Your guide to Philly's diverse creative scene, nightlife, music, food & more
As soon as we heard about the upgrades at Keven Parker’s properties, we knew we had to check it out. A fabulous blend of plush, luxurious décor and soulful vibes, the Keven Parker brand definitely knows how to step the game up. In fact, it’s more like a movement and it’s adding some swag to South Street. Keven Parker’s not just an innovative business man, “he’s a business, man!”
Now that we’re done with the intro, let us break it down for you.
First, we have to brag about the food. The new menu is to die for! If you thought Ms. Tootsie's had it goin’ on before, just wait until you taste what they’re cookin’ up now. Here’s what chef Terrance Clark hooked us up with:
Appetizers
Pulled-Pork Slider – Slow-roasted for 5 hours, and served with a 5-spice blend secret barbeque sauce
Soul Rolls – Spring rolls filled with a slammin’ combo of chicken, candied yams and cabbage, served with a side of honey/nutmeg/ranch dressing
Ms. Tootsie’s Pops – Chicken wing drumettes (shaped like a Tootsie Roll pop), served with a side of sweet and tangy sauce
Entrées
Lobster Mac & Cheese – Enough said!
Bourbon-Braised Short Rib – Braised for 3 hours, and served over sweet potato hash
Parmesan Bread Crusted Lamb Chops – Delicious!
Insider tip: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a glass of their famous Tropical Blend Iced Tea. Mmm!
Wait…we’re not done yet. It gets even better once you go up the staircase. The Sky Bar, R&B Room, Luxe Lounge and Velvet Room are all decked out to impress. There are flat screens on just about every floor, and each room has its own chic décor. One thing we definitely loved throughout the space were the photos taken by renowned photographer Whitney Thomas. And, we especially loved the shots of Carol Riddick, Kindred the Family Soul, Musiq Soulchild, Jeff Bradshaw, Floetry and India.Arie in the R&B Room.
Insider tip: When you’ve got a hot date, make sure you request to be seated in the Love Lounge. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner with your boo.
We fell in love with Ms. Tootsie’s, and now we’re head over heels about KDP Lifestyle. Philly is full of unique shops and boutiques, but this one’s got its own flare. The home store is full of vintage finds from picture frames to lamps to sofas, all hand-picked by Keven. And, you’ll never see the same item twice.
In January of 2012, South Street will get a whole new look when the KDP Luxury Suites open up. Yes, Keven Parker and his team are putting the finishing touches on three lavish, extended stay suites right next door to Ms. Tootsie’s and KDP Lifestyle. As soon as we walked in to see the suites, we were ready to move in. One word—gorgeous!
Insider tip: These suites are strictly for the fabulous.
So, now that you’ve heard us rave about it, check it out for yourself. We know you’ll love the experience. Whether you're looking for the perfect spot for a night out with the girls, or just looking for some bangin' soul food, Ms. Tootsie's is always poppin'.
Ms. Tootsie's/KDP Lifestyle & Luxury Suites
1312 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
http://www.kevenparker.net/
EVENTS
Art Sanctuary Presents The 28th Annual Celebration of Black Writing May 21 - June 2 View festival schedule for location and times. The 28th Annual Celebration of Black Writing brings together noted journalists, writers and performance artists from across the U.S. for 13 days of literary discussions, workshops, film…
Curt Chambers Saturday, May 26 9:30pm Doors Open 10:00pm Show Starts The Legendary Dobbs 304 South Street $10 Entry Grammy-nominated songwriter, musician and artist - Curt Chambers - returns to his hometown to perform songs from his debut album One Way Ticket. He's hitting the stage at The Legendary…
The Fifth Annual Roots Picnic Satuday, June 2 & Sunday, June 3 Festival Pier at Penn's Landing Columbus Blvd & Spring Garden Street Philly, get ready as our favorite summer festival, The Roots Picnic returns for its fifth year - BIGGER and BETTER than ever before! For 2012, the…
Earth, Wind & Fire Friday, June 15 8 p.m. Academy of Music 230 South Broad Street The legendary Earth, Wind & Fire return to Philly to bring us a night of funk and fun! Catch the world-famous band as they hit the Academy of Music stage for a once-in-a-lifetime…