(The following is a special series on Bluejeanfoodcritic.com written by guest contributing writer William Knowles. He highlights his passions of of trying something new whenever the opportunity presents itself, or possibly something old, but new again since it has been a while. I hope you enjoy his very special perspective that I am sure many of you can relate to. Follow him on his exciting journey “Around Town”)
On Sunday, April 24th, I stopped by Waffles and Wedges at 1511 Pine Street in Center City Philly to attend a block party being thrown to celebrate the eatery’s one year in business. The owners and operators, Andrea Capecci and Laura Judy, entertained hundreds of guests during the course of the day with their unique food offerings, free beer and wine samples, and live entertainment.
The setting, along with a beautiful spring day, made for a great turnout. Patrons packed the street and shop to try the “Party Crasher” waffles, with icing and jimmies; the “PB&J”, a waffle with peanut butter and grape jelly; the “rEVOLution waffle” with banana, Nutella and fluff; and my favorite, the “Cookie Monster”, topped with Nilla wafers and Oreo’s. On the Wedges side, we had the “Taylor” (with pork roll and cheese) and the “Loaded” (bacon, cheese and sour cream with chives). For a dessert and potato lover like myself, these items hit the spot in a way I never experienced before. This is another example of using great creativity and imagination to liven up your everyday foods that we consume…
Two of the W&W food trucks were on hand, Pbons Fresh Food of Philly and Waffles on Wheels. Bassett’s Ice Cream provided free samples to everyone, as did Chadds Ford, PA based winery Ten Gallon Hat. Neshaminy Creek, Broken Goblet and Philadelphia Brewing Co. supplied their craft beer to any willing par takers. And another local fixture, Philly Fair Trade Roasters, sampled their different styles of coffee.
Waffles and Wedges did a great service, both for themselves and for patrons, by throwing this anniversary party. More local businesses should take similar steps to build their brand with such events. There is no doubt that many people stopped and tried their offerings who otherwise might not have, and like me, enjoyed what they had to give. See you next time, “around town”…
BlueJeanFood 