Why I Love Philly - The Piazza at Schmidts

Built as part of a 28 acre revitalization project in Northern Liberties, The Piazza at Schmidts (and the Liberties Walk) is modeled after the Piazzas of Italy. If you've traveled abroad, you know the cozy feel of the boutique filled side streets and the open environment of the square itself. If you haven't, look no further. The idea of the Piazza was to create a walking neighborhood where the residents could meet all of their needs within 5 minutes. They've captured that and so much more.

In the open square there are well placed tables for dining, lounge chairs to relax and a beautiful garden which adds to the European ambiance. Many of the restaurants have outdoor cafe seating which is perfect for Fall in Philly. This past Friday night my husband and I sat outside at PYT where we enjoyed the couch/lounge dining table and the brisk autumn air as well as some great burgers. I particularly enjoyed my husband's BBQ burger with Blue Cheese and Bacon (which he didn't get to finish because I ate it). We are often found at Darling's Diner because they accommodate my picky eating and our vivacious almost three year old. And who could forget 1 Shot Coffee, the place with agoraphobic air conditioning? Serving me a decaf, fat free mocha (I told you I was picky) with wit and a smile is definitely a bonus.

Besides food (which is obviously my favorite subject), the small local boutiques and specialty shoppes of the Piazza continue to prove that the Piazza has it all. Children's clothing, artists and photography galleries, a gellateria, a magic shop, shoppes for corsettes, lingerie and more, there really is something for everyone. If all that isn't enough, the 26 x 16 LED high definition TV and the popular theme nights make the Piazza a great place to visit. You can still catch the remaining Phillies games (Take Me out to the Ball Game) or come for a Friday night market and movie setting (Friday Night Flea and a Movie) while the weather is still nice. Walk your dog, let your child run, come for a meal or come hang out. Whatever you do, make sure to visit at least once this fall. You won't be disappointed. At least, I never am.

Check out events at The Piazza at Schmidts at http://www.atthepiazza.com/events.html