Discover the Best Local Flavors: Northeast Times Spotlight on Participating Restaurants at the Food Fest!

Five local eateries were part of the recent Pepsi Philly Eats Fest on October 4, held at Eakins Oval. The festival was a feast for the senses, showcasing delicious food and lively entertainment.

The Local Favorites:

• Cafe Carmela offered fried mozzarella, meatball sandwiches, and tiramisu.
• Three Monkeys Cafe featured smoked wings, cheesesteak egg rolls, and a smashing burger.
• Chickie’s & Pete’s served their iconic crab fries and tenders.
• Rocco’s Italian Sausage delighted guests with Italian sausage sandwiches.
• The Flavor Spot presented “swicy” jerk chicken sliders and loaded jerk fries.

These restaurants were chosen for the fest because they offer Pepsi products, making them a perfect fit for the event.

A Star-Studded Lineup:
The festival also brought in entertainment from hip-hop duo Clipse, R&B artist Ari Lennox, and rapper Freeway. Attendees enjoyed various activities, including cornhole and a football toss, creating a fun atmosphere for families.

Community Support:
Pepsi made a significant impact by donating $150,000—$10,000 each to the restaurants involved, along with a few others. This contribution is part of Pepsi’s ongoing effort to support local businesses.

Cafe Carmela’s Growth:
Leading up to the event, Cafe Carmela hosted a VIP preview, serving up dishes like cheesesteaks and pizza. Owner Joe Maglio emphasized the warmth of his family-run restaurant, aiming to create a cozy dining experience where customers feel at home.

The Bigger Picture:
This event highlights a growing trend of community-centered festivals supporting local businesses. According to a recent survey, 70% of people prefer dining at local restaurants over chains. Events like the Pepsi Philly Eats Fest not only showcase local culinary talent but also strengthen community bonds.

In the words of Joe Maglio, “It really is a family affair.” With each dish and donation, local eateries continue to play an essential role in their neighborhoods, one delicious bite at a time.

For more about how festivals like this impact local economies, check out The Conference Board’s report on small businesses.

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