If you're at all into Mexican food in Philly, you've probably noticed the absence of Xochitl--the amazing eatery in Head House Square. Don't fret, my dear. The restaurant closed temporarily for a renovation. And given the weather we've had as of late, that was probably a great idea. I can't imagine there's been much traffic for dining out lately.

Anyway, the good news is that Xochitl is back, with a new menu.  The look is cantina-meets-class, with exposed wooden beams and vintage movie posters in Spanish.  And like always, the food will be unparalleled. You'll have your pick from queso fundido (Chihuahua cheese with mushrooms), churros with hot chocolate and a breaded chicken cutlet sandwich that will make you forsake all others.

The food has always been some of the best from South of the border, but now a chic new look keeps things up to date and fresh.

It sounds mighty fine to me, thanks very much. And that's what you'll pay for the signature sandwich in Philly's newest lunch spot--Sampan (122 S. 13th Street).

The new restaurant is kicking off its lunch menu by offering a free pork bahn mi sandwich (accompanied by chips and a non-alcoholic drink) to all guests from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.

And if you want to try the rest of the menu--go ahead. It'll be available for order. That includes selections such as Vietnamese hoagies, noodles and salads.

This Sunday, February 28th at 9pm, Triumph Company of New Hope is presenting Barefoot Truth’s CD release party. With over 4.5 millions radio spins on internet radio "Pandora", Barefoot Truth's unbridled optimism has captured people around the world. Their new album "Threads" (out Feb 16th) is a testament to the band's upbeat music and unique live performance. This is a free show.

This Saturday, February 20^th, Triumph Brewing Company of New Hope is presenting Into the Void – A Black Sabbath tribute band.  Playing all the favorite Black Sabbath songs from the Ozzy era. Start time is 10pm cost is $5.

Vegetarians have it a lot easier now than they did years ago. Nearly every restaurant has SOMETHING that makes mouths happier. That said, Thoreau is working to make it even easier for herbivores. No, not the author of Walden, I'm talking about the new veggie-inspired restaurant on Spring Garden.

It's a classy little spot (read: table cloths!) that serves all meatless options. But don't think that translates to lots of tofu or seitan options. This place is all about giving you some vegetable and grain-laden entrees. And let me tell you, they are delicious. 

There's a mouth-watering mushroom risotto, one of my favorite veggie options on most menus. But if you're going, live it up a little and try something you wouldn't normally. For me, that meant the empanadas. The little doughy pockets fold with a satisfying crunch, revealing a molten interior of veggies and deliciousness. Circled around a tower of tomatoes, corn and avocado, it is more than enough food for two meals.

Another high note on the menu: Sliders. They aren't made from the predictable seitan or mushrooms, but are an inventive blend of ratatouille in basil pumpkin seed pesto.

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Avalon Restaurant, Victory Brewing and DiBruno Brothers are partnering up for Guided Beer & Cheese Dinner--a night of food, beer and cheese--at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 23.

There will be a selection from the famous DiBruno Brothers cheese cellar in each of the four courses. Bill Covaleski, brewmaster at Victory Brewing, will then pair each course with a brew from Victory. Brandt-Lee, Covaleski and DiBruno's Emilio Mignucci will mingle with guests and discuss the pairings during this fun, friendly, informal evening of indulging in food, cheese and beer. The event will be held at Avalon Restaurant, 312 S. High Street, West Chester.

Here's what you'll get if you go:

Amuse Bouche "Cravero" 24-month Aged Parmesan Reggiano, Nutmeg & Orange Gelato - Truffle Honey Beer pairing: Victory Lager

First Course Baked "Montchevre" Goat Cheese with Oven Roasted Tomatoes and Back Olive Crisps Beer Pairing: Helios Ale

Second Course Escargot with Caramelized Onion & Surchoix Cheese Agnolotti Beer Pairing: St. Victorious Doppelbock

Third Course Baltic Thunder Braised Beef ShortRibs Blu di Pecora Polenta Beer Pairing: Storm King Stout

Fourth Course Two Cheese Board with Delice de Bourgogne & Pecorino Toscano Accompanied by Fresh Fruit & Jams Beer Pairing: Golden Monkey

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The gourmet-market-and-wine spot is the latest endeavor from Chef Jose Garces--his sixth spot in Philly (1111 Locust Street, 215-574-1099).

But don't expect this to be the next Amada. Instead, GTC is a shop, a place to get the most amazing fromage to bring to your neighbor's wine and cheese party. Of course, there will also be take-out or eat-in dining, but that's not what makes this space unique. It'll be the flower shop, the bakery, private label olive oils and vinegars that keep you coming back for more.

“I want Garces Trading Company to be a first for Philadelphia: perfect for a quick bite or a casual meal at any time of day, from breakfast until night,” Garces says.

It's worth noting that this will be Pennsylvania's first boutique wine shop. You'll find labels not at your normal state store splayed out over the 200 red, white and sparkling wines.

Garces Trading Company will be open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. The full service cafe will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The Wine Shop will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 12 noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, or to make a reservation, call (215) 574-1099.

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My sweetie and I disagree on the best spot by us to get brunch. He argues for the affordable, fast diner that lacks charm. I push the snooty, but oh so delish place a few blocks farther away. I guess life is filled with compromises...

But we can both agree, especially on Valentine's day, that brunch at Jake's does the job. The food is good, the atmosphere is fun and we always leave with full bellies. The one downside: It's Manayunk location isn't super near us. That's OK, though, it's worth the drive.

If you're thinking about taking your significant other out for a nice morning meal, check out the menu. It features mimosas, egg white omlettes and carmalized apple French toast. Not a bad way to start the day, huh?

Big news! The Philly Craft Beer Festival is coming back. (It's OK to celebrate now!) It's a chance to sample all the flavors that make up the city, including local beers, imports and so, so much more. This is the kind of event that people--people like me--look forward to from the minute it ends. Fair warning: This always sells out. Always. Get your tickets early.

Here's what you need to know:

• When: March 6, 2010
• What: More than 50 brewers with more than 100 beers
• How much: $10-$60

If you haven't stopped in to Square 1682 yet, it's OK to blush. The restaurant is one of the city's hottest new spots. Fortunately for you, Valentine's day offers a great excuse to take a culinary peek. The restaurant is offering up a five-courses menu for $75 per person, and I promise you, it won't disappoint.

Here's what you'll savor: Click here to read the full post