My trip to Philadelphia was both a culinary and literary experience.

When I’m at home in the Lou, I more often than not eat at chains when I eat out.  Sad, I know.  But when I’m out of town, I eschew chain establishments for local fare.  Well, the local fare in Philly did not disappoint.

I met up with a friend at Pop’s Diner, and it was delightful.

I don’t eat gluten, but I was able to eat this delicacy dreamed up by the Pop’s chefs.  It clearly was dessert, but it masqueraded as a breakast item.  Mmmmm.

French toast, made with gluten-free bread, covered in cinnamon sauce, cream cheese frosting, and bananas foster is nobody’s healthy breakfast, but it was my delicious dinner that night.  That is until I had to go to a different establishment to purchase a salad and atone for my sins.

The next day I decided to lunch at Champs Diner.

Did you know a Philly Cheesesteak Omelet with home fries was a thing?  I didn’t either, but I certainly approve.

But you’re wondering how did my reading go.  It went very well.  The moderator was the only person there for the reading, but she legitimately loved it.  She wasn’t just being nice for the sake of being nice.  Fortunately, I didn’t think anyone was going to come, so when only one person did, I wasn’t disappointed; I was happy to share with the one who had a sincere interest.

All in all, it was a great experience – I met up with a friend I haven’t seen in over 30 years, I ate some really decadent food, and I stuck my toe into the literary deep end.

I dare say I took Philadelphia by storm.