Choosing from the standard menu is boring. We sophisticated diners want special options, priority seating and custom pairings. Chef John Brandt-Lee of West Chester’s Avalon Restaurant wants his patrons to get the star treatment, and so has launched a new, non-traditional chef’s table that will surprise and satisfy.

Perfect with meals or alone, on a first date or a gals’ night out, beer is the beverage that brings people together. Approachable and easy to enjoy, there are also countless varieties and styles to keep every sip interesting. Stray from the mass-marketed stand-bys and head to one of these sud-soaked Philadelphia establishments to taste some of the truly tasty brews out there.

Restaurant weeks are more than trendy right now, but who are we to complain? Great dining rooms, delish menus and enough left over to jusify that Fall bag binge at KOP the next day. Win/win!

Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for some high-stakes blackjack, and our nearby buddy Atlantic City is always good for a midnight drive and some Texas Hold-Em. But when you are in the city and have some cash you need to burn, it’s all about SugarHouse Casino. Philadelphia’s first is just opened this week and has all the card games, slots and entertainment to keep you from traveling elsewhere.

Have you noticed that Philly seems a little more fashionable lately? The hot new Fall trends have something to do with it, but you can also thank the city’s most trendy boutiques and shops, which are currently in the midst of a 10-day fashion frenzy dubbed The Philadelphia Collection.

Jeans are every wardrobes classic go-to. Paired with a flirty top or work-ready blazer, they can complete any outfit and any look. But where denim earns points for flexibility, it can cause issues for the uneducated buyer. Do you look best in bootcuts or boyfriends? Dark wash or distressed? Next time you add another trusty set of jeans to your closet, do yourself a favor and allow one of these Philly-area shops to put you in the perfect pair.

It’s inevitable. You leave the party, bar or event only to be stopped in your tracks by the desperate need for a cheeseburger, medium rare, and a side of sweet potato fries. But with many kitchens closing up well before the drinks stop flowing, its hard to find a proper meal after hours. Philadelphia, thankfully, has a variety of dining spots that burn the midnight oil, though, and serve up delicious dishes after dark.

Your split ends are officially visible. You are in desperate need of a new Fall-toned mani. And, hey, you deserve a day of beauty bliss. Throw in the fact that nearly any treatment you decide to partake in will help support HIV/AIDS research, and it’s not hard to decide what you’ll be doing this sunny Sunday. Make a change and a difference with the Mid-Atlantic Hope Cuts event.

Smooth and a little sweet, sake is the drink of choice for sophisticated evenings. Philadelphia’s Japanese hot spots have great selections and knowledgeable staff who can help even the most novice of sippers get their legs. The next time you are craving sushi, head to one of these restaurants to up the experience with sake.