It’s the most brutal time of year. (We’re lookin’ at you, Monday, with a high of 15 degrees.) We could all use a big dose of coziness in Philadelphia. Luckily, the Danish cultural practice of hygge has made its way to the City of Brotherly Love. If you’re new to the practice, hygge (pronounced hue’-guh) means “a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment.” Here are some of our favorite spots to warm up.
Dining & Drinking
The most obvious choice is Bar Hygge. After all, it’s in the name! Though it’s not a Danish restaurant, Chef Julie Kline offers a menu focused on comforting foods. Their signature Hygge Boards with protein bites, vegetarian delights, or delicious cheeses are all accompanied by locally made bread.
Of course, another option is European influenced. The Dandelion’s sitting room to the side of the bar offers plush seating and a brick fireplace. Find classics like Welsh rarebit, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, made-from-scratch puddings, and hearty family-style roasts.
The Twisted Tail’s Club Room has it all: fireplaces, chandeliers, TVs, and big leather couches. On top of that ambiance, they’re also serving up delicious Southern-inspired foods. Don’t skip out on their fried chicken, crab cakes, and beignets. Most importantly, sip on bourbon while enjoying live music acts on most nights of the week.
Sit at the sleek bar at Porta* and feel the heat of the roaring oven churning out delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas. The juxtaposition of this place makes it casual and inviting while being sophisticated enough for special occasions and date nights. Our cold-weather favorite is the Winter Betty with goat cheese béchamel, thyme, garlic, and brussels sprouts. To give you more warm-and-fuzzies, the restaurant donates $1 to the West Orange Scholarship Fund for every one of these pies, in honor of a beloved friend and fan, Betty Maddalena.
Out & About
Grab one of the adorable cabins at Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest to cozy up in between skate breaks. Get the best snacks available with a choice between Garces Catering or Chickie’s and Pete’s serving up their famous dishes.
This winter, escape the cold at Thirsty Dice in Fairmount. It’s Philly’s first board game cafe offering favorites like Monopoly, Scrabble, and checkers, as well as new releases. With dozens of games available, feel free to ask any staff member for personalized suggestions for your party.
Martha has a atmosphere where industrial chic meets cozy and rustic. Think of a large open space with high ceilings and a sizzling fireplace. With special events lined up each week, this Kensington destination is more than a restaurant and bar. It’s a warm neighborhood spot with friendly faces and thoughtful details.
Shopping
The perfect place to bring hygge into your home is a stop at Occasionette. With two locations on East Passyunk in South Philly and Haddon Avenue in Collingswood, there’s something cute and cozy for everyone. New selection of candles, decor, kitchenware, and body & body products are constantly being added.
Head to Manayunk and curl up at The Spiral Bookcase with a good read (and their resident cat). This eclectic shop offers exceptional service, offering to order titles you’re looking for if it’s not in store. They also have events such as a book club and moon manifestations.
For charming boho vibes, visit Never Too Spoiled boutique in Old City. From dreamcatchers to candles and accessories to artwork, they have everything to warm up your spirit. Visit them during special winter events with hot chocolate and cookies.
Moon + Arrow offers earthy, rustic vibes in their Queen Village boutique. They specialize in vintage, handmade, and apothecary items. Throughout the shop, there are natural elements like abundant foliage and fluffy sheepskin accents in the dressing room. Don’t forget to visit the neighboring Little Moon + Arrow boutique for the little ones.
Where do you go in Philly to keep warm and cozy? Share your hygge with us in the comments or on social media!
* Porta Philadelphia is a client of Philly PR Girl.
