🚍 SEPTA’s transit collapse is here

🚌 ​​SEPTA’s New Normal

Your morning commute probably looked different this morning. The first wave of SEPTA cuts went into effect yesterday, slashing service to several routes across the system. This is just the beginning of more disruptions and fare hikes to come but the writing has been on the wall for years. Alan Fisher, host of “The Armchair Urbanist,” joins us to dissect the funding fight between SEPTA and Harrisburg. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

🗳️ PA Rejects Federal Request for Voter Rolls

The U.S. Justice Department requested copies of voter rolls from several states, including Pennsylvania, that would include identifiable information such as Social Security and driver’s license numbers. It’s uncertain how much more the department will press the issue. [Votebeat]

🏗️ L&I Audit Finds Negligence, Unsafe Building

Philadelphians gave the Department of Licenses & Inspections the lowest approval rating in a recent survey conducted by the City Controller’s Office. The office now released an audit that found L&I was missing certifications and inspections, meaning it’s unclear whether work was being done by qualified people, among other issues. [📝 Hey Philly, 🔒 The Inquirer]

⚾ The Durantula Entrance Will Stay on Phillies Broadcast

We’re not saying bullying works, but it appears that Phillies fans put enough pressure on NBC Sports Philadelphia to make changes to their broadcast. Fans watching at home can now enjoy Jhoan Duran’s cool closer entrance from the comfort of their couches, despite previous network efforts to keep the iconic sequence off air. [On Pattinson]

🏢 Washington Square West To Get a “Taste of Rittenhouse”

The site of a former Wendy’s at 11th and Walnut Streets will soon undergo a transformation. Abrams Realty & Development is still finalizing details, but aims to construct an 11-story building with 75 apartments and retail space geared toward wellness amenities. [🔒 Philadelphia Business Journal]

Philadelphia has one of the hottest food scenes in the country — just ask Bon Appétit, which included not one but two Philly restaurants (Meetinghouse and My Loup) in its top 20 new restaurants of the year.

Since our culinary landscape is constantly growing and changing, we’re here to help you stay on top of it. Here’s a recap of some of the Philly restaurants, bars, cafés, and other food spots that have recently opened.

🍝 Borromini | 1805 Walnut St. (Rittenhouse)

The highly anticipated opening of Stephen Starr’s new restaurant is finally here. Borromini, the Italian restaurant taking over the former Barnes & Noble, includes meals like 100 layer lasagna, branzino, and lamb scottadito. Its wines feature selections from Italian regions.

🍻 Cormorant Corner Bar | 2301 Frankford Ave. (East Kensington)

As we begin to say goodbye to Say No More, JJ Bootleggers, and McGlinchey’s, we’re welcoming a new addition to Philly’s bar scene. Cormorant is swooping into the former location of Bob’s Happy Hour Tavern. Its drink menu includes signature cocktails like the banana negroni, coffee+cigarettes, and the high road. The bar is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day.

🍸 Sonny’s Cocktail Joint | 1508 South Street (Graduate Hospital)

First, there was a fire that forced Sonny’s Cocktail Joint (along with Wine Dive and Rabbit) to close in 2022. Then after three years, the bar made a triumphant return only to be damaged by a flood. After some time spent making repairs, Sonny’s is back again with its robust cocktail menu. And hopefully, a third reopening isn’t necessary.

🍛 Turmeric Indian Kitchen | 1240 Spring Garden St. (Callowhill)

Located at the site of the former Satay Bistro, Turmeric Indian Kitchen is spicing things up with meals such as turmeric lamb chops, fiery Bombay wings, and shrimp/fish tikka masala.