City Cast Philly

It's the Friday News Roundup, where host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz catch you up on the news of the week, including: How threats by Philly law enforcement officials to arrest ICE officers led a state senator to call the whole city a “shithole,” why Philly's new bus terminal is really just a temporary one, and what has prompted a series of shootings involving tow truck drivers.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Police probe 3 killings allegedly tied to Philadelphia tow company Mayor Cherelle L. Parker Signs Bill to Fund Revitalization of Interim Intercity Bus Facility at 1001 Filbert Street​ Philly bus terminal moving forward on Filbert Street ‘We will arrest you': District attorney, sheriff double down on warnings to arrest ICE agents in Philly Lawmakers warn Philly officials against prosecuting ICE agents: 'That's not how America works' Suffs Is the Perfect Musical for This Moment How To Celebrate MLK Day 2026 in Philly Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Whether you're an out-of-towner or lifelong Philadelphian, you have probably visited South Street to see your favorite band at the TLA, grab a citywide, or eat a cheesesteak at Jim's. We're revisiting the second part of our series on this iconic street diving into what has drawn people to it for centuries: Entertainment. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with legendary Philly DJ Cosmo Baker, Philly Jazz Legacy Project consulting archivist Jack McCarthy, Bob & Barbara's owner Jack Prince, author David Bradley (whose book South Street is republishing next year), and Odunde CEO Bumi Fernandez-West.  This episode originally aired on Sept. 9th, 2025. You can find the whole series in the podcast feed.  What's your favorite South Street memory? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

On last week's Wednesday politics episode, we heard criticism about a decades-long tradition in city government called “councilmanic prerogative.” This power enables our ten district City Council members to greenlight or stop projects on city-owned land in their districts – and get the final say on zoning changes. Councilmember Jeffery Young, Jr. has become a focus of criticism because he refused to allow the reconstruction of the dilapidated Cecil B. Moore Library to move forward. He's here to defend the practice – and his vision for the library. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philly has no shortage of after-hours events, but it can be tricky to find alcohol-free spaces—especially affordable ones. So whether you're giving dry January a try, or you've been sober for years, there's plenty of fun events - minus the booze - here in the city. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by senior producer Abby Fritz and newsletter editor Siani Colón to give recommendations for the best cheap, late-night, and spirit-free activities.  Here's the episode with Bar Palmina, the only non-alcoholic bar in Philly, and the First Friday guide.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's trash day, and it's windy. The result? Recycling strewn all over your block, milk cartons and Amazon boxes and cans of soup tumbling around on the curb and sidewalk. What's up with how we pick up trash, or don't, in our city? Why do windy recycling days make our streets look so gross? And isn't there a better way? Our guest Nic Esposito, who once served as the city's zero waste and litter director, tells host Trenae Nuri how we can be doing all of this better. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup. We're talking about Gov. Josh Shapiro announcing his run for reelection against presumptive Republican nominee Stacy Garrity. Also, a man died in police custody in Mayfair and the city is cracking down on scalpers selling restaurant reservations. Plus: Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz dish on Marc Vetri's latest cookbook and the Eagles' playoff run.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Garrity campaign tries to walk back election denial  Josh Shapiro's reelection campaign in Pennsylvania starts now — but 2028 looms large Pa. State Sen. Doug Mastriano won't run for governor again in 2026, after months of teasing a potential campaign launch Philly expands outdoor dining and cracks down on ‘reservation scalpers' ahead of expected 2026 tourism Philly is trying to crack down on reservation scalpers Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Heinz History Center The Frick PA Preferred Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We love South Street here at City Cast Philly. Today we're revisiting part one of our series looking at the history and influence of South Street, from the Schuylkill to the Delaware Rivers. These blocks are resilient — surviving riots, fights for human dignity, and near demolition by city planners. And these blocks are lively — art and music has kept this corridor brimming with creativity going back to the very beginning. Last September host Trenae Nuri interviewed political scientist Richardson Dilworth, journalist Dan Biddle, and Selena Austin of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania to explain the street's storied past. We also use archival tape from the Philadelphia Department of Records. This episode originally aired on Sept. 8th, 2025. You can find all three-parts of the series in the podcast feed.  What's your South Street memory? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Heinz History Center The Frick PA Preferred Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's Wednesday, so we're talking politics and the peculiar Philly political practice known as  “councilmanic prerogative.” It's an unwritten rule here in Philly that basically gives district councilmembers a lot of power. They can greenlight new developments or bring projects to a complete stop. Over in North Philly, there's tension between Councilmember Jeffrey “Jay” Young, Jr. and some community members over his use of councilmanic prerogative to block the long-planned reconstruction of the Cecil B. Moore Library. Daniel Pearson, columnist at The Philadelphia Inquirer, joins us to discuss both the library issue and this nuance in city politics.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  PA Preferred Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

What can we expect for Philly in 2026? Will council members end their honeymoon with the mayor? Where will an AI data center open? And how many cheesesteak shops will open? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by the City Cast Philly team, executive producer Matt Katz, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón to drop our predictions for politics, food, and city life.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: PA Preferred  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Nobody understands a city's pulse quite like a City Cast host — and that makes them the best predictors for 2026's biggest local stories. City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri joins CEO David Plotz and the other 12 hosts from across the network to talk about the big changes coming to our cities, from political shifts to data centers. Get more Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: ⁠Hey Philly⁠ Call or text us: ⁠215-259-8170⁠ We're also on Instagram: ⁠@citycastphilly⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this January 5th episode: ⁠PA Preferred⁠ Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Happy New Year! We're excited to welcome 2026 as the city begins to light up with so many big events. In this episode, you'll hear our best tips for enjoying January, plus where to swing in a heated golf bay, eat a cheap "girl dinner," and learn about Philly's long list of firsts. And if you love Siani's idea for swapping out your clothes, don't miss our recent episode about the best thrift stores in Philly. For even more tips on how to make the most of January in Philly, check out our newsletter's take on what to do this month. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Philly community. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Simply Eloped. And we're also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Philly. Get more Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

In the mood for dessert? We've got the best spots for cinnamon rolls, cannolis, cookies, cakes, and more. Join host Trenae Nuri in conversation with food journalists for The Infatuation Philadelphia, Candis McLean and Alison Kessler.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Planning a trip to Philly or have guests visiting from out of town? Look no further for recommendations than this episode as the City Cast Philly team (host Trenae Nuri, producer Abby Fritz, newsletter editor Siani Colón, and executive producer Matt Katz) give nothing but the best recommendations for must-do experiences, restaurants, and hidden gems in the city. What do you recommend visitors see and eat in Philly? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 To listen to our series on South Street that Trenae mentioned, our four episodes are here, here, here, and here. And here is our show on Carpenters' Hall. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

What happened to burgers in this town? You used to be able to get a great burger for $10,  maybe $15. Now we've got $25-plus burgers everywhere. So host Trenae Nuri talks with food contributor Alisha Miranda about 11 spots in Philly where we can still find great burgers (and fries, of course) for $20 or less.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philly has a big 2026 with major events such as the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and celebrations for America's semiquincentennial. And big events mean more tourists coming through Philly, especially through our airport. But Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) was just ranked dead last for the fifth year in a row in customer satisfaction. Host Trenae Nuri chats with Siani Colon, our newsletter editor, about whether that ranking rings true to Philadelphians and what PHL is doing to fix itself up before a big year of tourism.  Your thoughts on PHL? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped   Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup! We're talking about wrapping up 2025 with the fewest homicides in decades. There's a new drug on our streets that's overwhelming our hospitals. And we're going to laugh off some of the biggest stories of the year. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz also dish about their favorite City Cast episodes of 2025.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  A Powerful New Drug Is Creating a ‘Withdrawal Crisis' in Philadelphia Celebrating Progress and Shaping Philadelphia's Future 10-year-old boy burned in Philadelphia plane crash returns home: "It's a miracle" A hidden alley could become a key walking path in Old City for 2026 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Hotels aren't just a place for your friends and family to stay during the holidays. In Philly they're also places to start toasting the new year, right now. Back in September host Trenae Nuri sat down with City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda to talk about the best hotel bars in our city.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Last week we saw a political fight erupt over Mayor Cherelle Parker's signature proposal — the H.O.M.E. initiative, a $2 billion plan to create and preserve 30,000 units of housing. In a 16-1 vote, City Council amended the first phase of the mayor's plan in order to lower the income thresholds for Philly renters and homeowners who would benefit from this, making more lower-income Philadelphians eligible for government aid to fix up their homes and make houses handicap accessible. But the mayor was not happy with Council changing her plan. She wants to prioritize Philadelphians with somewhat higher incomes in the first year of her housing initiative. On today's show host Trenae Nuri talks with Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who helped to lead the charge to change the mayor's plan, about why she thinks City Council's amendment was a victory for Philly. And then we get some analysis about what's really going on in City Hall from our politics contributor, Lauren Vidas.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. If you enjoyed this interview with Janessa White, the Director & General Manager of Simply Eloped, learn more here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philadelphia makes beautiful music. From intimate shows at Time and MilkBoy to large crowds at The Fillmore and the Met, Philly's live music scene is unmatched. This past year, soul music in Philly really stood out. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Toya Haynes, editor of Philly Soul Now, who has curated the ultimate playlist of the best Philly soul music of 2025. They talk about the artists defining the sound right now, the venues shaping the culture, and why everyone's band has someone from Philly. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

As the year draws to a close, our food contributor Alisha Miranda joins us to break down the year that was in restaurants and bars with host Trenae Nuri. What were the trends we observed? What were the highlights from 2025? What are we happy to leave behind (looking at you, QR-coded menus)?  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

On today's Friday News Roundup, host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk about how the mayor and council are throwing punches over the city's big plan to create and fix 30,000 units of housing, why youth football players from Philly got arrested down in Florida, and where the Rocky statue is moving.   Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  8 members of Philly youth football team face felony charges in Florida Philly coach speaks out after teen players arrested in Florida for stealing Philly Council votes against Mayor Parker's vision for her signature housing plan, signaling a win for progressives Does the Rocky statue really get twice as many visitors as the Liberty Bell? Yes, but ...  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Happy holidays! Hanukkah starts Sunday night and Christmas is just around the bend, so we've got the Phillyiest gift guide for you. But the stakes are high because the City Cast Philly team is doing our own version of a white elephant gift exchange. Listen to get gift ideas and to find out what host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón win (or don't win). Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Simply Eloped Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

State Senator Vincent Hughes, representing Philadelphia in the legislature since the mid-1980s, joins host Trenae Nuri for our weekly Wednesday politics show to talk about his bill to ban students from using phones in schools (⁠which advanced yesterday to a vote in the senate⁠), a new law to prevent discrimination based on hair (which was signed into law last month), and the reasons why SEPTA still needs more money (despite the recent bailouts) .  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: ⁠Hey Philly⁠ Call or text us: ⁠215-259-8170⁠ We're also on Instagram: ⁠@citycastphilly⁠ You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Simply Eloped⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Aura Frames⁠ - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise

In six months the world's eyes will be on us. Philly is hosting six matches of the FIFA World Cup soccer tournament, the most-watched sporting event in the world. And we just found out which countries will be playing here at Lincoln Financial Field come June. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Meg Kane, host city executive and CEO for Philadelphia Soccer 2026, to talk about the rise of soccer in Philly and why hosting the World Cup is a game-changer for Philly.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Simply Eloped⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST ⁠Aura Frames⁠ - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise

Bike lanes continue to be a point of controversy on our city streets. More bike lanes are popping up in our neighborhoods, but activists want a bigger citywide network for cyclists – and they want the bike lanes protected to help prevent more injuries and deaths. In the latest installment of our occasional series, “Whose Streets,” host Trenae Nuri gets the latest on biking in the city — from City Hall to Fairmount Park to the Pine/Spruce Street corridor — with Dave Talone, organizer with Philly Bike Action. Have any experiences biking in the city or sharing the road with cyclists? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz discuss the news of the week, from the split between Mayor Parker and City Council over her big housing initiative to the pending arrival of driverless cars on the streets of Philly to the deplorable egging of an Eagles coach's home.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  City Council took a rare stand against Mayor Parker by allotting more housing funds to the poorest Philadelphians Restaurateurs call for expanded sidewalk dining ahead of 2026 tourism surge A man died driving on Northwest Philly's winding, wet roads. The neighborhood has tried addressing the danger for decades. A Philadelphia police officer critically injured in a motorcycle crash six years ago has died Waymo eyes Philadelphia expansion Self-driving car company Waymo officially expands to Philadelphia, has started letting cars drive themselves Police confirm Kevin Patullo's home was egged over weekend Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the end of the year and our wallets are getting thin. To save on those last-minute gifts, thrifting could be your answer. Host Trenae Nuri chats with producer Abby Fritz and newsletter editor Siani Colón about the secondhand options Philly has to offer. Plus, where to find local high-end consignment and vintage furniture.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Pennsylvania politics were pretty messy this year. Pennsylvanians waited 135 days for Harrisburg to pass a budget. Philly nonprofits had to cut back on services, and school districts took out loans just to pay the bills. Moving forward, how do we make government work? In our weekly politics episode, host Trenae Nuri talks with State Senator Anthony H. Williams, who represents parts of Philadelphia and Delaware Counties, to talk about ways to get more money flowing into the Commonwealth and his goal to withhold paychecks from legislators during budget stalemates.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Dining out involves more than the food on your plate. It's also about the experience of being in a different – and hopefully beautiful and comfortable – space. Host Trenae Nuri gives us a tour of the best designed restaurants and bars in Philly, and why our food contributor Alisha Miranda loves them.  Where do you love to eat? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Fairmount Park Conservancy Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's getting cold outside, but the City Cast Philly team is highlighting plenty of events to warm your hearts this month. We discuss classic Philly winter activities like the Wanamaker Light Show and the Morris Arboretum's Holiday Garden Railway. Plus, a "Diva Worship" New Year's Eve party and how to give back to your community. And if you still need to pick up some holiday gifts, there are plenty of local markets to help you check off your lists.  For even more tips on how to make the most of December in Philly, check out Hey Philly's take on what to do this month.  If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Philly community. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Penn Live Arts and  Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. And we're also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Philly. Get more Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Join City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri alongside fellow hosts from Austin, Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities for a special episode that'll help you knock out your holiday shopping early and support small businesses around the country. From a handlebar mount (and app!) that'll turn your phone into a bike cam, to a mustard-of-the-month subscription box, our hosts are here to tell the stories of local businesses in their cities making cool stuff that you can order online right now.  Visit our website to find the full list of recommendations with links for holiday shopping! Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

If you see a restaurant you want to try and your friends are dragging their feet to make a reservation, just dine solo. If you're looking to get into a book and not a conversation, just dine solo. If you're new to the city, just dine solo! But, where do you sit, should you get a table or bar stool, and what are the best days of the week to dine by yourself? Host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda break down the etiquette and dish on the best bars and restaurants to eat solo.  What are your favorite solo-dining spots? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Your holiday gifts are on the stoop…and now they're gone. Stolen, just like your Halloween costumes, groceries, and laundry detergent. Package theft is rampant in Philly, so host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz to discuss both the horror stories and the ways to keep your boxes away from porch pirates. Do you have stories about package theft? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We're back with our Friday News Roundup, as host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz dissect the week that was: Mayor Parker's signature housing initiative is on ice, Sen. John Fetterman is home from the hospital and back to selling (or not selling) his book, the restaurant Laurel won a Michelin nod but then closed, and restaurateur Stephen Starr got snubbed by the Michelin Guide and then critiqued by Inquirer restaurant critic, Craig Laban, for his new Rittenhouse Square spot, Borromoni.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  One of Philadelphia's Michelin-recommended restaurants will be closing for good on Friday Stephen Starr's Borromini should be a showstopper. Instead, it's a shrug. John Fetterman's Memoir Is As Low-Effort As His Senate Tenure Legislation would let City Council members stay in office while running for Congress   Funding for Mayor Cherelle Parker's H.O.M.E. initiative will be delayed until next year Philly Housing Authority plans to lay off almost 300 workers in 2026 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Art Star Simply Eloped  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Three stars for Philly! The international Michelin Guide for the first time has rated restaurants in our city, and in a gala at the Kimmel Center this week, the winners were announced. Three Philadelphia restaurants won a single Michelin star each, ten more moderately priced spots were awarded a Bib Gourmand, and 21 additional places were recognized as recommended destinations. Who won? Who got snubbed? Who won but shouldn't have? And what does this all mean for Philly's restaurant scene? Host Trenae Nuri, producer Abby Fritz, and executive producer Matt Katz dig in.  Read the full Michelin Guide here.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: University of Pennsylvania Art Star Simply Eloped  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Wednesday politics show. Last week the Parker administration announced that the city is scrapping a longstanding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative that mandates a certain percentage of government contracts go to minority, women, or disabled-owned businesses. That prompted criticism. But yesterday, Mayor Parker held a press conference detailing a new plan for contracting with businesses that she describes as a "DEI model of the future." Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Anna Orso, City Hall reporter for The Inquirer, to explain this developing story on the future of DEI in city government. Read Anna's reporting here.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Art Star Simply Eloped  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertisew and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Art Star Simply Eloped  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Do you have friends or family coming in for the holidays? Do they need a place to stay … that isn't the couch in your living room? Fortunately, we're seeing a boom in boutique hotels around the city. Today we're revisiting host Trenae Nuri's conversation with co-owners Scott Yesner and Wendell Holland of The Gas Lamp Hotel in Old City. Other newish boutique hotels in the city include Yowie and Society Hill Hotel in Queen Village, The Dwight D Hotel and The Franklin in Rittenhouse, Hotel Anna & Bel in Fishtown, Riversuites on the Delaware River, Guild House Hotel in the Gayborhood, Morris House Hotel by Washington Square Park, and Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns in University City. This episode originally aired on May 6th, 2025. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: University of Pennsylvania Art Star Simply Eloped Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

There's something special about West Philly, especially along Baltimore Avenue. It runs through neighborhoods like Spruce Hill and Cedar Park, with beloved coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and bookstores. But some things are changing. Freelance writer (and events newsletter writer) Jen Kinney points out that storefronts are staying empty longer and vape shops are replacing neighborhood favorites. What does that tell us about changing Philadelphia? Read Jen's article in Philadelphia Magazine here. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Art Star Simply Eloped  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup. We're talking about what's inside the new state budget, Pennsylvania politics down at the U.S. Capitol, Mayor Cherelle Parker getting rid of diversity requirements for city contracts, the former Philadelphia Art Museum CEO is suing over her termination, the death of the penny, and where a new red light camera is located. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz also talk about ideas for the future of Market East.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Pennsylvania's top leaders have reached a $50.1 billion state budget deal, signaling a breakthrough in impasse Fetterman calls Shapiro too driven by "political ambition" in new book ‘We have set money on fire': Pennsylvania budget impasse costs Philadelphia school district millions Philly-area U.S. House members express displeasure over Senate deal to reopen federal government Philadelphia is halting the use of some diversity targets in city contracts as national DEI backlash grows Recently Ousted Director of Philadelphia Art Museum Sues Over Her Dismissal Philly and the penny have a history; here are 8 things you should know I have an idea for Market East! Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly And don't forget—you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: University of Pennsylvania Fitler Club Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Times are tough, Philly. But you can still get out and have an excellent meal for cheap. Host Trenae Nuri and our City Cast Philly food contributor, Alisha Miranda, show you how to eat in Philly for $25 or less. Listen with the Notes app on your phone open, because there are a ton of recommendations in this show.  Where are you eating for cheap? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 For more food news and recs, subscribe to our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Hundreds of commuters rely on SEPTA, but it's been battling challenges at every turn. The transit agency faces a federal deadline to inspect its fleet of Regional Rail cars, which have repeatedly caught fire. The labor contract with its largest employees union has expired. And long-term funding needs are still unfilled by the state legislature. But Scott Sauer, general manager of SEPTA, tells host Trenae Nuri that the transit agency is “going to be okay.” Sauer explains the latest with the inspections, shares his plans for 2026 tourism, and offers a vision for the agency going forward. How's your commute? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: University of Pennsylvania Fitler Club Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

For the last decade, researcher Chris Gibbons has worked to identify each and every person from the storied Roman Catholic High School who died in World War I. Why? For Veterans Day, Trenae Nuri revisits her conversation with Gibbons about the men who fought and died in a now largely forgotten war, and why it's so important to commemorate their sacrifices.  This episode originally aired on April 10, 2025.  Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise