New Offerings: Le Virtù and Vernick Food and Drink

Photo: Kateri Likoudis

By Jacqueline Wasilczyk

South Philly Italian Le Virtù is adding to its dessert offerings with olive oil based recipes in an effort to not only return to its Abruzzese roots, but to provide some healthier options. Be on the lookout for options like a ricotta-walnut cake with caramelized pears, carrot cake with mascarpone vanilla bean frosting, gnocchi fritti and more on the menu ($9-12; 215-271-5626).

At Vernick Food & Drink in Rittenhouse Square, check out the new selection of mocktails and housemade sodas - expect flavors like fresh ginger and lime, raspberry and basil (served with a basil salted rim), a cucumber smash (lemon, mint, cucumber water and sugar) and the Vernick punch with fresh juices and house grenadine. Fun for kids and great for adults who want to feel refreshed without having to stumble home ($5-6 each).