Those feeling inspired to explore the streets of Philadelphia at a later date and follow in the footsteps of the ‘Fab Five’ for a makeover of their own, can pick up fresh produce like food and wine expert Antoni Porowski at two of Philadelphia’s historic markets or update their wardrobe at shopping hotspots like Queer Eye’s fashion expert Tan France. Visitors to the city can also expand their cultural knowledge with inspiration from presenter Karamo by marvelling at some of the over 4,000 murals across the city or search for unique furniture pieces at shops visited by Bobby Berk. Finally, those keen to book in a makeover during their time in the city are encouraged to visit one of the salons chosen by Queer Eye’s grooming expert, Jonathan Van Ness.
Here are the Fab Five’s key spots in Philadelphia:
Food with Antoni: Pick Up Fresh Produce at Philadelphia’s Historic Markets
Foodies can recreate the recipes shared by Queer Eye’s food and wine expert Antoni Porowski after shopping for fresh produce at Philadelphia’s famous markets, including Reading Terminal Market, which is one of America’s oldest and largest public markets. Antoni also heads to South Philadelphia to source ingredients from the 9th Street Italian Market, which is spread across approximately ten city blocks and is one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in America. Those looking for recipe inspiration should be sure to watch episode five, which sees Antoni cook a vegan meal inspired by chef Michael Solomonov’s famous twice-cooked eggplant from his James Beard Award-winning restaurant Zahav.
Fashion with Tan: Update Your Wardrobe at Boutique Shops
Several of Philadelphia’s shopping hotspots are visited by fashion expert Tan France during the fifth season of the show, including the King of Prussia Mall, which is the largest shopping mall by retail space in the US. Fashionistas eager to refresh their wardrobe can indulge in Philadelphia’s tax-free shopping on all clothes and shoes at Tan’s recommendations of Made and Maker, a woman-owned vintage boutique and gift shop in the trendy area of Fishtown, or head to the upmarket neighbourhood of Rittenhouse Square, which is famed for its boutiques such as Skirt. Also in Fishtown is the men’s clothing boutique of Franklin & Poe, which Tan visited to browse the ethically made clothing and goods.
Culture with Karamo: Marvel at Philadelphia’s Murals and Outdoor Art
From ballet to theatre to the orchestra and beyond, it’s no wonder Philadelphia is known as one of America’s best cities for cultural performances and art. Travellers eager to expand their cultural knowledge can learn about art spanning more than 2,000 years in history at the Philadelphia Museum of Art or follow in presenter Karamo Brown’s footsteps to marvel at some of the over 4,000 murals across the city. Those looking to refresh their body or mind during their time in Philadelphia should head to the peaceful spaces at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, or book in a class at old-school fitness gym Bodyrock Bootcamp, which was renovated during episode 10 by the Fab Five for owner Nate.
Interior Design with Bobby: Search For Furniture and Unique Antiques
Shoppers inspired to transform their home space after watching Queer Eye’s fifth season can purchase antique-yet-trendy furniture, art, vintage clothing, rugs, lamps and books like the programme’s interior design expert Bobby Berk at Jinxed Philadelphia, an antique furniture store in the neighbourhood of Port Richmond. For smaller items, Philadelphia’s historic and tree-lined stretch of Pine Street is regarded as Antique Row and home to a diverse mix of stores selling a wide variety of furniture, home accessories, jewellery, stained glass, clothing, and collectibles.
Grooming with Jonathan: Book In A Makeover or Holistic Treatment
Finally, Queer Eye viewers inspired by the incredible makeovers led by grooming expert Jonathan Van Ness can visit the Philadelphia salons featured in season five, including The Philadelphia Barber Company located in the trendy district of Northern Liberties. For holistic beauty treatments, the MOKO Organic Beauty Studio in Old City offers visitors organic skincare and haircare treatments and those looking for a highly-personalised consultation should be sure to visit Mockingbird Salon in the energetic and dynamic neighbourhood of East Passyunk, which is also home to kitschy boutiques, vintage stores and edgy bars.
