Felicia "sugar magnolia" D.'s Profile

The conversation is as stimulating as the selection at Wilbur Vintage -- owner Daniel has that rare talent of engaging customers and suggesting items without making you feel pressured to buy something, which is much appreciated.

The small shop brims with interesting womens' apparel -- Daniel has a good eye for items in quality fabrics that look as fashionable now as they did when they were constructed.  I bought a really unusual checked blouse in a lightweight wool here a few months ago -- the buttoned sleeves and high collar, along with the "Handmade in Scotland" tag really set the piece apart -- and the price was so fair, less than $20.

So many items, from a pair of 1930s hand-carved sandals that absolutely screamed "Myrna Loy vacationing in Tahiti," to the glass opal necklace ($9!) that I had to take home, tempted.  When I mentioned I was on the lookout for vintage clogs, Daniel said he'd keep his eyes peeled for them in his shopping expeditions.

Another highlight of the shopping experience here is Daniel's friends are often visiting, and spirited discussions ensue.  It's lovely to be treated like a person and not just a potential source of money.

If you believe street food is the essential expression of a culture -- or "Truth in Street Carts" -- then you have to hit up Maru Global.  Their takoyaki, which are tiny spheres of crepe batter stuffed with octopus, shrimp, cheesesteak, tofu, etc., have never before been seen in Philadelphia, and I only know of one place in NYC that griddles them up.

My fave here is the spicy octopus version, topped with spicy Kewpie mayo and bonito flakes that dance and sway atop the molten Maru balls. Like pancakes, french fries and crepes, these do not travel well -- I'd recommend snagging one of the little tables and eating in.  You can also pick up fun Japanese candies when you're done your meal, but the dessert chocolate Maru balls doused in whipped cream are a more decadent bet.

Not much atmosphere here -- but come on, it's street food!  Don't put des cartes before the horse.

Good spot to pick up a craft six-pack or a Belgian 25 oz. bottle to take to a party.  Less expensive than the Foodery, but don't go around asking the cashier mad weird beer questions, he's busy selling cigs, Fritos, and everything else to the Center City neighbors, drunk McGlinchey's patrons, and those ambitous homeless who buy 40s for underage kids in order to get theirs.