⚖️ DOJ investigates Philly police

What To Expect at Philadelphia Stadium

The Linc has a new name and look for the duration of the World Cup, which kicks off today in Mexico. Among the temporary changes are sensory rooms, a special bridge to hold 70 miles of cable for the games’ broadcasts, and a Kentucky bluegrass soccer pitch. And if you’re headed down to the stadium on SEPTA, you may notice new signage, lighting, and infrastructure set up before Philly’s first game on Sunday. [Axios, SEPTA]

• Related: If you’re preparing for the World Cup at the last minute, here’s how to get around and see the game. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

Will This Dem Chairman Serve an 11th Term?

While Pennsylvania Democrats recently rebranded to try to usher in a new era, party politics in Philly look the same as usual. This week’s ward elections empowered new faces, with progressives winning leadership positions in six wards, but Democratic Party Chairman Bob Brady is poised to keep his seat, cementing the old guard’s control – for now. [PA Dems, 🔒The Inquirer]

• Related: Councilmember Cindy Bass declared herself the winner of a ward election in a too-close-to-tell voice vote and denied requests for clarification, possibly violating party rules. The results are being challenged and that could trigger a redo of the election. [🔒The Inquirer]

Is Trump Admin Trying to Protect Black Activists’ Gun Rights?

The Department of Justice is looking into whether the Philadelphia Police had “good cause” to rescind some residents’ permits to carry firearms. The investigation comes after police revoked the licenses of members of the Philadelphia chapter of the Black Panther Party for Intercommunal Solidarity (formerly known as Black Lion Party). [KYW, The Trace]

Whole Foods Expands to Fishtown

The grocery store will occupy the ground floor of a 40-unit apartment building at the corner of Frankford Avenue and Palmer Street. This will be the only major grocery chain in the neighborhood, as others are just outside in adjacent neighborhoods like Northern Liberties. [🔒 Philadelphia Business Journal]

• Related: Here’s how to get the best deals while grocery shopping. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

We understand the preference to beat the heat indoors. But on summer days when there’s not a cloud in the sky and there’s a light breeze, we should enjoy the sunshine. Several Philly restaurants, cafes, and bars offer expanded seating options during the warmer months so you can enjoy the fresh air and people-watch while savoring a delicious meal. Here are some recommendations.

Out West

5127 Walnut St.

Fuel up with Out West’s Korean fried chicken sausage sandwich or the Out West BLT — or build your own sammie. And kick back and relax out back on picnic tables and lounge chairs. The cafe just listed updated house specials, including (for the matcha lovers) desert rose matcha and matcha à la cherry.

Lucky Duck

501 N. Columbus Blvd.

What better place to shuck oysters than right along the Delaware River? This new addition to Philly’s dining scene, from the team behind Libertee Grounds, is providing the most scenic views of our waterfront and the Ben Franklin Bridge. Sit at either standard or high top tables and munch on chicken milanesa, tavern burgers, or duck bolognese. If you want an early meal, good news: Lucky Duck rolled out brunch options at the end of May.

Le Virtù

1927 Passyunk Ave.

This South Philly restaurant brings a taste of Southern Italy directly to your table. Le Virtù has a large patio with strung lights, lush foliage, and a mural celebrating Abruzzo that adds to the ambience. The menu changes seasonally, allowing guests an opportunity to try something new each visit. For now, check out the sformato, a savory flan-like dish; the pork involtini, for some protein; and a pistachio affogato at the end of your meal.

Sor Ynez

1800 N. American St., Unit G

If you’re a fan of seafood, try the pulpo tosada — octopus on a blue corn tortilla with refried beans and pico de gallo. Or try some tlacoyos, traditional street food made of blue masa cakes filled with refried beans, salsa verde, nopales, queso fresco, and radish. Wash it all down with a paloma. Be sure to stop by for a social dance and lessons on the second and fourth Fridays of the month. If you’re driving in, don’t worry about parking. There’s plenty.