic magic developed organically. My desire was for the sense of poetry and aesthetics to be less of an imposed perspective and more of a view that emerged

from the pride of the people and place." And that's what happens. His film took three years of research, was seven years in the making, had 9 percent non-actors, improvised its takes based on the script. And it flies as free and colorfully as a kite.

CONTEMPORARY FILM DIRECTORS

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14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

Film screening sponsored by: Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance

Take Shelter

A dread is spreading in the land By Roger Ebert

ere is a frightening thriller based not on special effects gimmicks but on a dread that seems quietly spreading in the land: that the good days are ending, and climate changes or other sinister forces will sweep away our safety. "Take Shelter" unfolds in a quiet Ohio countryside with big skies and flat horizons, and involves a happy family whose life seems contented. It is the gift of actor Michael Shannon as Curtis LaForche that while appearing to be a stable husband and father with a good job in construction, he also can evoke by his eyes and manner a deep unease. Curtis has what he needs to be happy. He fears he will lose it. His dreams begin to be visited by unusually vivid nightmares: The family dog attacks him, for example, or storms destroy his home. To the puzzlement of his wife, Samantha (Jessica Chastain), and their hearingimpaired daughter, Hannah (Tova Stewart), he builds a pen in the backyard for the dog, which had been living peacefully indoors. The storm dreams are not so easily managed. Ominous black clouds gather, their heavy raindrops brown and oily, and so subtle is the direction of Jeff Nichols that some of this poisoned rain seems to be real, not imaginary. They live on the outskirts of town, in an area which is swept from time to time with tornadoes. His behavior begins to concern his best friend and workmate, Dewart (Shea Whigham), who helps him as much as he

Michael Shannon stars in "Take Shelter."

can. Their friendship dramatizes the thin ice beneath so many people these days, when employment is threatened by uncontrolled forces, and if you lose a job, there may not be another one. Stories about Curtis begin to spread in the community, and Curtis is not paranoid when he thinks people are talking about him. His explosion at a community benefit dinner is terrifying in its energy. This is the second collaboration by writer-director and star, whose powerful "Shotgun Stories" (2007), established Nichols as a gifted new filmmaker and further cemented Shannon's growing reputation as an actor of uncommon force: the young Christopher Walken, my wife says, and he does embody the same shifting air of disquiet.

It is the gift of actor Michael Shannon as Curtis LaForche that while appearing to be a stable husband and father with a good job in construction, he also can evoke by his eyes and manner a deep unease. 68

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

As his wife, Jessica Chastain is effective in her seventh major role this year; since "The Tree of Life," has any young actress ever put together such a series of roles? A few jolting shots early in the film establish the possibility that bad things could happen. But Nichols builds his suspense carefully. Curtis is tormented but intelligent; fearing the family's history of mental illness, he visits his schizophrenic mother (Kathy Baker) in a care facility to ask if she had ever been troubled by bad dreams. He checks books

"Take Shelter" director and writer Jeff Nichols is a guest at this year's festival.

SATURDAY 8:30pm

Jessica Chastain in a scene from "Take Shelter." Chastain plays the part of Samantha, who is married to Michael Shannon's character.

out of the library. He turns to the area's obviously inadequate public health facilities. But he also acts as if his warnings should be taken seriously, He is driven to guard the family he loves. He borrows mon-

ey from the bank and equipment from work to greatly expand an old storm shelter in his backyard. His wife grows frightened by his behavior. His job and health insurance are threatened. And then a storm comes. Its na-

ture need not be discussed here. It leads to a scene of searing power, in which Samantha tells Curtis that it is safe once again to return to the surface â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that it is a step he must take personally. The story seems somewhat resolved. Then the film concludes not with a "surprise ending" but with a series of shots that brilliantly summarize all that has gone before. This is masterful filmmaking. In films like "Shotgun Stories," William Friedkin's "Bug," Sam Mendes' "Revolutionary Road" and Werner Herzog's "My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done," Shannon has attracted the best directors with his uncanny power. His performance in the play "Mistakes Were Made," was one of the most amazing performances I've ever seen. Thinking again over what he does in "Take Shelter," I think an Oscar nomination for best actor would be well-deserved.

BEHIND THE SCENES TAKE SHELTER (2011) Rated R Written and Directed by Jeff Nichols Cast: Michael Shannon as Curtis LaForche Jessica Chastain as Samantha LaForche Tova Stewart as Hannah LaForche Shea Whigham as Dewart Katy Mixon as Nat Natasha Randall as Cammie Ron Kennard as Russell Scott Knisley as Lewis Robert Longstreet as Jim Running time: 121 minutes Print Courtesy: Sony Pictures Classics

A scene from "Take Shelter" starring Michael Shannon. The movie is the second collaboration between Shannon and director Jeff Nichols. All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

VIRGINIA THEATRE Support the Virginiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restoration During their February Regular Board meeting, the Champaign Park District Board of Commissioners approved completing the Virginia Theatre restoration as one large project, closing down in mid May of 2012 and reopening in April of 2013 for the 15th Annual Roger Ebert's Film Festival, with any remaining work to be completed after May of 2013. This will become the largest project yet on the theatre since the Park District took over ownership in 2000 and will finally complete the restoration of this grand facility. Total costs for the renovation are estimated to be $5 million so your help is needed now more than ever. Funds have been allocated, but every dollar collected in donations means one less dollar of tax support needed. Help us finish the job and bring the Virginia Theatre back to the grandeur of her glory days! For more information about the specifics of the restoration or how you can help, contact Laura Auteberry at laura.auteberry@cparkdistrict.com or (217) 819-3839.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS W. Penn Nelson, Chair Dan M. McCulley, Vice Chair John A. Frauenhoffer, Secretary Newton H. Dodds Craig W. Hays Bobbie H. Herakovich Barbara S. Hundley Louis D. Liay Dennis R. McMillan Scott A. Miller Arthur J. Thoma Robert F. Toalson (Honorary) Gary G. Wackerlin, Treasurer Champaign Parks Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit providing philanthropic support for the Champaign Park District.

www.champaignparkdistrict.com

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

Citizen Kane

Giving a new voice to an old classic By Roger Ebert

assume every Ebertfest audience member has seen "Citizen Kane" at least once, perhaps many times. I'm including it in this year's Ebertfest for a personal reason. I recorded the video commentary track for the DVD, and it has been retained in the magnificently restored new 70th anniversary edition of the film from Warner Bros., released last autumn. The track had some success, and was named commentary of the year by Variety. The last year I was able to speak was at Ebertfest 2006. So Ebertfest 2012 is also an anniversary of sorts, and it occurred to me to present the film with the commentary track, so that one more time my voice can be heard in this lovely theater. "I don't think any word can explain a man's life,'' says one of the searchers through the warehouse of treasures left behind by Charles Foster Kane. Then we get the famous series of shots leading to the closeup of the word "Rosebud'' on a sled that has been tossed into a furnace, its paint curling in the flames. We remember that this was Kane's childhood sled, taken from him as he was torn from his family and sent east to boarding school. Rosebud is the emblem of the security, hope and innocence of childhood, which a man can spend his life seeking to regain. It is the green light at the end of Gatsby's pier; the leopard atop Kilimanjaro, seeking nobody knows what; the bone tossed into the air in "2001.'' It is that yearning after transience that adults learn to suppress. "Maybe Rosebud was something he couldn't get, or something he lost,'' says Thompson, the reporter assigned to the puzzle of Kane's dying word. "Anyway, it wouldn't

Rosebud is the emblem of security, hope and innocence of childhood, which a man can spend his life seeking to regain. 72

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

Orson Welles wrote, directed and starred in "Citizen Kane." The movie is widely considered one of the greatest of all time.

have explained anything.'' True, it explains nothing, but it is remarkably satisfactory as a demonstration that nothing can be explained. "Citizen Kane'' likes playful paradoxes like that. Its surface is as much fun as any movie ever made. Its depths surpass understanding. I have analyzed it a shot at a time with more than 30 groups, and together we have seen, I believe, pretty much everything that is there on the screen. The more clearly I can see its physical manifestation, the more I am stirred by its mystery. It is one of the miracles of cinema that in 1941 a first-time director; a cynical, hard-drinking writer; an innovative cinematographer, and a group of New York stage and radio actors were given the keys to a studio and total

control, and made a masterpiece. "Citizen Kane'' is more than a great movie; it is a gathering of all the lessons of the emerging era of sound, just as "Birth of a Nation'' assembled everything learned at the summit of the silent era, and "2001'' pointed the way beyond narrative. These peaks stand above all the others. The origins of "Citizen Kane'' are well known. Orson Welles, the boy wonder of radio and stage, was given freedom by RKO Radio Pictures to make any picture he wished. Herman Mankiewicz, an experienced screenwriter, collaborated with him on a screenplay originally called "The American.'' Its inspiration was the life of William Randolph Hearst, who had put together an empire of newspapers, radio stations, magazines and

SUNDAY 12:00noon

The structure of “Citizen Kane” is circular, adding more depth every time it passes over the life. news services, and then built to himself the flamboyant monument of San Simeon, a castle furnished by rummaging the remains of nations. Hearst was Ted Turner, Rupert Murdoch and Bill Gates rolled up into an enigma. Arriving in Hollywood at age 25, Welles brought a subtle knowledge of sound and dialogue along with him; on his Mercury Theater on the Air, he'd experimented with audio styles more lithe and suggestive than those usually heard in the movies. As his cinematographer he hired Gregg Toland, who on John Ford's "The Long Voyage Home'' (1940) had experimented

with deep-focus photography-with shots where everything was in focus, from the front to the back, so that composition and movement determined where the eye looked first. For his cast Welles assembled his New York colleagues, including Joseph Cotten as Jed Leland, the hero's best friend; Dorothy Comingore as Susan Alexander, the young woman Kane thought he could make into an opera star; Everett Sloane as Mr. Bernstein, the mogul's business wizard; Ray Collins as Gettys, the corrupt political boss, and Agnes Moorehead as the boy's forbidding mother. Welles himself

George Coulouris, Harry Shannon, Agnes Moorehead and Buddy Swan in a scene from '"Citizen Kane." The film is known for its use of deep-focus cinematography.

played Kane from age 25 until his deathbed, using makeup and body language to trace the progress of a man increasingly captive inside his needs. "All he really wanted out of life was love,'' Leland says. "That's Charlie's story--how he lost it.'' The structure of "Citizen Kane'' is circular, adding more depth every time it passes over the life. The movie opens with newsreel obituary footage that briefs us on the life and times of Charles Foster Kane; this footage, with its portentous narration, is Welles' bemused nod in the direction of the "March of Time'' newsreels then being produced by another media mogul, Henry Luce. They provide a map of Kane's trajectory, and it will keep us oriented as the screenplay skips around in time, piecing together the memories of those who knew him.

BEHIND THE SCENES CITIZEN KANE (1941) Rated PG Written and Directed by Orson Welles Cast: Orson Welles as Charles Foster Kane Dorothy Comingore as Susan Alexander Kane Agnes Moorehead as Mary Kane Joseph Cotten as Jedediah Leland Ruth Warrick as Emily Monroe Norton Kane Ray Collins as James W. Gettys Erskine Sanford as Herbert Carter Running time: 119 minutes Print Courtesy: Warner Bros.

continued on next page

A scene from "Citizen Kane."

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Citizen Kane continued from previous page Curious about Kane's dying word, "rosebud,'' the newsreel editor assigns Thompson, a reporter, to find out what it meant. Thompson is played by William Alland in a thankless performance; he triggers every flashback, yet his face is never seen. He questions Kane's alcoholic mistress, his ailing old friend, his rich associate and the other witnesses, while the movie loops through time. As often as I've seen "Citizen Kane,'' I've never been able to firmly fix the order of the scenes in my mind. I look at a scene and tease myself with what will come next. But it remains elusive: By flashing back through the eyes of many witnesses, Welles and Mankiewicz created an emotional chronology set free from time. The movie is filled with bravura visual moments: the towers of Xanadu; candidate Kane addressing a political rally; the doorway of his mistress dissolving into a front-page photo in a rival newspaper; the camera swooping down through a skylight toward the pathetic Susan in a nightclub; the many Kanes reflected through parallel mirrors; the boy playing in the snow in the background as his parents determine his future; the great shot as the camera rises straight up from Susan's opera debut to a stagehand holding his nose, and the subsequent shot of Kane, his face hidden in shadow, defiantly applauding in the silent hall. Along with the personal story is the history of a period. "Citizen Kane'' covers the rise of the penny press (here Joseph Pulitzer is the model), the Hearst-supported Spanish-American War, the birth of radio, the power of political

Welles was heavily influenced by the history of journalism in the early 1900s. He based portions of his story on the rise of the penny press and Joseph Pulitzer, and also the life of William Randolph Hearst.

machines, the rise of fascism, the growth of celebrity journalism. A newsreel subtitle reads: "1895 to 1941. All of these years he covered, many of these he was.'' The screenplay by Mankiewicz and Welles (which got an Oscar, the only one Welles ever won) is densely constructed and covers an amazing amount of ground, including a sequence showing Kane inventing the popular press; a record of his marriage, from early bliss to the famous montage of increasingly chilly breakfasts; the story of his courtship of Susan Alexander and her disastrous opera career, and his decline into the remote master of Xanadu ("I think if you look carefully in the

west wing, Susan, you'll find about a dozen vacationists still in residence''). "Citizen Kane'' knows the sled is not the answer. It explains what Rosebud is, but not what Rosebud means. The film's construction shows how our lives, after we are gone, survive only in the memories of others, and those memories butt up against the walls we erect and the roles we play. There is the Kane who made shadow figures with his fingers, and the Kane who hated the traction trust; the Kane who chose his mistress over his marriage and political career, the Kane who entertained millions, the Kane who died alone. There is a master image in

"Citizen Kane'' you might easily miss. The tycoon has overextended himself and is losing control of his empire. After he signs the papers of his surrender, he turns and walks into the back of the shot. Deep focus allows Welles to play a trick of perspective. Behind Kane on the wall is a window that seems to be of average size. But as he walks toward it, we see it is further away and much higher than we thought. Eventually he stands beneath its lower sill, shrunken and diminished. Then as he walks toward us, his stature grows again. A man always seems the same size to himself, because he does not stand where we stand to look at him.

“Citizen Kane” knows the sled is not the answer. It explains what Rosebud is, but not what Rosebud means. The film‘s construction shows how our lives, after we are gone, survive only in the memories of others, and those memories butt up against the walls we erect and the roles we play.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

You fell in love with Downton Abbey, now get to know the rest of our characters.

Your news source

dailyillini.com All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

Sponsors

Thanks to those who made the Festival possible

FILM CIRCLE SPONSORS

$25,000 +

Roger & Chaz Ebert Champaign County Anti-Stigma Alliance American Airlines & American Eagle Steak ‘n Shake Betsy Hendrick

DIAMOND SPONSORS Leone Advertising Shatterglass Studios L.A. Gourmet Catering Fandor

$10,000 +

BETSY HENDRICK

PLATINUM SPONSORS $5,000 +

President-designate & Mrs. Robert A. Easter Busey Horizon Hobby

HENDRICK HOUSE

DIAMOND SPONSORS

$10,000 +

The News-Gazette * Digital Theater Systems ** Geoffrey & Ann Poor/Balanced Audio Technology *** * The News-Gazette has made a one-time donation of $50,000 toward the remodeling of the Virginia Theatre’s projection booth. ** DTS has made a one-time donation of $10,200 worth of digital audioequipment for the Virginia Theatre. *** Champaign Rotary Club, Geoffrey and Ann Poor/Balanced Audio Technology, Glenn Poor’s Audio-Video and Phase Technology: a one-time donation of $26,000 worth of equipment for speakers for the Virginia Theatre.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

GOLD SPONSORS $2,500 +

Steve & Susan Zumdahl Marsha Woodbury COL (IL) J.N.Pritzker, IL ARNG (Retired) Chuck and Eileen Kuenneth Bullock & Associates, Cheryl and Don Bullock Chicago Sun-Times

SILVER SPONSORS

$1,500 + Chuck & Lynn Nelson Lex Tate Fraeda & Gary Porton Joe Bennett & Aaron Hines Jim Johnson & Coleen Quinn Maxine & Jim Kaler Chipman Design Architecture Susan Evans & John Lamkin Capt. Bill & Jeannie Wilson Thomas F. Flynn & Judy L. Flynn Bill Schroeder Sam Murphy & Steve Peltz Sharon Shavitt & Steven Zimmerman Carol Livingstone & Dan Grayson Cowboy Monkey Guido's Soma Ultra Lounge Jupiter's Pizzeria & Billiards Seven Saints 2wav Tammy Schaefer & Casey Stamper Illinois Film Office Cobalt Digital Inc.

FESTIVAL ASSOCIATES $250 + Jean and Hiram Paley Yvette Scheven Ed & Nancy Tepper Dianna K. Armstrong John Foltz Doc Erickson J. Michael Lillich Troylene Ladner In Memory of Hiram Paley Robin & Robert Fossum

GIFTS-IN-KIND

L.A. Gourmet Catering Fleurish Premier Print Group Leone Advertising, Website Stella Artois eGIX web hosting Silver Creek & The Courier Cafe CarltonBruettDesign Illini Media/The Daily Illini Champaign Park District Virginia Theatre fleurish logo

GIFTS-IN-KIND

Project Te, Inc. News Talk 1400/Lite Rock 97.5 Adams Outdoor Advertising The Great Impasta Boltini Lounge 40 North/88 West Thompson.McClellan Ralph & Joe, Garcia’s Pizza in a Pan The BankVertising Company Andrews McMeel Publishing Community Concierge Magazine Champaign County Tent Sun Singer Wine & Spirits, LTD. Carter’s Furniture Herriott’s Coffee Company Einstein Bros Bagels

FLEURISH

SILVER SPONSORS

$1,500 + Richard D. Mohr & Robert W. Switzer Mike & Michelle Wellens David Graham Brand Fortner Stan Lanning & Colleen Quigley Ann Benefiel & Joseph Kunkel Robeson Family Benefit Fund Ann Beddini & Barb Hulseberg Don Tingle Max & Betsy Mitchell

PATRONS

$750 + Michele Thompson Carol Spindel & Thomas J. Bassett Bill & Wilma O’Brien Paul & Martha Diehl Ashley Rodman & Matt Gladney Tom & Regina Galer-Unti Hilary Frooman & John Lee Louis & Sandy Rice Stephen Tobias

FESTIVAL FRIENDS $500 + Dan & Marge Perrino Todd Salen Bowen Cho Gary & Connie Wikoff

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

The Spurlock Museum celebrates the people and places of our world... our heritage as members of individual cultures and as the community of humanity.

hours

www.spurlock.illinois.edu

Lincoln

Champaign

Urbana University

600 South Gregory Urbana, Illinois Illinois Gregory

free admission

N Neil

T noon–5 W–F 9–5 Sa 10–4 Su noon–4

Lincoln

D W O RL

TH E

PL O RE

UI Logo

Oregon

SPURLOCK Museum

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Last year

A look back at the 2011 Festival

Photos courtesy of Thompson McClellan

Audience members during a showing of "Life, Above All" at the Virginia Theatre on April 30, 2011.

Roger and Chaz arrive at the Ebertfest Opening Reception hosted by President and Mrs. Michael Hogan.

Roger, Chaz and Tilda Swinton at last year's Festival.

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

Festival director Nate Kohn (left) talking on stage with Chaz Ebert (right) and Hilde Back (far right).

David Call, one of the stars of "Tiny Furniture," discusses his role following the screening.

Guests from the movie "Louder Than a Bomb," which closed out the 2011 Festival.

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Tilda Swinton on stage following the screening of "I Am Love" at the 2011 Festival.

Hilde Back, the subject of "A Small Act," at the Festival.

Richard Linklater, director, discusses his film “Me and Orson Welles” with Ali Arikan (left), Ignatiy Vishnevetsky (right) and the Festival audience after the screening.

Turner (left) and Bill Ross (right) receive their Golden Thumb awards after the screening of "45365" at the 2011 Festival.

Lamar Jorden performs after the screening of "Louder Than a Bomb" at the close of the 2011 Festival.

Chaz and panelists after the panel discussion â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ebert Presents: Reinventing the TV Show in the Digital Age."

Roger and Chaz present Norman Jewison, the director of "Only You," with the Golden Thumb award on stage after his movie.

Roger and Chaz with Rachael Harris and Robbie Pickering of "Natural Selection" at the Ebertfest Opening Reception.

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ The Virginia Theatre

Aroma Cafe’s

Sexy Toast! Edible Art A Classic Movie Experience Serving beer, wine, and mixed drinks

Ebertfest Encore Schedule Before and during Ebertfest, The Art Theater will be encoring a film from this year and a few selections from prior years. Separate admission is required for The Art Theater’s shows, even for Ebertfest pass holders.

Screenings at The Art Theater FriDAy (4/20): The New Art Film Festival a free festival of locally made films Part of the Boneyard Arts Festival 5:00 PM - 12:00 Midnight SATUrDAy (4/21) 1:00 - 3:30 PM – “Trees are Good” free Arbor Day matinee 4:30 PM - The Band’s Visit (Ebertfest 2008) 7:30 PM - California 90420 (New documentary on marijuana culture) 10:00 PM - Synecdoche, New York (Ebertfest 2010) SUNDAy (4/22) 1:00 PM - Rigoletto (Opera, from the Royal Opera House) 4:30 PM - Trouble the Water (Ebertfest 2009) 6:30 PM - Battleship Potemkin (Ebertfest 1999) 8:00 PM - Metropolis (Ebertfest 2011) MoNDAy (4/23) Feminist Film Festival Hosted by the U of I’s Women’s Resources Center TUESDAy (4/24) 7:30 PM - The Band’s Visit (Ebertfest 2008) 9:30 PM - Battleship Potemkin (Ebertfest 1999) WEDNESDAy (4/25) 1:00 PM - Play Time (Ebertfest 2005) 4:00 PM - Rigoletto (Opera, from the Royal Opera House) 7:30 PM - Metropolis (Ebertfest 2011) Thursday (4/26) 7:30 PM - I Am Love (Ebertfest 2011) 10:00 PM - Big Fan (Ebertfest 2012)

118 N. Neil Street Champaign, IL 61820 217. 356. 3200 Hours: Mon-Thurs 7am-9pm Fri 7-10pm Sat 8-10pm Sun 8-9pm

Aroma Cafe uses only the finest ingredients to create quality food and coffees.

Congratulations Roger and Chaz on your 14th festival

All films will be digitally presented

126 W. Church St. Champaign

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Take the CUMTD Bus www.theCUart.com

Proud supporters of ebertfest

Thanks!

to those who made the 2012 Festival possible

FestivAl Guests Alloy Orchestra Ali Arikan Edouard Bamporiki Michael Barker Prashant Bhargava Ranjana Bhargava Vijay Bhargava Seema Biswas Steven Boone David Bordwell Carolyn Briggs Reid Brody Alrick Brown Olivia Collette Paul Cox John Davies Michell Davis Darren Dean Jim Emerson Doc Erickson Kelechi Ezie Cassandra Freeman Stephen Goldblatt Deatra Harris Scott Jordan Harris Odie Henderson Azazel Jacobs Wael Khairy Raymond Lambert Kevin B. Lee Christy Lemire Jeffrey Lerner Ali LeRoi Nell Minow Peyman Moadi Jana Monji Omer Mozaffar Jeff Nichols Ishmael Ntihabose Michal Oleszczyk Tommy Oliver Patton Oswalt Eric Pierson Steve Prokopy Jaideep Punjabi

David Poland Robert Siegel Jeff Shannon Michael Shannon Krishna Shenoi Nawazuddin Siddiqui Gerardo Valero Pablo Villaca Grace Wang Jacob Wysocki Hadidja Zaninka

Program Supervisor Kristi Bruce Amatucci

PRiNt COuRtesy

Graphic Design Carlton Bruett

Print Courtesy Warner Bros

FestivAl stAFF

vOluNteeRs

Festival Programmer and Host ROGeR eBeRt

Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Print Courtesy First independent Pictures

thanks all of its loyal and

Kinyarwanda

Festival Director Nate Kohn

hard-working volunteers.

Festival Producer and Co-Host Chaz ebert Associate Festival Director Mary susan Britt

Joe Versus the Volcano

The Truth About Beauty and Blogs

Chair, Academic Panels Dr. Norman Denzin

Print Courtesy DuArt Film and video

Festival Program Jill Disis, The Daily Illini

Phunny Business: A Black Comedy

Print Courtesy Reid Brody – Filmworkers

Big Fan

Print Courtesy visigoth Pictures

Without you, the Festival

Terri

would not be possible. We

Print Courtesy AtO Pictures

are deeply grateful for your

On Borrowed Time

dedication, time and commitment – not only during

Print Courtesy David Bradbury

the festival, but all year round.

Wild and Weird

Conspirator in Chief lady Joan Cohl Director, The Virginia Theatre steven Bentz Front House Coordinator, The Virginia Theatre Kim lareau Technical Director, The Virginia Theatre Mike Frederick Projectionists James Bond steve Krauss travis Bird Website leone Advertising

Print Courtesy Film Preservation Associates

A Separation

A veRy sPeCiAl thANKs tO

Print Courtesy sony Pictures Classics

Leading Sponsors Champaign County Anti-stigma Alliance steak 'n shake Official Airlines Mary Frances Fagan American Airlines/American Eagle Official travel agent lori tate simon lisa hettinger L&L Travel

Higher Ground

Print Courtesy sony Pictures Classics

Patang

Print Courtesy Khushi Films

Take Shelter

Print Courtesy sony Pictures Classics

Citizen Kane

Print Courtesy Warner Bros

Coordinators sophie Kohn sonia evans Keith Pegues

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

Carmonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro 415 N. Neil St. 217.378.2299

Open for lunch, brunch, dinner. Rustic French food with organic wines & hand-crafted cocktails. 1/2 price wines by the glass on Tuesday 1/2 price specialty cocktails on Sunday

14th Annual Roger Ebertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Film Festival

Parking

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April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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Fly Me To The Moon

HAWTHORN SUITES PRESENTS

“Fly Me To The Moon” An elegant evening of dinner & dance

Friday, May 4th 2012 Reception: 6:00-7:00pm Hors d’oeuvres & Cocktails

Dinner: 7:00pm Caesar Salad Petite Steak Red Skinned Mashed Potatoes Belgium Carrots Chef’s Choice Dessert

Entertainment & Dancing: 8-11:00pm Live Music ~ Geoff & Dave

By Reservations ONLY $25.00 per person $45.00 per couple Cash Bar RSVP to Christina Phone: 217-531-9098 E-mail: cwaugh@cuhawthorn.com

101 Trade Centre Drive Champaign, IL 61820 Corner of Neil & Kirby

14th Annual Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

Celebrating over 100 years of college media at the University of Illinois

illinimedia.org

“Borrowed” friendship runs deep By Rosie Powers, Daily Illini Staff Writer

hough every Ebertfest is dedicated to a special member of the film community, not all can claim to have travelled over 15,000 miles to get to the annual festival. This year’s Ebertfest has been dedicated to Paul Cox, an Australian filmmaker. One of the films featured in the festival, “On Borrowed Time,” directed by Australian director David Bradbury, is a summary of Cox’s professional and personal life. Cox, who is Dutch, moved to Australia in his 20s. He is now based in Melbourne, Australia, and has made 22 films over the past 40 years. The film serves as an ongoing narrative about Cox’s journey through his career in these years, and looks at filmmaking as an art form. Though the film was not made by Cox himself, this is not his first time attending Ebertfest. In fact, Karyn Yee, production coordinator for Illumination Films, said Cox has been to the festival a few times for screenings of his own films. “Cox met Roger Ebert many years ago, and throughout the years they have reunited at various festivals. He considers Ebert a much-respected friend,”

Everything you do with your heart and soul is a self-portrait of sorts. If you are a painter and paint portraits of people, each one of those should be a self-portrait. - Paul Cox Yee said. Though Cox has made several films throughout his career, he claims that many of his films are self-inspired in one way or another. “Everything you do with your heart and soul is a self-portrait of sorts,” Cox said. “If you are a painter and paint portraits of people, each one of those should be a self-portrait. You can’t express your sincerity and personal voice when you accept the fact that you’re constantly forced to bend to commercial demands.” Yee said each of Cox’s films represents a different period in his life. “Each film represents stages in Paul’s life, as his films are a means of self-expression,” Yee said. Yet “On Borrowed Time,”

though not Cox’s film, might be the most personal of them all. The film also focuses on Cox’s diagnosis with cancer, and how the illness has shaped his way of thinking both in his personal and professional lives. Though a horrific realization to have, the film portrays Cox’s acceptance of death from the viewpoint of human mortality. Essentially, Cox comes to the realization of living in the moment, for the fact that a disease or misfortune could befall anyone at any time. “We all live on borrowed time," Cox said. “We’re transient beings.” “On Borrowed Time” is scheduled to appear during the festival on Friday, April 27 at 1:00 p.m. at the Virginia Theatre.

Paul Cox is an Australian filmmaker. This year's festival is dedicated to him.

David Bradbury directed "On Borrowed Time."

"On Borrowed Time" is a documentary that chronicles Paul Cox's life. Cox comes to the realization that one must live in the moment, since a disease or misfortune could befall anyone at any given time.

All Q&A sessions and panel discussions will be streamed live at www.ebertfest.com and on the Ebertfest Facebook Fan Page

April 25-29, 2012 • The Virginia Theatre

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Reviews 3 Popolino 4 alla spina, belle cakery 5 Jar BAR 6 HONEST TOM'S taco shop 8 NOMAD PIZZA 9 GRILL FISH cafe 10 la TAQUERIA veracruzana 11 REX 1516 12 the PICKLED HERON 13 TALULA'S GARDEN 14 LOCO PEZ 15 LEMON HILL 16 RUSSET 17 JAMONERA 18 GUACAMOLE mex–grill 19 kung Fu hoagies 20 MARRAKESH EXPRESS 21 ROUTE 6, UNDERDOGS 22-23 photo essay 24-44 listings Price per person $: 0-$10 $$: $10-$20 $$$: $20-30 $$$$: $30-up

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P age 2 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

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EVERY SATURDAY 9 pm - 1:30 am

Voted Philly’s Best by Citysearch 1116 WALNUT STREET 215.627.7676 www.moriartyspub.com

My biffle is perfect in every way – except that he doesn't like to cook. To motivate himself, he likes to pretend he's on the Food Network. The following scene was found in a worn, suspiciously–stained journal wherein he writes his cooking fan–fiction: Scene 1: It’s 9 a.m. I glide out of bed and caress the woodland critters that found their way into my room. In the kitchen, I pull out a box of Cheerios. “Make sure only to use the good Cheerios,” I chime, echoing Ina Garten. I lay out a tablescape and make some Sandra Lee breakfast cocktails, because why

rex 1516

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talula's garden 34th Street Magazine Elizabeth Horkley, Editor–in–Chief Joe Pinsker, Managing Editor Adrian Franco, Online Managing Editor Hilary Miller, Design Editor Chloe Bower, Design Editor Sarah Tse, Photo Editor Laura Francis, Asst. Photo Editor Zeke Sexauer, Associate Design Editor Tucker Johns, Food & Drink Editor Nina Wolpow, Food & Drink Editor Cover Photo: Route 6, christina prudencio

Contributors: Christina Prudencio, Christina Gunzenhauser, Andres Munoz, Jessica Goodman, Ali Jaffe, Faryn Pearl, Leah Steinberg, Laura Rosenblum, Paige Rubin, Steph Witt, Mady Glickman, Frida Garza, Sam Brodey, Zacchiaus McKee, Ben Lerner, Alex Marcus, Elena Gooray, Steph Rice, Isa Oliveres

Contacting 34th Street Magazine: If you have questions, comments, complaints or letters to the editor, email Elizabeth Horkley, Editor-–in–Chief, at horkley@34st.com. You can also call us at (215) 898-6585. To place an ad, call (215) 898-6581. Visit our web site: www.34st.com "Two quotes in one week is a lot to ask for, man." ©2012 34th Street Magazine, The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc. No part may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express, written consent of the editors (but I bet we will give you the a-okay.) All rights reserved. 34th Street Magazine is published by The Daily Pennsylvanian, Inc., 4015 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19104, every Thursday.

Dining Guide

WHEN IN ROME What’s doing at Peter McAndrews’s new Northern Italian BYO, Popolino By Tucker johns and nina wolpow | Photos by Sarah tse

Where pasta was concerned, the signature fettucine alla Romana ($16), topped with a spicy short rib ragu, took it home — Popolino, if nothing else, has mastered the use of tender meats. Whether in comparison or on its own, the carbonara ($13) fell short, more buttery than we’d expected, its flavors too mute even for a cream–based dish. Given the emphasis the Romans place on their meats, the

wine sauce that would warrant a plate–licking if this place didn’t have white tablecloths. The butcher’s style oxtail ($20) — butter–soft pieces of oxtail simmering in a tomato and white wine sauce spruced–up by a hint of cocoa — was outstanding. The baccala ($18) was the lightest of the bunch, but that doesn’t mean it lacked flavor. The perfectly–cooked cod tasted delicious topped with

heavenly cream and a generous dusting of cocoa. The chocolate mousse was barely overshadowed by the tiramisu with its rich, dense chocolate paired with a dollop of cream, held together by just the subtlest taste of fruit. Keep it up, Chef. We’ll be back.

Popolino

501 Fairmount Ave. (215) 928–0106

Don't Miss: The lingua or the

veal

Skip: The carbonara $$$$$

Popolino 501 Fairmount Avenue Skip: the carbonara Don’t miss: the lingua or the veal Price: $$$$

Antipasti table

La Fontana Della Citta 215.875.9990

Experience a Touch of Italy At the Best BYOB In Philly! Seats 150 People

a sweet–and–sour sauce composed of pine nuts, prunes and apples. After such a stunning array of savory dishes, the desserts had a lot to live up to, and despite our full stomachs, they pulled it off. The tiramisu was as good as any in the city, with liqueur–soaked ladyfingers sandwiched between

5 Lunches, 7 Dinners, 7 days a week Excellent for Family and Group Meetings Contact Management, they are happy to meet your needs! 15% off with Fixed Price Sunday-Thursday

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expectations for Popolino’s main courses were high, and unsurprisingly, McAndrews didn’t disappoint. The standout among three exceptional dishes was McAndrews’s take on veal saltimbocca ($24). Tender veal cutlets came topped with paper–thin prosciutto and fried sage and doused in an addictive white

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

hen Peter McAndrews opened Monsu last Fall, he brought Sicily to Philadelphia; now the Philly chef and Italian food enthusiast has made his move northwards, bringing the best of Rome with him to his new spot in Northern Liberties. McAndrews named it Popolino; we’re calling it one of the best Italian ventures to come to the city in the last few years. Popolino’s a BYO, and McAndrews and his staff feel as strongly about pairing the best of the vine with the best of their menu (according to McAndrews, a true Roman meal should be enjoyed in several courses and take two to three hours, which is where the wine comes in). They feel so strongly, in fact, that they brought out their own bottle when we forgot ours. At chef’s suggestion, we succumbed to the four–course–plan, which, at $40, is a deal when you consider that you’ll get antipasti, a first plate, a meat and dessert. “Let me cook for you,” said McAndrews at our indecisiveness, and we didn’t fight it. We began with an assortment from Popolino’s antipasti table ($8 per person if ordered a la carte) — glazed carrots and roasted eggplant, strips of zucchini and a chickpea–tuna fish salad patterned a white platter alongside fava beans, broccoli rabe and cheese. Our server brought warm rustic bread sliced fresh from its loaf on the table, which they replenished generously. Next came calf's tongue ($9), fried calamari ($10) and an Italian bread stuffed with mozzarella ($9) — we devoured all three and delighted in the fritti’s red pepper kick, the milkiness of the cheese and the sweet punch of orange accompanying the tongue.

Dining Guide

VETRI’S WINNING STREAK CONTINUES BELLE OF THE BALL Alla Spina brings inventive Italian bar food to North Broad

Desserts done right in South Philly

By tucker johns | photo by sarah tse

By Leah Steinberg | Photo by sarah tse

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arc Vetri, one of Philadelphia’s most celebrated chefs, continues his winning run with his newest spot, Alla Spina. The chef’s take on an Italian bar has a name that literally means “from the tap." Alla Spina furthers North Broad Street’s evolution into a culinary hub, as it shares a building with Steven Starr’s Route 6 and is just a stone’s throw from Vetri's own Osteria. Alla Spina is both the most casual and alcohol–focused Vetri venture yet, with an impressive list of domestic and imported beer taking

up just as much space on the menu as the food. Most of the menu items are designed for sharing, but inconsistent prices and confusing labels make deciding exactly what and how much to order slightly confusing. Never fear, though, because in true Vetri style, everything is delicious. The waiter divided our order of seven items into two separate courses, and the first four dishes arrived almost immediately, as if the kitchen had telepathically predicted what we were having. The poutine ($14), fries drenched in Guinea hen leg Bolognese and mozzarella curd, was the rich, salty standout among the first course, with the cheese and meat creating a perfect messy, gluttonous balance. The Italian rarebit ($12), the chef’s take on the classic Welsh dish, combined Applewood– smoked bacon, gooey cheese and a sunny–side–up egg with a crispy piece of ciabatta for a savory winner. The Tuscan kale ($10) with provolone

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ALLA SPINA

1410 Mt. Vernon St. (215) 600–0017

Don't Miss: Guinea hen and mozzarella curd poutine Skip: Coming alone — these dishes are meant for sharing

$$$$$

provided a welcome green touch, and the crispy sunchokes, although tasty, came in an almost laughably small portion. The wait for the next course was significantly longer, but the dishes maintained the same level of excellence. The veal Milanese hoagie ($12) and the mortadella hot dog ($8) were steals, considering their size, but the mound of chips that came alongside each seemed extraneous. Pasta lovers should rest easy, because there are a few noodle dishes on the menu, and the lasagna verde ($16), which featured spinach noodles and a rich Bolognese, was hearty and elegantly composed. Alla Spina makes soft–serve in–house, and the Alla Spina sundae ($10), which paired the fiordilatte ice cream with caramel–coated pretzels and chocolate–covered bacon, was the perfect sweet ending to a memorable meal. The Alla Spina space, an industrial dining room with graffitied walls and a massive open kitchen is certainly Vetri’s funkiest yet. Above the centerpiece bar, there’s an elevated “cage” for private dining, which provides a bird's–eye view of the action below. As expected with the Vetri stamp, the food at Alla Spina is consistently outstanding, busting down the boundaries of traditional Italian cuisine, and the ambience is refreshingly casual. Despite uneven pricing and portions, Alla Spina is another Vetri winner.

t’s sometimes hard to know the difference between dessert that’s good simply because it’s dessert and dessert that’s doing something most desserts don’t do. Belle Cakery’s sweets fall into the second category. A flight of stairs in the bakery's entryway leads to a small seating area. The kitchen is visible beyond the glass dessert case, a confident demonstration that there’s nothing to hide. Red walls, red tables and red silk chairs covered in plastic inch towards kitsch, but stop just short, allowing Belle’s focus to rest squarely on the baked goods. Clearly, this is a place about producing strong desserts; this refreshing objective helps to stave off the cuteness that seems to distract sweets shops lately. What stands out most at Belle is the intention and creativity in the desserts. This is not the sort of outlandish creativity involved in, say, a gummy hamburger or a cupcake covered in sugary leaves. These are standard desserts done well with clever accents. The creme brulee has vanilla bean black dots in it, and it's seriously good. Sliced kumquats on top of towers of carrot cake and icing make you forget you’re anywhere near a vegetable. The salted caramel cheesecake is simple and satis-

belle cakery

1437 East Passyunk Ave. (215) 271–2299

Don't Miss: Hazelnut–topped chocolate cake Skip: Coming alone (so you can sample a lot of different things)

$$$$$

fying, with big white tufts of frosting on top that look like the marshmallows that usually accompany candied yams. It all simply tastes good, the way dessert should taste, but with an added element to make it just a bit more interesting, like they’ve thought about all the ingredients and made some changes to make the desserts even better. A beautiful window opens out onto the small street, across from which there’s an elegantly overgrown garden. The window is framed by drapes tied with ribbons that are cozily plump. It’s a dainty and ideal spot for slicing into a stack of different preparations of chocolate with the side of your fork so you get a bit of each of the different types of chocolate. Belle Cakery isn’t exactly close to campus, but if you look at that as a perk, the opportunity to take an hour or so with some friends for an amazing slice of cake, then it’s the perfect distance away.

Hazelnut–topped chocolate cake

Dining Guide

Not that kind of bar The raw food revolution arrives at Jar Bar By STEPHANIE RICE

ince Philadelphia jar bar food blog Foobooz 113 S. 12th Street first announced Jar (215) 923–1600 Bar’s upcoming debut back in June 2011, I have been Don't Miss: Green Banana Elixir eagerly awaiting the arrival Skip: Eating in; the place is hot of this juice bar/raw cafe. Joel Odhner and Jennifer $$$$$ Richmond, the faces behind the Oprah–endorsed and ($6.75) made with shaved wildly–successful Catalyst zucchini, sweet potato, pine Juice Cleanse are the brains nuts and sun–dried tomato, behind this completely raw all dressed in lemon and olive restaurant venture. Jar, oil. I chose to wash it down which stands for juicy and with a signature elixir called raw, boasts a menu that the Green Banana ($5.75), even non–health nuts will which differed from the clasappreciate. It contains evsic juices in that it had a more erything from a “burger and smoothie–like texture. I was fries” ($7.75) — the “patty” honestly blown away. While I is made from almond, flax, was skeptical about a smoothcarrot and celery — to an ie made with banana, romaine anything–but–traditional and apple cider, the savory rocarrot cake ($4.75). Greeted by a view of juic- maine and the sweet banana ers, fresh veggies and a friend- and cider complimented each ly and knowledgeable em- other and avoided tasting as ployee, I was told that I had “healthy” as I had expected. I could have had three more to try the sweet potato pasta

us grill of those and called it a day, but couldn’t resist the intrigue of the pasta. Pure Fare serves a zucchini pasta, but Jar Bar's puts PF's to shame. Shaved zucchini on its own may have made for a mushy mess, but the added crunch of the sweet potato and pine nuts provided a perfect balance. A light dressing was all that the dish needed, and with its addition I was left hooked on the raw

foods trend. While I waited for my food, I nibbled on samples of chocolate granola ($9.75) made with fruit, seeds, buckwheat grouts and cacao, which had all the crunch of a typical granola but felt much less sweet and less processed than a regular store–bought one. It would be great alone or pair wonderfully atop Greek yogurt.

Photo by Christina Gunzenhauser

On an atypically warm March day, air conditioning issues gave the restaurant a sense of incompleteness. However, this was a minor caveat that won’t get in the way of Jar Bar’s ability to catch on with both the health– and non–health–conscious alike. I can only suppose that the next step for this juicy oasis is a complementary food truck … 38th and Walnut anyone?

fre sh hummus grill deliciou

mediterranea fresh delicious mediterranean

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

it! Trytry it mediterranean

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hummus grill

3931 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 215-222-5300 www.hummusrestaurant.com

Dining Guide

HONESTLY DELICIOUS

Honest Tom’s Taco Shop simply succeeds By FARYN PEARL | Photos by adrian franco

people options. There are only two menu choices: tacos (2 for $6) or a burrito ($8). Each can have a main ingredient of either chicken, beef, pork, rice and beans or sweet potato, and comes with guacamole, pico de gallo and cheese. You can also order chips, salsa and guacamole separately. That’s it. That’s everything that’s offered. Perhaps their menu's so limited because they’re still a relatively new establishment, but I like to think it’s because they’re so confident in their food. And they should be. The sweet potato taco was, to be honest, perfect. The sweet potato was finely grilled, which gave it a smokey, savory taste, while still retaining a sugary bite. Matched with a cool patch of thick guacamole and handmade pico de gallo, it was an ideal, refreshing mix. The chicken taco did not fare quite as well. The meat itself was nicely–seasoned, with a nice mild kick to it, but

Honest Tom's taco shop 261 S. 44th St. (215) 620–1851

Don't Miss: Sweet Potato Taco Skip: Chicken Taco $$$$$

it was on the dry side and did little to blend with the other ingredients. Instead of mixing together, the guacamole, salsa and cheese just seemed piled on. This issue was solved in the chicken burrito, where the addition of sour cream, rice and beans softened the chicken. The contents melted together, making each bite a fiesta. Overall, Honest Tom’s Taco Shop was the perfect lunch place. Their offerings are inexpensive, their food is delicious and the atmosphere is a ton of fun. My only hope is that someday they expand their menu to other hallmark Mexican specialties, because they would clearly excel. And that’s no lie.

Chicken tacos with guac and pico de gallo

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onest Tom’s Taco Shop does not have a sign. Rather, the small, shack–like restaurant has a chalkboard, with its name scribbled onto it. This lack of pretension seems to be a running theme in the establishment, where everything is straightforward or, well, honest. The place itself resembles more of a refurnished household kitchen than an actual restaurant, with an island bar separating the open kitchen and the seating area. Cupboards and cheap holiday lights are the only decorations. But this bare– bones atmosphere feels friendly and familiar, almost like dropping in to eat at a neighbor’s house. The cherry on the intimate cake is Honest Tom himself, toiling away at the sour cream mix. Somehow, his presence legitimizes the experience. It’s obvious, though, that he does not believe in giving

Sweet potato taco

Dining Guide

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B ot to m les s C h i ps a n d SALSA Roja Bet wee n 2:30 a n d t h e L ast O ut! ! !

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

PH I LLI ES H OM E OPEN ER FROM THE FIRST PITCH TO THE LAST OUT

Dining Guide

PIZZA PARTY: YOU’RE INVITED Nomad dishes up upscale pies off of South By STEPH WITT | photos by sarah tse

llegro’s no more! Opened this past February right off of South St., Nomad Pizza offers a simple but exceptional menu of four salads and 12 pies that are all worth the move downtown. Ranging from your traditional margherita pizza to more extravagant clam and truffle pecorino pizzas, the menu has it all. Twelve inches in diameter, the pizzas are served with a personal wheel–cutter that let you choose a portion size that suits your liking. We ordered the arugula con prosciutto ($18), spicy sausage ($14), truffle pecorino ($18) and clam ($19) for a group of five and loved the eclectic flavors. The crust was neither exceptionally thin nor thick. Toppings were fresh, local and often organic, and were well–balanced with sauce and dough. The truffle pizza proved sensational; voted best by the five of us, the imported mozzarella di buffalo, local cheese, large farm eggs and shiitake mushroom slivers offered an incomparable fusion of flavors complemented by pungent black truffle oil. Sweet

P age 8 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

BEST DESSERT MENU BEST FRENCH RESTAURANT BEST CRÊPES

TIME CALL D O GO

92-

6th & BAINBRIDGE STREETS PHILADELPHIA www.creperie-beaumonde.com CREPERIE HOURS TUESDAY–FRIDAY NOON–11PM SATURDAY 10AM–11PM SUNDAY 10AM–10PM

215-5

and pervasive, the combination melts on your tongue. We were delightfully surprised by the arrival of an off– menu nutella pizza (about $12) that Nomad’s owner, Stalin Bedon, had our waitress bring out to us. Topped with nutella, banana, powdered sugar and roasted hazelnuts, the innovative dessert was hard to put down, even on slice number five. A two–story restaurant, Nomad houses a large wood– fired pizza oven on the ground floor, and its bar and communal seating on the second. The informal, homey mood inside allowed for an unhurried Friday evening. At long communal tables, we relaxed to peer at our neighbors’ dishes before placing our own orders. Old movie posters wallpapered the room and flanked the projector screen that was located in an elevated, central position, for the free Wednesday and Sunday movie night features. The service was speedy, our waitress was pleasant and the owner was accommodating. If I didn’t love pizza before, Nomad did the trick.

CABARET HOURS TUESDAY–THURSDAY 7:30–1AM FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7:30–2AM SUNDAY 7:30–1AM

Shiitake mushroom pizza

nomad pizza

611 South 7th St. (215) 238–0900

Don't Miss: Truffle Pizza Skip: House Salad $$$$$

Margherita pizza

Dining Guide

ONE FISH, TWO FISH, GRILL FISH Solid seafood with an Asian flair just blocks from campus By Mady glickman | Photos by adrian Franco

rill Fish Cafe brings West Philadelphia fresh fish with a Southeast Asian kick. After many of Benny Lai’s customers asked for more seafood dishes at Vietnam Cafe and Vietnam Restaurant, the West Philly/ Chinatown chef gave in and decided to focus on seafood for his third restaurant, Grill Fish. The restaurant opened in January after many months of speculation about an early fall debut; Benny’s uncle is an astrological expert and was given the task of deciding the most promising month for the opening. The large double doors of Grill Fish stay propped open, allowing for a nice breeze to blow through the restaurant and making it a great spot for a light seafood dinner on a spring night. The restaurant seats about 25 and provides an intimate dining experience surrounded by exposed brick and blue ceilings, doused in dim lighting. We started with the fried

calamari ($10), which was served with a pile of diced peppers and shredded basil on top and a spicy lime sauce on the side. The calamari was lightly breaded and perfectly fried. The salt and pepper in the batter made the squid flavorful with or without the tangy sauce. Our next appetizer was the garlic shrimp ($12) served in a red sauce made of garlic, sake, basil and tomato. The shrimp was fresh and the sauce tasted like a flavorful marinara, but the dish seemed to be an Italian outlier on a mostly Asian menu. Other appetizer options include steamed mussels and clams, grilled squid and octopus and grilled vegetables. For our second course, we tried the pan–fried tilapia ($16) and mussels noodle ($15). The tilapia was breaded in finely–ground breadcrumbs and then fried, giving the fish a crunchy crust on the outside but leaving it soft on the inside. A grape tomato sauce accented the dish’s Vietnamese

roots, unlike the shrimp appetizer we had tried. The sauce had a boost of fresh ginger and cilantro, but the sauteed spinach on the side lacked flavor. The mussels noodle came in a large soup bowl. The mussels were fresh, and the thick rice noodles at the bottom of the bowl absorbed the garlic and sake broth nicely. Thanks to some red pepper flakes, the dish had a spicy flavor, but would have benefited from the addition of another component to the dish, like vegetables, to give it more depth. Grill Fish offers chicken and lamb for those who prefer meat and serves a regularly changing whole grilled fish — branzino, bass and others. The servers were friendly and helpful when guiding us through their menu. Yet, they were at times a little too attentive, replacing the bowl for our shells every four mussels that we ate. Overall, Grill Fish Cafe has all of the makings of a great restaurant: fresh ingredients,

bold flavors and a nice atmosphere. However, the entrees fell slightly flat. It’s worth the stroll up Baltimore Avenue to enjoy some seafood appetizers and a full bar, but if you’re looking for a meal that won’t come up short, go to Lai’s Vietnam Cafe next door.

Grill Fish Cafe

814 S. 47th St. (215) 729–7011

Don't Miss: Fried Calamari Appetizer Skip: Pan Fried Tilapia $$$$$

Pan–fried tilapia

Fried calamari

Berger Properties The Tenant Comes First!

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5 BARS UNDER 1 ROOF 44 TAPS 17 CRAFT BEERS AVAILABLE HOME OF THE 20 OZ IMPERIAL PINT SIXERS/FLYERS GAMES BEER AND FOOD SPECIALS NEW POOL TABLE

HAPPY HOUR 5-7PM 421 S. 2nd Street • 215-928-9307 • www.darkhorsepub.com

3000 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104

Hours 11am - 2am Daily

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Join us for good food, good beer, and good friends. Like us on Facebook to get up-to-date specials!

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English Premier League and European Champions League Soccer on over 21 TV’s throughout all the bars.

3408 Sansom Street Philadelphia, PA 19104

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

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Dining Guide

Top–notch Taqueria Taqueria Veracruzana delivers affordable, authentic Mexican fare By SAM BRODEY & FRIDA GARZA

he search for authentic Mexican food in Philadelphia can be exhausting for any taco aficionado, but we had high hopes for La Taqueria Veracruzana. After a 15–minute walk from the SEPTA station on Broad and South Street, we arrived at our destination: an unassuming storefront on Washington Blvd. next to a corner store in the Italian Market district. The small, well–lit interior features minimal decor — the floors are adobe tile and the

tan–colored walls are sparsely–decorated with ceramic pieces and a flatscreen TV playing Spanish–language telenovelas to match. With melodrama as the backdrop, we examined our menus. La Taqueria offers an expansive selection of traditional Mexican fare, from huevos rancheros ($6) to carnitas tortas ($7). We decided to try out enchiladas verdes ($7), enchiladas de mole poblano ($7), tacos de camaron ($9) and tacos al pastor ($6). As we waited for our meal, we

combined chips and salsa with cold beer (the place is BYO) for a delightful first act to a good Mexican dinner. The food arrived just in time, right as we polished off most of our chips. First to arrive were the heaping plates of enchiladas. The enchiladas verdes — a traditional Mexican staple — were three long, thin tortilla wraps with chicken on the inside, doused in queso fresco and salsa verde and served with refried beans. The enchiladas de mole were served similarly, with shred-

P age 10 34TH STREET Magazine March 29, 2012

We have our liquor license

10 6

ded chicken on the inside, but they were slathered in mole (a traditional Mexican sauce made with poblano peppers and chocolate to produce a savory and semi–sweet flavor) and served with rice on the side. The verdes were a solid entree — the salsa and cheese offered a delicious, spicy complement to the shredded chicken. The real star, and what neither of us could get enough of, though, was the mole dish. Its unique flavor — the sweetness and slight bitterness provided by the notes of cocoa — added a new dimension to the enchiladas that made it really special. Next up were the tacos. The carne al pastor — thin cuts of pork seasoned with guajillo chiles — had a rich orange color and delicious aroma. The tacos de camaron featured lots and lots of small but chunky shrimp. Both orders had very much the same presentation: six small corn tortillas (each taco had two to make for a heartier meal) propped

El ElAzteca Azteca Start your

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Dine • Carry-Out • please Catering • aPrivate Parties ForIn parties of 8 or more, call for reservation. ForChestnut parties of 8 or more, for a reservation. 714 St. please call215.733.0895 714 Chestnut St. 215.733.0895

Salsa and mole

TAQUERIA VERACRUZANA 908 Washington Ave. (215) 465–1440

Don't Miss: Authentic Mexican cuisine Skip: Coming full — be ready to eat $$$$$

against one another, filled with sizable portions of meat and garnished with finely– chopped onions and cilantro. The first bite proved that the carne al pastor was perfectly cooked; the meat was tender and bursting with flavor. The shrimp had a much lighter taste, but the tacos were still substantial in flavor and and size: the best part of the tacos was how much meat there was. La Taqueria’s strength is simple, straightforward Mexican fare, in heaping portions. While there may be better Mexican food elsewhere in the city, if you want a fun, affordable eating experience (that you can bring booze to), La Taqueria Veracruzana is as good as it gets.

Dining Guide

SHORTCOMINGS ON SOUTH ST. When it comes to Southern comfort, Rex 1516 doesn't quite fit the bill By Nina Wolpow | Photos by laura Francis

hiladelphia might be the southernmost northern city, but it is certainly not replete with Southern food (soul food and fried–chicken, perhaps, but what about hush puppies and collared greens?). Stationed aptly on South Street, Rex 1516 hoped to change all that in its debut; but where ingenuity is concerned, the restaurant has a long way to go. Let’s start with what was good: a pork loin stuffed with cornbread and sausage ($21), the side of creamed spinach that came with my steak ($23), the chopped salad ($7) and the seitan part of the seitan meatloaf ($16), which was unexciting in dressing and accompaniment. Now onto the drab: the buttermilk roasted chicken ($18) and its entourage of over–buttered root vegetables, the quality of the strip–steak (too fatty and

flavorlessly–behind in a world where cheaper proteins gnash at the heels of all but the best beefs), and the dessert — an IPA–infused chocolate torte swathed in pretzel pieces, which was tasty in the way that Oreo cheesecake at the Marriott is. It’s Oreos and cheesecake; you’ll eat it, like it and forget you ever did. Such could, in a sense, be the mantra of Rex 1516. Return for a moment to the meatloaf, for which I was unusually excited. True to our very nice waiter’s praise, the chef did manage to impressively pull off the preparation of the often–tasteless wheat gluten; but to call it meatloaf is undeserved. Moistness is the marrow of meatloaf, the reason it is loved or loathed by everyone who tries it. Had the dish been sauced more generously, it would have gotten closer. Before dinner, at Rex’s

Rex 1516

1516 South St. (267) 319–1366

Don't Miss: The Pork Loin Skip: Dessert — these alcohol– inspired dishes have some maturing to do

$$$$$

pseudo–swanky candlelit back lounge, we skimmed a cocktail menu that featured Mint Juleps and a drink infused with basil vodka, and settled on the Julep ($9) and a Lime Rickey ($8); both were fresh but lacked in flavor, too–watered down where they could have been charged with sugar and zest. From the decor we could tell the restaurant strived for old–world Southern charm; as with its food, the restaurant would've benefited from some simplicity.

Seitan meatloaf

Every Friday and Saturday starting April

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Exp.2/23/12 4/11/12 Exp.

For Fast Delivery Call 215-386-1941

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

BYO! 3549 Chestnut Street Tel. 215-387-8808 www.SangKeeNoodleHouse.com

Dining Guide

HAIL TO THE HERON French food with flair in Fishtown

By LORA ROSENBLUM | Photos by Sarah Tse

A Crispy duck breast

n unassuming Fishtown treat, Picked Heron is the brainchild of couple Todd Braley and Daniela Ambrosio, who literally built the place up from the ground. Mustard yellow walls display local artists’ work and immediately create a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Each month customers can expect something different: every First Friday, a

PICKLED HERON

2218 Frankford Ave (215) 634–5666

Don't Miss: Dessert, scallops Skip: The bass $$$$$

new artist gets the opportunity to try a hand at the display. Rotation is a dominant theme on the menu as well. The menu

P age 12 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

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is constantly adjusted and re– printed based on what’s in season, working off French inspiration. Our appetizer consisted of handmade bread and butter along with the daily charcuterie, which included duck sausage, headcheese — a terrine (meat jelly) made from the flesh of an animal's head — and various pates priced at about $12. Though not for the faint of stomach, each were very tasty, especially paired with the mustard the restaurant serves on the side. Next, we enjoyed sea scallops ($24), which were served with sunchoke puree, fava beans and a creative sweet potato chip garnish. The scallops were cooked to perfection — tender and sweet — and the puree and beans complemented them well. We want more! Then came pan–seared bass ($24) with baby carrots and artichoke barigoule. Once again, the fish was cooked flawlessly, and the artichoke barigoule (artichokes braised and seasoned in a mix of wine and water) left a nice broth to enjoy. Where flavor lacked, the quality of the fish made up for it. Crispy duck breast ($22) was the final main course, served with rhubarb–stuffed gnocchi and baby arugula. The duck, sliced thick, was tender and maintained a rich flavor. Bitter rhubarb provided an interesting accent to the gnocchi’s dumpling–like consistency. No doubt about it — the dessert was our favorite. We split the chocolate marquise ($6) topped with a meringue, and the lemon cake ($6), which was baked with thyme. The lemon cake — a small, individual cake — was rich and moist, and the thyme gave it a unique flavor that we couldn’t resist. Fun and fresh, the Pickled Heron was a lovely experience made better by high quality food. Braley and Ambrosio have much to be proud of.

Talula’s Garden masters organic farm–to–table dining with excellent (costly) food and a charming ambience By Ben Lerner | photos by sarah tse

tails and artful entrees ($25– $36). A bit out of the average Penn student’s birthday dinner price range, but falling in the range of a splurge or a parent–funded meal, the offerings are delicious enough to be priceless. My date and I tried “The Master Collection," which meant starting off our meal with eight fine cheeses ranging from Wisconsin gruyere to the cheese of an Italian water buffalo. Served with breads, crackers, candied walnuts and other garnishes, the taste–testing experience was scrumptious and interesting. However, the $18 price tag for eight small tastes of yummy but not life–changing cheeses might be worth skipping for those lacking a passion for cheese. Our trip through Talula’s delectable garden continued with a tasty gnocchi ($14), notably lighter than those you might get at a basic Italian BYO and accompanied with buffalo milk Taleggio, sweet Saba vinegar and Brussels sprouts, a unique but welcome companion. We were already getting a bit full from fine cheese and our savory appetizer, but upon first bite of our entrees we knew we would be clean-

Talula's garden

210 W. Washington Square (215) 592–7787

Don't Miss: Sliced Hangar Steak Skip: Cheese plates, unless you're a connoisseur $$$$$

ing our plates. The sea whistle salmon ($27) was seasoned with a crispy outside and had a perfectly cooked inside sure to satisfy all salmon lovers and was served with pancetta, sunchokes and a tomato–esque Fuyu persimmon chutney. Perhaps even more spectacular was the roasted hangar steak ($29), which was superbly tender and soft while still being fully cooked sans excess fat. The flavorful steak was accompanied by a potato puree with mushrooms, caramelized onions and a delicious bone marrow bordelaise sauce. Our heavenly meal concluded, obviously, with chocolate, and Talula’s pudding tart ($9) with caramel pecan ice cream didn’t disappoint. With the proper budget, it’s truly a blessing to dine at this culinary Garden of Eden, where none of the fruit is forbidden.

Mango mousse and raspberry sorbet

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

he earthy yet elegant decor at Talula's Garden is not unlike that of the organic restaurant owned by Mark Ruffalo’s character in The Kids Are All Right. While filmgoers cannot vouch for the quality of the food at that establishment, a visit to Talula’s Garden will have you convinced you stumbled upon the Garden of Eden in downtown Philly. Just a few steps away from the chaos of Walnut and 2nd St., Talula’s Garden rests in the shaded luxury of West Washington Square. Opened last year by former Pod manager Aimee Olexy (in partnership with Steven Starr), this farm–to–table gem flaunts a twinkling outdoor patio and an expansive indoor wooden dining area lit mostly by sunlight. Aprons hang on hooks and the tables are proudly unclothed. “A garden brings life and beauty to the table,” reads a quote from chef Alice Waters around the ceiling. But the down–to–earthiness of the restaurant’s look does not mean the food is simple or understated. The dinner menu includes organic cheese platters ($16–$18), intricate but varied appetizers ($9–$16), drinks and cock-

Dining Guide

GOURMET MASTERPIECES WITH A SIDE OF MAHOGANY

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Asparagus salad

Dining Guide

LIVIN' LA VIDA LOCO Fishtown’s Loco Pez offers Mexican that’s Americanized in all the right ways By ALEX Marcus | photos by sarah tse

he first time I walked by Loco Pez, the only thing I noticed was the old–school menu board above the bar. Its black, snap– on letters were backlit by stale yellow bulbs, and read, “Cash only, bitches.” I had no clue what I was missing until I stopped in. The restaurant offers a sharp contrast from the maze of sleepy Fishtown blocks surrounding it and is only a short walk from the Berks station on the Market–Frankford line. Inside, retro pop

music blares, a holographic portrait of Jesus peeks out from behind the front door and a foot–tall Buddha figure scuba dives in a fish tank behind the bar. The hokey, 70s–era decor no doubt makes for a fun environment, but mercifully, the camp ends there. The menu is mostly gimmick– free, and the diverse clientele is without frills, lacking the hip posturing that’s readily available a stone’s throw to the south. Most people here sip beer

TANDOOR INDIA INDIA TANDOOR Exotic Indian Indian Cuisine Cuisine Exotic BYOB TANDOOR INDIA MentionedininPhiladelphia PhiladelphiaInquirer’s Inquirer’sTable TableTalk Talkwith with ••Mentioned JohnCarr Carr John

Exotic Indian Cuisine

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“BestTandoori TandooriChicken ChickenininPhiladelphia” Philadelphia” ••“Best •”Best Indian Restaurant in Philadelphia” ,1993-1998 CityPaper Paper Reader’s Choice Award,October October 28th 1993-98 City Reader’s Choice Award, 28th 1993-98

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City Paper Choice Award, July 17th 1992

BestofofPhilly Philly- -1993-2000 1993-2000“Best “BestIndian IndianRestaurant” Restaurant” ••Best • “Best Tandoori Chicken in Philadelphia” City Paper Reader’s Award, October 28th 1993-98 Philadelphia “BestChoice ValueRestaurant” Restaurant” July 1998 ••Philadelphia “Best Value July 1998 ZAGATSURVEY SURVEY1997 1997-- -2010 1999 ••ZAGAT 1999 • Best of Philly - 1993-2000 “Best Indian Restaurant” TryOur Our Try

• Philadelphia “Best Value Restaurant” July 1998 Vegetarian Non-Vegetarian Specialties Vegetarian &&Non-Vegetarian Specialties • ZAGAT SURVEY 1997 - 1999

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from an uninspired list where everything seems a buck too expensive ($5 for a Sol, really?), but a few go for neon– colored cocktails. In my Bel Air, saccharine orange soda overpowered all else, but then again I’m not one to complain when a $7 drink has a good three shots of tequila. Happily, the food is more successful across the board. The menu offers Mexican staples a la carte as well as a few American classics like hot dogs and waffle fries — all more sophisticated than they initially seem. The shrimp taco, for instance, sports perfectly fried, deeply–seasoned specimens, with sour cream and slaw that draw your attention. Their burrito ($9) offers the ideal ratio of tender chicken to tangy cheese. Guacamole ($7.50) tastes fresh as anything, and though it could a bit more salt (what guacamole couldn’t?), it’s a hell of a portion for its price. But back to the tacos ($1.75–$2.50), for which Loco Pez is rightfully best known. At their price, they’re a deal, but when the restaurant tweets on a whim that they’ll be $1 all night (as is

15% Discount withthis thiscoupon coupon with withDinner this coupon With this Dinner time only Coupon........ timeValuable only with student ID

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Assorted tacos

known to happen every few weeks), they’re a serious steal. That’s especially true when the fish taco boasts a filet as blissfully moist as this one, or when the chorizo and potato taco so deftly balances salt and fat (even if its vegetarian counterpart, the soy chorizo, is dry and uninspired). The highlight taco, though, is decidedly the least Mexican. It’s the Gabacho Taco, a fierce hard–sheller with pungent ground beef and a mess of sour cream and cheese, decadent and painstakingly designed to fall apart right on the last bite. It’s a hell of a reason to head to Fishtown — as if the trippy 70s living room decor weren’t enough.

Nachos

loco pez

2401 E. Norris St. (267) 886–8061

Don't Miss: Gabacho Taco, Camarones Taco, Pez Taco Skip: Soy Chorizo, The Beer List $$$$$

Dining Guide

King of the Hill The masterminds behind Supper and Franklin Mortage & Investment Co. make magic at Lemon Hill By Jessica Goodman | PHOTO COURTESTY OF CITY PAPER

emon Hill should not work. As a partnership between the owners of the restaurant Supper and the cocktail masters at The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co., Lemon Hill should feel disoriented. Is it an intimate eatery on one of Fairmount’s quiet residential streets? Or is it a bar full of boozy bliss presented by Portlandia–esque mixologists? Surprisingly, it feels like both. Fairmount’s new dive is unassuming with simple decor and a no–frills atmosphere. The bar is most impressive. Seasoned bartenders mix up favorites from Franklin like the Old Fashioned ($9). The hefty price tags range from $9–$11 — we suggest their cheaper daily happy hour specials — so we splurged on something more adventurous. The Clover Club ($11), a combination of gin, dry vermouth, fresh lemon, house raspberry syrup and a whipped egg white, promised to be an easy entry into the classy cocktail list. It certainly will satisfy any sweet tooth, and left us looking to order another from the menu. The beer list is solid

and boasts various Philly brews and some Midwestern classics like the Boulder Sweaty Betty Blonde ($6.50) — a pale wheat ale. We started with pastrami fried chicken wings ($9), a dish that's been rippling through Philly foodie blogs. We had high hopes for any meat that claimed to taste like New York deli–level pastrami, and our expectations were met. The meat — rubbed in a pepper coriander pastrami seasoning — quite literally fell off the bone. And though the serving was small (just five wings) more would have diluted the originality. For an outpost that’s only been open since the end of December, regulars seem to come back week after week for the wings and other local favorites like the California roll crab dip ($13) and the house–made beer cheese paired with homemade pickles and pretzels ($8). Fresh flatbread combos rotate daily and we tried one smothered in pureed cauliflower, whole cauliflower, braised kale, blood sausage and pickled apples ($12). Like the wings, a whole bite of the flatbread was succulent

and spilled over with flavor. It was easy to tell that the two dishes came from the same kitchen — both had the same melt–in–your–mouth effect. But the standout ingredient was the pureed cauliflower that lined the bread. The creamy texture was reminiscent of a blue cheese spread, but without all the cholesterol. Special pastas come through the menu too; we ordered the pappardelle with basil pesto, cubed apples, crispy pork belly and shaved

walnuts, which resembled Parmesan cheese ($16). The pork belly was cooked to succulent perfection and paired well with the surprisingly sweet pesto sauce. Despite now–trendy dishes like shrimp ‘n grits ($22), Lemon Hill’s menu uses classic bar fare to remind you of its alcoholic roots. Crinkle–cut wedge fries ($5) and a manager–described “stoner comfort” classic patty melt ($13) are not to be missed. For a newborn restaurant with a gastropub label,

lemon hill

747 North 25th St. (215) 232–2299

Don't Miss: Pastrami fried chicken wings Skip: Expensive entrees – stick with the smaller plates to share $$$$$

Lemon Hill is exceeding expectations. If you know a girl who’s down to throw back a few designer drinks without the Center City hubbub, you’ve found your new date spot.

Shrimp 'n grits

Artisanal Beer Wood-Fired Gourmet Pizza Vegetarian

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CELEBRATE GRADUATION WITH US!

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

It's time to break the Chipotle cycle.

Dining Guide

FRESH FROM THE FARM Local ingredients positively shine at Russet By Isabel Oliveres | photo by andres munoz

ucked unassumingly in the first floor of a Russet brownstone on 15th 1521 Spruce St. and Spruce is Russet, a quaint (215) 546–1521 new locavore BYOB. The conDon't Miss: Cotechino Sausage cept behind the restaurant is Ravioli simple: use locally sourced inSkip: Duck Confit–Stuffed Cabgredients of the highest qualbage ity to create straightforward, $$$$$ flavorful dishes influenced by

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Salt–cured pork loin with marinated celery

Italian and French cuisine. The ambiance is equally uncomplicated, with an open dining room and wooden tables perched against cream and burgundy walls. Small, antique picture frames and candlesticks adorn the sparsely–decorated space and the only sign of opulence is the dazzling glass chandelier that hangs above the center of the room. The ambiance is quaint and relaxed, buzzing with the subdued conversations of the pre–theater crowd that has become a fixture at the restaurant. While the average diners seemed to be around 45 years old, the music playing was more in line with someone in their twenties — Dr. Dog, Bright Eyes and Feist all made regular appearances, probably due to the influence of the friendly and attentive wait–staff. The menu is printed on brown paper and changes daily, so the selection is small but varied. While we waited for our food, homemade spelt bread and fresh butter were brought out.

From the first bite, Russet rang true to its motto: the bread was earthy and the butter more flavorful than any I’d ever tasted. The meal started on a harmonious chord of high notes: the veggie–friendly heirloom carrot and pea sformato ($9), slightly denser than a souffle, was beautiful to look at and even more beautiful to eat, with reduced, aged balsamic really bringing out the depth of the veggies' natural flavors. Yet the standout dish was the cotechino sausage ravioli ($10), served in sage butter and topped with Parmigiano Reggiano. With each bite, layers of flavor seemed to build in my mouth, culminating in a truly delightful explosion of rich, buttery goodness. A few entrees slightly missed the mark because they were overcomplicated. The duck confit–stuffed cabbage ($26), while packed with deep flavors, lacked an acidic note to balance the richness of the duck, cabbage sprouts, roasted parsnips and cheese–covered mashed potatoes. The prime beef leg alla Milanese ($28) played it simpler: perfectly breaded and fried, the quality and freshness

of the meat gave it a depth of flavor you won’t find in your average steak. Topped with a (slightly overcooked) fried egg and brioche–stuffed, bacon– wrapped celery (a truly genius combination), this dish was more exciting and more balanced. Russet continued redeeming itself with dessert: the bittersweet chocolate budino, a dense cake that melts in your mouth when paired with sun– dried cherries and port–infused cream, was nothing short of glorious. The Pink Lady apple mille–feuille with butterscotch custard and almond nougatine was thin, crisp and delicious. Russet carries its commitment to quality ingredients all the way through to its coffee, which is fair–trade, organic and (in my dining partner’s awestruck words) provides “one of the greatest cups of espresso in the city.” Russet elevates BYO cuisine to a new level, and it’s the perfect setting for a date. Like its namesake potato, Russet is simple, earthy and honest, but this doesn’t prevent the food from packing loads of flavor.

2012 Wharton International Food Festival Come taste delicious platters from around the world at the 2012 Wharton Chef Competition!

Korean and Japanese Food Truck

When: April 1st, 6pm-10pm Where: Houston Hall, Hall of Flags (37th & Spruce) What: Mouth-watering dishes, 2012 Chef Competition, music, good times Tickets available at the door $20 Food Only/$30 Food & Alcohol All proceeds from the /nterna2onal Food Fes24al go to your waistline

Open Monday-Friday 11:00am-7:30pm 38th St. between Walnut and Sansom

Dining Guide

SPANISH SPLURGE Jamonera is worth the wait and the price By PAIGE RUBIN | photo by laura francis

JAmonera

105 S. 13th St. (215) 922–6061

Don't Miss: Iberico Ham Croquetas, Crispy Calasparra Rice Skip: Jamonera Sundae $$$$$

Iberico ham croquetas ($5), which replaced the pumpkin with ham and the cheese with a delicious horseradish crema. We also enjoyed the setas ($7), a kind of truffled mushroom dish served on toast. Still, by far the most satisfying was the crispy calasparra rice ($13), a cheesy blend of squash, parsnips and chestnuts. We raved over this dish and even considered a second helping. We were having one of those “I need dessert” days, so we ordered the Jamonera sundae ($10) and the pastel del miel ($8). While the sundae’s mix of pretzels, fudge, marshmallows, a cinnamon brownie and vanilla ice cream sounded like absolute heaven, the dish ended up being sickly sweet to the point where we didn’t even finish, which, trust me, is a rare occurrence. The honey cake, on the other hand, was the perfect blend of sweet, creamy and fruity, and we had no problem polishing off the dish. Jamonera doesn’t fit into the average college student’s budget — that’s for sure. But for a special night out with friends, or when a parent comes to visit, this satisfying Spanish spot is worth the extra cash.

Houston Hall is proud to serve an extensive brunch menu every Saturday from 11am to 4pm, using fresh, local ingredients. Made to order (or made from scratch) menu items include: - Omelets - Eggs Benedict - Belgian Waffles - Hot Breakfast Cereals & Fruit Smoothies - Soups, Salads, Panini Sandwiches

Croquetas

Have a Great Original Recipe? Visit Our Facebook Page to Learn How to Submit to Our Recipe Contest!

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34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

here’s no denying it: 13th St. is one of the trendiest dining blocks in Philadelphia. With El Vez hawking expensive gourmet nachos on one end and Grocery offering pricey organic chips on the other, passers–by can tell with a quick glance that their wallet is about to take a big hit. That being said, 13th St.'s acclaimed restaurants are well worth the steep cost. Jamonera, the latest jewel in Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran's 13th St. crown, is no exception. Occupying the space that used to be their Indian BYO Bindi, Jamonera executes authentic Spanish cuisine flawlessly and with flair. Although reservations have been tough to nab since the January opening, we walked in early and were seated immediately at the bar. We started off with a few drinks: the sweet, refreshing passionfruit Bizet ($8), the spicy rum cocktail La Granada ($9) and the tart gin and grapefruit Alhambra ($10). The cocktails were pricey, but then again, so is Jamonera itself. If you’re already shelling out the cash, the drinks are a worthwhile addition. Next, our super–friendly waitress brought out the heirloom pumpkin croquetas ($8), which were fried pumpkin balls oozing with urgelia cheese. With their crispy outside and their smooth, sweet inside, this is a must–order appetizer. Prepare to fight your companions for the last one. Comparable were the

Dining Guide

GUAC THIS WAY An El Dorado for taco aficionados this side of the Schuylkill By joe pinsker | photos by adrian franco

exans and West Coasters rejoice: the west– of–the–Schuylkill quest for legit south–of–the– border food is, if not over, at least a lot less fruitless. December saw the opening Guacamole Mex–Grill, which has since been quietly serving up burritos, tacos, tortas and everything in between. But Guacamole’s food is far more extraordinary than its oddly generic name. The restaurant’s neon green spin on Philly architecture is hard to miss, and has an ambiance to match, complete with bright walls and Spanish–language programming on its TVs. The owner, Rudy, is often at the register and is incredibly helpful and friendly. Every item on Guacamole’s menu has a starch, a marinated meat and some other toppings. The go–to items on the menu, though, are the tacos ($2.50 each), and if you order

a variety of different meats, you’ll get a nice sampling of seasonings — the carne asada and the pastor (which is pork fried with pineapple) stood out. An obvious plus: Guacamole’s tacos are made with high–quality homemade flour tortillas, so you’ll get a break from the bland store–bought ones. Guacamole’s menu runs deeper than tacos though. Burritos (prices hover around $8) are solid, but aren’t the best forum for playing up the flavors of the pastor and carne asada. Guacamole’s real gem is actually off–menu; see if you can sweet–talk your way into an order of chicken mole nachos ($8). Mole — a dark brown sauce made with chocolate and peppers — is usually hard to come by, and great mole sauce is even harder, but Guacamole nails it. The Guacamole experience is casual but enjoyable. Plates are presented with

minimal pizzazz, and you can sip Mexican sodas like Jarritos and Sidral Mundet out of glass bottles. To restate, Guacamole isn’t a first–date kind of place (unless your date is taco–crazed), but it definitely could be a 20th–date place. Toss in some sunlight (of

P age 18 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

guacamole mexican grill 4612 Woodland Ave (215) 307–3162

Don't Miss: Chicken Mole, Churros Skip: Vegetarian Options, Pollo Asado $$$$$

Tacos al pastor

Voted the finest chocolate in the world by National Geographic Traveler

which there’s been an alarming abundance recently), head to Clark Park and you’ve got yourself an afternoon. Oh, and you absolutely must get the churros ($1.50) with a side of melted Mexican chocolate. They are positively superb.

These food reviews sound WAY more sexual when taken out of context. Case in point: "Layers of flavor seemed to build in my mouth, culminating in a truly delightful explosion of rich, buttery goodness."

Don’t resist the irresistible. The Shops at The Bellevue 200 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 215 546 7600 www.teuscherphiladelphia.com

@34st

Dining Guide

Kung Food Truck Delicious, vegan Vietnamese fare at Kung Fu Hoagies By ELENA GOORAY | Photos by Adrian Franco

Sidebar: 33rd and Chestnut Wed. & Fri., Clark Park Sat. & Sun. Price rating: $ Don’t Miss: The veggie spring rolls Skip: Going easy on the heat. Take advantage of the complimentary sriracha!

Coconut lemongrass beef curry

We've expanded our sidewalk cafe due to popular demand

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012 P age

ust when we all thought Magic Carpet would for- kung fu hoagies ever fly solo in the veg- 33rd and Chestnut, Wed./Fri. an ethnic food truck niche, Clark Park, Sat./Sun. Kung Fu Hoagies set up shop to bring all–veg Vietnamese Don't Miss: The veggie spring rolls. lunch options to the Drexel Skip: Going easy on the heat. and Penn campuses. An in- Take advantage of the compliviting burst of orange at the mentary Sriracha! edge of Hill Field, this re$$$$$ cent addition to the local food truck landscape offers Asian food spicy should keep a modest but balanced menu an eye out for the bottle of of hoagies and noodle dishes sriracha hanging out by the alongside some appealingly– utensils; heat is not a priority cheap sides ($2 for salad, $1 for Kung Fu Hoagies. Nonefor sesame chips and just 50 theless, it’s a worthwhile cents for fruit). option for anyone seeking The cart is run by two a healthy alternative to the friendly guys who — in ad- normal panorama of heavy dition to actually being food truck offerings, espetrained in kung fu, for any- cially given the low prices. one wondering — seem com- And since they’re only two mitted to fresh ingredients weeks old, we can only imagand good value. Even for ine it’s going to get better the most devoted beef lover, as they flesh out their rotatthe absence of real meat is ing menu and develop their hardly noticeable in the co- flavors. Kung Fu Hoagies conut lemongrass beef curry is open Wednesdays and ($5); its hearty mushrooms Fridays at 33rd and Chestand chunks of vegan “beef” nut and heads westward to round out the thin noodles Clark Park on the weekends. and broth for a perfectly– Both locations stay open unsized lunch portion. til around 3 p.m., so grab it The banh mi hoagie ($4), while it’s fresh. on the other hand, was a little small by gluttonous college student sandwich standards. And though the tofu was cooked perfectly and well–complemented by a mix of carrots, cucumbers, pickles, cilantro and semi– sweet vegan mayo, the overpowering effects of some fresh jalapeno highlighted a slight lack of seasoning on the fixings. But not to worry — the vegetarian spring rolls ($2.50) are an easy addition to make for a fully satisfying lunch that will still cost you under $7. The spring rolls were also a clear winner for tastiest dish of the few we tried, serving up a flavorful combo of vermicelli noodles with veggies and meat substitute. Anyone who likes their

FUN AT 40TH & SPRUCE

highbrow ego food & drink film feature music arts lowbrow Dining Guide

Meet FILM Me at Marrakesh 34

A new food truck brings a taste of Morocco to 40th and Locust

DO YOU PAY PER VIEW?

How Penn Students Watch Movies

By ELIZABETH HORKLEY | Photos by Adrian Franco

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though, to get to theseAnd tastier of the home nicely. watch Hugo in theaters. we spices you guess then thatfries Penn stucomponents. The chicken was It’s a sweetish palette–cleanser fit this mold of overworked Ivy dents would prefer to get their dry, andstudents could have you will reaching for, League well,used withsome only that RomCom fix be online with free more seasoning. It felt like amidst stuffing your face with about 17% of Penn undergrads streaming websites like SideReel filler in anmovies otherwise watching at thesatisfying Rave ev- the andhome Ch131fries. rather than pay for veggie sandwich. I finished withby a cup ofixmint ery semester. services provided Netfl and The home fries, however, tea that came in a cute and But how about the other ste- Redbox? more than make up for whatperfectly–sized Greek cup. reotype, the one that says all colWhile 75% of us watch movever flavor are thepoor? meatThelacks. a commendably–robust lege students free With ies online, nearly 50% pay for The mysterious seasoning that flavor, theHorrible tea mayBosses be a — littlea movement of information made it. I hear coats the fries is like nothing overwhelming for anyone possible by the interweb makes new release on iTunes — is who hysI’ve ever had before, and more is not a mint enthusiast. was terical,Itbut is than anything else, evokesdothe also a little sweet for my taste, Whose recommendations you take? it worth the smells and flavors of the truck’s47.7% but would no doubt 50 1.5please saladsthe at Other enthusiasts out there. namesake city. Akin but not sweet–tea Sweetgreen 40% 40 exactly similar to Old Bay sea- It’s anA Friend uncompromising beverit would Cinema Studiesall of its composoning, the spicy adornment age that takes have cost if 30 Major 25%to 25% merits26.2% a taste, if only puzzle nentsProfessor to their extremes, and for I had seen it or TA 20 what makes up this secret over fans of the drink, in it might be theaters? Street concoction. The sauce that acthe best you’ve ever had. Ramen noo10 *Students surveyed were companies the fries is a little Closing around 6 p.m.aren’t and allowed to choose more dles option. less 0 exciting, if necessary. A outthanofonethe way of classes, Mar-I that bad, pinkish color, it tastes like the rakesh Express will require a guess. “fry sauce” popular in manyand ar- small duringPenn the day, but entertainment accessible Thetrek average student eas — mayonnaise andwith ketchfans of Mediterranean stainexpensive to anyone an for (who is anything but average, if up blended account. together.Wouldn’t But it’s ples, it’sAmy worth a visit, ifwatchonly AirPennNet you ask Gutmann)

for the remarkably reasonable Don't Watch Movies 24.6% prices and generous portions. marrakesh express Theaters 40th and Locust St. It probably won’t change the Free Streaming way you think about shawarma 47.7% Don't Miss: Home fries and falafel, but it will satisfy 16.9% Paid Online Services Skip: The chicken — it's dry your desire to go east. $$$$$

9.2% 1.5%

Why do you go to the movies? 3.1% 25%

6.3%

Other It's a way to hang out with friends

40.6%

25%

It's a good study break It makes you feel relaxed and happy Required for Class

Falafel shawarma es seven movies, more or less, every semester. Simple arithmetic proves that it’s $40 cheaper to watch said movies on Netflix than at the Rave, and an additional $20 less on iTunes (cost of popcorn and Mike and Ikes not included in these calculations). The low cost of watching seven movies on iTunes for >> Total amount of less than 30 bucks is worth the money spent in movie many conveniences that online theaters* by Penn paid services afford us: not bestudents each semester ing interrupted by incessant buffering and commercials, the Mexican immunity to computer viruses Tex-Mex and most importantly, not having to wait 54 minutes after Vegetarian >> Total amount of watching 72 minutes of a movie money spent watching on Megavideo. online, if all people who Not to mention, it’s a small paid for online services price to pay when you look at used iTunes* the big picture — the combined savings of the 47.7% of Penn students who pay for their online services rather than going to the movie theater is somewhere between $196,136 and $295,344, >> Total amount of Open on Monday-Saturday, 10pm depending whether they use money11am spent watching Netflix or iTunes, respectively. online, if all people who Take-Out Moral of the story is: we won't & Delivery paid for online services judge if you just stay 215-307-3162 in bed. used Netflix*

BY THE NUMBERS

December 1, 2011 34THMagazine STREET Magazine March 28, 2012 P34TH age 20STREET

$153,701

8 20

$196,136

Dine-In, Catering & Delivery Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 5-7 Lunch Special: Mon-Fri $8.95 Early Bird: Sun-Thur $10.95

PattayaRestaurant.com • 215.387.8533 4006 Chestnut Street • University City

BEST BURRITO IN PHILLY! $295,344

*Afacebook.com/GuacamoleMexGrill simple random sample *$12.50/ticket at the Rave of 100 Penn undergrads were *$3.99 to rent a movie on iTunes surveyed to collect about 4612dataWoodland Avenue *$7.99/month on Netflix their film viewing habits.

Dining Guide

Get Your Kicks at Route 6 Steven Starr’s seafood venture hits the spot. By Ali Jaffe | photos by christina prudencio

o enter Route 6 is to be transported to the Hamptons, Nantucket or the like. The spacious venue exudes beach–club chic and no detail has been overlooked — on each table, a candle rests on sand within a glass jar and small metal pails are filled with lobster utensils. The bar area imitates an elegant poolside lounge. The result is an atmosphere that is as classy as it is homey. Even on a Wednesday night, the restaurant is full and buzzing. Scott, our charming waiter, brings over crunchy homemade oyster crackers in lieu of bread. He is eager with suggestions without being overbearing, and we let him guide our choices. Service is prompt. Not even two minutes after we order, the clam chowder

($10) arrives. With a milk base rather than cream, this soup is pleasantly lighter than usual, making the flavor rich but not heavy. The best part is the generous addition

sented on ice, are delicious and fresh — the Kumamoto is incredibly smooth while the Naked Cowboy has a strong briny flavor. Scott insists that we try

Chicken fried lobster tails of full clams. The raw bar offers plentiful options and we sample oysters: a Kumamoto ($3.50/ ea.) and a Naked Cowboy ($2.25/ea.). The oysters, pre-

the chicken fried lobster tails ($22), the most unusual appetizer on the menu. The three tails arrive with the shell attached at the end, for aesthetic appeal. The fried

exterior contrasting with the buttery lobster is an interesting combination, but this is not the most memorable dish of the meal. Next comes the lobster roll ($25), so good it steals the show in an already delicious meal. The meaty chunks of lobster, on a buttered and lightly–toasted roll, are tossed in a mayo dressing so light that the taste and texture of pure lobster is far from lost. Our main course is diver scallops ($24), Scott’s favorite dish on the menu. The lightly–seared scallops, surrounded by calamari and small croutons, are soft and buttery. There is an interesting kick to the scallops — “Chile flakes,” Scott informs us. Scott, a self–proclaimed vegetable–hater, raves over the cider–roasted Brussels

ROUTE 6

600 N Broad St. (215) 391–4600

Don't Miss: Lobster roll Skip: The chicken–fried lobster tail

$$$$$

sprouts ($6), so we try it as a side. They are a little hard for my liking, but have good flavor and are complemented by chunks of apple, an unusual but successful choice. We're stuffed, but of course make room for two desserts ($8/ea.): the chocolate bread pudding with banana ice cream that my friend calls “straight–up outrageous” and the warm apple pie. When we walk out the door, it comes as a slight shock that we’re in Philly. The meal felt almost like a vacation.

Not the Underdog for Long Center City spot takes its delicious dogs underground, literally By Zacchiaus McKee | photos by sarah tse

a chili dog, The Michigan was refreshing, arranged in such a way that none of the toppings or bun overwhelmed the others. The Perro Caliente, while intriguing in its uniqueness and worth a try, put me off a little with its combination of chocolate and jalapenos. Underdogs is not a restaurant for picky eaters, as most of its hot dogs — like the My Thai decorated with papaya and peanut sauce — tend to push the boundaries of conventional toppings. If you’re not one for beef, the restaurant does offer a variety of turkey, lamb and chicken dogs, as well as the ability to substitute a vegan dog for any of the standard combinations. The Tryp ($4.50), a turkey sausage topped with stuffing, gravy and cranberry relish, offers an appetizing take on Thanksgiving while the Back in the Day ($4.50) introduces the possibil-

ity of a fish hot dog. Open until 4 a.m. on weekends, Underdogs certainly caters to a clientele of drunken college students and late night wanderers looking for a cheap meal. But being cheap doesn’t mean it’s not worthwhile. Underdogs will definitely have you coming back for more.

UNDERDOGS

132 S 17th St. (215) 665–8080

Don't Miss: Classic chili dogs Skip: The plain hot dog — boring is as boring does

$$$$$

P age

meal with fries and a drink ($6.25–$7.50). The fries alone are worth the trip. Sea–salted, prepared fresh and served with a variety of dipping sauces, including peanut sauce, wasabi and sriracha mayo, the fries pack a lot of punch. The hot dogs, however, are the true magnum opus of this easily overlooked hole–in–the– wall. They’re pretty much your standard links, a sausage of ample length and girth, delivered to your table by a friendly staff on a soft white bun. But with names like Warsaw Packed and California Dreamin', the dogs are each distinctive and, in some cases, slightly unusual in their toppings. I sampled The Michigan, piled with beef chili, cheddar, chopped onions and mustard and the Perro Caliente, which was topped with pico de gallo, jalapenos, sour cream and chocolate cayenne mole. For

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

nderground on 17th Street, the oddly alluring Underdogs presents a unique spin on classic Americana, using pop art and savory sausages to express their tagline — “The food revolution is at hand.” Primary colors and Rosie the Riveter–esque images are splashed across the walls; you feel at Underdogs as if you’re actually doing America a solid by eating here. The menu too is painted across the top of a wall and offers a wide range of luxury hot dogs, which, despite its sound, is not an oxymoron. And although it’s not the highest–brow of restaurants, with its old style ketchup bottles and plastic serving trays, Underdogs gives off an easygoing vibe without overdoing the retro tchotchkes and decor. Each hot dog is 100% beef and can be ordered on its own ($3.25–$4.50) or as a combo

Assorted dogs 20

Dining Guide

Russet |

Photo by Isabel Oliveres

Route 6 |

Jamonera |

Photo by Christina Prudencio

Photo by Laura Francis

Jar Bar |

Honest Tom's Taco Shop |

Photo by Adrian Franco

P age 22 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

Kung Fu Hoagies |

Photo by Sarah Tse 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012 P age

Photo by Christina Prudencio

Popolino |

Photo by Sarah Tse

Belle Cakery |

Photo by Sarah Tse

Talula's Garden |

Photo by Sarah Tse

Underdogs |

Photo by Sarah Tse

Dining Guide

LISTINGS

AFRICAN Abyssinia Ethiopian Restaurant

229 S. 45th Street, 215-387-2424. ($) Abyssinia is the place to go if you are looking for a great atmosphere as well as a great meal. The food is flavorful and the wait staff is polite. Web: abyssiniarestaurantpa.com

Almaz Cafe

140 S. 20th Street, 215-557-0108. ($) At Almaz, not only will you enjoy the finest custom-roasted Ethiopian coffee, but also a selection of traditional American cuisine and authentic Ethiopian dishes. With about a dozen dishes split evenly between vegetarian and meatbased fare, it brings solid Ethiopian cuisine into Center City at modest prices. Web: almazcafe.com

Dahlak Restaurant

place for a romantic evening out, fun with friends or family, celebrating a birthday or any other special event. At Fez Restaurant, they bring you culinary delights prepared in the genuine tradition of Moroccan culture. Web: fezrestaurant.com

Gojjo Restaurant & Bar

4540 Baltimore Avenue, 215-3861444. ($$) With such a broad menu (including Ethiopian cuisine like chicken/doro served with injera - homemade pancake bread) it is easy to see why the Gojjo customer base is equally diverse. Many new customers walk in daily, discovering this international home away from home that boasts an upstairs bar and dining room complete with a pool table. Web: gojjos.com

La Calebasse

4519 Baltimore Avenue, 215-3820555. ($$) A cheap BYOB and take out restaurant specializing in African cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner from 12 PM to 12 AM every day.

4708 Baltimore Avenue, 215-7266464. ($$) At Dahlak, eat with your hands on the mesob, a traditional small round woven table designed for people to gather and share a communal meal. Offers variety WINEWINE ROOMROOM of beef, chicken, lamb, and vegetarian (like Gomen Watt, collard greens in berbere sauce) entrees. Web: dahlakrestaurant.com

marble dome of The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia, relax at 10 Arts Bistro & Lounge by Eric Ripert. The menu, well-executed by Chef de Cuisine and Top Chef finalist Jennifer Carroll, has a delicious local flavor — don’t miss the pretzel dippers — as well as quality ingredients like the butter-soft filet. Chef Carroll uses only the finest and freshest ingredients locally sourced from independent farmers and fishermen who support sustainable harvests. Web: 10arts.com

a.kitchen

135 S. 18th St, 215-825-7030. ($$) Craig LeBan gives a.kitchen three bells! a.kitchen serves gourmet twists on classic Western cuisine. Web: akitchenphilly.com

Abner’s

3813 Chestnut Street, 215-6620100. ($) Cheese steaks, hoagies and cheese fries. Also 80 kinds of beer, chicken steaks and salads. The best in quality for lunch, dinner and very late-night snack attacks. Web: abnerscheesesteaks.com

Accu Pizza

taurant School at Walnut Hill College. Traditional American dining with a slightly upscale twist. Web: walnuthillcollege.edu/Content1.aspx?cid=5.1.2

Artful Dodger

400 S. 2nd Street, 215-922-1790. ($$) Classic English pub in a historic building with a lively bar scene during games and a calmer dining side for families. The menu strikes a decent balance between finger food and heftier grub. Web: artfuldodgerphilly.com

Au Bon Pain

3730 Walnut Street, 215-5730602. ($) This well-known campus stop is convenient for a quick bite on your walk to class or during a study break. Serving a wide array of cookies, drinks and sandwiches, ABP is perfect for a Penn student’s hectic schedule. Web: aubonpain. com

B&J’s Cart

33rd Street and Spruce Street. ($) Located near HUP, B&J’s menu includes sandwiches and hoagies.

Baby Blues BBQ 4802 Spruce Street, 215-474WINE ROOM WINE ROOM 3402 Sansom Street, 215-2227150. ($) Pizza, cheese steaks, 4444. ($$) At Baby Blues, the WINE ROOM strombolis, gyros, burgers, wings smell of apple and hickory wood they’ve got it all! BBQ ribs, chicken meat smoker surrounds you, while and pasta dishes too! Broiled and owner Steve Fischer’s childhood fried seafood. Web: accupizzeria. Fez Moroccan Cuisine WINE ROOM family dining table creates a cozy com feeling like you’re sitting in your 620 S.3131 2nd Street, 215-925-5367. Walnut 3131 Walnut 10 Arts Bistro & Lounge 3131American Walnut 3131 Walnut living room. Fischer describes Heartland ($$$) Pull up a cushion, relax and 10 Avenue of the Arts, The RitzWalnut The forLeft Bank Left Bank The Left The Left Bank Carlton,3131 Philadelphia, 215-523Baby Blues’ style as a hybrid of 4207 Bank Walnut Street, 215-222prepare aThe truly memorable din8273. ($$$) Under Bank the majestic 4200. ($$) Operated by the Res- multiple American barbecue tradiing experience. Fez is the perfect The Left 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 WINE ROOM tions, as they offer Memphis-style 215.222.2422 triacafe.com triacafe.com triacafe.com triacafe.com long bone pork ribs, dry-rubbed triacafe.com babybacks and Texas beef ribs 3131 Walnut as well as Carolina-style pulled The Left Bank pork, beer-braised beef brisket and a bunch of seafood. Web: 215.222.2422 babybluesphilly.com 3131 Walnut

AMERICAN/ CONTINENTAL

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triacafe.com

P age 24 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

Bliss

220 S. Broad Street, 215-7311100. ($$$) Chef Francesco Martorella, formerly of Ciboulette and Brasserie Perrier, brings contemporary cuisine with Asian, Italian and French influences. Great for theatre-goers. Web: bliss-restaurant.com

Bobby’s Burger Palace

3925 Walnut Street, 215-3870378. ($) Bobby Flay’s empire reaches University City. Order from a menu of ten delicious burgers that run the culinary gamut from Philly (Whiz, onions and hot peppers) to Dallas (Monterey Jack, coleslaw and BBQ sauce) to L.A. (cheddar, avocado relish and watercress). The buns are old-school sesame seed; the patties, juicy, grill-flavored, and exceptionally well seasoned. For extra oomph, crunchify your burger. For sides, add the crispy, slightly spicy fries or one of the rich milkshakes. Web: bobbysburgerpalace.com

Boston Market

3901 Chestnut Street, 215-2226900. ($) Rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes, cornbread and all the fixings. Eat in or take out. Web: bostonmarket.com

WINE WINEPEOPLEPEOPLE PEOPLE PEOPLE WINE WINE PEOPLE WINE FOR THE WINE PEOPLE FOR THE WINE PEOPLE FOR THETHE FOR FOR THE FOR THE FOR FOR FORTHE THE FOR THE THE WINE WINE PEOPLE PEOPLE WINEWINE WINE WINE PEOPLE WINE PEOPLE PEOPLE PEOPLE PEOPLE PEOPLE FOR THE FOR THE

neon lights of Bleu Martini are hard to miss. They offer an eclectic blend of Asian, American and Fusion cuisine combined with a vast variety of mouth-watering martinis. Web: bleumartinionline.com

Home Café & Catering The Left Bank WINE ROOM ROOM WINE ROOM Back WINE 1515 Fairmount Avenue, 215Monday –WINE Thursday – Thursday Monday – Thursday Monday – Thursday ROOM 215.222.2422 Monday WINE ROOM AND SNACKS WINE ROOM WINE ROOM WINE ROOM WINE ROOM 232-6311. ($) Back Home Cafe is Monday – Thursday 4pm – 11pm 4pm – 11pm 4pm – 11pm triacafe.com 4pm – 11pm a delicious job initiative of Project Home. They offer formerly home4pm – 11pm Friday +SNACKS Saturday + Saturday Friday + Saturday Friday Saturday less men+and women an opporAND Friday tunity in the entry level job force. Friday + Saturday 4pm – Midnight 4pm – Midnight 4pm – Midnight 4pm – Midnight Fresh organic greens, daily lunch 3131 Walnut 3131 Walnut 4pm – Midnight specials and a variety of Green 3131 Walnut 3131 Walnut Monday – Thursday 3131 Walnut Sunday 3131 Walnut 3131 WalnutThe Left 3131 Bank Walnut 3131 Walnut Sunday Sunday Sunday The Left Bank Mountain Coffees. Come study in The Left Bank Left Bank Left Bank The Left Bank The Left The Left Bank The 4pm – 11pm TheThe Left Bank Sunday our sunny atrium and art gallery. 3pm – 10pm 3pmBank – 10pm 3pm – 10pm3pm – 10pm 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 Catering also available. Monday – Thursday 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 215.222.2422 3pm – 10pm triacafe.com Friday + Saturday triacafe.com 4pm – 11pm triacafe.com Beneluxx triacafe.com triacafe.com triacafe.com triacafe.com triacafe.com triacafe.com

AND SNACKS SNACKS AND AND SNACKS AND SNACKS Friday +AND Saturday AND SNACKS SNACKS

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33 S. 3rd Street, 267-318-7269.

Sunday 3pm – 10pm

gian Tavern. Offers a large beer, wine, cheese and chocolate selection. Also serves light food fare, Sunday including fondues, paninis, salads and more. The menu is designed 3pm – 10pm Monday ––Thursday to encourage–tastings. Web: benMonday – Thursday Monday – Thursday Monday –Thursday Thursday Monday Thursday Monday Thursday Monday – Monday – Thursday eluxx.com Monday Thursday 4pm ––11pm

4pm – Midnight

4pm – 11pm 4pm –4pm – 11pm 4pm – 11pm 4pm – 11pm 11pm 4pm – 11pm Bistro 7 4pm – 11pm 4pm – 11pm 7 N. 3rd + Street, 215-931-1560. FridayFriday + Saturday Friday + Saturday + Saturday Friday + Saturday Friday Saturday Friday + Saturday Friday + Saturday ($$$) Local, farm-fresh ingredients Friday + Saturday 4pm+–Saturday Midnight Friday 4pm – Midnight – Midnight 4pm 4pm – Midnight 4pm – Midnight form the basis for eclectic, con4pm ––4pm Midnight – Midnight temporary American bistro dishes. 4pm Midnight 4pm – Midnight Sunday Web: bistro7restaurant.com Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday 3pm – 10pm Bleu Martini Sunday 3pm – 10pm 3pm – 10pm 3pm – 10pm 3pm – 10pm Sunday

3pm –– 10pm 10pm 3pm 3pm – 10pm

3pm – 10pm

24 S. 2nd Street, 215-940-7900. ($$$) Located in Philadelphia’s bustling nightlife district, the blue

Brauhaus Schmitz

718 South Street, 267-909-8814. ($$) Located on historic South Street, Brauhaus Schmitz specializes in all things German; food, service, music and of course beer. Brauhaus Schmitz features a selection of 20 imported draught beers as well as an additional 100 to choose from in bottle representing every major beer producing country in the world. Web: brauhausschmitz.com

Bridget Foy’s South Street Grill

200 South Street, 215-922-1813. ($$) Turbocharged American cuisine on Philadelphia’s hippest fairway — South Street! Bridget Foy’s newly redecorated dining rooms feature items like big, fat, juicy burgers, quesadillas, oak grilled sirloin steaks and fresh seafood. Outdoor café, handcrafted beers on tap, mad martinis and a specially selected California wine list. Sunday “Bloody Mary Brunch,” lunch, dinner, late night menu. Frequent diners reward program. Web: bridgetfoys.com

Bridgewater’s Pub

2955 Market Street, (30th Street Station), 215-387-4787. ($$) Bridgewater’s Pub in 30th Street Station is the one bar and grill stop that you have to make. They have an incredible selection of domestic beers and other drinks and authentic Philly food. Their menu changes monthly so no one gets bored! Web: thepubin30thstreetstation.com

726 N. 24th Street, (24th Street between Aspen Street & Fairmount Avenue), 215-232-3232. ($$) Continental menu served in a cozy dining room. Specialties include duck breast with Mango Chutney. Filet mignon Roquefort and Red Snapper with shrimp in scallops leek sauce. Over 100 different Belgian and microbrewed beers. Web: bridgids.com

Bui’s Lunch Truck

38th Street and Spruce Street, 856-630-7269. ($) Consistent good quality and the use of fresh ingredients make Bui’s a popular food truck year round. Menu features a variety of breakfast and lunch options including breakfast sandwiches, hot sandwiches, steaks, hoagies and burgers.

Cafe Estelle

444 N. 4th Street, 215-925-5080. ($) Cafe Estelle believes in a healthy and sustainable way of living. Many menu items are made on-site. Local and organic products are used whenever possible. Cafe Estelle has also won a Best of Philly Best Brunch award. Web: cafeestelle.com

Chickie’s & Pete’s

1526 Packer Ave, 215-218-0500. ($$) Huge bar, huge televisions, huge servings - get the idea? Web: chickiesandpetes.com

Chloe

232 Arch Street, 215-629-2337. ($$$) In the kitchen, chef-owners Mary Ann Ferrie and Dan Grimes excel at new American favorites and upscaled comfort foods, like grilled pizza topped with fig jam, Gorgonzola, applewood-smoked bacon and thyme. Web: chloebyob. com

Chris’ Jazz Cafe

City Tap House

City Tavern

138 S. 2nd Street, 215-413-1443. ($$$) Eighteenth century tavern

112 S. 8th Street, 215-923-0123. ($) This quiet hangout for businessmen and older folks has reinvented itself by revamping its gastropub cuisine and by adding brunch. Extending its hours hasn’t hurt, either. The dark, woody haunt still attracts its regulars, but now hipsters and 30-somethings crowd the place to nosh on crab quesadillas, Chesapeake crab cakes and Kobe beef burgers while swaying to rock tunes. Dessert favorites are a New York-style cheesecake and a fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Web: cocosphilly.com

Colonial Pizza

400 S. 43rd Street , 215-387-7702. ($) Inexpensive hand-tossed pizza and Italian foods. Cheese steaks, grinders, strombolis, hoagies, side orders, buffalo wings, and much more.

Continental Midtown

1801 Chestnut Street, 215-5671800. ($$) Continental Midtown draws crowds with retro decor booths made from baby-blue vinyl car seats, a sunken dining room with curvy seats and wicker basket chairs hanging from the ceiling. After dark, a more boisterous party set takes over. Each item from the rainbow-decorated menu is meant for sharing, including extra-tall calamari salad, Thai noodles, vegetarian dumplings, lobster mac and cheese, lamb meze and homemade cotton candy. Web: continentalmidtown.com

Continental Restaurant and Martini Bar

138 Market Street, 215-923-6069. ($$) A set of dice bedecks the roof, while giant cocktail olives doubling as lamps hang above window booths. New AmericanAsian fare brings bar-side dining to a higher level. The sirloin burger with Jack and cheddar on a plump egg roll never disappoints. Entree standouts include tender and sweet teriyaki filet mignon; light, crispy panko-crusted scallops; and peanut-savory Thai chicken skewers. Philly’s original and best martini bar. Web: continentalmartinibar.com

Cosi Coffee and Bar

140 S. 36th Street, 215-2224545. ($) At the center of Cosi is the open-flame hearth reminiscent of a comfortable ancient gathering place. Sandwiches, flatbreads, and salads are made fresh. From straight espressos to a great cup of coffee, the cafe is a delightful surprise for even the most demanding coffee aficionados. Web: getcosi.com

D.P. Dough

33 S. 40th Street, 215-796-9809. ($) With over 50 types of calzones

Dave and Buster’s

325 N. Columbus Boulevard, 215413-1951. ($$) Great Food + Great Fun = The Best of Times! From mouth-watering baby-back ribs to personal pizzas, some of the best food you’ve ever tried served by the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet. The most incredible array of fun and games you’ve ever seen, from world-class pocket billiards to the state-of-the-art Million Dollar Midway. Web: daveandbusters.com

Delilah’s Southern Cafe

1136 Arch Street, 215-574-0929. ($) Located inside Reading Terminal Market, Delilah’s Southern Cuisine is famous for their fried chicken and their mac and cheese-both southern favorites. The atmosphere is cozy and the food comes out quickly, although the place tends to get crowded quickly. Web: delilahwinder.com

Derek’s

4411 Main Street, 215-483-9400. ($$) Indulge yourself in local grown organic cuisine or just have a glass of wine and a snack at the bar. Watch local sporting events on big screen TV’s in the bars or have an intimate dinner for two in cozy booths. Be it a great burger, a dry aged steak, or the finest cult California Cabernet, Derek’s has it all. Web: dereksrestaurant.com

Devil’s Alley

1907 Chestnut Street, 215-751-

0707. ($$) Hands down the best comfort food in Philadelphia. A strong selection of local brews on tap and an excellent collection of reasonably priced wines to pair with your dinner. Saturday and Sunday Brunch is a special treat! Web: devilsalleybarandgrill.com

Down Home Diner

51 N. 12th Street, 215-627-1955. ($) Although this diner is located inside the Reading Terminal Market, it nonetheless bears the trappings of a genuine diner, including plenty of chrome trim and waitresses who might address you as “hon.” Customers line up at breakfast and lunch to chow down on dishes such as meat loaf, smashed potatoes with the skins attached, large portions of scrapple plus grits and gravy--an homage to good ol’ southern cooking.

Drexel Pizza

107 N. 33rd Street, 215-222-4722. ($) Fast-food restaurant with a small Greek selection and a variety of Italian dishes. Best sellers include Brandywine chicken fingers and fries, grilled chicken caesar wraps and black Angus wells burgers. Wide selection of domestic and imported beers.

Druid’s Keep

149 Brown Street, 215-413-0455. ($$) A neighbordhood bar that seems untouched by the trendiness found in other drinking establishments. The menu includes decent reasonably priced grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, melts, and hot dogs.

Dwight’s Southern Bar-B-Que

4345 Lancaster Avenue, 215-8792497. ($$) Dwight’s pork ribs are beyond reproach - seared on the outside and tender at the bone. The beef ribs are succulent and flavorful. Save room for side dishes like candied yams, collards and a truly superior mac and cheese that combines Longhorn cheddar, sharp cheddar, and parmesan.

Ed’s Buffalo Wings & Pizza

3513 Lancaster Avenue, 215-2224000. ($) Just North of Penn and West of Drexel, Ed’s serves up high quality pizza with fresh ingredients. Buffalo wings are available with eight unique sauces. Ed’s also offers salads, wraps, sandwiches, gyros, strombolis, calzones, burgers, and more. Also serving Ranas Middle Eastern food! Web: edswings.com

Farmicia

15 S. 3rd Street, 215-627-6274. ($$$) Located in Philadelphia’s historic Old City, FARMiCiA is a 122-seat restaurant & bar serving breakfast, lunch, an afternoon meal, a relaxed dinner & even brunch on the weekends. Metropolitan Cafe, in the front of Farmicia, offers early morning coffee, pastries, breakfast & lunch. Farm Bar hosts a lively & sophisticated environment for those who seek out places to dine & socialize in the evening. Web: farmiciarestaurant.com

Fiume Bar

45th and Locust St. ($) This lowkey bar is located above Abyssinia at 229 S. 45th Street. Patrons discuss everything from favorite bands to favorite political candidates, all

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3925 Walnut Street, 215-6620105. ($$) Located on The Radian Balcony, City Tap House boasts one of Philadelphia’s most extensive draft beer lists. Paired with a menu of New American Pub Fare, guests dine in a rustic dining room adjacent to an open kitchen. Featuring extensive outdoor seating on terraces and stone fire pits overlooking Walnut Street, City Tap House combines great food and great beer in a comfortable, energized, eco-friendly atmosphere. Web: citytaphouse.com (Please see our ad, Page 6)

Coco’s

on the menu, wings, cheesesticks, and desserts, D.P. Dough is a latenight staple, offering delivery to all parts of Center City and University city. Web: dpdoughphilly.com

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

1421 Sansom Street, 215-5683131. ($$) Diligent music fans who find Chris’ will feel like jazz insiders as they nestle into a booth in the unassuming lounge. The atmosphere is like a jazzhead’s basement hangout: warm, dark and smoky. Chris’ books a packed roster of local and national acts. The menu is eclectic if a bit unfocussed. Salads and burgers share the menu with spring rolls, Asian noodles, seafood and sandwiches named after jazz greats. Web: chrisjazzcafe.com

ambiance offers a unique classic American dining experience. Menu items include fresh fish, prime beef and fowl accompanied by a selection of wines and spirits. Featuring the exclusive George Washington Ale brewed from original “homebrew” recipes — truly a taste of history. Web: citytavern.com

Dining Guide

Bridgid’s

Dining Guide

within a funky atmosphere.

Fond

1617 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215551-5000. ($$) A contemporary American BYOB in the heart of South Philadelphia. Web: fondphilly.com

Fork

306 Market Street, 215-625-9425. ($$$) A stylish neighborhood bistro, Old City’s Fork was described by the Philadelphia Inquirer as “gently sophisticated, yet careful to preserve the artsy, urban feel of Old City.” Its inventive seasonal menu has received accolades including Zagat’s Award of Distinction, Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly Brunch, Lunch, Place to Take Out of Towners. Fork offers sandwiches, salads, entrées and carefully selected artisanal products to enjoy at home, school or the office. Web: forkrestaurant.com

Fountain Restaurant

1 Logan Square, Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, 215-963-1500. ($$$$) Acclaimed as one of the top 25 restaurants in America and number one in Philadelphia according to Zagat survey. Beautiful view of Swann Fountain and Logan Square. The cuisine features a classic technique and global influence, with a focus on local resources. A children’s menu is provided. Attire: Breakfast and Lunch: Smart Casual; Dinner: Jacket. Web: fourseasons.com/philadelphia

Freshii

1414 S. Penn Square, 215- 9777123. ($$) Freshii focuses on making fresh, healthy food accessible.

The new location inside of the Ritz- Carlton is clean, cool, and environmentally sustainable. Web: freshii.com

Friday, Saturday, Sunday

261 S. 21st Street, 215-546-4232. ($$$) Delicious American food in Center City’s most intimate and romantic restaurant. Menu includes roast duck, sautéed tilapia, rack of lamb. Desserts are great, too. Excellent for a special occasion. All bottles of wine are priced $10 over cost. Web: frisatsun.com

Frita’s

33rd Street, (Between Locust and Walnut), 267-699-8095. ($) Grab breakfast or a sandwich at this food cart outside DRL. Serving American favorites.

Geno’s Steaks

1219 S. 9th Street, 215-3890659. ($) Since 1966, Geno’s has been serving up his famous Philly Cheese steaks. The ingredients are simple, exacting and never greasy-thinly sliced rib-eye steak, melted cheese, oven-fresh baked bread and delicately grilled onions. Be prepared and know how to order, because the service is fast and the line keeps moving! Web: genosteaks.com

Glam Restaurant & Lounge

52 S. 2nd Street, 267-671-0840. ($$) This spot is dressed up in pink, pink and more pink. Downstairs, the atmosphere kicks up a few notches when DJs start to spin. In the VIP lounge upstairs, you’ll find low lights and fluffy couches. The menu has something for every taste. From a variety of appetizers,

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Grill Room, The Westin

99 S. 17th Street, 215-563-1600. ($$$) The Westin Philadelphia features the Grill Restaurant and a lounge where an award-winning staff creates innovative eclectic cuisine for both lunch and dinner. The comfortable Grill Bar is the ideal setting to relax with friends for a favorite beverage. Web: starwood. com/westin/search/hotel_detail. html?propertyID=1231

Happy Rooster

118 S. 16th Street, 215-963-9311. ($$$) This legendary Philadelphia bistro offers fine food in an intimate and warm interior featuring dark wood and leather. Originally an exclusive ‘Old Boy’s Club,’ Happy Rooster now caters to everyone with upscale American cuisine. Closed Sunday. Web: thehappyrooster.com

Hard Rock Café

1131 Market Street, 215-238-1000. ($$) Hard Rock Café Philadelphia serves up the best down-home, American food with a healthy dose of rock ’n’ roll and an entertaining and interactive staff. A glassenclosed function room is also available for private parties. Web: hardrock.com

Hemo’s

36th Street and Spruce Street. ($) There are multiple food trucks in various locations around Penn’s campus. The menu includes a variety of hot sandwiches (such as Italian meatball), hot dogs, fries, hamburgers, and steaks.

Hoagie Truck

36th Street and Spruce Street. ($) This hoagie truck serves standard breakfast and lunch items such as hot sandwiches, steaks and breakfast sandwiches.

Honey’s Sit ‘n’ Eat

800 N. 4th Street, 215-925-1150. ($) Honey’s is a NoLibs mishmash of a dining room whose menu items are born from the odd place where Southern and Jewish genres intersect. The turkey on that Reuben is house-roasted and juicy, and the side slaws are more vinegar- than mayo-based. A Best of Philly Breakfast. Web: honeysrestaurant.com

Houston Market

3417 Spruce Street, (Lower Level, Houston Hall), 215-7466071. ($) One of the best food experiences in University City! Enjoy freshly made custom salads, gourmet sandwiches and wraps, grilled cheesesteaks, chicken cheesesteaks, burgers, fresh sushi and more! Come visit our friendly chefs, always here for your service. Web: upenn.edu/dining (Please see our ad, Page 17)

Jack’s Firehouse

2130 Fairmount Avenue, 215-2329000. ($$) Classic Philadelphia Landmark Restaurant, serving steaks, seafood, and fresh fish

prepared with many local farm raised ingredients. Great bar with casual dining menu, including BBQ ribs, burgers, and hand-cut fries. Terrific outdoor dining by the firehouse fountain. Discounts for Penn student groups of 20 or more. Web: jacksfirehouse.com

JG Domestic

2929 Arch Street, 215-222-2363. ($$$) The latest in Jose Garces’ restaurant empire, JG Domestic serves artisinal food and drink, all sourced from the United States. A sampling of the entrees include Mt. Saint Helens Porcini Mushrooms, Colorado Lamp Spareribs, Texas Wild Boar, and Wood Oven Flatbread. Keeping Philadelphia and “all-domestic” focus in mind, the bar serves Philadelphia-brewed beers and cocktails named for famous train lines. Web: jgdomestic.com

Jim’s Steaks

400 South Street, 215-928-1911. ($) The original cheesesteak palace of delight. Located at 4th & South, Jim’s has been a local tradition since 1939. Enjoy the magic of South Street and a true taste of Philadelphia. Web: jimssteaks. com

John’s Lunch Cart

34th Spruce Street. ($) Located near HUP (Penn’s hospital), Nick and John’s menu includes sandwiches and hoagies.

John’s Roast Pork

14 Snyder Avenue, 215-463-1951. ($) Our Roast Pork is completely homemade. We use only top-choice pork and bone the meat right on premises. The pork is seasoned according to an old family recipe and is roasted in our commercial oven daily. Try a real homemade roast pork sandwich! John’s Roast Pork (also known as John’s Lunch, The Snyder Avenue Lunch Bar, and The Shack) has been on the corner of Weccacoe and Snyder Avenue since 1930 and has been a family business for three generations. Web: johnsroastpork.com

923-1234. ($$$) Located on the waterfront, Keating’s River Grill is the perfect location for not just a meal but a dining experience. Diners sample everything from steak and pancetta-wrapped scallops to a crab cake trio and encrusted lamb chops. A popular item is the veal chops with Gorgonzola sauce. Web: keatingsrivergrill.com

Khan’s Hot Dog Cart

Spruce Street & 37th Street. ($) Khan’s sandwiches are good without any condiments whatsoever; the spices are great on their own. What’s more, Khan’s has generous portion sizes. Combined with “awesome prices”, Khan’s is one of the most underrated food carts on campus.

King Kabob

38th & Spruce Street. ($) Come check out the grand re-opening of King Kabob lunch truck, specializing in a number of savory, flavorful chicken & steak kabob options. Kabobs are prepared daily and served in a fresh pita, perfect for an on-the-go meal. For a more robust option, add rice to any kabob for only $1!

L Two Restaurant & Bar

2201 South Street, 215-732-7878. ($$) Cozy neighborhood haunt on the west end of town. Whimsical tilted bar shelves and rich velvet draperies. Fresh seafood, veggie specials. The friendly staff guarantee a fun, relaxing evening. Best of CitySearch 2008: Best Romantic Date Spot. Web: l2restaurant.com

La Copine Brunch Cart 209 Poplar St. ($$) The Northern Liberties supper club, La Copine, now has a spin-off brunch cart. Expect to see gourmet creations such as hibiscus mint tea and chipotle ketchup.

Ladder 15

Johnny Rockets

443 South Street, 215-829-9222. ($) ‘50’s Style Malt Shop. Appetizing Fried. Nickel Juke Boxes. Dancing Servers. Web: johnnyrockets.com

1528 Sansom Street, 215-9649755. ($$) “In what was once a firehouse, Ladder 15, Rittenhouse Square’s newest and hottest eating and drinking destination combines an exciting and original dining experience with an upscale yet unpretentious bar scene.” Web: ladder15philly.com

Jon’s Bar and Grille

Lancaster Hoagie City

606 S. 3rd Street, 215-592-1390. ($$) Dine on South Street, either in the open air or in the glassenclosed greenhouse. Homemade soup, sandwiches, salad and pasta specials daily. Largest outside dining in the city! Web: jonsbarandgrille.com

Jones

700 Chestnut Street, (215) 2389 6 0 0 . ( $ $ ) A S tep h en S tar r enterprise featuring traditional dishes, such as Thanksgiving dinner and fried chicken in a basket. Comfort foods at its best. The menu is served all day Monday - Friday. Brunch and dinner served on the weekends. Web: jonesrestaurant.com

Keating’s River Grill

201 S. Columbus Boulevard, 215-

600 North 40th Street, 215-3820803. ($) Cheesesteaks, fried chicken wings, french fries. The classics.

Landmark Americana

3333 Market Street, 215-2224500. ($$) Landmark Americana is more classy than your average dive bar, but not too fancy as to scare away students on a budget. Menu offerings are mostly sandwiches, salads and traditional bar fare like quesadillas and buffalo wings, but there are also a few large entrees, like potato-encrusted sea bass and lobster ravioli. Enjoy Landmark’s varying daily drink specials at the outdoor bar on days with nice weather or even on a cooler night with the outdoor fire pit. Web: landmarkamericana.com/ph-home. htm

4034 Walnut Street, 215-387-0905. ($) Hoagies and cheesesteaks are only a few of the great items at Lee’s Hoagie House. Along with the #1 tuna hoagie and chickensteak on Penn’s campus, Lee’s also serves fantastic wings, chicken fingers, grilled chicken sandwiches, salads and wraps. Breakfast sandwiches are now available all day, every day. Web: leesuniversitycity.com

Lemon Hill

745 N. 25th Street, 215-232-2270. ($$$) Having been described as a “neighborhood bar,” Lemon Hill aims “to be a place that [provides] a service to the community, with as little pretension as possible.” Try seasonal American cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Mitch Prensky and drinks created by the “cocktail artisans” of The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co. Web: lemonhillphilly.com (Please see review, Page 15)

1839 Spruce Street, 215-731-0800. ($$) A variation of the Marathon Grill, without the on-the-clock vibe. Good food, good service, good price. Web: eatmarathon.com

Marigold Kitchen

501 S. 45th Street, 215-2223699. ($$$) Marigold Kitchen blends modern American cuisine with the century-old tradition of University City, serving dinner Tuesday through Saturday in this landmark Victorian house on the corner of 45th and Larchwood. This charming BYO features seasonal menus and a casual, intimate atmosphere ideal for your quiet evening or special occasion. Web: marigoldkitchenbyob.com

Matyson

705 N. 2nd Street, 215-238-0660. ($$) Traditional American saloon. Private parties available upstairs. Web: libertiesrestaurant.com

37 W. 19th Street, 215-5642925. ($$$) This wonderfully delicious BYOB is famous for its contemporary American flavor and casual yet sophisticated service. Located right off Rittenhouse Square, it’s the perfect place to grab lunch or dinner when in the mood for an elegant yet unostentatious meal. Try the steamed mussels! Web: matyson.com

Little Pete’s

Maui’s Dog House

Liberties Restaurant & Bar

219 S. 17th Street, 215-545-5508. ($) Excellent food, low prices. Good service. Very comfortable atmosphere. Weekend brunch available. Open 24 hours.

Locust Rendezvous

1415 Locust Street, 215-985-1163. ($) Casual, close to the theater. In the heart of everything. Fun and reasonable. Web: locustrendezvous. com

London Grill

2301 Fairmount Avenue , 215978-4545. ($$) Award-winning Art Museum-area restaurant. Ten-time “Best of Philly” winner. Lunch. Brunch. Dinner. Late night. Happy hour. Private rooms. Sidewalk café. “Best Happy Hour.” Web: londongrill.com

MacE’s Crossing

Mahogany on Walnut

1524 Walnut Street, 215-7323982. ($$$) As one of the premier cigar lounges in the city, Mahogany on Walnut provides a great place to relax. In an atmosphere of an English library with a warm fireplace and plush seating, they serve light dining, desserts and cocktails from noon until 1:30 AM. More than 40 single malt scotches, dozens of hand-rolled cigars and, of course, fantastic ventilation. TVs for major sporting events and a “well-rounded” beer menu. Web: phillycigarbar.com

Marathon on the Square

McCrossen’s Tavern

529 N. 20th Street, 215-8540923. ($$) Two row homes from the 1850’s make up the present day McCrossen’s Tavern, where the brick and polished wood of these old Philly homes still comes through, providing a warm, cozy setting. Everything from burgers to pasta to fresh fish is offered seven days a week. Great selection of beers on tap from around the world, a comprehensive wine list and cocktails of your choice. Web: mccrossens.com

McDonald’s

3935 Walnut Street, 215-222-6266. ($) Burgers and fries, shakes and cones, biscuits and eggs. Family and friends. Come visit us! Web: mcdonalds.com

McFadden’s

461 N. 3rd Street, 215-928-0630. ($$) Home to one of the most lively happy hours, McFadden’s is the most dynamic establishment in Philadelphia. Offering lunch, brunch, dinner, crazy nightlife or an exciting place to watch a sports game, the many facets of McFadden’s will never disappoint

Melrose Diner

1501 Snyder Avenue, 215-4676644. ($) Deemed one of the best traditional diners in Philadelphia, Melrose Diner is best known for its baked goods and shared booths. Open 24 hours with breakfast, lunch, dinner and night owl menus. Best of Philly 4 A.M. eatery. ATM on premises. Web: melrose-diner. com

Mémé

2201 Spruce Street, 215-735-4900. ($$$) Named after his grandmother, David Katz’s restaurant welcomes diners with a relaxed ambiance and delicious menu items. The cuisine is American with a twist, with ingredients coming from mostly local sources and an exclusive wine list. Web: memerestaurant.com

Meritage Restaurant and Wine Bar

500 S. 20th Street, 215-9851922. ($$$) The chef’s inventive menu simultaneously revitalizes old classics with modern twists and embarks to new territory with a culinary trip around the world. Expect to find a menu of seasonal, snacks, small and larger plates like corn soup, a frisee salad with poached egg and braised pork belly, and a brined and roasted chicken served with a Chinese sausage hash. Web: meritagephiladelphia. com

Mica Retaurant

8609 Germantown Ave, 267335- 3912. ($$$$) The Lacroix and Blackfish chefs Roman and Chichonksi opened a new finedining restaurant in Chestnut Hill called Mica. The menu was rated “three bells” by Philly’s favorite food critic Craig LaBan for its quality, local ingredients and palatable combinations. Mica also offers a multi-course prix-fixe chef tasting and a wine and spirits program. Web: micarestaurant.com

Millcreek Tavern

4200 Chester Avenue, 215-2221255. ($) A West Philly “hidden gem,” Millcreek Tavern has great live music from different bands each week, along with a very diverse menu of delicious food choices, from cheesesteaks to crabcakes. Check their website for open-mic nights! Web: millcreektavernphilly. com

Moe’s Hot Dog House

2601 Washington Avenue, 215465-6637. ($) Hot dogs done just right. Come and give them a try! Web: moeshotdoghouse.com

Monk’s Café

264 S. 16th Street, 215-545-7005. ($$) Inspired by cozy Belgian brassieres. This neighborhood café is a great place to grab a

quick burger and fresh-cut fries, or relax over gourmet delicacies like steamed mussels, sea scallops and filet mignon. Inventive vegetarian fare, too! Choose from 200 beers from around the world. Fine wines. Web: monkscafe.com

More Than Just Ice Cream

1119 Locust Street, 215-5740586. ($$) Premier dessert spot and hip café serving soups, salads, sandwiches and nightly dinner specials. Homemade desserts include “sky-high” apple pie. Lunch, dinner and desserts served daily. Take-out ice cream counter — 34 flavors. Web: morethanjusticecream.com

Moshulu

401 S. Columbus Boulevard, 215923-2500. ($$$) The Moshulu, the most unique waterfront restaurant on the world’s largest four-masted sailing ship is located at Penn’s Landing. Owner Martin Grims has totally renovated the ship, decorated in a South Seas attitude evoking the feeling of an exotic vacation destination. The restaurant features inspired contemporary American cooking using nature’s finest ingredients. First class food and service is paired with stunning views and ambiance. Web: moshulu.com

Ms. Tootsie’s Soul Food Cafe

1314 South Street, 215-731-9045. ($$) Ms. Tootsie is a little more “uptown” than your typical soul food restaurant, a place of “artful elegance with neo-soul music.” There are no appetizers here: it’s all entrees, all the time. Enormous portions of “comfort food” satisfy any home-style craving.

National Mechanics

22 S. 3rd Street, 215-701-4883. ($$) Located in the National Mechanics Building (hence the name), this Old City bar offers a wide selection of beers on tap and in bottles alongside a wide range of your typical bar foods. Includes “Nostalgic” such as a Frito Taco and Corn Dogs, but also covers burgers, pastas, steaks, seafood, and fried goodness. The weekend brunches feature a Makeyour-own Bloody Mary Bar. Web: nationalmechanics.com

New Style Pizza

4060 Chestnut Street, 215-3875633. ($) We sell a variety of items ranging from chicken fingers, pasta, salads, paninis , and of course, pizza. Fresh ingredients, thin crust and rarely oily! Come try a slice! Web: newstylepizza.com

Noche

1901 Chestnut Street (2nd Floor), 215-568-0551. ($$) This Center City hotspot offers a distinct and delicious menu including pizza, sandwiches, and nachos. Happy hour, from 5:30-7:30 Tuesday-

Papa John’s

104 S 40th Street, 215-349-7272. ($) America’s favorite pizza offering a variety of toppings with better quality ingredients. They also offer specials and combination deals. Web: papajohns.com/index.html

Pat’s King of Steaks

1237 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215468-1546. ($) After a bocce game or a night at the opera, this is the place to line up for a sidewalk steak sandwich with onions, cheese, plenty of hot peppers and all the rest. Pioneer and originator of the steak sandwich since 1930. Non-smoking sections available. Open ’round the clock. Web: patskingofsteaks.com

Percy Street Barbecue

900 South Street, 215-625-8510. ($$) Percy Street Barbeque specializes in brisket, sausage, ribs, and chicken. They woodsmoke all of their meats in real barbeque pits and serve the main courses with classic sides like potatoes and macaroni and cheese. Their full-service bar offers local beers, with the city’s largest variety of craft beer cans, and has a large variety of whiskeys. Web: percystreet.com

Phoebe’s Bar-B-Q

2214 South Street, 215-546-4811. ($) Best BBQ in the city! Smoked ribs (pork or beef), brisket, pulled pork, rotisserie chicken, and homemade sides and sauce. Takeout, delivery, and pick-up. Credit cards accepted. Web: phoebesbbq. com

Picnic

3131 Walnut Street, 215-222-1608. ($) “World-class food at affordable prices.” Specializing in prepared food carry-out with indoor/outdoor cafe seating.

Plenty

1710 E. Passyunk Ave, 267- 9098033. ($$) Plenty is yet another trendy farm-to- fork restaurant featuring local, organic, and humane ingredients. Come for healthy and hearty artisanal sandwiches, entrees, and more. Web: plentyphiladelphia.com

Public House

2 Logan Square, 215-587-9040. ($$) America’s best eat and greet! Upscale bar environment with modern American favorites. Web: publichousephilly.com

Pumpkin

1713 South Street, 215-5454448. ($$$) An intimate 28-seat eatery has an open kitchen and

P age

Setzen Sie diese Dinge in Ihrem Mund!

Friday. With a pool table, rock ‘n roll jukebox, and a sexy panoramic view of Rittenhouse Square, Noche offers a lively and creative way to spend the evening! Web: noche215. com

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

1714 Cherry Street, 215-5645203. ($) Serves a light fare of hamburgers, sandwiches and fries, and offers a weekend brunch.

200 S. Broad Street, 215-7351533. ($$) Serving freshly made hot dogs, burgers, and chicken fingers, Maui’s is dedicated to bringing its customers quality, homemade food in a fun, relaxing atmosphere. Be sure to customize your order with a choice of among 29 different toppings--such as sauerkraut cooked in beer--or even try the special “Forget-About-It!” Web: mauisdoghouse.com

you or let you leave without a smile! Web: mcfaddensphilly.com

Dining Guide

Lee’s Hoagie House

Dining Guide

a daily-changing menu fuses Mediterranean, French, Italian, and Spanish fare. Nearby Pumpkin Cafe offers sandwiches, salads, ice cream, and coffee while the Pumpkin Market offers all local produce, cheese, and meats. Web: pumpkinphilly.com

1847 Callowhill Street, 215-5698939. ($$$) “Greenhouse”-like ambiance. Contemporary American cuisine. Late-night snacks also offered. Delicious home-baked desserts. Web: rosetattoocafe.com/ homepage.html

Q BBQ & Tequila

102 S. 21st St , 215- 496- 9494. ($) Rotisseur is all about simple and honest food. Their chicken is cage- free, antibiotic- free, hormone- free, halal, and made with locally- sourced ingredients. Web: rotisseur.net

207 Chestnut Street, (215) 6248605. ($$) From our kegs to our kitchen, we will take you on a craft journey to tantalize the taste buds. Dishing up the best Hickory B a r b e q u e , Ve g e t a r i a n , M e x , and even a few simpler snacks including “Asparagus Fries”. Web: qoldcity.com

R2L

50 S. 16th Street, 215-564-5337. ($$$) This restaurant puts a spin on American cuisine, creating a truly unique dining experience. Web: r2lrestaurant.com

Race Street Cafe

208 Race Street, 215-627-6181. ($$) The best cafe on Race Street! Great food, friendly employees there’s really no excuse not to visit! Web: racestreetcafe.net

Reading Terminal Market

51 N. 12th Street, 215-922-2317. ($$) This place is Philadelphia and has been for more than 100 years. A must see. One visit and you are sure to return. Many fresh foods under one roof. The market has more than 80 stalls with local food from upcountry farms, as well as delicacies from around the world. Come visit us today! Web: readingterminalmarket.org

Red Sky

P age 28 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

224 Market Street, 215-925-8080. ($$) Under new ownership and a complete makeover, Red Sky, an ultra chic and stylish lounge, has become a serious contender in the heart of Old City. The jet black and red walls evoke emotions of passion and mystique. Red Sky Restaurant and Lounge is sophistication and sexiness at its finest.

Rembrandt’s Restaurant and Pub

741 N. 23rd Street , (23rd Street and Aspen Street), 215-763-2228. ($$) An Italian/American menu with... homemade desserts, brick oven pizza and a cozy atmosphere with a skyline view of the city. “Best of Philly” winner. Romantic dining. Also serving a great tavern menu all day long. Live jazz entertainment on Thursdays. Classical and viola for Sunday brunch. Tarot cards read by John, Monday and Tuesday evenings. Happy Hour specials weekdays. Banquet facilities, elevator, handicap accessible, accept all major credit cards. Web: rembrandts.com

Rex 1516

1516 S. Street, 267-319-1366. ($$) This Southern-inspired eatery, brought to you by Evan Malone and Jill Weber, offers some of the best Southern dishes in Philadelphia. Of special note: Chef Regis Jansen’s plate of shrimp and grits. (Please see review, Page 11)

28 Rose Tattoo Café

Rotisseur

Rouge

205 S. 18th Street, 215-732-6622. ($$$) Located on Rittenhouse Square, this charming bistro offers a full menu of FrenchAsian creations. The restaurant that first made dining alfresco on Rittenhouse Square cool continues to be a see-or-be-seen spot. Of course, that killer, always-perfect Rouge burger with truffle fries helps, too. Web: rouge98.com

Royal Tavern

937 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215389-6694. ($$) Perennial “Best of” award winner, Royal Tavern packs them in every night with an appeal to carnivores, vegetarians, vegans, beer drinkers, and budgetconscious hipsters alike. Whether you’re into AC/DC or Squeeze, PBR or Gruner Veltliner, juicy burgers or barigoule of poached summer vegetables, you’re apt to become a regular here. Web: royaltavern. com

Russet

1521 Spruce Street, 215-5461521. ($$$$) Housed in an 1877 brick townhouse, Russet fuses modern American with Italian and French cuisine to create its daily changing menu. Chef-Owners Andrew and Kristin Wood look to create simple dishes highlighting the natural flavors of the food, using only the finest local and seasonal ingredients. Web: russetphilly. com (Please see review, Page 16)

4443 Spruce Street, 215-2229590. ($$$) West Philly BYOB offering everything from organic brunches to seared diver scallops at dinner. We feature all local, free range meats and live-caught fish, as well as produce from over 20 local farmers. Web: rxrestaurant. com

Sabrina’s Cafe

227 N. 34th Street, 215-222-1022. ($$) Finally! Sabrina’s Cafe has made it’s way across the river and into University City. Sabrina’s finds itself in the heart of the Powelton Villa g e ne s t le d i n a h i st o r i c Victorian manor with a enclosed wrap around porch. Serving up the comfort food you’ve come to expect from Sabrina’s but now within walking distance. Vegan and vegetarian friendly Sabrina’s is a great place to meet up with friends over some good’ol home style cooking.Sabrina’s is also located at 910 Christian Street and 1802 Callowhill Street. Web:

sabrinascafe.com

Salt & Pepper

1623 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215238-1920. ($$$) Treat yourself to something different at Salt and Pepper. This quaint, cozy restaurant features a delicious Sunday brunch as well as nightly dinners from a seasonal menu. The American cuisine ranges from French toast to filet mignon, and you can watch it all being made through their open kitchen. The motto here is, “Simple, Fresher, Better”, and they certainly deliver Web: saltandpepperphilly.com

Sam’s Morning Glory Diner

735 S. 10th Street, 215-4133999. ($$) Bustling little corner diner in the heart of South Philly with good home cooking, warm staff and casual feel. Great coffee, homemade fresh food. Breakfast and lunch served all day. Web: themorningglorydiner.com

Sapphire

4141 Main Street, 215-508-0336. ($$) Sapphire’s eclectic influences in the kitchen include Asian, Latino and Mediterranean flavors and hence the menu caters to a variety of palates. The furnishing and decor are tasteful, sleep and comteporary and perfect for candlelit dinners. Also, the chocolate fondue with fresh fruit is not to be missed! Web: sapphirepa.com

Sassafras International Café

48 S. 2nd Street, 215-925-2317. ($$) Antique bar with working fireplace. International menu. 28 year-old city Bistro. Lively bar as well as dinner crowd. “Best of Philly” burgers for three years. Web: sassafrasbar.com

Serrano / Tin Angel

20 S. 2nd Street, 215-928-0770. ($$) International flavor. Bold brash flavors. Authentic ethnic cooking. Everything a neighborhood restaurant should be. Serrano is Old City’s longest running loft party. A place to visit, kick back and enjoy; to bring friends and make friends. Web: tinangel.com

Silk City Diner

435 Spring Garden Street, 215592-8838. ($$) Silk City Diner is the place to go if you want American food with an updated flair. Menu items like shrimp and crap potstickers or comfort food like roasted chicken and mashed potatoes are prepared with the kind of care that makes you think they came out of mother’s oven. Web: silkcityphilly.com

Sisters

1320 Chancellor Street, 215-7350735. ($$) Sisters is a 5,000 sq. ft nightclub and restaurant catering to Philadelphia’s LGBT community. Open 7 days a week featuring a variety of entertainment from karaoke, award winning DJ’s, and live bands to colorful theme parties. Web: sistersnightclub.com

Sonny’s Famous Steaks

228 Market Street, 215-6295760. ($) Authentic award-winning steaks. Web: sonnysbbq.com

South Street Diner

140 South Street, 215-627-5258. ($) Enjoy a wide variety of our excellent cuisine in a casual, relaxed setting. We are open 7 days a week, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7:00 AM-late. Daily lunch and dinner specials include dessert from our new bakery offering a variety of cakes and pies. Web: southstreetdinerphilly.com

Spirit of Philadelphia

123 Chestnut Street, 866455-3866. ($$$) The Spirit of Philadelphia gives you a total cruise package that includes a full-course meal, sightseeing, lively dancing, unique entertainment and hours of cruising fun, all for one affordable price. Web: spiritofphiladelphia. com

Square 1682

We cordially invite you to follow us on Twitter: @34st

121 S. 17th Street, 215-5635008. ($$$) Square 1682 is two stories of contemporary style, chic and urban ecology, situated in Philadelphia’s charismatic City Center neighborhood. Inside the LEED-certified restaurant — Philadelphia’s first — you’ll find a modern design aesthetic, including an abundance of artisan cocktails, wines and beers. Web: square1682.com

between Stephen Starr and Aimee Olexy offers its diners a selection of some of the finest seasonal American food in Philadephia, “inspired by the Farm and the Garden.” Web: talulasgarden.com (Please see review, Page 13)

Steak Queen

Tavern on Camac

38th Street, (Between Locust and Spruce), 267-205-5906. ($) Great American food for low prices! Service is quick and the food is always tasty.

Supper

926 South Street, 215-592-8180. ($$$) Seasonal “New” American cuisine, served in an urban farmhouse atmosphere. The chef’s goal is to serve upscale food in a way that breaks the traditional fine dining mold. The Sunday Supper is a fixed price family-style meal-- reservations are required! Supper also offers a complete wine, beer, and cocktail menu. Web: supperphilly.com

Swann Lounge & Café

1 Logan Square, Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, 215-963-1500. ($$$) Quiet, with jazz (live on Friday and Saturday nights) — along with “dessert buffet. Great Sunday brunch. The Swann Lounge was cited as one of the top bars in the world by Gourmet Magazine. Web: fourseasons.com

Sweetgreen

3925 Walnut Street, 215-3861365. ($$) Located conveniently in the Radian, Sweetgreen has a new outpost in Philly! Come try the salads with high quality ingredients and unique pairings. Web: sweetgreen.com

T.G.I. Friday’s

1776 Ben Franklin Parkway, (18th Street and Ben Franklin Parkway), 215-665-8443. ($$) Serves Italian dishes, burgers, southwestern items, and lots of soup and salad! Web: tgifridays.com

Talula’s Garden

210 W. Washington Square, 215592-7787. ($$) This collaboration

243 S. Camac Street, 215-5450900. ($$) Tavern on Camac is one of the few Piano Bars in Center City and one of the oldest Gay & Lesbian bars in the country. We feature nightly entertainment with our Piano players offering a variety of songs and musical styles. And of course, sing-a-longs are encouraged. Our Restaurant receives numerous accolades from our patrons for our beautifully prepared dishes. Our Dance Bar is open 7 nights a week at 9 pm with a great mix of women and men. Sunday nights the Dance Bar is open at 8pm. Nestled among quaint colonial row homes, T.O.C. is in the heart of Philadelphia’s LGBT neighborhood. A Restaurant & Night Club for the Entire Community! Web: tavernoncamac. com

Ten Stone Bar and Restaurant

2063 South Street, 215-735-9939. ($$) New York-style restaurant/ hangout. Dinner for two with drinks is under $25. Cool juke box, pool table, bar menu. Web: tenstone. com

Terra Restaurant

243 S. Camac Street, 215-5451102. ($$) Chef Eric Paraskevas (Slate, Lolita) returns to the Washington West neighborhood at Terra, a dynamic new restaurant that showcases his exceptional skill in preparing New American cuisine. The menu includes signature dishes, such as beef tenderloin and house made pasta; seasonal weekly specials; delectable small plates and salads; an extensive wine list and bar; and a number of delicious desserts. Web: terrapa. com

The Burger Stop

3800 Locust Walk, 1920 Commons.

Dining Guide

Q BBQ & Tequila

R2L

50 S. 16th Street, 215-564-5337. ($$$) This restaurant puts a spin on American cuisine, creating a truly unique dining experience. Web: r2lrestaurant.com

Race Street Cafe

208 Race Street, 215-627-6181. ($$) The best cafe on Race Street! Great food, friendly employees there’s really no excuse not to visit! Web: racestreetcafe.net

Reading Terminal Market

Red Sky

P age 28 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

Rembrandt’s Restaurant and Pub

Rex 1516

28 Rose Tattoo Café

Rotisseur

Rouge

Royal Tavern

Russet

Sabrina’s Cafe

sabrinascafe.com

Salt & Pepper

Sam’s Morning Glory Diner

Sapphire

Sassafras International Café

Serrano / Tin Angel

Silk City Diner

Sisters

Sonny’s Famous Steaks

228 Market Street, 215-6295760. ($) Authentic award-winning steaks. Web: sonnysbbq.com

South Street Diner

Spirit of Philadelphia

Square 1682

We cordially invite you to follow us on Twitter: @34st

Steak Queen

Tavern on Camac

38th Street, (Between Locust and Spruce), 267-205-5906. ($) Great American food for low prices! Service is quick and the food is always tasty.

Supper

Swann Lounge & Café

Sweetgreen

T.G.I. Friday’s

1776 Ben Franklin Parkway, (18th Street and Ben Franklin Parkway), 215-665-8443. ($$) Serves Italian dishes, burgers, southwestern items, and lots of soup and salad! Web: tgifridays.com

Talula’s Garden

210 W. Washington Square, 215592-7787. ($$) This collaboration

Ten Stone Bar and Restaurant

2063 South Street, 215-735-9939. ($$) New York-style restaurant/ hangout. Dinner for two with drinks is under $25. Cool juke box, pool table, bar menu. Web: tenstone. com

Terra Restaurant

The Burger Stop

3800 Locust Walk, 1920 Commons.

The Cafe @ 2011 Restaurant, Bar & Lounge

2011 Walnut Street, 215-5685603. ($$) Open-air and sidewalk seating for dinner, Saturday lunch and Sunday Brunch. Comfortable bar and lounge. Seating available for school parties and events. Book your school party today and get great drink specials. Web: thecafe2011.com

The Corner

102 S 13th Street, 215-735-7500. ($$) Very reasonable prices and friendly waiters make sure you leave happy and satisfied. Web: thephillycorner.com

The Fresh Grocer

4001 Walnut Street, 215-222-9200. ($) After stocking up on fresh and healthy groceries, take a load off at the eatery upstairs. Customers can enjoy a fully stocked buffet of hot and prepared foods, ranging from pizza and sandwiches to home cooked turkey and stuffing. Web: thefreshgrocer.com

The Gold Standard Cafe

4800 Baltimore Avenue, 215-7278247. ($$) Intimate, traditional all-American cafe offering fresh, local specialties. Web: thegoldstandardcafe.com

The Latest Dish

613 S. 4th Street, 215-629-0565. ($$) Healthy, lighter fare. Seafood, vegetarian and more. Outstanding beer selection. Best dance club in the city (Fluid) is on the second floor. Web: latestdish.com

The Melting Pot

The Restaurant School

4207 Walnut Street, 215-222-4200. ($$) Enjoy food prepared by the chefs of tomorrow in four different restaurants. Student discount: 10 percent with school identification. Carry-out foods prepared by the chefs in our Café and Pastry Shop. Pastries, breads, cakes plus a luncheon selection of soups, salads and sandwiches. Gift certificates and private parties available. Web: walnuthillcollege.edu

The Ugly American

1201 Market Street, 215-6256795. ($$) Thirteen, the stylishly modern bar and restaurant in the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, takes its moniker from the original 13 colonies, offering visitors and locals a stylish and upbeat venue for dining, drinking and socializing. Web: marriottmodules.com/restaurant/ hotels/hotel-information/travel/ phldt-marriott-philadelphia/13_ american_inspired_cuisine

TIME

1315 Sansom Street, 215- 9854800. ($$) From the loins of the once-revered German beer house just east of Broad Street, we have created a space that can accommodate. We offer a wide variety of food, drink and entertainment for everyone — from food, scotch and beer lovers to the wine connoisseur and nightlife partygoers, TIME is poised to satisfy every craving. Web: timerestaurant. net

Tony Luke’s

39 E. Oregon Avenue, 215-5515725. ($) Tony Luke’s offers classic traditional Philadelphia food. You can find there a wide variety of cheesesteaks, hoagies, and sandwiches at a small price. Web: tonylukes.com

Tri Tone

1508 South Street, 215-5450475. ($) Top rate international pub fare. Large vegetarian and Vegan selection. All the food is prepared fresh on the premises. Philly Magazine – Best Club 2002; City Paper – Best late night kitchen; City Search – Best cheap eats; Top Ten New Restaurants in the country too. Web: tritonebar.com

Underdogs

132 S. 17th Street, 215-665-8080. ($$) This boutique hot dog eatery features wieners in a variety of styles, ranging from a My Thai to the Georgia Dog, and even the Coney Classic. Some have even suggested that this restaurant will help unseat the cupcake as the next “it” food! (Please see review, Page 21)

Varga Bar

941 Spruce Street, 215-627-5200. ($$) An all-American pub featuring retro-style decor, including a mural of 40s-style pinups on the ceiling and a black-and-white tile floor. Menu includes jumbo lump crab cheese fries, Kobe beef burger, duck confit chicken wings. Web: vargabar.com

Water Works Restaurant and Lounge

640 Water Works Drive, 215236-9000. ($$$) Water Works Restaurant and Lounge, Philadelphia’s landmark dining experience offers mouthwatering cuisine and breathtaking views of Boathouse Row and the Schuylkill River. Water Works is the perfect place for all occasions. Private e v e n t s a r e w e l c o m e d . We b : thewaterworksrestaurant.com

White Dog Cafe

123 S. 18th Street, 215-9728742. ($$) Tria specializes in the Fermentation Trio of wine, cheese and beer. Offers a friendly, casual yet stylish place for hanging out, day and night. Wonderful staff. Winner of Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best of Philly” 2004 (beer list). Web: triacafe.com

3420 Sansom Street, 215386-9224. ($$) Award-winning contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on local, farmfresh ingredients. Smoke-free piano parlor; music on weekends and dinner discussions of film, tours, and other community events. Bar and grill offers casual fare for under $10 and late night specials. Web: whitedog.com (Please see our ad, Page 13)

Tria Wine Room

Woolly Mammoth

Tria Cafe

3131 Walnut Street, 215-2222422. ($) A wine, cheese and beer cafe. Tria serves passionately crafted wines, cheeses, and beers together for a unique experience. Web: triacafe.com (Please see our ad, Page 24)

430 South Street, 215-923-8780. ($$) Sports bar. 10 Satellite TV’s. All pro and college games. Great place to watch Sunday football. Also, don’t miss Monday night specials.

Turf Club

3025 Walnut Street, 215-2221400. ($$) Live Music on 2 stages. Upstairs Live – serving lunch, dinner, late night bites and an ever changing menu of live music from around the region and the globe. Downstairs Live – Dinner is served at your table as you enjoy a live performance. Host your next private party at World Cafe Live. Web: worldcafelive.com

1635 Market Street, 215-246-1556. ($$$) Traditional American cuisine includes grilled chicken breast, stir fry specialties and salads. Add to that the live action of thoroughbred horse racing, with off-track betting. Casual attire.

Twenty Manning Grill

261 S. 20th Street, 215-731-0900.

World Cafe Live

XIX - Nineteen

200 S. Broad Street, 19th Floor, (Park Hyatt at the Bellevue), 215790-1919. ($$$) Starters and main dishes are perfectly executed. The desserts are a bit more playful. Located on the 19th floor of the Park Hyatt one really does feel at the top with an elegant view of Center City. Web: nineteenrestaurant.com

Yo-reka!

3800 Locust Walk, 1920 Commons. ($) Looking for a tasty and healthy snack full of flavor? Then treat yourself to a delectable all natural Chobani Greek yogurt where you can select from a variety of toppings from fruit, nuts, and more. You can even build your very own custom built parfait! Yo-reka! also offers fresh fruit, yogurt smoothies, nutrition bars and granola.

BAKERY/ DESSERT Artisserie Chocolate Cafe

3421 Walnut Street, 215-222-3710. ($) The best place in Philadelphia for dessert. They carry everything from rich hot chocolate to delicious pastries.

Auntie Anne’s

3405 Walnut Street, 215-3870337. ($) Hand-rolled soft pretzels in nine awesome flavors, including new hot dog pretzels and pretzel pockets. Web: auntieannes.com

A quiet sanctuary of soothing teas and garden views, the Mary Cassatt Tea Room and Garden brings to life the tranquil settings once painted by its namesake. Elegant yet inviting, this charming salon is an ideal venue for relaxing afternoons. Sip one of our signature brews as you nibble on scones, pastries, and tea sandwiches. Delight in our lovely private garden, located just outside a set of graceful French doors. Web: rittenhousehotel.com/ weddings_old/cassat_dining.cfm

CremaLita

401 Chestnut Street, 215-8299510. ($) CremaLita features the freshest, creamiest taste in low-calorie, fat-free and cholesterol-free ice cream. They offer over sixty flavors of creamy, delicious, guilt-free ice cream that you’ll surely enjoy. From the fabulous Hot Chocolate Freeze to the Root Beer Floats and Milk Shakes, it’s always the right time for CremaLita.

Darling’s Coffeehouse and Famous Cheesecakes

2100 Spring Street, 215-496-9611. ($) Darling’s professes to be ‘home of the original Philly cheesecake,’ a cheesecake that’s apparently lighter in color and creamier in texture than a NY-style cheesecake. Darling’s has about ten homemade cakes to choose from ($4.35-$4.95 a slice), from the ‘classic Philly cheesecake’ to white chocolate raspberry, pumpkin, and Grand Marnier. Web: darlingscheesecake. com

Dunkin’ Donuts

Bagel Factory

3437 Walnut Street, 215-222-7955. ($) Sweeten your morning routine. Something scrumptious is always waiting. Web: dunkindonuts.com

Belle Cakery

Golosa Chocolate Bar and Dessert Lounge

510 Walnut Street, 215-627-0707. ($) Great bagels, salads, gourmet sandwiches and more. 1437 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215271-2299. ($$) This cozy cake shop features a daily selection of sweets and pastries, but primarily specializes in custom-order cakes. Pastry chef and co-owner Jessie Prawlucki has noted that the cakes will be “more focused on flavor” to attract customers. Also be sure to try her famous hazelnut brittle! Web: bellecakery.com (Please see review, Page 4)

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

218 S. 40th Street, 215-382-5092. ($) The finest quality all natural ice cream. Conveniently right on campus. Web: benandjerrys.com

Capogiro Gelato Artisans

3925 Walnut Street, 215-2220252. ($$) Capogiro brings Italian artisan know-how together with Pennsylvania’s rich farmland produce. The flavor selection changes seasonally and includes unique flavors such as persimmon sorbetto, honeysuckle, black walnut, mascarpone and fig, and many more. Check out their Center City location at 13th and Sansom as well. Web: capogirogelato.com

Cassatt Tea Room and Lounge, The Rittenhouse Hotel

210 W. Rittenhouse Square , (19th Street Between Locust Street & Walnut Street), 215-546-9000. ($$)

806 S. 6th Street, 215-925-1003. ($) This tiny dessert shop focuses mostly on chocolate. Imported chocolates and candies, along with desserts from around South Philly make for a perfect ending to your evening around South Street. Specialties include drinking chocolates and 100% cacao dark chocolate. Call before you go to ensure there is space for you! Cash-only BYOB. Web: golosacafe. com

Insomnia Cookies

Houston Hall, 3417 Spruce Street, 215-387-2005. ($) Warm cookies and brownies delivered to your door til 3AM. Pickup available too. Order online or call (215) 3872005. Web: insomniacookies.com

Isgro Pastries

1009 Christian Street, 215-9233092. ($$) Over 100 year old quintessential award winning Italian bakery in the Italian Market specializing in cannolis. They also make fantastic cookies, biscotti, tiramisu, and pizzelles. The family run business has been using the same authentic recipes straight from Italy for generations. Web: bestcannoli.com

Kiwi Frozen Yogurt

P age

1100 S. Front Street, 215-3361100. ($$) The concept of New American cuisine was developed in the 1980s from fusion and California cuisines, and features significant creative use of in-season produce and sauces. It is somewhat

Thirteen Restaurant, Philadelphia Marriott

($$$) If cosmopolitan is what you’re looking for, Twenty Manning is the place. From the modern, gorgeous dining room, the intimate lounge & the lively outdoor cafe to the large, sensual bar, Twenty Manning hosts a location for every diner’s taste. Beloved Chef Kiong Banh draws upon his culinary expertise to create an innovative twist on American fare. Chef Banh spends every morning at the markets, handselecting each fresh ingredient that goes into his Asian-influenced selections. He even adds fresh herbs from his own personal garden to enhance his unique entrees. Web: twentymanning.com

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

1219 Filbert Street, 215-9227002. ($$$) Come experience a new way to enjoy food with family or friends....Fondue! The Melting Pot has something for everyone. From large tables for big groups to intimate tables for two, you must come experience the country’s premier fondue restaurant! Web: meltingpot.com

related to French Nouvelle cuisine and often incorporates influences from Latin American, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisine. Web: uglyamericanphilly.com

Dining Guide

($) The Burger Stop features 100% grass fed beef purchased locally from Hendricks Farm. Enjoy a variety of burger options on our signature or Kaiser rolls. You can also select from a grilled chicken or veggie burger as well as a selection of sides to complement your meal. Web: diningatpenn.com/penn/ cafes/retail/commons

3606 Chestnut Street, 215- 387- 29

Dining Guide

1222. ($) Customizable flavors and toppings, Kiwi is the go-to choice for frozen yogurt on campus. Great flavors include vanilla bean, cheesecake, mixed berry, red velvet, Irish mint, and many more. Web: kiwifrozenyogurt.com

Le Pain Quotidien

1425 Walnut Street, 215-7510570. ($$$) New York City import with organic, healthy choice dishes. Finally this Brussels chain currently in 19 countries has reached Philadelphia. Think organic sandwiches, croissants, and quiches all in an amazing space with high-ceilings, Pennsylvania millwork and an imported Basque door. Web: lepainquotidien.us

Lore’s Chocolates

34 S. 7th Street, 215-6273233. ($) Located just blocks from the birthplace of America’s independence, Lore’s Chocolates is proudly committed to upholding Philadelphia’s confectionary history. We specialize in manufacturing the finest chocolates, reflecting the tastes of our region. Web: loreschocolates.com/cont.php

Marcie Blaine

108 S. 13th Street, 215-5468700. ($$) Chef Marcie Blaine Turney looks to Lancaster County for organic cream and butter, and nearby farms for seasonal produce herbs and honey. Her chocolates are inspired by the flavors of Mexico, India, and the Mediterranean. Try Mango Lassi, Sweet Lula, Mexican Mole, My Thai, or Smoked Bacon. Web: marcieblaine.com

Max Brenner

P age 30 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

1500 Walnut Street, 215-3448150. ($$) This restaurant brings Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory to life with its array of decadent chocolate creations, ranging from chocolate pizzas and soups to doit-yourself fondue. Its full menu provides a perfect opportunity to satisfy both your hunger and your sweet tooth in one delicious meal. Web: maxbrenner.com/home.aspx

Metropolitan Bakery

4013 Walnut Street , 215-2221492. ($) In a relaxed café setting right on campus, Metropolitan Bakery & Café serves sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts along with organic tea, coffee, espresso drinks and, of course, Metropolitan Bakery’s award-winning artisan breads, bagels, focaccia, pastries, muffins, cakes, and specialty sweets. Metropolitan Bakery & Café also carries special coffees and granola by the pound, as well as their own specialty spreads and dips. Web: metropolitanbakery. com/locations/university_city

Miel Patisserie

204 S. 17th Street, 215-731-9191. ($$) Miel Patisserie is a traditional French patisserie offering all of the loved classics, including the “eclair au chocolat” and the “pain au chocolat.” Fresh, natural flavors and expert visual artistry are presented in their delectable pastries and baked goods, artisan 30 breads, handmade chocolates

and custom-designed cakes. Web: mielpastry.com

Pamcakes, a Philly Cupcakery

20th & Pine St, 215- 546- 2860. ($) Double chocolate, chocolate chip, and red velvet are some of the many flavors at Rittenhouse’s new cupcakery! The cupcake trend continues as Philly’s hunger for cupcakes seems insatiable. Bonus: Follow them on twitter or facebook for more updates! Web: pamcakes. net

Rita's Italian Ices

693 Lyons Ave, Irvington NJ, 973399-9898. ($$$$$$$$) Look for the sullen Asian girl at checkout counter number 3. Web: http:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / p r o f i l e . php?id=556888892

Scoop de Ville Ice Cream & Maron Chocolates

1734 Chestnut Street, 215-9889992. ($$) Ice cream, chocolates, and blended yogurt. Smells great, tastes better! If you don’t know about us, you’re missing out! Scoop De Ville will deliver on campus! Great for study breaks, Greek parties. Call for details. Scoop De Ville now offers cake! Web: scoopdeville.com

50 S. 2nd Street, 215-8291128. ($) Named after its Chef, Billy Wong’s has amazing tasting Chinese classics as well as lighter fare.

Charles Plaza

234 N. 10th Street, 215-829-4383. ($) Charles Plaza exemplifies outstanding value and incredible taste for the discerning palate. The walnut chicken and spicy General Tso are out of this world. Also, Charles Plaza does not serve beef or pork (Kosher!). For excellent Americanized Chinese food, this is the place.

Chef Joseph Poon

1010 Cherry Street, 2nd Floor, 215-928-9333. ($$) Joseph Poon Chef Kitchen catering is a fun, very clean, open kitchen, featuring a variety of international cuisines, like Peking Duck Pizza, Polenta, Crab Sushi, Typical Hong Kong Roast Duck, Wonton and Pork Noodle Soup. Vegetarian healthy dishes available. Web: josephpoon.com

China Inn

212 Arch Street, 215-625-2510. ($$) A cute little bakery in Olde City with the tastiest of treats, like cupcakes and cakes.

4423 Locust Street, 215-2222208. ($) This isn’t your typical takeout. In addition to all the typical Chinese-American mainstays, China Inn also has an extensive selection of vegetarian specialties including veggie beef, chicken, and pork. Web: chinainnphiladelphia.com

The Crepewalk

H.K. Golden Phoenix

Tartes

Between 35th/36th Streets and Spruce Street. ($) Craving light, fluffy crepes filled with delicious goodness? You don’t need to fly to Paris for them! The Crepewalk serves a variety of sweet and savory crepes, such as Nutella and strawberry crepe, and chicken sandwich crepe. Web: mobimunch. com/thecrepewalk

The Green Line Cafe

4239 Baltimore Avenue, 215222-3431. ($) Features organic gourmet coffee and tea, fresh baked goods, bagels and pastries, as well as sandwiches, salads, and its own line of bottled sodas. Web: greenlinecafe.com

Yogorino

233 S. 20th Street, 267-6395287. ($$) Froyo fanatics will freak over this newcomer serving up tart frozen yogurt. While there is only one flavor option (plain), the toppings like pistachio sauce, dulche de leche and toasted hazel nuts take this treat to another level. Web: yogorino.com

CHINESE Beijing

3714 Spruce Street, 215-2225242. ($) On-campus convenience and speedy service at one of the better Chinese places in Philly, offering Mandarin, Cantonese and Szechuan. Campus delivery and catering for large parties citywide. BYOB. Web: beijingatpenn.com

Billy Wong’s

restaurant. Whether you choose from the extensive dinner menu or the award winning dishes menu you will find something to love. Try the amazing “Harbor Lobster” or any of their other well known dishes. Web: phillychinatown. com/jadeharbor.htm

Joy Tsin Lau

1026 Race Street, 215-592-7228. ($$) One of the biggest restaurants in Chinatown, it can seat 1,000 people in four dining rooms. The house specialty is dim sum.

Kim’s Oriental Food

37th Street & Walnut Street, . ($) Located right by Pottruck gym, Kim’s offers Chinese food including a variety of rice, noodle and meat and vegetarian dishes. Delicious, hot, and fast, recommended dishes include Eggplant Chicken, Oriental Beef, Ginger Chicken, and Mapo Tofu.

Kingdom of Vegetarians

129 N. 11th Street, 215-4132290. ($) Long known as a haven by vegetarians, this Chinatown restaurant has been serving kosher and vegan delights with amazing consistency since 1994. The expansive menu features dim sum, soups, imitation pork, chicken, seafood and beef entrees, plus vegetable dishes and fried rice.

Le Anh Chinese Food

911 Race Street, 215-629-4988. ($) Best dim sum in town. Also known for specialty seafood dishes. Parties & catering welcome.

3600 Spruce Street, 215-2057903. ($) Le Anh Chinese Food (separate from the Real Le Anh Food Truck) offers standard Chinese fare including a variety of rice, lo mein, chicken, beef and pork dishes.

Han Dynasty

Lee How Fook Chinese Cuisine

108 Chestnut Street, 215-9221888. ($$) Han Dynasty is a family friendly restaurant serving a full array of Chinese food. Call in advance for take out or bring a whole group with you to enjoy on site in Olde Town Philadelphia. Web: handynasty.net

Ho Sai Gai

1000 Race Street, 215-922-4930. ($) Authentic Chinese cuisine. Hong Kong style dim sum.

Hong Kong Chinese Food

33rd Street and Spruce Street, 215-622-5693. ($) Located near HUP (Penn’s Hospital), Hong Kong’s serves a variety of standard Chinese dishes, including fried rice, lo mein and chicken, pork and beef.

Imperial Inn

146 N. 10th Street, 215-627-5588. ($$) Serves a variety of Szechuan, Mandarin and Cantonese dishes with authentic dim sum served daily. Banquet facilities up to 250 people. Full liquor license.

J C Chinese Restaurant

1701 S. 8th Street, 215-334-1056. ($$) Featuring a new approach to Oriental cuisine with offerings of chicken wings and a wide variety of entrees. Gift certificates available.

Jade Harbor

942 Race Street, 215-9280451. ($$) Jade Harbor Seafood Restaurant is a great Chinese

219 N. 11th Street, 215-9257266. ($$) Contemporary and cozy, this Chinatown BYO has a soup menu that alone is worth the trip: Order a few of the large bowls (the bright chicken and cream of corn is a must) to share. The rest of the Cantonese menu is put together with fresh ingredients and care, evident in the deeply flavorful hot pots, lightly sauced fish dishes, and spicy kung pao. Web: leehowfook.com

Mandarin Palace

1835 Chestnut Street, 215-5576280. ($$) Serves a variety of Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese dishes for dining in or take-out and free delivery. BYO Web: mandarinpalacephilly.com

Mustard Greens Restaurant

622 S. 2nd Street, 215-627-0833. ($$) The minimalistic design of this Chinese restaurant reflects the simple, yet creative interpretations of classic Cantonese dishes. Web: mustardgreensrestaurant.com

Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House

927 Race Street, 215-923-1550. ($) Nan Zhou is considered to be one of the best noodle soup restaurants in Chinatown. The menu is entirely focused on hand drawn noodle soups and does not offer other Chinese food classics like egg rolls. Great food at a good price.

Ocean City

234 N. 9th Street, 215-829-0688. ($$) Aquariums with fishnet to mention crabs, frogs and shrimp-and a busy take-out window greet patrons at this assemblyhall destination of serious Hong Kong dining. From lunch until late night, the big space bustles with large groups of Chinatown locals dining family style beneath sparkling chandeliers. Dinner favorites include basic broccoli and shrimp, tender sizzling beef short ribs and spicy clams with sausage. For dessert, try a chilly, wiggly cube of coconut pudding. Web: oceancityrestaurant.com

Ocean Harbor

1023 Race Street, 215-574-1398. ($$) Some of the greatest Chinese food on the east coast by far. Great mouth-watering Dim Sum, clam with minced meat and shrimp and lobster specialities. Web: oceanharbor.citysearch.com

Pagoda Noodle Cafe

125 Sansom Walkway, 215-9282320. ($) An elegant atmosphere for party-hosting and great Chinese food! Web: pagodanoodlecafe. com

Ray’s Café & Tea House, Inc.

141 N. 9th Street, 215-922-5122. ($$) Small café/restaurant. Serves Taiwanese cuisine followed by variety of coffees and desserts. Received “Best of Philly” for coffee for several years, including 1996 & 2000. Coffees uniquely brewed with syphon makers. BYOB. May come in only for meal, only for coffee/desserts or both! Web: rayscafe.com

Sakura Mandarin

1038 Race Street, 215-873-8338. ($$) A Shanghai-style Chinese and Japanese restaurant with award-winning chefs. We offer authentic Chinese food with fresh ingredients. Also, we have the best French-style Japanese food in town.

Sang Kee Peking Duck House

238 N. 9th Street, 215-925-7532. ($$) The real Hong Kong-style cooking. Specialize in all kinds of noodle dishes, Peking Duck and lobster. The best roasted duck wonton noodle soup in town. The flavor hot spot in Chinatown. Web: sangkeechinatown.com (Please see our ad, Page 11)

Shiao Lan Kung

930 Race Street, 215-928-0282. ($$) Offering a wide variety of Cantonese cuisine, this cheap but tasty eatery ranks among the best in Chinatown. Share stir fries, seafoods, noodles, and poultry with family and friends.

Spring Chinese Restaurant

3739 Lancaster Avenue, 215-2221000. ($) Super cheap delivery and large portion sizes that make for great leftovers the next day!

Square on Square

1905 Chestnut Street, 215-5680088. ($$) A Chinese restaurants in west center city serving most of the typical dishes you would find anywhere else but unlike the

Szechuan Tasty House

902 Arch Street, 215-925-2839. ($$) This small szechuan Chinese place is known for adding extra spice to the items found on it’s menu. Good for those who want to try something slightly different. Order a lot of water.

Tai Lake

134 N. 10th Street, 215-9220698. ($$) Place an order for steamed shrimp here, and you’ll see your waiter head to a tank with a net to collect your dinner. Now that’s what we call fresh. Web: tailakeseafoodrest.com

Wok Chinese Seafood Restaurant

1613 Walnut Street, 215-7519990. ($$) Features a large menu with dishes from the Szechuan, Hunan and Mandarin cuisines. Everything on the menu is available for take-out. Web: wok2wok.com

Won Oriental Restaurant

216 S. 40th Street, 215-3864622. ($) Mandarin, Szechuan and Cantonese dishes.

Yue Kee

238 S. 38th Street, 610-8127189. ($) Yue Kee has been feeding Penn students and the local community with delicious Chinese fare since 1983. Everpopular, there is always a line of students waiting for food outside the truck at any given time.

Yummy Lan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House 131 N. 10th Street, 2222. ($) This restaurant serves “yummy” hand drawn

215- 923Chinatown up some noodles.

COFFEEHOUSE 220 S. 33rd Street, (Towne Building), 215-573-1332. ($) Featuring made-to-order espresso drinks, smoothies, and bubble tea. Come in for a pick-me up and get connected. Web: upenn.edu/ dining

Avril 50

3406 Sansom Street, 215-2226108. ($) Choose from our fine selection of coffees, teas, pastries, gifts, cards, chocolates, cigarettes, tobaccos, cigars, calendars, academic journals, and over 2,500 publications from around the world. Web: avril50.com

Bean Café

Bonte

922 Walnut Street, 215-238-7407. ($) Located in Center City, Bonte

4305 Locust Street, 215-386-3436. ($) Come in for great coffee, tasty cafe treats, music, sandwiches, hot and cold beverages and free internet access! Web: cafeclave. com

Einstein Bros. Bagels

Houston Market, Lower Level, 3417 Spruce Street, 215-746-3424. ($) Everyone knows that mornings are not easy. Alleviate some of the morning rush by stopping by Einstein Bros. Bagels in the lower level of Houston Market. Pick up a hot cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast sandwich to start your day off right. Einstein Bros. Bagels also offers delectable salads, sandwiches and soups throughout the day. Web: einsteinbros.com

Kaffa Crossing

4423 Chestnut Street, 215-3860504. ($) A unique Ethiopian cafe on 44th and Chestnut offering low cost ethnic cuisine as well as fair trade coffee. Nice music, service and cozy atmosphere with occasional special events. Web: kaffacrossing.com

La Colombe

130 S. 19th Street, 215-563-0860. ($) Our café serves as a showcase for our roasting company, offering what many believe to be the best blended coffees available. With this objective in mind, we offer only a limited selection of foods, namely fine French morning and evening pastries. Web: lacolombe. com

Lovers & Madmen

28 S. 40th Street, 215-243-9851. ($) Serving counterculture coffee and espresso alongside locallyproduced and organic baked goods, quiche, and gourmet sandwiches, with free wifi, Lovers and Madmen also hosts various events including movie nights, open mic, coffee cuppings and barista competitions. Web: loversandmadmencoffee.com

Mark’s Café

3420 Walnut Street, (Van PeltDietrich Library, Lower Level), 215-573-1332. ($) Located on the ground floor of the Van PeltDietrich Library, this café serves up hot and cold coffee beverages, delicious and refreshing smoothies, gourmet salads, hot panini, and tempting desserts. Web: cafebonappetit.com/penn/ cafes/retail/marks

Nook Bakery & Coffee Bar

15 S. 20th Street, 215-496-9033. ($) Fresh & delicious baked goods with coffee beverages prepared in an artisanal fashion. All baked goods are made on-site from scratch, using fresh & seasonal ingredients. Coffee is available via French press or brewed-toorder on our custom-built brew bar, using freshly roasted local or regionally-roasted coffee. Web: nookbakeryandcoffee.com

221 Church Street, 215-6299292. ($) Also located at 221 Church Street. (215-629-9292) and Reading Terminal Market. Old City Coffee offers café foods daily, perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner, featuring vegetarian and healthy home-style entreés. Web: oldcitycoffee.com

Penn Cafe

3601 Walnut Street, Penn Bookstore, 215-898-7595. ($) Also accepts PennCard. Located on the second floor of the University of Pennsylvania Bookstore. Serving Starbucks coffee.

Sam’s Place

405 S. 45th Street, 215-222-2926. ($) Convenience and grocery store with deli that serves meat and vegetarian sandwiches as well as gourmet cheeses. Sam’s famous coffee is always hot and fresh. A variety of baked goods are available including vegan options.

Satellite Cafe

($) Located in Old City, Campo’s Deli has been family operated since 1947. It has been featured on the Food Network, Food Dude, City’s Best, and Best of Philly. Web: camposdeli.com

European Republic

213 Chestnut Street, 215-6275500. ($$) Serving fresh and healthy European wraps in a casual, friendly environment, European Republic offers customers a choice from among more than 20 different dipping sauce options. Web: europeanrepublic.biz

Famous Fourth Street Deli

700 S. 4th Street, 215-922-3274. ($) A very Philly, New York-like deli where neighborhood residents and other city dwellers come together for some good corned beef, matzo ball soup, knishes and lox and bagels. Don’t forget to try the chocolate chip cookies! Web: famous4thstreetdelicatessen.com

Ishkabibble’s Eatery

701 S. 50th Street, 215-7291211. ($) Organic coffee, organic tea, free internet, healthy wraps, healthy smoothies, and vegan baked goods.

337 South Street, 215-9234337. ($) Home of the chicken cheesesteak and Philly cheese steak. Award winning best fries & burger. Famous drink “Gremlin.” Web: philacheesesteak.com

Saxbys Coffee

Jimmy John’s

4000 Locust Street, 215-2228400. ($$) Gourmet baked goods, coffee, espresso drinks, and noncoffee drinks. Delicious campus spot with free Wi-Fi. Come relax or study with us! Web: saxbyscoffee. com

Starbucks

3401 Walnut Street, 215-3871914. ($) Also located at 1801 Market Street, 215-569-4223, and 16th and Walnut streets, 215732-0708. Web: starbucks.com

Starbucks in 1920 Commons

3800 Locust Walk, 1920 Commons, 215-898-5265. ($) Stop by the newest Starbucks on campus located in 1920 Commons. We take Dining Dollars. Web: upenn. edu/dining

The Last Drop

1300 Pine Street, 215-893-9262. ($) Many now-famous musicians, artists and film persons have frequented the Drop. Great food, novelty espresso drinks. Great spot to hang out, play chess and sketch other sketchers. Surf the internet (WiFi); Art gallery with an opening every first Friday of the month.

Williams Cafe

255 S 36th Street, 215-573-8693. ($$) Located in Williams Hall Web: vpul.upenn.edu/psa/wcafe.php

DELI Axis Pizza

20 S. 36th Street, 215-662-0802. ($) Located on the bottom floor of the Axis Apartments, the restaurant boasts an 80-item salad bar and a wide selection of full-menu items. Dining-in and takeout options

Campo’s Deli

214 Market Street, 215-923-1000.

3925 Walnut Street, 215-2227827. ($) The classic Jimmy John’s. “World’s Greatest Gourmet Sandwiches!” Web: jimmyjohns. com

Koch’s Take Out Shop & Deli

4309 Locust Street, 215-2228662. ($) Koch’s Deli was established in 1966 and has been serving the University community ever since. A Jewish style deli (“the best Jewish Deli this side of Brooklyn”), all sandwiches are made to order with freshly sliced meat. Enjoy the best corned beef and pastrami in town. Also, free samples while you wait! Web: kochsdeli.com

Nick’s Roast Beef

16 S. 2nd Street, 215-928-9411. ($) Offers a large variety of delistyle sandwiches, steaks, hoagies, pizza, salads, vegetarian sandwiches, appetizers and daily drink specials. Dinners from $8.95. Pasta, seafood, beef, chicken, and baby back ribs.

Quiznos Sub

3401 Walnut Street, (Food Court, the Moravian Cafes), 215-3873736. ($) Toasted subs with warm meat and melted cheese. Web: quiznos.com

Sarcone’s Deli

734 S. 9th Street, 215-922-1717. ($) Bakery located in the Italian market popularly hailed as one of the top delis in Philadelphia. Sandwiches that combine their unique bread with meats and cheeses are always in high demand, so come early to get yours! Credit card use available - minimum of $20. Web: sarconesdeli.com

Schlesinger’s Restaurant & Delicatessen

1521 Locust Street, 215-7357305. ($$) Perfect sandwiches and exotic meats team up with a quiet atmosphere when you just

want to take a break. Web: schlesingersdeli.com

Spread Bagelry

262 S. 20th Street, 215-5450626. ($$) Spread Bagelry has a youthful atmosphere, with a menu of home-made melts, spreads, bagels, and other delicious entries, all of which are prepared “the old world Montreal way.” This restaurant typically hosts a variety of live music performances on the weekends and has timely newsletters to keep its patrons updated on upcoming events. Web: spreadbagelry.com

Stan’s Deli

3632 Powelton Avenue, 215-3827826. ($) Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Very conveniently located near Penn and Drexel. We also deliver and cater. Web: stansphillydeli.com

Subway

3800 Locust Walk , 1920 Commons, 215-898-5265. ($) Found on the ground floor of 1920 Commons, Subway features healthy subs and salads from the worldfamous sandwich chain. Plus, they accept Dining Dollars! Web: subway.com

FRENCH Beau Monde

624 S. 6th Street , 215-592-0656. ($$) Creperie Beau Monde is a perfect place to have brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks! Specializing in crepes, the menu also has plenty of appetizers, soups and salads. Their romantic atmosphere is accommodating for that special date but also friendly for your family (kids included) and large parties. The versatile menu has a wide range of prices that will agree with any budget. Web: creperie-beaumonde.com (Please see our ad, Page 8)

Bibou BYOB

1009 S. 8th Street, 215-9658290. ($$$) Chef Calmels spent his Philadelphia time as executive chef at Le Bec, where he no doubt perfected the art of expert cooking. Experience it with his sauteed halibut, hanger steak with potatoes and light-at-air rabbit terrine in a bistro setting. BYOB. Web: biboubyob.com

Bistro St. Tropez

2400 Market Street, 4th Floor, 215569-9269. ($$$) Bistro St. Tropez offers the illusion of Provence atop the Marketplace Design Center in Philadelphia. Chef/Owner Patrice Rames signatures simple, classic cuisine. Prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients and presented with style. Web: bistrosttropez. com

Bistrot La Minette

623 S. 6th Street, 215-925-8000. ($$$) This cozy bistro brings the culinary spirit of Paris to Queen Village. Sink into the red suede banquette with a date and a pitcher of house red. The menu changes seasonally but look for

P age

615 South Street, 215-629-2250. ($) Friendly, homey, cozy and unpretentious. Smoking allowed, soy products available, homemade goodies. Free Wi-Fi.

Cafe Clave

Old City Coffee, Inc.

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

Accenture Cyber Cafe

specializes in waffles and coffee. Its waffles are known to be some of the best in the city. It is also a nice place to just stop by for a warm drink. Web: bontewaffles.com

Dining Guide

food trucks, Square on Square’s chicken and vegetables are of far superior quality. The chef specials such as Honey Walnut Shrimp and the Mongolian Merlot Beef are also worth a try. Web: squareonsquare. com

Dining Guide

the rustic country terrine or the refined vegetable quenelles. Web: bistrotlaminette.com

Caribou Cafe

1126 Walnut Street, 215-6259535. ($$) Step into the vibrant world of Paris. This 21-year-old landmark has brought Philadelphia and its visitors a taste of France in a relaxed atmosphere. The art deco bar, leather banquettes, warm orange walls, and antique mirrors make Caribou Café your destination for lunch, dinner and brunch. From Onion soup, Quiche and warm Frisee Salad to Cassoulet, Steak frites or Skate fish with capers, native Frenchman Chef Olivier serves delectable French food that follows the seasons. Web: cariboucafe.com

Chez Colette, Hotel Sofitel

120 S. 17th Street, 215-5698300. ($$$) Chez Colette is a charming brasserie at the sophisticated downtown Sofitel hotel, where French elegance and American style are blended. Here, you will enjoy a creative approach to a contemporary French cuisine of the highest standards in a cozy atmosphere. Web: sofitel.com/gb/ hotel-2741-sofitel-philadelphia/ restaurant.shtml

Cochon

801 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215923-7675. ($$$) French bistro Cochon in South Philly adds a needed change from all of the Italian eateries in the area. Cochon means “pig” in French. In keeping with that theme, Cochon’s menu features traditional pork dishes, such as Braised Pork Belly, Pork, Rillettes, and Stew of Pigs Feet. Cochon also offers a variety of other dishes, including Seared Scallops, Roasted Chicken, Striped Bass, and more. Vegetarian dishes available upon request. Cash-only BYOB! Web: cochonbyob.com

P age 32 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

La Creperie Café

1722 Sansom Street, 215-5646460. ($$) Serving the finest, authentic crepes in the heart of the French Quarter in Center City. Come and give them a try! Web: lacreperie-cafe.com

La Dominique

33rd & Market Street. ($) Tasty crepes that are a work of art. Come give this food stand a try!

Lacroix at the Rittenhouse

Liberte Lounge

120 S. 17th St, 215-569-8300. ($$$) Located in the Sofitel, this lounge has food that is as good its famous drinks! A great atmosphere for all! Web: libertelounge.com

Parc

227 S. 18th Street, 215-5452262. ($$$) Located in Rittenhouse Square, Stephen Starr has captured the essence of a Parisian bistro. Order a Kir Royale, absinthe drip, moules frites and a dessert cheese plate while sitting out on the expansive sidewalk and just see if you don’t start speaking French. Web: parc-restaurant. com

Pari Cafe Creperie

Houston Hall, 3417 Spruce Street, 215-222-6500. ($) Pari Cafe Creperie offers Parisian style crepes cooked much the way they were from their inception and offers a fresh, healthy and delicious alternative to the fast food dilemma. The crepe batter is made fresh daily and each crepe is filled with the finest ingredients, fresh fruits and vegetables. All crepes are made to order and flavored to your taste.

Southwark

701 S. 4th Street, 215-238-1888. ($$$) This casual, eclectic bistro has become an indispensable neighborhood restaurant. Queen Village diners gather in the lively front bar, with its inexpensive wine list, classic cocktail and surprising appetizer options. Web: southwarkrestaurant.com

The Abbaye

637 N. 3rd Street, 215-627-6711. ($$) This Belgian-style bistro has plenty of beers on tap and the menu is filled with delicious Belgian specialties, such as the vegan shepherd pie and the pulled pork sandwich. The open and spacious dining room makes it a great place for groups! Web: theabbaye.net

The Pickled Heron

2218 Frankford Avenue, 215634-5666. ($$$$) Passionate about promoting seasonal and local products, co-owners Todd Braley and Daniel D’Ambrosio have worked tirelessly to open this French-inspired bistro in the Fishtown section of Philadelphia. Web: thepickledheron.com (Please see review, Page 12)

210 W. Rittenhouse Square, 215790-2533. ($$$$) Lacroix Restaurant under Executive Chef Matthew Leuin has brought together modern, cutting-edge cooking while maintaining Lacroix’s reputation for excellence in contemporary dining. Web: lacroixrestaurant.com

Vintage

Le Bec-Fin

160 N. 3rd Street, 215- 2381716. ($$) This specialty cheese shop serves delightful pairings in a quaint Old City setting. Web: wedgeandfig.com

1523 Walnut Street, 215-5671000. ($$$$) Elegance and intimacy combine with unmatched cuisine to make Le Bec-Fin one of the country’s most celebrated French restaurants. Menu changes seasonally. Classical guitar music Friday and Saturday nights. Valet parking available. Web: leb32 ecfin.com

129 S. 13th Street, 215-922-3095. ($$) Vintage has great ambiance, good food and a vast selection of wine and beer. Order food too while you’re there; French bistro fare is the specialty. Web: vintagephiladelphia.com

Wedge + Fig

Zinc

246 S. 11th Street, 215-3519901. ($$$) Owned by French chef Olivier Desaintmartin of Caribou Cafe. Stop in for a quick bite-

many small dishes available- or a full French meal. The bar serves many French specialty drinks. A fairly small restaurant- 40 seats including the bar- located in Midtown Village (near Jefferson). Web: zincbarphilly.com

GREEK/MEDITERRANEAN Audrey Claire

276 S. 20th Street, 215-7311222. ($$) A Mediterranean BYOB, Audrey Claire gives you the grand tour with flatbreads, Israeli couscous, grilled fish specials, lamb, seafood, hummus, and the olive oils and dry spices of the land. Web: audreyclaire.com

Aya’s Cafe Mediterranean Cuisine

2129 Arch Street, 215-567-1555. ($$) This BYOB is open for lunch weekdays and dinners nightly. An unpretentious and relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for a casual and delicious dining experience. Web: ayascafe.net

Balkan Express Restaurant

2237 Grays Ferry Avenue, 215545-1255. ($$) Eastern European cuisine inspired by the countries on the historic Orient Express route: Paris to Istanbul. Balkan Express Restaurant serves authentic, multiethnic food cooked with fresh and natural ingredients. Romanian Sarma, Hungarian goulash, Serbian bean soup, Bulgarian salad. End dinner with desserts baked in-house and the best Turkish coffee in Philadelphia. Web: balkanexpressrestaurant.com

Barbuzzo

110 S. 13th Street, 215-5469300. ($$) Rustic Mediterranean restaurant Barbuzzo takes inspiration from Portugal, Spain, France and Italy, putting out fare like pig “popcorn” — a crisp, crackly interpretation of chicharrones; tender grilled octopus with potato, assorted preparations of pickled and preserved vegetables, housemade pastas and Neopolitan-style pizzas, cooked in an authentic wood-burning oven. Web: barbuzzo.com/barbuzzo

Bitar’s

947 Federal Street, 215-7551121. ($) Bitar’s serves some of the greatest Mediterranean food in Philadelphia at one of the lowest prices. They are very well known for their take-out sandwiches. A small Mediterranean market is also attached to the restaurant. Web: bitars.com

Byblos

116 S. 18th Street, 215-5683050. ($$) Restaurant/Bar in center city with modern and fun atmosphere. Hookah available. Web: byblosphilly.com

Cafe Lift

428 N. 13th Street, 215-9223031. ($) Eclectic food served in a casual atmosphere. Great for Sunday brunch. Try their famous

Cannoli French Toast! Web: cafelift.com

Casablanca

35th/36th and Spruce Street, Across from the Quad. ($) This food truck serves a variety of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food, including gyros, falafel and various platters.

Dmitri’s

2227 Pine Street, 215-985-3680. ($$) Olive oil and red-wine vinegar touch every fresh piece of seafood that goes on the grill. Lightly whipped, garlicky, hummus puts most others to shame. (Ask for extra grilled pita wedges.) Meaty bits of octopus swim alongside green olives in a simple sauce of olive oil and lemon juice. Expect a pleasant meal along with great service. Web: dmitrisrestaurant.com

Effie’s

1127 Pine Street, 215-592-8333. ($$) In a small open kitchen, whole fish and slices of pita share a grill. Service is genuine, friendly and fast. Earthy souvlaki comes on lightly grilled pita bread or stuck alongside peppers and onions on skewers. Order a side of minty rice-stuffed grape leaves or flaky and tangy spanakopita--and don’t miss Effie’s home-style fries. For dessert, couple cardamominfused Greek coffee with honeydrenched baklava. Web: effiesrestaurant.com

Estia

1405 Locust Street, 215-7357700. ($$$) Fish rule at this Greek restaurant. This stone-and-woodladen eatery excels at simply grilling whole fish over charcoal, and offers uncommon Mediterranean varieties, like a lethrini from the snapper family and royal dorado. The fried potato side dish and lemony Greek salad have created Estia devotees for life. Web: estiarestaurant.com

Figs

2501 Meredith Street, 215-9788440. ($$) The flavors are Moroccan influenced, the menu is Mediterranean mix and the atmosphere is both intimate and energetic. Figs welcomes both large and small groups and is available for private parties. Web: figsrestaurant.com

Girasole

1410 Pine Street, 215-732-2728. ($$$) Girasole offers the charm of old world cuisine and the warmth of the Mediterranean sun in a setting of modern ambiance. Surround yourself in the aroma of homemade pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and artisan cheeses. Web: girasolephilly.com

Greek Lady Restaurant

222 S. 40th Street, 215-3822600. ($) Great fresh food with an enhanced menu that includes traditional Greek cuisine. Expanded location means more room for you and your friends. Web: greeklady. com

Hanan House of Pita

38th and Walnut Street, 267-2265692. ($) Hanan House of Pita

serves a delicious array of food including a variety of vegetarian options. The menu includes falafel, kafta, gyros, salads and platters.

Kanella

1001 Spruce Street, 215-9221773. ($$) “What I serve at home is what I’ll serve at the restaurant,” says Konstantinos Pitsillides. At his Kanella (Greek for cinnamon), the menu is based around simplicity — the chef works with organic free-range meats, from quail and rabbit to baby lamb and goat; he also offers locally sourced fish daily. Traditional dishes from Cyprus include seftalia, homemade sausages, grilleg quail, whole fish in grape leaves, rabbit stews, homemade icecreams, and cyprus coffee. Web: kanellarestaurant. com

Mediterranean Café & Ice Cream

3409 Walnut Street, 215-3878837. ($) Conveniently located in the Food Court, Mediterranean Café offers a variety of Greek salads, gyros, kabob sandwiches, falafels and desserts. Frozen yogurt and ice cream also available.

Mokas Mediterranean Restaurant

3505 Lancaster Avenue, 215-2224410. ($$) On the edge of Drexel’s campus, this Greek bar and grill offers all the charm of a BYOB., with a fireplace, tiny windowside tables, and laid-back service. Don’t look for fancy fusion ere, just authentic, home-style Greek dishes ranging from hefty to light. Affordable with late-night menus and live entertainment on the weekends.

Novita Bistro

1608 South Street, 215-5454665. ($$) From the tiny open kitchen comes a Mediterranean menu heavy on well-executed Italian fare — calamari tossed in a balsamic and cherry pepper reduction; house-made porcini ravioli covered in a silky cream sauce. But it’s Morocco native chef Hassan Zanzoul’s tagines (Moroccan stew) that rule any meal here. Web: novitabistro.com

Opa

1311 Sansom St, 215- 5450170. ($$) This new Greek bar and restaurant features authentic dishes and cocktails. Phoodie.info reccomends the cheese zimi and souvlakia. Web: opaphiladelphia. com

South Street Souvlaki

509 South Street, 215-925-3026. ($$) The oldest and most authentic Greek restaurant in Philadelphia, serving seafood, lamb dishes and vegetarian food. The titular souvlaki sliced into sandwiches or on a platter is a favorite choice.

Village Belle

757 S. Front Street, 215-5512200. ($$$) Great for a date, with friends or just a quick meal on your own, Village Belle is full of unexpected flavors and surprising people. Web: thevillagebelle.com

Zesty’s

Zorba’s Taverna

cocktails. Web: newdelhiweb.com (Please see our ad, Page 11)

Palace at the Ben

834 Chestnut Street, 267-2325600. ($$$) This elegant Indian restaurant is the epitome of fine dining. The menu offers diverse, authentic Indian options and presentation adds to the experience. Web: thepalaceattheben.com

Rangoon

INDIAN

112 N. 9th Street, 215-829-8939. ($$) Rangoon is in Chinatown, but the distinctive cuisine of Burma shares as much with neighboring India as with China, and its most characteristic element is curry. Noodle dishes, especially creamy coconut noodle soup, are also hallmarks. Web: phillychinatown. com/rangoon.htm

Desi Chaat House

Sitar India Restaurant

2230 Fairmount Avenue, 978-5990. ($$) BYOB. food and atmosphere of a neighborhood tavern. zorbastavern.com

215Great Greek Web:

501 S. 42nd Street, 215-386-1999. ($) Chaat is a Hindi word meaning “to taste” and is generally quite diverse. Desi Chaat House offers Specialty Chaats such as Gujarat Chaat (spicy noodles seasoned in peanuts, red chili, salt and curry leaves), Mumbai Chaat (a crunchy blend of rice, lentils, and nuts), and many more. Chaat here adopts to modern trends and healthy eating. Web: desichaathouse.com

Karma

114 Chestnut Street, 215-9251444. ($$) An upscale but casual restaurant, Karma features dishes with a blend of traditional, classic, and nouvelle styles from throughout the various regions of India. Owned and operated by a Penn alum. Web: theKarmarestaurant.com

King of Tandoor

1824 Callowhill Street, 215-5680750. ($$) Located near the Art Museum, King of Tandoor takes pride in serving a variety of Indian cuisine. Always fresh, the dishes are a savory delight. A delicately spiced Indian curry will tease your taste buds. King of Tandoor also has a location at 1634 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146. Web: kingoftandoor.com 236 South Street, 215-925-3881. ($$) Authentic Indian cuisine — home away from home. Well priced with friendly service. Web: lovashrestaurant.com

Minar Palace

1304 Walnut Street, 215-5469443. ($) Recently closed for several years, Minar Palace returns to Philly in a new location. A full range of Indian dishes are available, including vegetarian, chicken, lamb, goat, and shrimp options. Most dishes are under $10, with a different $7 special every Monday through Thursday. Web: minarphilly.com

New Delhi Indian Restaurant

Tandoor India Restaurant

106 S. 40th Street, 215-2227122. ($$) Exotic North and South Indian cuisine. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties. Right on the edge of campus. Features an all-you-can-eat buffet with 30 items — including salad bar — available for lunch and dinner. Web: tandoorindiarestaurant.com (Please see our ad, Page 14)

Tashan

WEISENTHAL PROPERTIES 4029 SPRUCE STREET

777 S. Broad Street, 267-6872170. ($$) Presenting a small plate menu based primarily on authentic Indian flavors, Tashan seeks to integrate the diverse cultures and flavors of the old, new, and developing worlds to provide as modern a dining experience as possible. Web: mytashan.com

Tiffin

712 W. Girard Avenue, 215-9250770. ($$) This is a city hungry for Indian food — and for well-priced every-night dining. Thankfully, the pressures of a daily lunch and dinner crowd haven’t distracted from Tiffin’s complex dishes, served without fuss in portions guaranteed to produce leftovers. Web: tiffin.com

Zeke's Masala Mahal

4032 Sansom Ave, 618-219-0258. ($$) We've all had Americanized Indian food, but have you ever had Indianized American food? Come on down and chow down on a curry burger and masala fries. The khanna is bahut good, yaar! Web: friendster.com/zekesmasalamahal

ITALIAN 943

943 S. 9th St, 267-687-2675. ($$$$) This new Italian BYO in South Philly creates a refreshing twist on classic dishes. Uwishunu says it’s like “handmade pasta meets empanadas.”Try their

215-386–2380 Hours 9-4, Monday - Saturday

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4004 Chestnut Street, 215-3861941. ($$) Very good Indian food on the edge of campus. New Delhi offers the best Indian food in the city. Daily lunch and dinner buffet. Also offers authentic Indian beers, along with an exceptional selection of other beers, wines and

60 S. 38th Street, (Between Chestnut Street and Market Street), 215-662-0818. ($$) Open seven days a week. North and South Indian food. Courteous service. Now serving beer. Web: sitarindiacuisine.net (Please see our ad, Page 25)

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

Lovash Restaurant

Student Housing on Penn Campus

Dining Guide

4382 Main Street, 1-800-8163463. ($$) Serving homemade Greek and Roman specialties such as Spaghetti alla Putanesca and Moussaka. Homemade soups and desserts. Fresh fish from Greece and Portugal every day. Contemporary ambiance including fireplace, granite tabletops and espresso bar. Live music. Full bar. Web: zestys.com

Dining Guide

chimichurri short ribs with duck fat potatoes and grilled octopus with saffron, fava beans, and fennel. Web: 943byob.webs.com

of Penn’s favorite Italian BYOB restaurants. Homemade pastas and homemade desserts. Web: bistrolabaia.com

Alla Spina

Bistro Romano Restaurant & Dinner Theater

1410 Mt. Vernon Street, 215-6000017. ($$$) Housed in a former auto garage and decorated by a graffiti artist, Alla Spina pairs rustic bar food with an industrial atmosphere to invoke an urban dining experience. Alla Spina, which means “from the tap,” also hosts a bar with two cask beers and 20 beers on tap, and there’s even an option to pay $10 to buy a sixpack for the kitchen, which wins the buyer the right to ring an enormous bell to announce his or her generosity. Web: allaspinaphilly. com (Please see review, Page 4)

Allegro Pizza

3942 Spruce Street, 215-3828158. ($) Pizza, sandwiches, beer, burgers, buffalo wings, pasta, subs, ice cream, shakes. 24 hour ATM on location. Free delivery. Open late on weekends. Cold beer for eat-in or take-out. Web: allegropizza.com

Apollo Restaurant & Bar

615 Chestnut Street, 215-9280900. ($$) Authentic homemade Italian including Chef’s house specialties. Award-winning pizza and strombolis, delicious salads, sandwiches, homemade desserts and much more! Full bar and 10 Plasma TVs. Great prices and drink specials.

August

1247 S. 13th Street, 215-4685926. ($$) Right at home in the Italian Market, this hip BYOB puts a modern twist on Italian. Food is lighter than traditionally found and well done. Rated extraordinary by Zagat. Web: augustbyob.com

Barrel’s Fine Food

P age 34 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

1725 Wolf Street, 215-389-6010. ($$) Serving the finest Italian food in Philadelphia. All ingredients fresh and dishes made to order. Web: barrelsfinefood.com

Bella Trattoria

4258 Main Street, 215-4825556. ($$) Specializing in gourmet southern Italian cuisine at reasonable prices. Also has a special bar menu and daily specials. Lunch and dinner served every day. Outdoor and indoor seating. Web: bellatrattoriapa.com

Bellini Grill

220 S. 16th Street, 215-5451191. ($$) Come experience a slice of Italy. Enjoy dining in a warmly lit dining area surrounded by beautifully hand painted Italian murals bringing you closer to the Italian culture. An ideal location to enjoy a wonderful dining experience before venturing out to discover the sights downtown Philadelphia has to offer. BYOB. Web: bellinigrill.com

Bistro La Baia

1700 Lombard Street, 215-5460496. ($$) Casual dining with seating indoors and outdoors. 34 Reasonably priced, making it one

120 Lombard Street, 215-9258880. ($$) Nestled in a historic, 18th century granary, Bistro Romano possesses an ambiance of candlelight and casual elegance while creating an unforgettable dining experience. They received Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best of Philly” award, and the wine cellar was named “Most Romantic Table” by FOX TV. Zagat Survey says “Great Tableside Caesar.” Philadelphia’s Original Mystery Dinner Theater Friday and Saturday evenings. Web: bistroromano.com

Bocca

236 Market Street, 215-6256610. ($$) There are many Italian restaurants in Philadelphia, but none quite like the recently renovated Bocca, previously known as Amici Noi. This cozy little place has an extensive menu with many pleasing choices. The food tastes authentic and it is a great place to have dinner with friends. Web: bocca236.com

Bomb Bomb Barbeque Grill & Italian Restaurant

1026 Wolf Street, 215-463-1311. ($$) This small, comfortable South Philly restaurant turns out both succulent grilled baby back ribs and plentiful pastas. Everything pairs well with a carafe of the house red. For dessert, the icebox cake is a favorite. Web: bombbomb-restaurant.com

Branzino Restaurant

261 S. 17th Street, 215-7900103. ($$$) Elegant decor and great ambiance complete with chandeliers, tasseled draperies and linen tablecloths. Their thinly shaved fennel and radicchio salad is perfectly flavored. The pasta is cooked to perfection, and their fresh tubes of calamari are grilled to a tender chew. The desserts are authentic, and it’s a great place to try in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood. Web: branzinophilly.com

Buca di Beppo

258 S. 15th Street, 215-5452818. ($$) Southern Italian chain served family style. 1940s, 50s immigrant Italian supper club ambiance with the classic music of Lovi Prima, Mario Lanza, Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra. Definite celebration location with eight themed dining rooms such as the Pope’s table, wine room and velvet room. Named Best of Philly Group Dining, 2004. Web: bucadibeppo. com

Caffe Valentino

1245 S. 3rd Street, 215-3363033. ($$) Bright Caffe Valentino, one of a trio of Italian restaurants from Cosimo Tricarico, has all the required classics of Northern Italy (pollo alla Milanese, linguine alla amatriciana) with a notable seafood focus. Think swordfish carpaccio and lemon-marinated

shrimp skewers. Web: caffevalentino.com

California Pizza

3231 Powelton Avenue, 215387-8700. ($) Good, greasy and cheap, California Pizza is great for college students with late-night munchies craving at 1 am. Web: californiapizzatogo.com

Core De Roma

214 South Street, 215-592-9777. ($$) Authentic Roman Trattoria featuring many of Rome’s signature dishes in a casually elegant ambiance. Restaurant also includes a full service bar and delicately structured wine list that can compliment any meal. Fresh pasta and bread made on premises. Cozy, classy and casual. Bringing a taste of old Rome to Old City. Web: corederoma.us

Criniti Ristorante Italiano

2611 S. Broad Street, 215-4657750. ($$) With its large dining room and convenient location, Criniti’s has been a big favorite for people going to see sports events and concerts. The brick-oven specialties are to die for as are all of the entrees on Criniti’s ever-growing menu. Web: crinitirestaurant. com

Cucina Forte

768 S. 8th Street, 215-238-0778. ($$$) Cucina Forte is known for its delicious ricotta gnocchi. Delicious menu fares include home-made bread, white wine sauce clams, linguine with calamari, gnocchi, and chicken. This is the real deal in Italian culture and cuisine. Web: cucinaforte.com

D’Angelo’s Ristorante Italiano and Lounge

Italian steakhouse located in historic Provident Bank Building. Everything made by hand from the best ingredients. Serves everything from aged steaks to simple-yetunique pasta creations. Advance notice required for kosher dining. Web: davios.com

DiBruno Bros.

1730 Chestnut Street, 215-6659220. ($$) At Philly’s favorite, Italian Market-born cheese shop, a circular path winds past cave-stored imported cheeses, sliced-to-order smoked salmon, hundreds of Italian sodas, and a stunning olive bar. Samples abound, as does the help, who’ll gently sell the house-made cheese spread and send you on your way-right after you sip a delicate cappuccino at the gleaming espresso bar. Web: dibruno.com

Dolce

241 Chestnut Street, 215-2389983. ($$$) An upscale Italian restaurant with an extensive menu of fresh seafood, chicken, filet mignon, lamb chops, and lots of pasta. Web: dolcerestaurant.com

Dolce Carini

1929 Chestnut Street, 215-5678892. ($) Family-oriented restaurant serving a wide variety of pizzas, tomato pies, strombolis, calzones, burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, and more. Web: dolce-carini.com

Evan’s Varsity Pizza

4311 Locust Street, 215-3868881. ($) It’s a great place to have a pizza or steak, grab a beer, and relax with friends. A nice mix of Italian and Greek food. Web: evanspizza.com

256 S. 20th Street, 215-546-3935. ($$$) This elegant spot seems to cover almost every aspect of Italian cuisine, including Sicilian. Features good veal, fish, steak and pasta entrees. Open for lunch daily, with dining ‘til midnight. Closed Sunday. Web: dangeloristorante. com

Famous Famiglia

Da Vinci Ristorante

1547 S. 13th Street, (13th Street and Tasker Street), 215-7558900. ($$) Great Italian cuisine. Lots of fresh veal, chicken, seafood, homemade pastas and personal gourmet pizza. Singing servers most of the time, but not to worry the owner is also known as Philly’s singing chef! Web: francoandluigis.com

1533 S. 11th Street, 215-3363636. ($$) This rustic BYO Italian eatery in South Philly is run by chef/owner Francesco Parmisciano, a native of Salerno. The menu spans Italy “from north to south,” and emphasizes daily seafood specials (whole fish filleted table side, calamari, octopus) and cavatelli and risotto dishes as specialties. Web: davinciristorante.net

Dante and Luigi’s Corona di Ferro

762 S. 10th Street, 215-9229501. ($$) The oldest Italian restaurant in the United States — Dante and Luigi’s continues its 110-year tradition with classic Italian specialties, fresh seafood and wonderful nightly specials in their warm, charming “Old World” atmosphere. Web: danteandluigis. com

Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse

111 S. 17th Street, 215-563-4810. ($$$) Stylish, upscale Northern

3409 Walnut Street, 215-2221212. ($) Located inside the Moravian Cafés Food Court is New York’s award-winning pizza. Also calzones, salads, heroes & pasta dishes. Web: famousfamiglia.com

Francoluigi’s Pizzeria and High Note Cafe

Giá Pronto

3736 Spruce Street, 215-2227713. ($) Retro modern Italian cafe with grilled paninis, made-toorder salad bar and full espresso coffee bar. At Giá Pronto, all foods are 100% natural and made with the highest quality ingredients. The go-to lunch spot for great food in a relaxed cafe setting. Web: giapronto.com

Giorgio on Pine

1328 Pine Street, 215-545-6265. ($$) Join Giorgio Giuliani, formerly of Monte Carlo Living Room and Primavera, at his rustic BYOB trattoria. Savor authentic Italian cuisine in a casual atmosphere that

offers you a fine dining experience. Reservations are recommended. Web: giorgioonpine.com

Gnocchi

613 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215592-8300. ($$) Classic to modern Italian dishes, modest prices, homemade pasta — bread and tira misu, casual friendly place, beautiful mural of the Trevi Fountain. BYOB, cash only.

Hostaria da Elio

615 S. 3rd Street, 215-925-0930. ($$) An Italian chef comes to bring us festive delights from Roma, where he enjoyed his wonderful honeymoon. Did he learn any cooking secrets? Find out yourself. Homemade pasta daily — plus great specials.

Il Cantuccio

701 N. 3rd Street, 215-6276573. ($$) Small, casual Italian atmosphere, also BYOB, no credit cards. Non-smoking. Every entrée is made to order. Everything is always fresh, never frozen. Homemade pasta and dessert made daily.

Il Portico

1519 Walnut Street, 215-5877000. ($$$) Il Portico features authentic Italian cuisine from Tuscany, in an elegant dining atmosphere. Select from an exceptional menu featuring wild game dishes, seafood, veal, homemade pasta, breads and desserts. There is also an extensive wine list featuring many Tuscany wines. Open for dinner seven nights, lunch Monday through Friday. Web: ilportico.com

Il Tartufo

4341 Main Street, 215-4821999. ($$) Casual atmosphere — homemade Italian food (RomanJewish). Now serves alcohol. Best in the Philly area- guaranteed! Web: iltartuforestaurant.com

Isabella Pizza

1824 E. Passyunk Ave, 215-5511212. ($) Whether you want to run in to grab a slice, or order home some ‘zza with milkshakes, this is the place to call. Web: is-abellapizza.com

L’Angolo Ristorante Italiano

1415 W. Porter Street, 215-3894252. ($$) The seduction begins just inside the front door, when you spy the glorious assortment of room-temperature cooked vegetables that includes zucchini, bell pepper, eggplant, carrots, potatoes, onions and beets, plus chickpeas and frittata. Order antipasto misto as an appetizer, and you’ll get some of everything, a platter large enough to share. Web: langolorestaurant.com

La Famiglia

8 S. Front Street, (Between Market Street and Chestnut Street), 215-922-2803. ($$$) Northern and southern Italian cuisine. Specialties include homemade pastas — prepared daily — plus veal and fresh fish. Jackets requested. Dine in Italy tonight. Passports not required. Prix Fixe menu of $26 for lunch, consists of appetizer,

La Fontana Della Citta

1701 Spruce Street, 215-8759990. ($$) Located moments away from Rittenhouse Square, owner and classically trained Chef Bujar Daku creates superb Italian specialties all prepared to order with the very finest ingredients. The restaurant features home-made pasta dishes and innovative daily specials for lunch and dinner. Private rooms are available for up to 120 people. Web: lafontanadellacitta.com (Please see our ad, Page 3)

La Fourno

636 South Street, 215-627-9000. ($$) Casual dining atmosphere. Gourmet pizza and pasta, chicken, seafood, and veal, made with only the freshest ingredients purchased daily from the Italian Market. Cater to most dietary restrictions. We now offer free wireless internet access to all dine-in customers. Full Bar. Awarded one of Philly’s best Italian restaurants 2005 & 2006. Web: lafourno.com

La Locanda Del Ghiottone

130 N. 3rd Street, 215-829-1465. ($$) A local favorite in Old City, La Locanda radiates a cozy, romantic atmosphere that brings diners back. With tasty appetizers and satisfying entrees that include a variety of pasta dishes and heavier meat dishes, this restaurant delivers a memorable experience.

La Stanza

2001 W. Oregon Avenue, 215271-0801. ($$) This Italian restaurant is slightly pricey for South Philly especially the mixed drinks. However, salads are a la carte and calamari a delight. Web: lastanzapa.com/ordereze/1000/ Page.aspx

La Veranda

La Viola

253 S. 16th Street, Apt 1, 215735-8630. ($$) The attentive waiters at this petit, sophisticated La Viola double check to make sure you are enjoying your porcini ensalata or grilled calamari with seafood-infused dipping sauce or savory osso buco.

Lorenzo & Son Pizza

305 South Street, 215-627-4110. ($) One of the city’s favorite late night pizza parlors. Take out service offered. Open late until 3 AM on Monday through Thursday and 4 AM on Friday through Saturday. Web: lorenzoandsons.com

Maggiano’s Little Italy

1201 Filbert Street, 215-5672020. ($$) This 1940’s New York Little Italy style restaurant specializes in southern Italian cuisine. Served family style, the feast-like atmosphere is perfect for large, casual gatherings. Private party rooms and delivery available. Web: maggianos.com

Mama Palma’s Gourmet Pizza

2229 Spruce Street, 215-7357357. ($$) One-of-a-kind pizza, handmade with the finest ingredients available in the market today. Their wood-fired brick oven is imported straight from Europe and can achieve a combination of roasting, baking and smoking sealing in the flavor to create the many wonderful tastes of Mama Palma’s one-of-a-kind pizza. Feel free to bring wine or choose from the beer selection. Only cash or check is accepted. ATM on premises.

MaMa Yolanda’s Italian Restaurant

focusing on Italian inspired food, harmoniously blends Italian and American cuisines in a relaxed, inviting, neighborhood atmosphere. This simple yet chic restaurant is located in the heart of the Theater District, only a block away from the Avenue of the Arts. Executive Chef, Mackenzie Hilton, masterfully blends seasonal, local ingredients to create sumptuous entrees exuding in seasonal freshness and flavor. Web: mercatobyob.com

Modo Mio

161 W. Girard Avenue, 215-2038707. ($$$) This delicious Italian gem is worth the trip to Northern Liberties. The portion sizes are “just right” and “the variety of flavors quite memorable.” The fixed price Turista menu allows you to sample an appetizer, a pasta, a meat dish and a dessert for a great price. Cash only and BYO. Web: modomiorestaurant.com

Monsu

901 Christian St, 215- 440- 0495. ($$) This South Philly newbie is a Sicilian restaurant with strong French influence. This little BYO offers brunch and dinner. They do not accept credit cards however. Web: monsurestaurant.com/ Home.html

Mr. Martino’s Trattoria

1646 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215755-0663. ($$) A small Italian BYO with big taste. Appetizers like baked ricotta and broccoli rabe “done right” are the perfect leadin to entrees. Fresh pasta comes just slightly al dente, the way pasta should be. Portions are large and come at reasonable prices.

746 S. 8th Street, 215-592-0195. ($$) Recipes from northern Italy, including homemade pastas, veal, chicken and seafood. With a rich family history, MaMa Yolanda’s is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of South Philadelphia.

Nina’s Trattoria

Marra’s Restaurant

Nomad Pizza

1734 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215463-9249. ($$) “Inexpensive and good” Italian family favorite in South Philly with excellent pizza. Marra’s atmosphere is tough to beat: above cozy red-vinyl booths hang paintings, photos and wooden cutout letters that spell out the name of this 72-year old establishment. Web: marrasone.com

Melograno

910 S. 9th Street, 215-574-9995. ($$) BYOB serving classic regional specialties in a Nuova Cuicina style as prepared daily by leading contemporary Master Chefs in Italy’s most celebrated restaurants. Web: ninastrattoria.com 611 S. 7th Street, 215-238-0900. ($$) The second location of this pizzeria by Stalin Bedon and Tom Grim, Nomad Pizza offers eleven different pizzas including “Arugula con Prosciutto” and “Tartufo,” which incorporate ingredients from such local farms as Double Brook and Cherry Grove. Web: nomadpizzaco.com/philadelphia.html (Please see review, Page 8)

Le Virtu

Mercato

1334 Pine Street, 215-5452482. ($) Modern eat-in/takeout restaurant and delivery. Sits

615 Chestnut Street, 215-9280900. ($$) Serves up reasonably priced traditional Italian favorites for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Full drink menu also available. Web: lascalasphilly.com

Le Castagne

1927 East Passyunk Avenue, 215271-5626. ($$$) This restaurant,

1216 Spruce Street, 215-9852962. ($$$) Mercato, a BYOB

640 N. Broad Street, 215-7630920. ($$$) Osteria, which means inn or tavern in Italian, is more homey and casual than its Vetri counterpart. The lightly charred Lombarda pizza, a tangle of tender candele noodles, a massive, meaty rib eye for two, polenta budino, plus a quartino of food-friendly vino, makes casual, convivial Osteria one of the best restaurants in Philadelphia. Web: osteriaphilly. com

Paolo’s

Paradiso

1627 E. Passyunk Ave., 215-2712066. ($$$) Not your stereotypical South Philly red gravy house, Chef Rinaldi prefers to cook dishes such as venison sausage with cannellini beans, fresh tagliatelle with duck ragout, and grilled tuna with shaved fennel and blood oranges. Live jazz on weekends and more than 60 wines, many by the glass, add to the pleasure. Web: paradisophilly.com

Penne Restaurant and Wine Bar

3611 Walnut Street, 215-8236222. ($$) Located in the four diamond Hilton Inn at Penn, Penne is a modern Italian restaurant featuring contemporary Italian cuisine with handmade pastas and other regional Italian specialties. Experience our Wine Bar’s extensive selection of wines by the glass or flight, complimented by a creative bar menu and a full selection of beers and spirits. Web: theinnatpenn.com/penne.html

Philip’s Italian Restaurant

1145 S. Broad Street, 215-3340882. ($$) A quaint European restaurant filled with art and antiques. Family run and in business for 61 years. Approximately eight blocks south of the Academy of Music.

Pietro’s Coal Oven Pizzeria

1714 Walnut Street, 215-7358090. ($$) Also located at 121 South Street. Upscale pizza and pasta eatery. Great place to take a date, and they bake the old fashioned way! Web: pietrospizza.com

Pizza Rustica Restaurant and Bar

3602 Chestnut Street, 215-8953490. ($) Penn’s premier pizza establishment with taste, style, and class. Wood burning oven. Gourmet and traditional pizzas. Panini, pasta, fine Italian desserts and coffees, well-stocked bar. Upscale but casual. Very European. Web: pizzarusticaonline.com

Pizzeria Stella

420 S. 2nd Street, 215-320-8000. ($$) Stephen Starr’s new pizzeria is less flashy than some of this other restaurants, but this lowmaintenance atmosphere belies a serious approach to pizza craftsmanship. There are no duds on this pizza menu, and the vongle pistachio and note-perfect marinara are exceptionally good. Web: pizzeriastella.net

Popi’s Italian Restaurant

3120 S. 20th Street, 215-7557180. ($$) Traditional Italian cuisine, homemade pasta and sausage. A full bar offering wine (by the glass or bottle). Free Parking. Near the Wachovia Center and The Spectrum. Web: popisrestaurant.com

Popolino

501 Fairmount Avenue, 215-9280106. ($$) The latest BYO from

Peter McAndrews, creator of Modo Mio and Monsu, Popolino seeks to bring to its customers both traditional, recognizable dishes as well as reinterpretations for the more adventurous Romaphiles out there. (Please see review, Page 3)

Porcini

2048 Sansom Street, 215-7511175. ($$) Fresh, handmade pastas. Daily seafood specials. Chicken and veal, the finest quality available. Web: porcinirestaurant.com

Positano Coast By Aldo Lamberti

212 Walnut Street, 2nd Floor, 215238-0499. ($$$) Large terrace gives the feel of al fresco dining. Modern Italian cuisine via small plates designed for sharing, includes fresh fish and seafood, not to miss “crudo” and creative variations of traditional Italian dishes and meats. Web: positanocoast. net

Powelton Pizza & Deli

3635 Lancaster Avenue, 215-3871213. ($) Founded by a couple of Drexel grads, Powelton features pizza, strombolis, steaks, hoagies, chicken fare, wings, salads, calzones and more. Great for those all-nighters. Open 11am-11pm! Delivery. Web: thepoweltonpizza. com

Radicchio Cafe

402 Wood Street, 215-627-6850. ($$) Delicious entrees in a wonderful Olde City atmosphere. Web: radicchio-cafe.com

Ralph’s Italian Restaurant

760 S. 9th Street, 215-627-6011. ($$) A neighborhood favorite, Ralph’s has served traditional Italian food since the early 1900s. With a menu filled delicious pasta dishes, veal choices, and a selection of seafood, this restaurant is one diners keep returning to for “the real deal.” Web: ralphsrestaurant.com

Ristorante La Buca

711 Locust Street, 215-928-0556. ($$) The name translates as ‘the cave’ and the room is decidedly ‘dark,’ but the excellent, fresh fare (outstanding grilled fish) shines at this traditional Italian sea food restaurant. Web: ristlabuca.com

Ristorante Mamma Maria

1637 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215463-8410. ($$$) A charming Italian staple in South Philadelphia, Mamma Maria selects the freshest ingredients from the Italian Market everyday to create a daily menu. Best known for their hand-rolled gnocchi and homemade Limoncello, Mamma Maria offers fixed priced lunch and dinner menus that include complimentary wine throughout the meal. Web: mammamaria.info

Ristorante Panorama and Wine Bar

14 N. Front Street, (Front Street and Market Street), 215-9227800. ($$$) Featuring contemporary authentic Italian cuisine in a dramatic setting, Ristorante Panorama is located in the heart

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Osteria

1920 Chestnut Street, 215-7519913. ($$$) Serves fantastic “new Italian” cuisine. Northern Italian cuisine set in a contemporary atmosphere. Web: lecastagne.com

2010 Sansom Street, 215-8758116. ($$$) Sitting just blocks from Rittenhouse Square, Melograno is a convivial trattoria and BYO where guests can enjoy authentic Italian fair, artfully prepared by Roman-born Chef Gianluca Demontis.Dine on appetizers like homemade ravioli stuffed with potato and pecorino with fried sage. Entrees include fig-andwalnut-stuffed quail, bouillabaisse like shellfish stew and ruby-red herby lamb chops. Web: melogranorestaurant.com

LaScala’s

50 people with a wide selection! Thin crust pizza; beer availableimported and domestic. Walking distance from the Kimmel Center. Web: paolopizza.com

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

31 N. Columbus Boulevard, Pier 3, Penn’s Landing, 215-351-1898. ($$$) Fine Italian dining in a romantic atmosphere. Located on the Delaware River. Outside dining available weather permitting. Web: laverandapier3.com

complete with a full bar, is committed to being completely authentic Abruzzi Italian. Expect homemade pastas with sauces such as lamb ragu, braised duck, or asparagus, zucchini and cream. The bar is open until 2AM, and offers specialty Italian cocktails. Web: levirtu.com

Dining Guide

entree, dessert, and coffee or tea. Web: lafamiglia.com

Dining Guide

of Old City. The wine program offers over 150 wines by the glass, receiving Sante’ Magazine’s “Exellence in Wine Hospitality 2004”. Wine Spectator’s “Best of Award of Exellence 2004”, Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best of Philly 2004”. Web: pennsviewhotel.com

Ristorante Pesto

1915 S. Broad Street, 215-3368380. ($$) A trip to this BYOB is like a trip to your Italian Aunt’s kitchen. Food is simple but well done. Be sure to check out the never-ending list of daily specials. Web: ristorantepesto.com

Roberto Cafe

2108 South Street, 215-545-0793. ($$) A trattoria serving authentic southern Italian food prepared strictly with the freshest seasonal ingredients based on authentic recipies. Casual atmosphere and friendly service. Closed Mondays. Web: robertocafe.us

Royal Pizza

4202 Baltimore Ave, 215-2221900. ($) Tasty pizza, fresh ingredients and well crusted! Other places don’t even compare after you’ve come to Royal Pizza!

Salento Restaurant

2216 Walnut Street, 215-5681314. ($$) Italian food is at its best at Salento. This unique restaurant is not too far off campus, but it would be worth the trip if it were. Appetizers do their job well, preparing you for the extensive entree items. Web: salentorestaurant.com

Saloon

750 S. 7th Street, 215-627-1811.

($$$$) Antiques and folk art paintings grace this handsome dining spot. The steaks and Italian cuisine have attracted a loyal following. Try the veal Mondelaise, two pounded scallopini, one atop the other, with sage, prosciutto and melted mozzarella in between, surrounded by a marsala sauce brimming with smoky-tasting mushrooms. Web: saloonrestaurant.net

Salumeria

45 N. 12th Street, Reading Terminal Market, 215-592-8150. ($$) A full array of international cheeses, Italian deli & groceries, and hoagies, salads and specialty sandwiches.

Scannicchio’s

2500 S. Broad Street, 215-4683900. ($$) Voted Best BYOB in South Philly, Scannicchio’s serves up large portions, including a 12-ounce filet topped with jumbo lump crabmeat. “You don’t leave hungry when you leave Scannicchio’s,” says co-owner Michael Gibson Web: scannicchio.com

Serafina

130 S. 18th St, 215- 977- 7755. ($$$) New York’s Serafina opened up a new outpost in Philadelphia’s 10 Rittenhouse highrise this year. The space is modeled after a classic Italian trattoria. It is family friendly and features Italian favorites such as 20 varieties of pizza, grilled meats, seafood, salads, sandwiches, baked goods, and more. Web: serafinarestaurant. com/serafina

Soho Pizza 218

Market

Street,

215-625-

3955. ($) Authentic brick-oven pizzeria located in the heart of Old City, Philadelphia. Additional menu items include cheesesteaks, sandwiches, salads, finger foods, domestic/imported beers. Casual ambiance.

Spasso Italian Grill

34 S. Front Street, 215-5927661. ($$) When you’re dining at Spasso, you can expect great food at a reasonable price. Spasso’s open kitchen produces a menu that combines a full array of fresh seafood and meat, an assortment of appetizers, fresh vegetables, and homemade pasta. All desserts at the restaurant are made on the premises, so be sure to save some room. Web: spassoitaliangrill.com

Ted’s Pizza Express

3741 Lancaster Ave, 215-2223033. ($$) Fast-food restaurant with pizza and a variety of Italian dishes. Popular dishes include chicken fingers and cheese grinders.

The Best House Pizzeria

4301 Baltimore Avenue, 215-3861450. ($) If you want the best, then you’ve got to go to The Best House Pizzeria. Pizza, steaks and a large selection of Micro Beers. Web: besthousepizzeria.com

The Olive Garden

1346 Chestnut Street, 215-5467950. ($$) The delicious smells and wonderful service bring you right to the center of Italy. Special features such as the unlimited soup and salad compel you to visit over and over again. Web: olivegarden.com

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P age 36 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

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1303 Dickinson Street, 215-4683040. ($$$) The DiStefano family is the fourth generation of the original owners. Proudly features live opera singing nightly. Italian cuisine, free-range veal, vegetarian dishes and Kosher food upon request. We now have a cabaret piano lounge on Saturday nights, located @ 2nd floor lounge. We are also the home of “The Rocky Balboa” movie as “Adrian’s.” Web: victorcafe.com

Trattoria Prima Donna

1506 Spruce Street, 215-7900171. ($$) A variety of seafood and homemade pasta dishes. If you know the difference come taste the difference. Roman cuisine from Italian born chef. P.S. You couldn’t buy this quality of food if you paid triple. In accordance with our private room (no charge) we offer a celebration style menu for all of your special occasions. Web: trattoriaprimadonna.com

Tre Scalini

1915 E. Passyunk, 215-551-3870. ($$) You’d expect to find no-frills peasant dishes like broccoli rabe over grilled polenta in this unassuming rowhouse devoted to south-central Italian cuisine, but there are plenty of others with uptown flair: quail with sage and garlic; squid-ink pasta with shrimp; a huge veal chop with shiitake mushroom sauce. Web: trescaliniphiladelphia.com

Valentino Ristorante

1328 Pine Street, 215-545-6265. ($$) Homemade pastas, homemade desserts. BYOB. Private parties in our vineyard room. Walking distance from the Kimmel Center.

Vetri

1312 Spruce Street, 215-7323478. ($$$$) This nationally acclaimed restaurant is one of the most exclusive in Philly. Chefowner Marc Vetri puts great attention to detail into his uniquely authentic Italian fare. Reservations are often needed up to a month or two in advance. Web: vetriristorante.com

Villa Di Roma

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www.drexel.edu, www.upenn.edu, or www.foxchase.org 36

The Victor Café

936 S. 9th Street, 215-592-1295. ($$) Family-style Italian specialties, such as chicken Neapolitan, and special pastas such as Ziti Francis, in an old-style Italian restaurant located in the Italian market. Fried asparagus with scampi sauce is a favorite. Web: delucasvilladiroma.com

Walnut Street Supper Club

1227 Walnut Street, 215-9238208. ($$) Seeking to evoke the atmosphere of a 1940’s supper club, the Walnut Street Supper Club delivers classic Italian cuisine straight from the hands of singing waiters, who nightly perform ballads by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland and more both on stage and in the dining room. Web: 1227walnut.com

Zavino

112 S. 13th Street, 215-7322400. ($$) This Wine Bar Pizzeria by Chef Steven Gonzalez is located

in the heart of the Midtown Village. With seasonal specials and a vast selection of wine, Zavino is not a place to be missed. Web: zavino. com

JAMAICAN Brown Sugar Bakery & Cafe

219 S. 52nd Street, 215-4727380. ($) Brown Sugar Cafe is the perfect place for a taste of the Caribbean. Offerings include authentic cuisine such as Escovitch fish, rotis, and callaloo. Don’t forget to sample the desserts, which are made on the premises.

Caribbean Delight

1124 South Street, 215-829-1030. ($$) Caribbean Delight boasts a great variety of healthy and original dishes. Try their topnotch vegetarian tofu with jerk spices or curry shrimp.

Gigi and Big R’s

38th Street and Spruce, 610-3892150. ($) Gigi and Big R’s mixes traditional Caribbean food with American flavor to produce appetizing dishes. Make sure you visit their restaurant at 5943 Haverford Avenue for great atmosphere and food.

Jamaican Jerk Hut

1436 South Street, 215-545-8644. ($$) Jamaican Jerk Hut is an authentic Jamaican restaurant serving up traditional island cuisine including Jerk chicken and pork, curry goat, homemade island juices as well as chicken, beef and vegetable patties. Very popular with students. Web: jajerkhut.com

Rum Bar

2005 Walnut Street, 215-7510404. ($$) Delicious Caribbeanfusion. Tapas menu featuring conch fritters and the city’s best mini burgers. They feature over 50 different rums as well as two flavor-infused rums that change weekly. They also offer a full premium bar as well as bottle service and private parties. Ask about reserving the “Chef’s Table” for a night. Web: rum-bar.com

The Mini Trini

1600 JFK Blvd, 610-348-5401. ($) This LOVE park food truck serves up authentic Trinidadian food. Web: theminitrini.com

JAPANESE Ajia

3131 Walnut Street, (The Left Bank), 215-222-2542. ($$) All you can eat sushi located at the Left Bank. New York Style.

Aki Japanese Fusion and Sushi Bar

1210 Walnut Street, 215-9851838. ($$) The menu features an extensive selection of noodle dishes, sushi and sashimi. Offers a sushi and cocktail bar and a vegetarian menu as well. Aoi serves original all-you-can-eat sushi and provides a wide variety of Japa-

damesaito.com

Bento Box Japanese Food Truck

Maki House

37th Street and Walnut Street, . ($) Located right by Pottruck, Bento Box draws a large crowd, especially around lunch time. A variety of Japanese food is offered, including sushi, hand rolls, soba noodles, tempura, teriyaki and katsu items.

Fat Salmon

719 Walnut Street, 215-9288881. ($$$) Formerly Shinju, this ultra-modern sushi hotspot now features vivid fluorescent blue and purple lights and sleek furnishings. It’s also acquired a liquor license and offers a full selection of beers, cocktails, and wine. The menu offers typical sushi bar fare, including a large variety of specialty, tempura, and vegetarian rolls. Web: fatsalmonsushi.com

Fuji Mountain

2030 Chestnut Street, 215-7510939. ($$) Come see why Fuji Mountain is consistently rated “Best Sushi in Philadelphia.” We are committed to only the best quality fish, paired with excellent service in our diverse Center City Restaurant. Our sushi bar and kitchen stay open until 1:30am daily, and our 4th floor Karaoke room is great for private parties. Full bar with liquor license, great beers, wines, and a huge sake list. Web: fujimt.com

Hibachi Japanese Steak House

325 N. Columbus Boulevard, Pier 19 North, 215-592-7100. ($$$) Enjoy your meal at a table side grill or a cozy table, both in a delightful waterfront setting overlooking the Delaware River. Featuring steaks, seafood, sushi. Sunday Jazz Brunch. Web: hibachidining.com

Hikaru

Kisso Sushi

205 N. 4th Street, 215-9221770. ($$) At Kisso, you’ll find traditional Japanese tavern food, from edamame (boiled soy beans) to sashimi to seaweed salad to broiled eel and classic sushi such as tekka maki (tuna roll). Wacky local inventions like the six-piece “hot dog” roll with broiled yellowtail, asparagus and scallions are a must. Non-sushi standouts include broiled salmon with ponzu, a soy-citrus-wasabi sauce.

Le Champignon de Tokio Sushi Bar

111 S. 40th Street, 215-382-1745. ($$) Offers fresh-made sushi & noodle soups. Perfect for both onthe-go and sit down dining. Only the freshest and highest quality ingredients are used. Located right on campus, but also check out their two other Philadelphia locations in Rittenhouse Square and Old City! Web: mizusushibar.com

Morimoto

723 Chestnut Street, 215-4139070. ($$$$) Morimoto is a cutting-edge restaurant serving contemporary Japanese cuisine. Chef Masaharu Morimoto of Iron Chef fame prepares traditional dishes with a modern flair. Sit at the bar or at a table - both options are great! Along with other Stephen Starr restaurants, expect modern decor and delicious food but at relatively steep prices. Web: morimotorestaurant.com

Nara Japanese Restaurant

4002 Spruce Street, 215-3871583. ($$) Great sushi and teriyaki dishes right on campus. Reasonably priced, too.

Pod

3636 Sansom Street, 215-3871803. ($$$) Creative Pan-Asian cuisine and sushi shipped along an elliptical conveyer belt and a very innovative interior with seating arranged in ‘pod’ shapes. Web: podrestaurant.com

Ramen Boy

204 N. 9th Street, 267-687-1355. ($$) Ramen Boy is an authentic Japanese ramen restaurant, serving a variety of different soups, homemade gyoza, and katsu curry. Come sit at the Ramen Bar and watch the chefs make your food right before your eyes!

Raw Sushi & Sake Lounge

1225 Sansom Street, 215-2381903. ($$) Between the exotic sushi bar, traditional hot entrees, and overstuffed specialty rolls, you’re guaranteed to find something you love at RAW Sushi & Sake Lounge. The 15-feet glass bar houses an impressive shelf of exotic sakes that caters to new tasters as well as sake connoisseurs. While you dine, take in the view of Japanese lamps floating from the bamboo ceiling, or step outside into the private outdoor courtyard and lounge under the stars. Web: rawlounge. net

Shiroi Hana

222 S. 15th Street, 215-7354444. ($$) Offers impeccably fresh fish at the full-scale sushi bar. Start off from excellent selection of appetizers. Try the flavorful teriyaki, crispy tempura, or one of the famous special maki served by the helpful and an efficient staff.

Tokyo Hibachi Steakhouse & Sushi Bar

MIGA Korean BBQ and Bar

1613 Walnut Street, 2nd Floor, 215-751-9993. ($$) Located at the heart of center city, Tokyo Hibachi is the proud home to deliciously exciting Japanese cuisine. Watch its talented chefs perform as they cook a variety of dishes right at your table! Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to graduation parties (Students receive a 10% discount with student ID). Web: tokyo1613.com

Umai Umai

533 N. 22nd Street, 215-9880707. ($$$) Umai Umai presents a peaceful atmosphere that complements its tasty menu. Sesame chicken and lamb chops are examples of the fusion food that is offered, and diners can choose from an extensive list of sushi. Web: umaiumai.com

Vango Lounge and Sky Bar

116 S. 18th Street, 215-5681020. ($$) The hottest addition the Rittenhouse nightlife, Vango is open every day until 2 am. Food is served until 1:30 am, there is a roof deck with a sky bar, and a DJ that plays every night! Web: vangoloungeandskybar.com

Vic Sushi Bar

2035 Sansom Street, 215-5644339. ($$) Very small sushi bar (7 seats) with take out and delivery. Excellent food at very affordable prices. Try the Shrimp Tempura Mango Coconut Roll (one of the best dishes in Philly!). Web: vicsushi.com

Yamaki Sushi Bar

209 S. 20th Street, 215-5452388. ($) New sushi bar at a very convenient place. Attractive prices and welcoming ambiance. Large selection of sushi and rolls.

Zento

132 Chestnut Street, 215-9259998. ($$) Zento is a pleasant spot for sushi from the former Morimoto sushi chef Gunawan Wibisono. Signature rolls like the wellsized square roll of eel, avocado and plum topped with tuna are admirably understated. From the kitchen: tender steamed shrimp dumplings and overflowing bowls of udon. Web: zentocontemporary. com

KOREAN Giwa

1608 Sansom Street, 215-5579830. ($) Fresh, delicious and healthy, Giwa offers Korean food that doesn’t disappoint. The signature Bibimbop, kim-chee pancake, and seafood pancake are just a few of their tasty fares. Web: giwakoreanfood.com

Han-Wool

3608 Chestnut Street, 215-3826221. ($$) Featuring fine Japa-

211 S. 15th Street, 215-7321616. ($$) This Korean barbeque offers a variety of traditional Korean dishes, sushi and desserts. Get a free appetizer after showing your student ID with a dining party of 3 or more. Web: migarestaurant. com

Tampopo

104 S. 21st Street, 215-557-9593. ($) Located just outside Rittenhouse Square, Tampopo offers filling food to locals seeking a good meal. Noodles, miso soup, and sushi are on the menu. Diners can finish off with the sweetly satisfying egg cake. Web: tampoporestaurant.com

KOSHER Shalom Pizza

7598A Haverford Avenue, 215878-1500. ($) Inexpensive Middle Eastern food, delicious pizza, falafel, home-style couscous. Strictly kosher restaurant for those who want to sample Israeli fare and grilled fresh fish. Full service catering for any occasion from one to 200. Much more than a pizza place. Web: shalompizzeria.com

MEXICAN 12th Street Cantina

1136 Arch Street, 215-625-0321. ($) Located inside Reading Terminal Market, 12th Street Cantina offers a variety of homemade Mexican food and groceries. Pick up a bag of homemade blue corn chips and a side of chunky, onion guacamole. Try the burrito of the day, which can include a rich red chicken mole that offers a post-swallow kick or tender beef barbecue in a tomato tortilla. Tortas, flat flour tortillas layered with cheese, offer inventive combinations such as cinnamon-topped sweet potato and red bell pepper.

Cafe con Chocolate

2100 S. Norwood Street, 267639-4506. ($) Chef/owner Yoshiko Yamasaki is serving up some noteworthy authentic Mexican fare, including a flautas special (three crispy lamb tacos) and chilaquiles (fried homemade corn tortillas doused in fresh mole sauce) that arrive on as-big-as-the-table plates. Web: cafeconchocolate. com

Chili’s Grill & Bar

3801 Chestnut Street, 215-2227322. ($$) A nationwide favorite, Chili’s is an informal hangout known for great food and drinks. Toss back margaritas or watch televised sports at the bar. The menu features mild versions of Lone Star state favorites, from double-basted baby back ribs and

steak fajitas to red-beef chili and deep-fried onions. Web: chilis. com

Chipotle

3925 Walnut Street, 215-2220632. ($) Fresh and delicious mexican food made your way, quick and easy. Order online for even faster service. Web: chipotle. com

Copabanana University City

4000 Spruce Street, 215-3821330. ($) Known for awardwinning margaritas, Spanish fries, and gourmet burgers, Copabanana takes pride in handmade food made fresh daily. Web: copabanana.com (Please see our ad, Page 19)

Distrito

3945 Chestnut Street, 215-2221657. ($$) Jose Garces, the mastermind behind Amada and Tinto, brings a Mexican Citythemed restaurant to University City. The cuisine and drinks mainly stick to Mexican favorites such as margaritas (with over 60 tequilas to choose from), tacos, tamales, and ceviche. Web: distritorestaurant.com (Please see our ad, Page 7)

El Azteca

714 Chestnut Street, 215-7330895. ($$) Turquoise accents and colorful Aztec artwork add Mexican mojo to this casual BYOB taqueria. Service is prompt and friendly, catering to young people looking for cheap but flavorful eats. The menu mixes and matches tacos, burritos and tamales in every possible permutation, and the food runs big on portions. (Please see our ad, Page 10)

El Camino Real

1040 N. 2nd Street, 215-9251110. ($$) Opened by artist Owen Kamihira, who owns Bar Ferdinand, this self-proclaimed “cowboy border bar” splits its menu evenly between Texas and Northern Mexico. With a dusty Southwestern decorative motif, a full spread of Texican cocktails and cervezas, and a food list that easily identifies its BBQ vs. its burrito items, everyone in a group with divergent tastes can leave satisfied. Web: bbqburritobar.com

El Vez

121 S. 13th Street, 215-9289800. ($$) A contemporary Mexican restaurant, El Vez offers many unique items such as mahi mahi tacos, ahi tuna tostadas, carne asada and adobo rack of lamb. Enjoy their made-to-order guacamole & margaritas with fresh-squeezed juices. Top off your meal with “The El Vez,” flourless chocolate cake, peanut butter mousse and carmelized bananas. Web: elvezrestaurant.com

Guacamole Mex-Grill

4612 Woodland Avenue, 215307-3162. ($$) Operated by the de Luna family, whose culinary expertise arose from their grandmother’s mole business in Mexico, this taqueria has already become popular with those living and working around the University of the Sciences of Philadelphia.

P age

124-126 Lombard Street, 215922-2515. ($$) Enjoy the classic French and Japanese atmosphere with candlelight, fresh flowers, wine and sake. Swing-ballroom and Argentine tango lessons. Bed and breakfast. Sushi catering now available. Sushi workshop from Madame Saito. Web: sushi.ma-

Mizu Sushi

nese and Korean food, you can sample sushi, sashimi, teriyaki and tempura. Japanese beer and wine.

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

4348 Main Street, 215-487-3500. ($$$) Just off of South Street, this place can really get hopping because of its well-known sushi and tempura, which qualifies as the most extensive offering in the Delaware Valley. You can dine in either the beautiful greenhouse or the tatami room.

240 South Street, 215-351-0868. ($$) Serving freshly made salads, sushi and hot Japanese food made to order. A variety of authentic Bento Boxes complete the menu. Catering orders and delivery also available.

Consistently ranked by the Zagat Survey as one of the best Japanese restaurants for over 10 years. Web: shiroihana.com

Dining Guide

nese dishes. Web: akiphilly.com

Dining Guide

Many recommend the carne asada tostadas and the gorditas al pastor! (Please see our ad, Page 20) (Please see review, Page 18)

Honest Tom’s

261 S. 44th Street, 215-620-1851. ($) After tasting a killer breakfast taco in Texas, Drexel grad Tom McCusker decided to serve them up in Philly. Tom serves both tacos and burritos, with breakfast available until 1 pm on Saturdays and until 2 pm on Sundays. Arrive early to try your taco or burrito with scrambled eggs and home fries! Web: honesttomstacoshop.com (Please see review, Page 6)

Isabel

2601 Pennsylvania Ave, Ste 5, 215- 475- 8088. ($$) Isabel is a Mexi- Cali BYOB in the art museum district. Web: isabelbyob.com

Jose Pistolas

263 S. 15th Street, 215-545-4101. ($$) Jose Pistola’s was opened by two local bartenders hoping to add a different flair to Philadelphia’s already impressive beer scene. The combination of a large international beer selection and carefully crafted and fresh Mexican fare offers Center City a unique environment for lunch, dinner, or just hanging out. The downstairs bar offers a cozy, more intimate feel, while the three high-definition TV’s make the upstairs bar a bit livelier and the ideal place to watch your favorite sporting event. The menu and happy hour deals change periodically, so please check the website and see what’s going on. Web: josepistolas.com

La Lupe Retaurant

1201 S. 9th Street, 215-551-9920. ($) La Lupe boasts some of the best Mexican food in Philadelphia. Their main specialty is their tacos, but they offer a wide variety of other authentic Mexican dishes.

P age 38 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

Las Bugambilias

148 South Street, 215-922-3190. ($$) Carlos Molina offers high quality, freshly prepared, traditional Mexican food from three different regions in Mexico. The desserts at Bugambilias are homemade on the premises. Dishes like the $14 cochinita pibil, a slow-cooked mountain of shredded pork and the extra-beefy empanadas are on target. Web: lasbugambiliasphilly. com

Las Cazuelas

426 W. Girard Avenue, 215-3519144. ($$) Las Cazuelas was established in 1999 and received the Best of Philly 2001. We have special dishes that are created by our Chef from Puebla, Mexico. Gary Lee, Washington Post says “The specialties are worth the trip!” So please come & join us for a little get away to my native home Puebla at Las Cazuelas Restaurant. Web: lascazuelas.net

Loco Pez

2401 E. Norris Street, 267-8868061. ($$) Drawing inspiration from the taco trucks of Los Angeles, Loco Pez (“Crazy Fish”) aims to be a friendly neighbor38 hood pub and taqueria, doing

its “East Coast best to bring you the classic tacos from SoCal, Mainland Mexico and the Baja Peninsula.” Web: locopez.com (Please see review, Page 14)

Lolita

106 S. 13th Street, 215-546-7100. ($$) This BYOT (bring-your-owntequila) puts a twist on the traditional Mexican cuisine. Be sure to try their seasonally changing margarita flavor. Web: lolitabyob.com

Mad Mex

3401 Walnut Street, 215-3822221. ($$) Mad Mex is a unique restaurant serving funky, fresh California-Mexican food right on campus. They offer a wide selection of micro-brewed beers as well as fresh margaritas served frozen or on the rocks in several exotic flavors. Half-priced draft beers and $3 12-ounce margaritas during Happy Hour. Web: madmex. com

MexiCali

110 S. 40th Street, 215-222-2667. ($) Mexican food with a Californian flavor, MexiCali offers fresh burritos, enchiladas, nachos, tacos and quesadillas. If lines get too long, check out their food cart located on the corner of 38th and Walnut. Web: mexicalicafe.net

Mexican Post

104 Chestnut Street, 215-9235233. ($$) This Zagat-rated Mexican restaurant in Old City is open for delicious Mexican dinners, snacks and drinks. Great chicken quesadillas. Their enchilada suizas are also recommended. Friendly service. A good place to start off an evening or to wind down with a snack after a Ritz film. Web: mexicanpost.com

MexiPhilly Food Cart

37th & Spruce Street, . ($) If you need good Mexican food, but you don’t have time to wait, MexiPhilly is the place to go. This popular food cart has fast service, low prices and good food.

Mission Grill

1835 Arch Street, 215-636-9550. ($$) Mission Grill serves “refined, sophisticated, Southwest-inspired cuisine” by Chef Stephen L. Regosch. The inviting ambiance combines the warmth and materials of the desert as the traditional Southwest cuisine is given a creative twist. Web: themissiongrill.com

Qdoba Mexican Grill

230 S. 40th Street, 215-222-2887. ($) Qdoba’s menu centers around large signature burritos that offer unique flavors, including poblano pesto, fajita ranchera and chicken molé. The menu also includes grilled quesadillas, taco salads, nachos, Naked Burritos, tacos and soup. Web: qdoba.com

Taco Bell Express

Food Court, the Moravian Cafes, 3401 Walnut Street, 215-3822390. ($) Perhaps the most popular relatively cheap Mexican fast food. The lines tend to be long but the spicy chicken tacos and bean burritos are worth the wait! Web: tacobell.com

Tacos Don Memo

38th Street, (Between Walnut and Chestnut), 610-529-2039. ($) With quality Mexican food served up hot and fresh, Tacos Don Memo will satisfy your need to spice it up.

Taqueria El Jarocho

1138 S. 13th Street, 215-4632020. ($) Fresh Mexican food full of flavor. With crispy homemade chips and tasty sauces that complement traditional Mexican food, this is a wonderful place for food at cheap, affordable prices. El Jarocho is Mexican simplicity at its finest done artfully in a low-key, but tasteful environment.

Tequilas Alta Cocina

1602 Locust Street, 215-5460181. ($$) Mole poblano, ceviche, cream of black bean soup and other tasty Mexican classics, complemented by an assortment of Mexican beers. 60 different types of tequila. Specializing in margaritas. Web: tequilasphilly. com

Xochitl

408 S. 2nd Street, 215-2387280. ($$$) Traditional Mexican fare with a modern twist in a fun and comfortable setting. Enjoy fresh-made guacamole, antojitos, ceviche, and platos fuertes made by Executive Chef Lucio Palazzo. Two full service bars feature hand-squeezed margaritas and fresh specialty cocktails. The extensive tequila list features over 70 bottles. Neighborhood foodies dine on Tostados de Ceviche or Chiles en Nogada in the warm, tiled dining room, or head below and ease into a flight of tequila in the modern cocktail lounge, featuring watery blue walls paired with bright orange banquettes. Web: xochitlphilly.com

Zocalo

3600 Lancaster Avenue, 215-8950139. ($$) Authentic Mexican cuisine, located in University City, only 3 blocks from campus. Fine dining in a casual atmosphere, with patio seating available in season. Private parking lot. Voted “Best of Philadelphia” for margaritas and food. 2 HD flat screen TVs at the bar with a great happy hour. Web: zocalophilly.com

MIDDLE EASTERN Aladdin Middle Eastern Food Cart

33rd Street and Spruce Street, 215-668-2903. ($) Located near the Hospital of University of Pennsylvania, Aladdin’s serves a variety of Middle Eastern food.

Alhambra Cafe

609 S. 3rd Street, 215-922-2202. ($) Fine coffees, sandwiches and salads with excellent entrees. Web: alhambrahookah.com

Alyan’s

603 S. 4th Street, 215-922-3553.

($) Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine made fresh daily. Friendly service, generous portions, with delicious falafel and meat grilled to perfection. Garden room open year round.

Ariana Restaurant

134 Chestnut Street, 215-9221535. ($$) Offers inventive, bold Afghan fare, “exquisitely seasoned and “delightfully served” as you sit on pillows on the floor. Very “good value for your money.” Web: restaurantariana.com

Aromatic House of Kabob

113 Chestnut Street, 215-9234510. ($$) Stuck in Old City late at night with a hankering for some inexpensive Afghan food? Stop by Aromatic for some authentic souvlaki or kashk-bademjan. Features a Hookah Bar, exotic coffee and a variety of lattes and fruit tea smoothies, candle light and fresh flowers on the table, a clean open kitchen, and a cheerful yet romantic atmosphere.

Cedar’s

616 S. 2nd Street , 215-925-4950. ($$) In a historic building replete with Middle Eastern decor, the custom continues here at Cedar’s Restaurant, where award-winning and authentic dishes are freshly prepared. Come enjoy the unique dining experience and discover the tremendous ambiance, friendly service, great Middle Eastern wines and moderate prices. Cedar’s menu is extensive, especially in the meatless area, giving vegetarians their fair share of choices. Web: cedarsrestaurant.com

Divan Turkish Kitchen

918 S. 22nd Street, 215-5455790. ($$) Istanbul native Ilker Ugur has transformed an empty corner in Graduate Hospital neighborhood into a romantic escape with Middle Eastern flair. Amid rustic hand-painted tiles and the low, flattering glow of candles, young professionals settle into the tables or cushy sofas and dine on traditional dishes like charbroiled kebabs, stuffed grape leaves and spiced lamb. Web: divanturkishkitchen.com

Glatt Delight

128 S. 12th Street, 215-9225922. ($) Previously known as MacCabeam, Glatt Delight serves “glatt kosher” dishes to a eclectic clientele.

Hummus Restaurant

3931 Walnut Street, 215-2225300. ($) Serving fresh, delicious, nutritious Mediterranean food, specializing in falafel, shawarma, kabobs and other favorite delicacies. Web: hummusrestaurant.com (Please see our ad, Page 5)

Kabobeesh

4201 Chestnut Street, 215386-8081. ($) Serving low-price kabobs, curry dishes, and sweets. Fantastic Pakistani food. All kabobs are made fresh! Tandoori Naan (bread) is made fresh in the clay oven. Student specials available. Web: kabobeesh.com

Kabul Restaurant

106 Chestnut Street, 215-9223676. ($$) This understated, longrunning BYO sleeper takes you out of loud Old City via delectable Afghan dishes and a quiet setting that charms. There’s nothing more you can ask for besides an excellent value, and a staff that is as attentive as possible. Offers traditional kabobs of marinated chicken, lamb or beef, tasty appetizers such as scallionfilled dumplings with yogurt sauce and flaky pastries. Also prepares vegetarian dishes, such as chopped spinach, sautéed pumpkin, sautéed eggplant and more. Web: kabulafghancuisine. com

Kamal’s Middle Eastern

Reading Terminal, 51 North 12th Street, 215-925-1511. ($$) Located inside Reading Terminal Market, Kamal’s serves up a mix of Middle Eastern and Greek food. The sandwiches are fresh and the falafel balls are crispy but not greasy. Other menu items include spanikopita, baklava, kataifi (shredded dough soaked in syrup), and the occasional samosa.

King Tut

401 S. 13th Street, 215- 7358111. ($$) The vegetarian- friendly cuisine is a fusion of Egyptian, Roman, Greek, and Indian in an “Eastern Hookah” style atmosphere. The building is very intimate and offers something new for the Washington Square West community.

Magic Carpet

34th & Walnut Street, 215-3340948. ($) Famous for its allvegetarian dishes, Magic Carpet has a large menu that consists of many salad, falafel and platter options. Magic Carpet has been enchanting customers since 1984 with its diverse selection of international vegetarian foods. From their famous tofu specials and soups to their outrageous pita sandwiches, you haven’t truly experienced Penn until you’ve been to Magic Carpet. Web: magiccarpetfoods.com

Makkah Market

4249 Walnut Street, 215-3820909. ($) Makkah Market is a Middle Eastern restaurant offering a wide variety of halal products. It also boasts a Middle Eastern grocery store with Islamic books and clothes, along with a Halal meat department. Located next to the Makkah Barber Shop ($10 per cut). Great food at a low price. 24-hour international satellite TV. Web: makkahmarket.com

Mama’s Vegetarian

18 S. 20th Street, 215-751-0477. ($) Mama’s Vegetarian is a Kosher, fast-food Middle Eastern joint that serves one of the freshest falafel sandwiches. Not only are their ingredients fresh but everything, including the 250 pita breads baked daily, are made directly on the premises. Web: mamasvegetarian. com

Manakeesh Cafe Bakery

4420 Walnut St, 215- 921- 2135.

Maoz Vegetarian

1115 Walnut Street, 215-9223409. ($) A Dutch chain serving fresh, all-vegetarian falafels. You can build your own sandwich from the vast selection of fresh vegetables, toppings and sauces. Second location at 248 South Street. Web: maozveg.com

Marrakesh

517 S. Leithgow Street, 215-9255929. ($$) Seven-course authentic Moroccan feast eaten with fingers. Prix fixe meal in an exotic setting. Great for groups to dig into. Group lunches, private rooms and belly dancers available upon request. Web: marrakesheastcoast.com

Marrakesh Express Food Truck

40th & Locust Street, 267-8447283. ($) Marrakesh Express Food Truck, Penn’s newest Moroccan food truck, is quickly becoming known for its delicious shawarmas, Moroccan fries, and falafel sandwiches. It also offers affordable pricing and great customer service. (Please see review, Page 20)

Rami’s

40th Street and Locust Street, 215483-6547. ($) Hungry but low on cash? Rami’s (whose owner is extremely friendly and is always happy to chat) provides great Middle Eastern, home cooked style food for under $5. Items on the menu include falafel, gyros (lamb, chicken and vegetarian), hummus, feta and etc. Rami’s has been serving the University City community for 22 years.

S&H Kebab House

Saad’s Halal Place

4500 Walnut Street, 215-2227223. ($) Located just west of Penn campus, Saad’s serves up authentic Lebanese-style food. Along with their great falafel, they are well known for strictly Halal middle-eastern dishes. For unadventurous eaters, American options are also available. Web: saadhalal.com

Sahara Grill 1334 4155. BYOB 11AM

Zahav

Walnut Street, 215-985($$) A casual Lebanese open 7 days a week from to 10PM.

Buddakan

325 Chestnut Street, 215-5749440. ($$$) Stephen Starr’s Buddakan is a ultra chic restaurant featuring exotic flavors of modern Asian cuisine with creativity and drama. Named one of “America’s Top 50 Restaurants” by Travel & Leisure and ‘Top Restaurant for Fun’ by Gourmet, Buddakan has become one of the country’s most talked about restaurants. Web: buddakan.com

Ken Shin Asian Diner

301 Spring Garden Street, 215925-8887. ($$) Restaurateur Kenny Poon, partnered with his brother Shin, envisions Ken Shin Asian Diner as a casual but stylish BYO on the order of Pei Wei. Menu runs the gamut of familiar Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisines. Web: kenshindiner. com

KoJa

38th & Sansom Street, 267322-9925. ($) KOJA is known for “having the friendliest service” and serving up “some extremely tasty Korean fare.” They serve both Korean and Japanese fare. For those new to Korean food, try the beef bulgoki or the udon soup. Web: kojagrille.com (Please see our ad, Page 16)

Koja Grille

1600 N. Broad Street, 215-7635652. ($$) Koja founder Jae Sim has gone uptown with his quickserve Korean and Japanese fare, and settled into a sit-down storefront. The menu covers a satisfying range of tasty pan-Asian classics, from bibimbop to build-your-own udon bowls. Web: kojagrille.com

Sampan

124 S. 13th Street, 215-7323501. ($$$) Sampan impresses with the perfect balance of ambiance, service, and fairly priced, inventive dishes with an Asian spin. Combining masterful attention to detail with only the freshest local ingredients and bold Asian flavors, each of Sampan’s culinary creations leaves your mouth watering for more. Web: sampanphilly.com

Singapore Restaurant

Zama

128 S. 19th Street, 215-568-1027. ($$$) This trendy Pod-esque restaurant is perfect for people watching and eating sushi. Web: zamaphilly.com

PUB/TAVERN Balcony at the Trocadero

1003 Arch Street, 215-922-6888. ($) Live music with a bar and club atmosphere with decor that throws back to the Trocadero’s burlesque theater origins. Complete with cult and hip films on Mondays. Web: thetroc.com

Bayou Bar & Grill

4245 Main Street, 215-482-2560. ($) Specializes in hard-shell crabs, $1.50 each on Mondays and Tuesdays. Voted “Best of Philly” for its buffalo wings, which are 20¢ each on Mondays and Tuesdays and $1.75 Bud Lights. Food and drink specials every day. Web: bayoubar.com

Bishop’s Collar

2349 Fairmount Avenue, 215765-1616. ($) Pub fare with a twist. Vegetarian sandwiches. No cover. Drink specials. Web: thecollar.us

Black Sheep

247 S. 17th Street, (17th Street and Latimer Street), 215-5459473. ($$) An upscale pub in Rittenhouse Square with 3 floors, a non-smoking dining room, dart boards and rooms available for private functions. Features an extensive scotch/whiskey selection and 10 beers on draft, seasonal lunch and dinner menu, and a pub menu available all day and night. Web: theblacksheeppub.com

Blarney Bar and Grill & Hidden Cafe Hookah Bar

328 South Street, 215-413-8294. ($) One of the newest, nicest restaurant on South Street. Elegant decor, very inexpensive with two bars. Menu includes seafood, NY strip steak and Bucky’s famous cream of potato soup. Now open upstairs: Hookah bar with Middle Eastern menu. Over 21 flavored tobaccos.

Blue Bear Tavern

1006 Race Street, 215-922-3288. ($$) Southeast Asian vegetarian food including vegetarian dim sum. Food delivered from Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim cooking. Strictly vegetarian including vegan. Brown rice available. Free delivery in Center City. Web: singaporevegetarian.com

216 S. 11th Street, 215-922-3427. ($$) The Blue Bear Tavern is a brand new restaurant and bar that recently opened in downtown Philadelphia. They recently debuted a fresh menu. Check out their web site for weekly special offers. Web: bluebeartavern.com

The Real Le Ahn

1509 South Street, 215-545-4511. ($) Local “institution” bar featuring $3 special - can of Pabst Blue Ribbon and shot of Jim Beam whiskey. Thursday night drag show named the Best of Philly!

36th Street and Spruce Street, 215-205-7903. ($) Offering everything from Fried Rice to Pho, it’s not hard to see why The Real Le Anh is so popular. The menu has a wide variety of choices, including

Bob and Barbara’s

Bonner’s Irish Pub

120 S. 23rd Street, 215-5675748. ($) A fun place to hang out with friends. Serving domestic and imported beers on tap. Serving Irish and American cuisine at its very best. Karaoke on Thursday nights! Home of Wharton, Penn Law and Penn Medical.

Cavanaugh’s

119 S. 39th Street, 215-3864889. ($) Casual college crowd with a great bar, the best wings on campus and lots of munchies and pizza. Large-screen TV plus 30 TVs for all sporting events. Over 100 different beers from all over the world to enjoy here or take home. Web: cavanaughsrestaurant.com

Cherry Street Tavern

129 N. 22nd Street, 215-5615683. ($) Enter through the side door of this wood-paneled haunt and you’re greeted by two huge sides of roast beef. Handwritten signs advertise specials, of both the drink kind and the “take a ski trip with your fellow barflies” kind; they’re only outflanked by Eagles and Sixers paraphernalia. As for food, the menu lists standard and inexpensive Philly bar fare: hoagies and nachos, supplemented by pepperoni and cheese with crackers.

Dark Horse Pub

421 S. 2nd Street , 215-928-9307. ($$) A cozy, laid back pub reminiscent of the great pubs of Ireland and England. The menu reflects all that a good pub should offer: house made steak & mushroom pie, bangers & mash smothered in onion gravy, and shepherd’s pie with a side of H.P. sauce (to name a few). However, if you’re in the mood for something a little more American, check out their selection of sandwiches, steaks, and salads. Web: darkhorsepub.com (Please see our ad, Page 9)

Dirty Frank’s

347 S. 13th Street, 215-732-5010. ($) This popular corner taproom’s foreboding ambience belies its friendliness. The clientele is pleasantly diverse. Burly bikers knock back mugs of cheap Yuengling next to frail, chain-smoking art students. Everybody seems like a regular. Arrive before 9pm to grab a table; the place starts to fill up with drinkers and smoke around 10pm.

Dock Street Brewery & Restaurant

701 S. 50th Street, 215-7262337. ($$) This West Philly brewery and restaurant features handcrafted specialty beers of the Dock Street Brewing Co., brewed on premises. The restaurant’s offering is best described as “wood fired gourmet pizza, salads, and grille.” Vegetarian- and veganfriendly. Web: dockstreetbeer.com (Please see our ad, Page 15)

Doobie’s

2201 Lombard Street, 215-5460316. ($) Pub-type atmosphere with an eclectic jukebox. Kitchen open until 1 a.m. Lots of dinner specials with a variety of ethnic type meals. Best nachos in the

city!

Downey’s Pub

526 S. Front Street, 215-6259500. ($$) To experience Philadelphia, you must experience Downey’s. A Philadelphia institution since 1976 and a favorite spot for sports stars and other celebrities. Occasional live music acts upstairs. Web: downeysresturant. com

Drinker’s Pub

1903 Chestnut Street, 215-5640914. ($) Drinker’s Pub, Center City’s neighborhood bar, appeals to all types. Whether you’re looking to chill out, order dinner, play pinball, or watch sports on our HDTVs, we have what you are searching for. A comfortable crowd, tons of Elvis memorabilia, nightly drink specials, and a killer rock ‘n roll jukebox. Web: drinkerspub215.com

Drinker’s West

3900 Chestnut Street, 215-3974693. ($$) Drinker’s West brings plenty of excitement and good times to University City with a fun energetic atmosphere that can’t be beat! Whether you’re looking to meet up for happy hour or a full night of partying, Drinker’s West will exceed all your expectations and have you coming back for more. Web: drinkerswest215.com

Eulogy Belgian Tavern

136 Chestnut Street, 215-4131918. ($$) With over 21 beers on tap and 300 available in the bottle, you definitely won’t leave this pub thirsty. A wide variety of traditional Belgian food is also available. The second floor features a “coffin room” decorated with burial caskets. Philly’s only real Belgian owned bar and restaurant. Web: eulogybar.com

Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant

1500 Locust Street, 215-8939700. ($$) Traditional Irish fare. At Fado, they are telling the tale of Ireland’s rich and celebrated pub culture — hearty food and drink, good music, warm hospitality, and friendly banter. Nightly entertainment includes traditional Irish music, with the occasional American folkie, and televised rugby and soccer matches. Web: fadoirishpub.com

Fat Tuesday

431 South Street, 215-629-5999. ($) This Mardi Gras-themed bar is decorated with neon beer signage, steel seating and televisions. Live bands occasionally perform for customers sipping on fruity drinks and MGDs. Finger foods are offered for those interested in fries with their pina colada, and in the summertime, al fresco drinking offers the opportunity to take in the sights and smells of South Street.

Fergie’s Pub

1214 Sansom Street, 215-9288118. ($) Fergie’s Pub is a very reasonable, very friendly, Irishowned pub in Center City. The fare includes fish and chips, shepherd pie, as well as American favorites. The kitchen is open till midnight, the bar till 2 a.m. Fergie’s Pub is

P age

237 Saint James Place, 215-6258800. ($$$) Everything’s hectic and happy at this determinedto-be-casual modern Israeli spot from Philly darling chef Michael Solomonov. The bar serves signature cocktails- including the lemonnana, a boldly boozy

PAN-ASIAN

Chinese staples such as General Tsao’s chicken and Lo Mein, as well as an array of Southeast Asian favorites. They also offer Bubble Tea and a variety of drinks.

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

611 E. Passyunk Avenue, 267639-3214. ($$) Specializing in authentic Turkish, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. This BYOB features organic lamb, chicken and Top Choice Black Angus steaks, as well as traditional vegetarian dishes and fresh seafood. It satisfies every palate! Web: kebabhouseonline.com

lemonade- and the food is defined by clean, bright Middle Eastern flavors. Web: zahavrestaurant. com

Dining Guide

($) This café and bakery is new and close to campus. Many dishes have a fusion of American and Lebanese flavors. Try the baklava! Web: manakeeshcafe.com

Dining Guide

open seven days a week with entertainment nightly. The entertainment includes Quizo, Irish music and local bands. Web: fergies. com

Finnigan’s Wake

537 N. 3rd Street, 215-574-9317. ($) Philly’s hottest night spot. Live entertainment nightly. Web: finnigans.com

Fox & Hound Smokehouse & Tavern

Khyber Pass Pub

1501 Spruce Street, 215-7328610. ($$) Burgers, barbecue, and lots of cold beer on tap. Dozens of TVs show every game, every night. Web: fhrg.com

56 S. 2nd Street, 215-238-5888. ($$) A revamped Khyber Pass Pub offers less in the way of loud music and more kinds of soul food that spread warmth deep inside as you sip on your favorite drink. Web: khyberpasspub.com

Frankford Hall

Kildare’s

1210 Frankford Ave, 215- 6343338. ($$) Yet another Stephen Starr restarant! Frankford hall serves up German pub food a casual atmosphere with picnic tables for all. Web: frankfordhall.com

Frohman’s Wursthaus

208 S. 13th St, . ($$) Iron chef Jose Garces brings yet another restaurant to Philly to add to JG Domestic, Garces Trading Company, and others. After holding on to this space for two whole years, JG is ready to open his new “beer and brats joint.”

Good Dog

224 S. 15th Street, 215-9859600. ($) A friendly, neighborhood pub in Center City, Good Dog has been featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” for their daring food. Foodies will enjoy items such as mussels, mac and cheese, gourmet burgers, and fries. Web: gooddogbar.com

Grace Tavern

P age 40 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

($$) Located between Market and Chestnut streets. A fun bar and pub to hang out at, listen to live music or select tunes from the most eclectic juke box in town and meet new and interesting people from all over. Sample any of over 100 brands of beer: domestic, imported and microbrews. Web: khyberpasspub.com

2229 Gray’s Ferry Avenue, 215893-9580. ($) Grace Tavern, which may sound like your regular corner bar at first, is anything but! With delectables like sausages and oysters as well as an unlimited selection of quality beers, Grace Tavern will become a second home to all those who enjoy great food, a fun atmosphere, and an endless selection of beers! Voted #1 Bar by Philly Weekly. Web: gracetavern.com

Irish Pub

2007 Walnut Street, 215-5685603. ($) Irish-American pub fare. Open for food late night until 1:00 a.m. every night! Most popular Center City bar for students with a line out front because every college student wants to get in. Also located at 1123 Walnut Street. Web: irishpubphilly.com

Johnny Brenda’s

1201 Frankford Avenue, 215-7399684. ($$) Come because it’s the next cool place to chill. Then come back for the tasty and reasonably priced fare. Juicy, tender and garlicky pork tenderloin; generous and meaty flank steak; sausage sandwiches; tasty swordfish or lamb kabobs--all for less than $10--go great with $4 pints of Victory, Yards and Flying Fish. Web: johnnybrendas.com

Khyber Pass Pub 40 56 S. 2nd Street, 215-238-5888.

com/index.htm

Misconduct Tavern

1511 Locust Street, 215-7325797. ($$) Attracting a young, professional crowd, Misconduct Tavern, named after the owner’s yacht, is home to big sandwiches, big drinks, and even bigger fun. Featuring twelve draft beers and ten HD flat screen TVs, this is the perfect place to relax and watch any sporting event. Web: misconduct-tavern.com

Moriarty’s Restaurant & Irish Pub

4417 Main Street, 215-482-7242. ($$) Irish cuisine here does its job in the way of classic boxtys, crispy fish and chips, hearty stew, and goat cheese encrusted salmon. Sandwiches are stand-up lunchtime winners. But the real deal is the welcoming bar with elements transported from the old sod with a mix classic Irish pub decor with some contemporary elements. Cap a meal or night out with a classic Irish coffee. Web: kildarespub.com

1116 Walnut Street, 215-6277676. ($$) Moriarty’s is a lively, pleasant Irish pub with a 60-foot old-fashioned bar that features 35 draft beers and 50 bottled beers. The menu features awardwinning burgers, famous “Best of Philly” chicken wings, specialty salads and deli sandwiches. They offer daily drink and food specials and are open seven days a week until 2:00 A.M. Join Moriarty’s on Saturday nights for karaoke and a live DJ. Come watch your favorite sports! The perfect venue for banquets and crush parties. Web: moriartyspub.com (Please see our ad, Page 2)

Las Vegas Lounge

New Deck Tavern

704 Chestnut Street, 215-5929533. ($$) Great menu including mussels, crab cakes, baby back ribs and our 10 oz Prime burger. Awesome daily drink specials in addition to our regular low prices. Web: lasvegaslounge.com

Locust Bar

235 S. 10th Street, 215-925-2191. ($) Local tavern. Good food menu. 12 beers on draft. Daily specials for beer and food.

Mac’s Tavern

226 Market Street, 267-324-5507. ($$) Casual Pub/Tavern with outdoor seating available. Cajun, buffalo, and Thai chile wings and a great beer selection. It’s always sunny in Philadelphia. Web: macstavern.com/

Manny Brown’s

512 South Street, 215-627-7427. ($$) A South Street eatery worth noting for its phenomenal ribs, chili, chicken and sandwiches. Web: manny-browns.com

McGillin’s Olde Ale House

1310 Drury Street, 215-735-5562. ($) Philadelphia’s oldest tavern — a Penn tradition since 1860. Extensive menu from snacks to entrees. Working fireplace. Nightly specials. Private room available for large groups. Web: mcgillins.com

McGlinchey’s Bar & Grill

259 S. 15th Street, 215-735-1259. ($) Philadelphia Magazine Best of Philly ’99 Dive Bar with thirteen beers on tap and 75¢ all-beef hot dogs. Two floors, big-screen TV, pin ball, video games and pool.

Mikey’s American Grill & Sports Bar

3180 Chestnut Street, 215-2223226. ($$) A lively local sports bar offering an elaborate menu and an excellent beer selection that everyone will enjoy. Web: mikeysphilly.

3408 Sansom Street, 215-3864600. ($$) Authentic Irish tavern in the heart of University City serving lunch, dinner, and a full latenight menu. Originally founded in 1933, this charming Irish Tavern features an extensive assortment of quality food items, moderately priced, making New Deck a Penn tradition. Home of Philly’s first Quizo: Monday and Wednesday at 10:00 pm. Best happy hour! Food and drink specials daily. Voted best place to go before Palestra games! New Deck is the first bar to ever have Quizo pub trivia. Web: newdecktavern.com (Please see our ad, Page 9)

New Wave Café

784 S. 3rd Street, 215-922-8484. ($$) Come to enjoy a pool table, darts, sports on satellite, and Quizzo at 9:00 p.m. on Monday nights. All private parties are welcome. Executive chef Todd Bergman continues to make us a terrific destination restaurant. Come see for yourself! We also offer sidewalk dining on our patio. Web: newwavecafe.com

Nodding Head Brewery & Restaurant

1516 Sansom Street, 2nd Floor, 215-569-9525. ($) Casual pub atmosphere with world class beers brewed on the premises. Great for gathering a large group of friends. Multiple dart boards, great juke box. Brewery tours upon arrangement. Web: noddinghead.com

North Bowl

909 N. 2nd Street, 215-238-2695. ($$) From the retro benches from bowling alleys of the 50s to the sculptural bar and glass enclosed pod that overlooks the lanes from the lounge, North Bowl is a place that is truly unique to Philadelphia. Try the tater tots and you’ll

become a devotee. Web: northbowlphilly.com

North Star Bar

2639 Poplar Street, 215-7870488. ($) The North Star Bar is Philadelphia’s number one small venue for live entertainment, offering an inspiring array of both local music and world-class national acts. We are proud to bring you the best and most entertaining bands in a simple, yet charming, rock and roll atmosphere. Great music - great beer - great food great fun. Web: northstarbar.com

North Third

801 N. 3rd Street, 215-413-3666. ($$) With a menu so all over the place—pierogies, hummus, soba noodles, pulled pork— North Third offers a variety of gastropub fare. Someone back in the kitchen is working hard, adding fresh garlic and tomatoes to the heaping mussels order and making sure babybacks are meltingly tender. Local draft beers are featured, and all bottle wines are a frugal $19.95. Web: norththird.com

O’Neals Pub

611 S. 3rd Street, 215-574-9495. ($) Voted City’s Best “Best Sports Bar” 2006-2008 and “Best Irish Bar” 2006-2008. We have 16 satellite televisions and South Street’s best beer selection, 19 beers on draught, over 90 bottles — the area’s only beer engine. Web: onealspub.com

Oh! Shea’s Pub

1907 Sansom Street, 215-5687071. ($) It’s one block from Rittenhouse square and provides a very friendly atmosphere. Come to Oh! Shea’s for great times, good food and the best drinks in Philadelphia. Web: ohsheaspub.com

Oscar’s Tavern

1524 Sansom Street, 215-9729938. ($) Its right next to Rittenhouse square and provides a very romantic ambiance and the beer is very very cheap.

Pub & Kitchen

1946 Lombard Street, 215-5450350. ($$) One part English tavern, one part gastropub, P&K serves up burgers and onion rings upgraded with top-notch ingredients. The menu is careful and populated with standards from the United Kingdom, many of which pair well with the mostly craft and import brew list. Web: thepubandkitchen.com

Queen of Sheba

4511 Baltimore Avenue, 215-3822099. ($$) Very relaxed atmosphere with inexpensive drinks, great bar food, and arcade games! Web: queenofshebaphilly.com

Resurrection Ale House

2425 Grays Ferry Avenue, 215735-2202. ($$) The brews include 12 taps, one cask-conditioned, 41 bottles, and five locals. The menu consists of affordable items like seasonal salads and delish steak frites. Why it’s not another snooty beer bar: mostly, the price range. Web: resurrectionalehouse.com

Roosevelt Pub

2220 Walnut Street, 215-5698879. ($) English-style pub featuring 18 drafts and 15 bottled beer varieties. Featuring Best of Philly hamburger and “casual affordable” menu. $2.95 1/2-lb. burger and fries combo, appetizers and more. DJs and a pool hall.

Rotten Ralph’s

201 Chestnut Street, 215-9252440. ($$) Casual and cozy neighborhood 25-seat bar and 30-seat upstairs café with nice window seating. Steaks, snacks and sandwiches will accompany your choice from our 19 brew taps! Web: rottenralphsoldecity.com

Sal’s on 12th

200 S. 12th Street, 215-7319930. ($$) “A little South Philly in Center City”. It offers everything from pasta with red gravy or alfredo sauce to huge sandwiches and appetizers.

Slainte Pub and Grill

3000 Market Street, 215-2227400. ($$) From Philly Cheese Steak Egg rolls, Turkey Burgers & Big Green Salads to our freshly beer battered Fish and Chips, Shepherd’s Pie & Banger and Mash. Sláinte’s extensive menu has something to please every palate! Sláinte is an authentic modern Irish Pub with arched ceilings and gorgeous wood furnishings all built in Waterford, Ireland. Web: slaintephilly.com

Slate

102 S. 21st Street, 215-568-6886. ($$) Slate has the menu to make for a perfect evening. We feature small plates and full entrees for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Our original menus change seasonally and we use only fresh produce and meats. Our full service bar include our signature cocktails, wine by the glass or bottle, and several beers on draught and by the bottle. Web: slatephiladelphia.com

Smokey Joe’s

208 S. 40th Street, 215-222-0770. ($) Smokey Joe’s is “the Pennstitution.” It is the Premier Penn Bar, serving Penn’s residents for more than 60 years! Offering a cozy environment, Smoke’s aims to please! Our kitchen is open Monday thru Saturday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Web: smokeyjoesbar.com (Please see our ad, Page 4)

Standard Tap

901 N. 2nd Street, 215-2380630. ($$) Standard Tap’s localmicrobrew taps, thoughtfully selected wines and rocking jukebox make it appealing just as a bar. The blackboard menu describes the offerings in one or two words: Squid, Smelts, Duck Salad. But behind the restrained terminology are exuberant flavors. Web: standardtap.com

Sugar Mom’s Church Street Lounge

225 Church Street, 215-925-8219. ($) Twelve taps. Good prices. Pints of Pabst Blue Ribbon $2.00. Pints of Yards $3.00 every day. Enjoy our pinball machines and pool tables. All sandwiches 12pm- 4pm

Tangier Café

1801 Lombard Street, 215-7325006. ($$) Food, drink, shelter — a neighborhood, casual café. Tangier is a state of mind. Ten beers on tap, 80 in the bottle, best Buffalo Wings this side of Buffalo. Web: tangier.thekalon.com

Tattooed Mom’s

530 South Street, 215-238-9880. ($) South Street’s neighborhood bar. Reasonably priced food and drink seven days a week. Tattoos not required.

The Bards

2013 Walnut Street, 215-5699585. ($$) An authentic Irish restaurant and bar, offering contemporary Irish cuisine and a large selection of premium beers and Irish whiskies. Set in a comfortable atmosphere. Serving lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch and a late-night snack menu on weekends. Live entertainment! Weekly Penn and Wharton specials! Zagat Survey:“Best Guinness in Philly; a treasure; proves the Irish can cook.” Web: bardsirishbar.com

The Belgian Cafe

21 Street & Green Street, 215235-3500. ($$) From the owners of Monk’s and Nodding Head, this pub brings classic Belgium atmosphere, food, and drink to the Art Museum area. Their menu offers many vegetarian and vegan options (vegan meatloaf!), as well as a variety of burgers, mussels and entrees. Beer is innovatively used in many of their dishes. Web: thebelgiancafe.com

The Blarney Stone

3929 Sansom Street, 215-2225340. ($$) Specials every night. Web: theblarneystone.us

The Blockley Pourhouse

3801 Chestnut Street, 215-2221234. ($$) The Blockley serves innovative pub cuisine in a warm, relaxed atmosphere with a centrally located stage for live music and a large, square bar to anchor the room. Web: theblockley.com 1837 E Passyunk Avenue, 215551-5551. ($$) A huge selection of all kinds of beers and spirits, with small tables to enjoy them on and finger food to enjoy them with! Web: bottleshopbeer.com

The Dandelion Pub

18th and Sansom St, 215-5582500. ($$$) Friendly service and good, hearty food justify the cozy atmosphere and make you want to stay for as long as possible. Web: thedandelionpub.com

The Elephant and Castle Pub & Restaurant

The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co.

112 S. 18th Street, 267-4673277. ($$$) In the late 1920s, The Franklin Mortgage and Investment Company Served as the front door for the largest alcohol ring in the country. The Franklin celebrates both the Golden Age barrooms of the pre-Prohibition era, and the skilled bartenders who fled their homes to pursue a noble craft. The Franklin is a place where a stiff drink and a tuneful horn comingle, and where bartenders are artists. Above all, The Franklin is a beacon for those who feel that a dram of alcohol is not meant as merely a vessel for intoxication, but a sensory experience all its own. Web: thefranklinbar.com

The HeadHouse Cafe

122 Lombard Street, 215-9221223. ($$) Great seafood, luscious chicken wings and perhaps the best selection of beer in Philadelphia! Web: headhousephilly.com

The Irish Pol

45 S. 3rd Street, 267-761-9532. ($) Great beer and service Web: theirishpol.com

The Plough and the Stars

123 Chestnut Street, 215-7330300. ($$) Located within the beautifully restored Corn Exchange Building, the Plough and the Stars is an entirely new concept in Irish restaurants and bars. Web: ploughstars.com

The Westbury

261 S. 13th Street, 215-5465170. ($$) The Westbury is Philadelphia’s friendliest neighborhood pub. Always open for lunch and dinner, we provide a full menu along with daily drink specials. There are seven televisions and a jukebox. Many different social groups and sports teams call the Westbury their home. Best of all, there are discounts for students all night long, seven days a week.

Tir Na Nog

1600 Arch Street, 267-514-1700. ($$) “The air around our table was whirling with the sounds and aromas of Ireland. And for just a moment I was transfixed.” Craig LeBan, Philadelphia Inquirer Web: tirnanogphilly.com

Triumph Brewing Company

117 Chestnut Street, 215-6250855. ($$) Triumph Brewing Company is a well-known area microbrewery in the midst of Old City. Espousing a philosophy of good times, good grub and the best of brews, their gourmet pub menu aims to please. Try one of their own beers on tap, or enjoy their wide range of foods including

Mussels Frites, sandwiches, large and small plates, and salads. Web: triumphbrewing.com

Urban Saloon

2120 Fairmount Avenue, 215232-5359. ($$) With a wide variety of domestic, imported, and craft brews (bottled and draft), along with rotated seasonal drafts, Urban Saloon should satisfy any beer lover. The brunch and dinner menus do not disappoint, with both traditional fare and more creative (but non-pretentious) options that won’t break the bank.

Village Whiskey

118th S. 20th Street, 215-6551088. ($$) Classic bar with over 80 varieties of Whiskey. Web: villagewhiskey.com

WineO Restaurant & Bar

447 Poplar Street, 215-925-0999. ($$) WineO has evolved and grown into an upmarket wine bar perfectly nestled in the artistic Northern Liberties neighborhood and has become a local hot spot for hipsters and young professionals alike. Discover the fresh, innovative style of This popular wine bar/gastro pub. Web: wineophilly. com

Woody’s Bar

202 S. 13th Street, 215-5451893. ($$) Woody’s menu features sandwiches, salads, soups made daily, panini and an array of desserts and coffee drinks including cappuccinos and lattes. Our daily specials are a favorite! Web: woodysbar.com

SEAFOOD Baltimore Crab and Seafood

4800 Spruce Street, 215-4727040. ($$) A West Philly restaurant, whose amazing desserts rival its famous seafood. Web: baltimorecrabtogo.com

Chart House

555 S. Columbus Boulevard, 215625-8383. ($$$) Chart House offers gorgeous riverfront and city views in their dining areas. Delicious menu items include topof-the-catch seafood, succulent steaks, decadent desserts. Try the slow roasted Prime Rib or the famous Hot Chocolate Lava Cake. Web: chart-house.com

Devon Seafood Grill

225 S. 18th Street, Rittenhouse Square, 215-546-5940. ($$$) Featuring a diverse cellar selection and imaginative cuisine, Devon promises the finest ocean fare with classic elegance. With an indulgent menu focused on superior quality fresh seafood as well as prime steaks, fresh oysters awardwinning crab cakes and their signature sweet drop biscuits, Devon crafts its dishes with exacting standards and pampers its guests in a comfortable atmosphere. Web: devonseafood.com

DiNardo’s Famous Crabs

312 Race Street, 215-925-5115. ($$$) DiNardo’s is the place to have

your shell-cracking, claw-sucking, crab-eating feast. Steamed Louisiana crabs are served “hot and dirty” (known as Baltimore style), as well as other seafood specialties such as jumbo shrimp, fresh stuffed flounder, steamed mussels, and clams. Chicken, steaks, and pasta also are served. Web: dinardos.com

Grill Fish Café

814 S. 47th Street, 215-7297011. ($$) Offering imaginatively-prepared seafood dishes, this restaurant was opened by Benny Lai to offer the best Vietnam has to offer. Handsome décor and an array of evocative photographs add to the ambience established by the warm and welcoming staff. Web: grillfishcafe.com (Please see review, Page 9)

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant

1 S. Broad Street, 215-568-6888. ($$$) Located in the heart of Center City, McCormick & Schmick’s brings the freshest seafood dining experience to Philadelphia. Featuring over 30 varieties of fresh seafood flown in daily from around the globe, lunch and dinner menus are updated daily to reflect the freshest selections available. Web: mccormickandschmicks.com

Oyster House

1516 Sansom Street, 215-5677683. ($$$) At the Oyster House, the Mink family continues the mission of serving Philadelphians fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Sam Mink has added modern touches, a bevy of raw bar and cooked seafood options (think soft shell crab and snapper turtle soup). Updated-meets-classic cocktails include oyster shooters (that come in either horseradish infused tequila or hot pepper and cilantro infused vodka) and local taps. Web: oysterhousephilly.com

Phillips Seafood

17th & Race Street, 215-4482700. ($$$) Originally known for their Maryland style crab cakes and regional fare, Phillips has expanded in location to Philadelphia. It is located in the Sheraton Philadelphia City Center Hotel. Phillips is famous for their soups and crab cakes, so be sure to check them out! Web: phillipsseafood.com

Route 6

600 N. Broad Street, 215-3914600. ($$) Route 6--named after the famous highway beginning in Provincetown, Mass., and running through Cape Cod--offers classic, seasonal dishes such as lobster rolls, clam chowder, and buttermilk fried oysters. Also try its daily lobster and whole fish selections! Web: route6restaurant.com (Please see review, Page 21)

Seafood Unlimited

270 S. 20th Street, 215-732-3663. ($$) Seafood Unlimited specializes in providing only the freshest fish selections for a one of a kind dining experience. Menu changes daily based on fish availability and our chef’s whimsy... Come see why our loyal patrons have been com-

ing here for years. Web: seafoodunlimited.com

Snockey’s Oyster and Crab House

1020 S. 2nd Street, 215-3399578. ($$) Casual dining with a wide selection of different seafoods: lobster specials, hard-shell crabs, oysters, five to six different broiled fish each night. Nonsmoking section available at certain times. Luncheon specials every day. Web: snockeys.com

SoleFood

1200 Market Street, (Loew’s Hotel), 215-231-7300. ($$$) It is not just for seafood lovers, but for everyone that enjoys something fresh and different. An inviting decor of warm woods, soothing colors, elliptical tables and banquettes is the perfect back drop for what can only be described as an ideal dining experience.

Upstares & Sotto Varalli

231 S. Broad Street, 215-5466800. ($$) Sotto Varalli has a classic seafood menu with many Mediterranean twists. Freshness is a key word here and so is variety - many options for the nonseafood lover- pasta, steaks and chops! The decor is sophisticated yet playful - from its hand blown glass starfish pendants and waterwalls to its giant squid which floats over the bustling bar. Web: varalliusa.com

SOUTHWESTERN/CAJUN Adobe Café

4550 Mitchell Street, 215-4833947. ($$) Features high-quality, moderately priced southwestern cuisine. The house specialty is blackened catfish with a margarita sauce. Outdoor café with heated patio and free parking. Web: adobecafephilly.com

Bourbon Blue

2 Rector Street, 215-508-3360. ($$$) Located in the heart of Manayunk right off Main Street, the 18th Century mill building has been transformed into French Quarter Dining with a sophisticated Bar scene matched only by the delectable dishes created by Executive Chef Mark Ziebis. Bourbon Blue is affordable elegance. New America Cuisine, New Orleans Twist. Web: bourbonblue.com

Café Nola

414 S. 2nd Street, 215-574-1687. ($$$) A New Orleans-style restaurant, Cafe Nola serves up Cajun and Creole classics like gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish, bananas foster and much more. The romantic ambiance is perfect for a date. Web: americascuisine.com/pennsylvania/philadelphia/CafeNola. aspx

Catahoula

775 S. Front Street, 215-2719300. ($$$) Catahoula is filled with locals from the mostly residen-

P age

1800 Market Street , (S. 18th Street and Market Street), 215751-9977. ($$) Not only do you need to see it, you need to experience it. The newest in a wonderful family of British pub style restaurants here in North America. Some say it’s more British than Britain itself! 18 draught beers, 20 domestic and micro-brewed beers. Web: elephantcastle.com

1150 Filbert Street, 215-6291520. ($$) Field House, located within the Philadelphia Convention Center transcends the traditional “Sports Bar” stigma. The menu provides ample flexibility to satisfy a wide range of customers, and allows Field House to host everything from a power business dinner to a weekend Alumni game watch. Web: fieldhousephilly.com

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

The Bottle Shop

The Field House

Dining Guide

1/2 price. Call for daily specials.

Dining Guide

tial Queen Village neighborhood, snacking on Nawlins’ favorites like etouffee, gumbo, a tasty selection of house-pickled vegetables, jambalaya and, of course, po’boys — and washing it down with Sazeracs and Louisiana’s own Abita beer. Chef Paul Martin aims at an “urban Cajun” approach with his mostly traditional, classic menu in a chill atmosphere.

Tenth Street PourHouse

262 S. 10th Street, 215-922-5626. ($) The 10th Street Pour House puts a New Orleans spin on the standard lunch and brunch fare. The quaint café is the ideal place for anyone in need of a quick caffeine fix to those desiring an ambient atmosphere to relax. Offering the usual coffees, teas, smoothies and home-cooked entrées, The Pour House floods its delicate and intricate details into specialty sandwiches and omelets. Two to try: The catfish po’ boy sandwich, filled with lettuce, chopped tomatoes and tender flaky fish fillets, and the spicy Creole Cajun eggs benny stacked with andouille sausage. Web: phillypourhouse.com

Warmdaddy’s

1400 Columbus Boulevard, 215462-2000. ($$) Come dine, dance, and “experience the spirit of true Southern hospitality” at this great new locale in South Philly. Enjoy authentic Southern/soul food dishes and music with family or a fun group of friends. Web: warmdaddys.com

SPANISH/ LATIN

P age 42 34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

Alma de Cuba

1623 Walnut Street, 215-9881799. ($$$) Restaurateur Stephen Starr and Nuevo Latino superstar Chef Douglas Rodriguez pair up in this bold new venture with a Cuban Vibe. Enjoy delicious dishes infused with the sensuous flavors of Cuban cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of Old Havana. Web: almadecubarestaurant.com

Amada

217 Chestnut Street, 215-6252450. ($$$) Bona fide chef Chef Jose Garces introduces the city’s only authentic Spanish tapas bar & restaurant. Specialties of the house include Paella Valenciana for 2, Tapas a la Plancha and a variety of Sangria. Web: amadarestaurant.com

Bar Ferdinand

1030 N. 2nd Street, 215-9231313. ($$) Under the direction of Executive Chef David Kane, Bar Ferdinand offers a delicious variety of innovative and traditional Spanish Tapas, with an emphasis on utilizing fresh, seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Bar Ferdinand also offers a diverse Spanish wine selection, signature cocktails, house made Sangria & Claricot and a rotating selection of craft beer on draught. Whether 42 indoors or out, indulge in modern

spins on Spanish tapas. Web: barferdinand.com

Chifa

707 Chestnut Street, 215-9255555. ($$$) Chifa is a restaurant by Latin superstar and Iron Chef Jose Garces. Inspired by the unique hybrid of Peruvian and Cantonese cuisine found in Peru, the menu engages a broad range of Latin and Asian influences. The menu boasts a number of Ceviche options, dim sum plates, traditional noodle and rise dishes. Pork Belly Bao Buns are an absolute must! Web: chifarestaurant.com

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar

10 S. 2nd Street, 215-627-0666. ($$$) Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar transports guests to Old Havana circa pre-1950s with its nostalgic decor and open-air tropical ambiance. Chef Guillermo Pernot’s menus feature traditional and contemporary Cuban cuisine. American flavors are added to Cuban classics as in the lobster empanadas with sweet meat and in entrees including tuna ceviche tossed with coconut milk, lime juice and yellow pepper and cilantro. Desserts are as sweet as mojitos: vanilla Cuban bread brulee or banana and chocolate-mousse tart. Web: cubalibrerestaurant. com/i/philadelphia

Delicias

34th & Market Street. ($) This Venezuelan food truck specializes in fried empanadas, choripan, and the hard-to-find arepas, catering to a variety of customers with its gluten-free and vegan offerings.

Encore

112 Chestnut Street, 215-4131700. ($$) Authentic Brazilian cuisine. Fejoada, the national dish of Brazil, served on weekends, is one of the many delicious and different dishes served at this relaxing and romantic restaurant. Rodizio offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Jamonera

105 S. 13th Street, 215-9226061. ($$) Chef Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran’s latest collaboration was inspired by a trip through southern Spain and specializes in serving tapas accompanied by plenty of sherry. The restaurant has been described as sultry, with amber lighting and dark Rioja-stained wood, evoking its Mediterranean origins. Web: jamonerarestaurant.com/jamonera (Please see review, Page 17)

Koo Zee Doo

614 N. 2nd Street, 215-923-8080. ($$$) Koo Zee Doo is a BYOB in Northern Liberties inspired by the cuisine and flavors of Portugal. Food is served in cozy Iberian style in a fireplace-warmed two-room storefront with dishes such as grilled sardines and stewed rabbit. Portions are served family-style and meant to be shared. Web: koozeedoo.com

Mixto

1141 Pine Street, 215-592-0363. ($$) Traditional Latin food with a

contemporary flare, Mixto brings an array of flavors of the Cuban, Latin American and Caribbean cuisine to Center City. They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner with outdoor dining when the weather permits. Web: mixtorestaurante. com

Barclay Prime

Pura Vida

1500 Walnut Street, 215-7324444. ($$$$) Butcher and Singer is not your ordinary run-of-the-mill steakhouse. An homage to old Hollywood, low lights and dark woods evoke a feeling reminiscent of a bygone era. Paired with a Perfect Manhattan and personalized service, you are sure to feel like a celebrity. Web: butcherandsinger. com

527 Fairmount Avenue, 215-9226433. ($$) The restaurant has many tempting traditional Mexican choices. The El Salvadorian pupusitas, a chewy corn cake cut into triangles and topped with cheese, or the aromatic ginger chicken soup, a Latin version of soothing chicken soup with rice are worth a try. Check out the Spanish/Latin cuisine at Pura Vida if your interested in a change of taste.

Sazon Restaurant & Cafe

941 Spring Garden Street, 215763-2500. ($$) Sazon serves traditional homemade Venezuelan fare. Sazon only cooks with olive oil and corn oil, not lard, chemicals or grease. We only use top quality means & ingredients. Come and join us for a romantic dinner for two, or have your birthday party here, or just come in for an Arepa & Mango Juice. Web: sazonrestaurant.com

Tierra Colombiana

4535 N. 5th Street, 215-324-0303. ($$) Tierra Colombiana boasts a relaxed and casual atmosphere and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Besides offering a vast list of wines that range from Spain to South America, they are also well known for their “batidos de frutas” (fruit smoothie shakes) and their Kiwi-Strawberry Mojito.

Tinto Restaurant

114 S. 20th Street, 215-6659150. ($$$) If you’re looking for atmosphere and fantastic food, look no further than Tinto. The warm environment is made better by the quality of food served. Delicious tapas are only the beginning of Tinto’s menu, with desserts that end your meal on the right note. Web: tintorestaurant.com

Valanni

1229 Spruce Street, 215-7909494. ($$) Valanni offers distinctive Mediterranean cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in an inviting neighborhood restaurant that is located only one block from the Avenue of the Arts. Relax inside our hip yet cozy interior for dinner or grab a seat outside, sip on cocktails and people watch. Web: valanni.com

VIP Lounge

40 S. 19th Street, 215-636-9901. ($) A new Latin lounge and nightclub offering food from Las Locas and tapas on the bottom floor. Upstairs is a giant dance floor that features live bands, jazz ensembles, and flamenco dancers. The bar offers over 40 kinds of tequila.

STEAKHOUSE

237 S. 18th Street, 215-7327560. ($$$$) Barclay Prime is a luxury boutique steakhouse serving a traditional but modern menu in a contemporary setting. Web: barclayprime.com

Butcher and Singer

Capital Grille

1338 Chestnut Street, 215-5459588. ($$$) Located on the Avenue of the Arts, Capital Grille has an exciting yet intimate atmosphere with a touch of relaxed elegance and style. Capital Grille specializes in dry aged steaks, chops, and fresh seafood. The award-winning wine list features over 400 selections. Let the masters of steak provide the perfect dining experience. Web: thecapitalgrille.com

Chima

1901 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, 215-525-3233. ($$$$) Chima combines Philadelphia’s most authentic Brazilian Churrasco cuisine with a stylish setting, world-class bar, table-to-table rodizio service and a wonderfully excessive salad bar. Web: chima.cc

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House

1426 Chestnut Street, 215-2460533. ($$$) Del Frisco’s cuisine features USDA prime beef, fresh seafood, & incredible cold water lobster tails. The breads, salad dressings, sauces & desserts are all made from scratch daily from traditional recipes. Award winning wine list offers over 1,000 selections from around the world. Web: delfriscos.com

Fogo de Chao

1337 Chestnut Street, 215-6369700. ($$$$) This Southern Brazilian Steakhouse (also known as a churrascaria) offers a prix-fixe menu with 2 parts. The first course includes a gourmet salad bar with over 30 items. The second course includes 15 different cuts of beef, chicken, pork, lamb and sausage that are served table side by the chefs. Web: fogodechao.com

Marmont Steakhouse & Bar

222 Market Street, 215-923-1100. ($$$) Old City’s only steakhouse, Marmont balances a casual dining experience with exceptional quality. Choose from seven generous cuts, even customize your cut. All steaks are hand carved in-house. Salads, seafood, and homemade desserts complete the menu. Web: marmont.net

Morton’s The Steakhouse

1411 Walnut Street, 215-5570724. ($$$$) One of the best steakhouses in the city with a relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere. Also features lobster and

veal chops and a “living menu” for guests to choose entrees at tableside. Clothing restrictions. Cigar friendly. Web: mortons.com/philadelphia

Prime Rib

1701 Locust Street , 215-7721701. ($$$) Expertly prepared cuts of prime beef are the focus in a Deco-ish dining room with black lacquered walls, leopard carpeting and live piano and bass nightly. Business casual - no jacket required. Web: theprimerib.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

260 S. Broad Street, 215-7901515. ($$$) 1990 “Best of Philly” winner for steaks. Rivals The Palm for best steakhouse in the city. Menu also includes other entrees such as chicken, pork, and seafood, and conclude dinner with tasty homemade desserts. Diner’s Club card also accepted. Web: ruthschris.com

Smith and Wollensky

210 W. Rittenhouse Square, 215-545-1700. ($$$$) The Rittenhouse Hotel is the latest home of this classic New York steakhouse, with its famous pea soup and renowned dry-aged steaks. The more casual Wollensky’s Grill serves into the wee hours. Web: smithandwollensky.com

Table 31

1701 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, 215-567-7111. ($$$) From Georges Perrier and Chris Scarduzio, a steakhouse bistro in the Comcast Center. That’s steaks, of course (go for the complex, slowburn house-made steak sauce), in the requisite cuts and a range of pedigrees, lots of seafood options, and lighter dishes including pizzas. Web: table-31.com

The Palm

200 S. Broad Street, At the Bellevue, 215-546-7256. ($$$) In the Bellevue Hotel, one of the best steak restaurants in the city. Pricey, but worth it. While the lobster, steak, lamb and veal is made to order, relax in the portrait gallery of famous Philadelphia faces. Web: thepalm.com

Union Trust Philadelphia Steakhouse

717 Chestnut Street, 215-9256000. ($$$$) A Philadelphia steakhouse which offers a wide range of entrees, from big eye tuna steak and Alaskan sockeye salmon to ribeye filet mignon and prime porterhouse. Lamb and veal entrees also available, and the menu boasts many delicioussounding sides. Web: uniontruststeakhouse.com

THAI Aqua

705 Chestnut Street, 215-9282838. ($$) Restaurant serving Thai and Malaysian cuisine. The menu offers a wide variety of soups, noodles, rice dishes and some seafood entrees. Karaoke

Banana Leaf Malaysian Cuisine

1009 Arch Street, 215-592-8288. ($) Banana Leaf is a Malaysian restaurant bringing you classics like Hainanese Chicken, Roti Canai and Curry Mee. It is consistently bursting with flavor and prepared with the freshest ingredients available. Web: phillybananaleaf.com

Cafe de Laos

1117 S. 11th Street, 215-4671546. ($$) Tiny BYOB spot featuring Thai and Laotian Cuisine with great dishes such as Kiew Nam, Pad Kee Mao, Namtok beef salad and more! Web: cafedulaos.com

Erawan Thai Cuisine

925 Arch Street, 215-922-7135. ($$) Recognized this year as an award-winning top Thai restaurant by Zagat Survey. Located in Chinatown. Features lemon grass soup and mee pu. Menu also includes spicy stir-fried shell fish, Siamese crispy duck and homemade coconut ice cream and Thai dessert. Web: erawanchinatown.com

Erawan Thai Cuisine

123 S. 23rd Street, 215-5672542. ($$) Philadelphia’s first Thai restaurant is nestled on the edge of the Rittenhouse neighborhood. A large variety of authentic dishes on the menu, prepared to accommodate both the most delicate and daring of palates. The friendly staff welcome you to their warm and colorful dining room to enjoy an ambrosial meal. Web: erawanphilly.com

Jasmine Rice

306 S. 16th Street, 215- 5460818. ($$) Small, cozy restaurant that serves exquisite and delicious Thai cuisine. Try the Pad See Ew, crispy duck fried rice, and curry chicken wings!

Lemon Grass Thai Restaurant

My Thai Restaurant

2200 South Street, 215-985-1878. ($$) 2002 “Best of Philly” Philadelphia Magazine. City Search 2003 winner of both categories: Audience and Editorial winner by vote.

Nan

4000 Chestnut Street, 215-3820818. ($$$) Fine contemporary food in a clean, subtle atmosphere. Chicken in red curry, duck with spices are specialties of our chef. Great date restaurant. Web: nanrestaurant.com 606 S. 2nd Street, 215-592-1168. ($$) Authentic, contemporary Thai restaurant with a colorful and energetic atmosphere. Combination BYO with beer and wine service. Web: padthaiphilly.com

Penang Malaysian Cuisine 117 N. 10th Street, 2531. ($$) Authentic cuisine that is a taste rest. Takeout available. angusa.com

215-413Malaysian above the Web: pen-

Essene Market & Café

719 S. 4th Street, 215-9221146. ($) Gourmet organic foods and cuisine featuring vegetarian/ macrobiotic entrees, pasta, salads, sushi, and sandwiches. Freshmade juices, served cafeteria style in side the natural foods market. Web: essenemarket.com

Fresh Fruit Salad Cart

36th Street and Spruce. ($) Fresh fruit served with a smile. The fruit cart owner includes a free banana with all orders.

Fruit and Vegetable Cart

105 S. 22nd Street, 215-5642502. ($$) Authentic Thai food served at a reasonable price. The menu offers a variety of dishes ranging from traditional pad Thai to seafood served with a mango sauce.

40th Street and Locust Street. ($) With a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, this cart has everything you need to stock your kitchen for healthy eating. While the prices are a little higher than other fruit carts on campus, they are better than those at Fresh Grocer, and this cart carries vegetables, which the others do not.

Tamarind

Fruit Salad Cart

Smile Café

117 South Street, 215-925-2764. ($$) This Thai restaurant boasts natural, MSG-free ingredients. Specialties include pad Thai, sautéed shrimp, and chicken in curry-coconut sauce. Web: tamarindsouthstreet.com

Thai Singha House

3939 Chestnut Street, 215-3828001. ($$) Authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy, warm atmosphere. Specialties include fire game hen and spicy shellfish. Six time Reader’s Choice Award from City Paper and Philadelphia Inquirer says “exotic and delicious.” Call for details. Web: thaisinghahouse.com

Trio

2624 Brown Street, 215-2328746. ($$) Perhaps one of the best French-Thai fusion restaurants. Not to be missed are lemon grass soup, tamarind lacquered pork loin, and crispy tofu with julienne ginger. In desserts, their creme brulee made from silky custard flavored with floral Thai iced tea is a must try! Web: triobyob.com

Vientiane Cafe

4728 Baltimore Avenue, 215-7261095. ($$) Vientiane is a comfortable BYOB with eclectic but tasty Laotian and Thai entrees.

VEGETARIAN/ HEALTH Atiya Ola’s Spirit First Foods

4505 Baltimore Avenue, 215-9393298. ($) Healthy and delicious raw foods and drinks, with many tasty vegetarian and vegan options.

Energy Zone

3701 Walnut Street, Pottruck Center, 215-387-4977. ($) Refreshing, great-tasting smoothies! Mealreplacement and recovery shakes, supplements and bars as well as numerous healthy snacks for the body-conscious gym-goer.

33rd Street and Spruce Street. ($) Located near HUP (Penn’s hospital), this food cart serves a variety of fruit salads.

Fruit Salad Truck

34th Street and Walnut Street. ($) This food truck serves a variety of fresh fruit salad combinations, offering customers a healthy alternative lunch option.

Govinda’s Gourmet Vegetarian

3728 Spruce Street, 215-2228899. ($) Make your own fresh, delicious salad masterpiece! Fresh turkey sandwiches and pasta dishes. Web: saladworks.com

VIETNAMESE Cafe Huong Lan

1037 S. 8th Street, 215-629-9966. ($) Cafe Houng Lan’s delicious dishes include beef noodle soups, Vietnamese hoagies, congee, rice platters, vermicelli and traditional noodles.

Kung Fu Hoagies

43rd and Baltimore Avenue, 267344-6259. ($$) This Vietnamese food truck offers a selection of vegan hoagies, including the famous banh mi hoagies, with fake (soy protein) chicken, ham, or beef. Also be sure to check out the delicious rice noodles! (Please see review, Page 19)

Pho Cali Vietnamese Restaurant

1000 Arch Street, 215-629-1888. ($) Join the “Pho craze”... the Vietnamese noodle soup raised to the nth degree. A myriad of options to personalize your pho bowl. We offer a perfect blend of Vietnamese cooking in a relaxed atmosphere.

1408 South Street, 215-985-9303. ($) Located right on the corner of Broad and South Streets, Govinda’s is a restaurant with delicious, original, famous variety of Vegetarian, Vegan, Vedic, Halal and Kosher meals prepared with love and delicious to enjoy. Try the Golden Tofu or Kofta Balls smothered in a tangy red sauce. Enjoy contemporary cuisine in a charming atmosphere. Web: govindasvegeterian. com

Pho Xe Lua Viet Thai

Jar Bar

814 S. 47th Street, 215-729-0260. ($$) This offshoot of the popular Vietnam restaurant in Chinatown arrives in West Philly. With only 11 tables, this “elegant yet casual” BYOB doesn’t take reservations and won’t serve parties of 8 or more after 6pm. Web: eatatvietnam.com/vietnam_cafe.php

113 S. 12th Street, 215-9231600. ($$) Based on the Catalyst cleansing system, a five-day juice cleanse, Jar Bar has focused its menu to include all the necessities of a raw food diet, replete with uncooked, unprocessed, and organic foods. Web: jarbarphilly.com (Please see review, Page 5)

Mi Lah Vegetarian

218 S. 16th Street, 215-732-8888. ($$) This restaurant serves local, seasonal, vegan and vegetarian food. Aiming to fill the need for healthy, whole and delicious cuisine in Philadelphia, MiLah Vegetarian’s menu features the freshest fruits and vegetables from local farms instead of heavy sauces and substitutions. Web: milahvegetarian.com

New Harmony Vegetarian Restaurant

135 N. 9th Street, 215-627-4520. ($$) Harmony is a smoke-free restaurant, offering over 100 items on its menu. We use soy products, wheat gluten and vegetables in our creations. Web: myspace.com/ newharmony

SaladWorks

907 Race Street, 215-627-8883. ($) Saturday lunch at Pho Xe Lua in Chinatown puts you in the company enormous platters of Vietnamese food (there are also some Thai options). Service is brisk, as the waiters serve up raw fresh flank steak with lime juice, sautéed chicken with lemongrass on rice, snails with coconut and basil, and grilled pork balls on vermicelli.

Vietnam Cafe

Vietnam Palace

222 N. 11th Street, 215-5929596. ($$) Casual Vietnamese dining seven days a week. Located in Chinatown. Banquet facilities for parties up to 100. Full bar available. Web: vietnampalace.net

Vietnam Restaurant

221 N. 11th Street, 215-5921163. ($$) This Vietnamese restaurant in Chinatown prepares all meals with care. The portions are generous and the prices are excellent. Web: eatatvietnam.com/ vietnam_restaurant.php

P age

Pad Thai

4006 Chestnut Street, 215-3878533. ($$) Tradition thai menu as well as foods like Rack of Lamb, Alligator and Venison. Each dish is made with the finest and freshest ingredients and our restaurant is located conveniently one block from the Cinema in University city. Web: pattayarestaurant.com (Please see our ad, Page 20)

34TH STREET Magazine March 28, 2012

3630 Lancaster Avenue, 215-2228042. ($$) Features imaginative dishes, such as Evil Jungle Princess, Swimming Rama and Young Girl on Fire, and an extensive vegetarian menu. Also some fabulous desserts, such as mango with sticky rice and fried banana. Web: lemongrassphila. com

Pattaya Grill

Dining Guide

available upstairs.

DINING GUIDE

PAGE 44 F RIDAY, O CTOBER 21, 2005

T HE D AILY P ENNSYLVANIAN

If you want a great dining experience, Square meals are just the beginning. stay inside the Square.

Great food to match your mood. Over 40 choices on the Penn campus.

www.universitysquare.biz

Shop. Dine.of Meet. Penn’s campus has a wide variety restaurants to choose from, all within walking distance of your dorm or apartment.

Ajia Japanese Restaurant • Auntie Anne’s • Beijing Restaurant • Ben & Jerry’s • Bubble House • Bucks County Coffee Co. • Cavanaugh’s Restaurant • Cereality • College Buffet • College Pizza • Cosi • Dunkin’ Donuts • Ecco Qui • Fatou & Fama • FreshGrocer Cafe Citta Pizzeria Jimmy Saxby’s • GiaArtisserie Pronto •Choc Greek Lady • Han-Wool Restaurant & Sushi Bar John’s • Intermezzo Cafe Penne • Izzy Restaurant & Zoe’s • La Terrasse • Mad 4 Mex • Mar Bar Avril 50

City Tap House

Kiwi Yogurt

Picnic

Smokey Joe’s

• Marathon Bakery • New Deck Tavern Fish HousePizza • Oriental Gourmet • PennCoffee Bookstore Cafe Au Bon Grill Pain • MetropolitanCosi Mad•4O’Hara’s Mex Hut/Taco Bell • Pallet Starbucks Auntie Anne’s & Wine Bar Distrito Sweetgreen • Penne Restaurant • Philly Diner • Picnic • Mediterranean Pizza Rustica Café Restaurant Pizza & BarRustica • Pod • Qdoba Mexican Grill • Salad Works •

Baby Blues BBQ Drinker’s West Metropolitan Bakery Pod T-Bowl Beijing Restaurant Dunkin’ Donuts Nan Modern Food Potbelly Sandwich Thai Singha House www.universitysquare.biz Ben & Jerry’s Fresh Grocer New Deck Tavern Qdoba Mexican Grill Wawa Shop. Dine. Meet. Bobby’s Burger Palace Gia Pronto New Delhi Quiznos Sub White Dog Cafe Capogiro Gelato Greek Lady The Pastry Shop Restaurant School Won Oriental Cavanaugh’s Han Wool Pattaya Grill Saladworks WorldCounty Cafe Live Ajia Japanese Restaurant • Auntie Anne’s • Beijing Restaurant • Ben & Jerry’s • Bubble House • Bucks Coffee Co. • Hummus Penn Bookstore Cafe SangKee Chipotle

Smokey’s Joe’s • Starbucks Coffee • Tony Luke’s • Thai Singha House • WaWa • White Dog Cafe • Won’s Oriental • World Cafe Live

Cavanaugh’s Restaurant • Cereality • College Buffet • College Pizza • Cosi • Dunkin’ Donuts • Ecco Qui • Fatou & Fama • FreshGrocer • Gia Pronto • Greek Lady • Han-Wool Restaurant & Sushi Bar • Intermezzo Cafe • Izzy & Zoe’s • La Terrasse • Mad 4 Mex • Mar Bar For a complete list of retail establishments in University Square, visit www.ucnet.com/universitysquare

• Marathon Grill • Metropolitan Bakery • New Deck Tavern • O’Hara’s Fish House • Oriental Gourmet • Pallet • Penn Bookstore Cafe • Penne Restaurant & Wine Bar • Philly Diner • Picnic • Pizza Rustica Restaurant & Bar • Pod • Qdoba Mexican Grill • Salad Works • Smokey’s Joe’s • Starbucks Coffee • Tony Luke’s • Thai Singha House • WaWa • White Dog Cafe • Won’s Oriental • World Cafe Live