March is Women’s History Month, and we celebrate the many female leaders, pioneers, and professionals who have paved the way for our equality and our futures while earning their spot among some of the world’s most talented inventors, artists, and creators.
With our nation’s rich history of female leadership and ambitions, it is shocking that women only earned the right to own their businesses without a male co-signer just 36 short years ago via the Women’s Business Ownership Act. Although saddening, it is even more impressive to know that there are 40,906 women-owned businesses in Philadelphia alone.
While we celebrate the thousands of wonderful female business owners across the city this month, check out these ladies who are doing a phenomenal job in the restaurant industry! To round out the week, here are some of Philadelphia’s women-owned restaurants and establishments to visit this month!
Winnie’s Manayunk
(Photo Credit: Winnie’s Manayunk)
Our first stop takes us to Winnie’s Manayunk, a quaint brunch, lunch, and dinner spot perfect for any occasion! Named after owner and founder Winnie Clowry, who was raised in the restaurant industry, Winnie’s is rooted in the belief that anyone who walks through their doors is not only a guest but an “honored visitor in her home.” Try some of their brunch favorites, such as chicken and waffles, huevos rancheros, and creme brulee french toast!
Miss Rachel’s Pantry
(Photo Credit: Rachel Klien)
Located in South Philly, Miss Rachel’s Pantry is a vegan establishment owned by Chef Rachel Klien. The restaurant is run like a supper club where patrons can book their table in advance and arrive on the day off for a preset 5-course BYOB dinner in Rachel’s cozy and intimate dining room. The dining and reservation schedule for the Pantry’s upcoming dinners can be found here.
Mac Mart
(Photo Credit: Marti Lieberman)
In Winter 2013, Mac Mart owner Marti Lieberman took a chance and debuted her mac and cheese food truck on Drexel’s campus. After a few short years of growing a team and securing a storefront in Rittenhouse, Mac Mart was already catering to the likes of “Forbes, Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Wawa CEO and Executive team, to name a few.” With a rise to fame as impressive as this, you may want to check out their menu featuring classics like their “Not So Basic” classic mac and cheese topped with crispy bacon or try unique twists like their vegan “Jalapeño Popper” classic mac-infused with jalapeño oil and topped with house fried jalapeño popper dip.
HipCityVeg, Bar Bombón, and Charlie was a sinner
(Photo Credit: Nicole Marquis )
Our next shoutout goes to one woman who is girl bossing during EVERY month of the year, Nicole Marquis! Owner and founder of three of the city’s most famous 100% plant-based restaurants (2 listed in Food & Wine’s “50 Best Restaurants for Vegetarians in the United States”), Ms. Marquis is killing the game all year long! Marquis’ establishments include:
- HipCityVeg is a fast-food-inspired establishment featuring completely locally sourced plant-based ingredients. The menu includes vegan burgers, sandwiches, salads, and frozen treats.
- Bar Bombón is a Latin-inspired plant-based restaurant in Rittenhouse. It is known for its plant-based tapas and impressive tequila bar!
- Charlie was a sinner is Philadelphia’s renowned 100% vegan cocktail lounge. Known for its strong drinks and fun bites, Charlie was a sinner is the perfect spot for your next girl’s night out!
Brotherly Grub
(Photo Credit: Brotherly Grub )
Our final stop on this feminine culinary tour is Brotherly Grub! Years ago, Chef Tanesha Trippett left behind a finance job of 15+ years and began strengthening her business management skills at the prestigious Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania to open her food truck. With her food truck business booming and people yearning for her flavorful menu of Philly classics made with a Southern twist, it was no surprise when she expanded her business to include vending machines in 2018! These vending machines can be found at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Philly’s Love Park, so be sure to stop by one of them and try the winner of the “Best Cheesesteak 2023” Awards’ (Black and Mobile’s Black Chef Showdown) famous smoked brisket cheesesteak!
With so many great establishments and amazing women to celebrate this month, there is something for everyone. If you haven’t tried any of these restaurants yet, grab your friends and check them out!
