The art of chocolate has been perfected here at the Miel Patisserie. A specialty chocolate store, its choice offerings include every possible type of chocolate mixed in sinful combinations with nuts, nougat, caramel and biscuit. Besides this, it is renowned for its wedding cakes, pastries, cakes, cookies tarts, ice-creams and all sweet what-nots. A mix of world culinary styles are adopted to create the choco delights here. Besides retail products, Miel Patisserie also offers catering services for a variety of private events.

Located in the heart of Mayfair's commercial district, this family-owned business has served Northeast Philly and beyond for generations. From CDs to vinyl, instruments to sheet music, audio equipment to band T-shirts-if it has to do with music, Pat's probably has it. And if not, the friendly staff will be happy to order it for you. Its latest location at the corner of Frankford and Cottman Avenues even has rooms in the back for private music lessons. Even if you are just passing through town, be sure to check out this rare treasure of a store. - Shaheen J. Dibai

An open space that has been transformed into the quintessential city hangout, the Piazza at Schmidts is the masterpiece of the architectural firm Tower Investments Inc, built as a part of a mega urban renewal project in the city. As the name suggests, this square has been designed after Rome's piazzas, but the design of the buildings surrounding the square are of original design. Besides being home to several shops, designer stores, restaurants, and bars, the Piazza at Schmidts also boasts a stage that hosts several concerts and other events. See the website to know more.

The bare, warehouse-like interiors of Bookspace holds a treasure for any book or art lover. Located in Northern Liberties, this bookstore-cum-event-space is a haven for those who love the written word, boasting a collection of about 100,000 books, some acquired through donations. If you are not interested in reading, however, Bookspace is still a must-visit, because besides being a storehouse of books, the place also is a venue for concerts, performances, art exhibitions, and also chess nights. Do call to know more.

The award-winning fashion store Joan Shepp sells luxury apparel for women and men, along with handbags, accessories, gifts and vintage items. The designs are very chic and wearable. On the shelves you'll see items from designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Givenchy, Issey Miyake, Stella McCartney, Fyre and many more.  Do visit and treat yourself!

For those of you who cannot do without a little bit of art in everything, Art Star is the perfect find. From apparel and homeware to accessories and toys, there's a definitive arty theme about each one of the pieces. It's not surprising though, as most of them are by budding designers and artists, which also means that what you see is unique. Apart from this, it also functions as a lovingly-curated art gallery.

If the very mention of Asia brings cultural imagery to your mind, then Ruka is a must-visit. The little boutique on 19th street has an excellent collection of Asian memorabilia from home decor and clothes to statues and even incense. The owner sources the products during her Asian sojourns, so you can be assured that nothing here is run-of-the mill. This one's for the collectors.

Open House stocks a unique selection of items for the home. Here you'll find kitchenware, furniture, bedding, lighting fixtures, books, knick-knacks, jewelry and much more. More than just home decor, Open House presents itself as a lifestyle concept store. Designs are modern, fresh and exude a fun and youthful vibe. The enchanting bath and body section is great place to visit if you need to get a nice gift for someone.

Garces Trading Company is Chef Jose Garces's culinary package offering European fare, reflecting a touch of the chef's Spanish cooking with handcrafted cheese and charcuterie in a modern bistro setting. The space is used as a gourmet market to host artisanal and imported foods under the Garces Trading Company label, a flower shop, an on-site bakery, private label olive oils and vinegars, Chef Garces' signature coffee and the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board's first wine boutique. And of course a full fledged cafe. The lunch, brunch and dinner menu features an assortment of pastas such as Pappardelle with lamb ragu, sun choke puree and piavecchio, thin crust and deep dish pizzas, sandwiches and daily specials. The venue looks like an outdoor European market, where guests can browse through the shops displaying delectable wares of hanging cured meats and cheeses, blossom sprays and cases of wine, shop and then settle down in the central dining area to enjoy the wonderful food and their purchases.

American or European, Armani to Zegna, Boyd's has one of the largest selections of men's designer clothing in the country. An entire floor of extra-long and large sizes, plus formal wear and shoe departments; it's enough to satisfy the needs of any shopper. The women's boutique is well known for its collection of exquisite European tailored ensembles. A café, free custom alterations and parking make shopping a more than agreeable task.