The Newest Destination for Vegan Lovers: Charlie was a sinner

Are you back at Penn and already bored of the go-to University City restaurants?  Or are you missing your summer intern life of trying as many of the amazing NYC restaurants as you could fit into your busy schedule? I know I am. The good news is that the Philly restaurant scene is constantly growing, and a new vegan restaurant and bar just opened.

Charlie was a sinner is a hip little spot on the same street as some of Philly’s favorite restaurants (think Barbuzzo, Lolita and El Vez). Decorated with colorful animations playing against white curtains, the restaurant has a a unique ambience, great food and an amazing selection of cocktails. What more could we really ask for?

Photo by Thrillist.com

Most people immediately turn away at the word vegan. No meat plus no dairy equals no fun, right? Wrong. Unlike many other vegan restaurants, Charlie was a sinner makes vegetable centric dishes with imitation meats so you actually feel like you’re eating a real, filling meal. The bucatini “meatballs” and zucchini crab cakes tasted like the real things, and the vegan ricotta on toast bore no difference to real cheese. The confit potato cup, a must try, comes as a  thinly cut potato wrapped around a overflowing pile of deliciously seasoned mushrooms. I bet you thought vegan meant super healthy too? Wrong again. The chickpea fries, essentially thick cut fries made out of chickpeas instead of potatoes, are another necessity so good we ordered them twice. P.s. Since the restaurant serves small-style, almost tapas-like plates, you will definitely get a chance to try everything.

Photo from philly.thedrinknation.com

Now let’s focus on the drinks. Charlie was a sinner serves eight classic and 12 signature cocktails–definitely one for whatever you’re craving or whatever mood you’re in. The Pina Colada is refreshing and light, perfect for bringing back summer memories. The Bramble, which mixes Titos with juicy berries and a squeeze of lemon, is another sweet must try. Unfortunately, despite our love for Moscato and frozen grapes, the Hasty Tasty was underwhelming.

Regardless, if you want to go downtown for chic drinks, a fun date or delicious food (that meat lovers and vegans alike will love), Charlie was a sinner is definitely a winner (ha?).