Zocalo

This place is horrible. It is expensive for a restaurant in West Philly with no ambience. On top of that, the food is sub-par. The salsa had big pieces of garlic in it and was not fresh. The portions are small (and I don't eat a lot). You can't get full on a $30-40 tab (that's without alcohol) and all the entrees are above $20. Their margaritas are also super watered down.

West Coast Trophy Ctr

I ordered a number of plaques from their store -- all very good quality. They will customize your order (including logos and such). Also does not charge for the full amount until you receive the final product. It took them just a couple of days to have my order ready (I believe this is due to the fact that they make their own things or at least engraves themselves).

The prices are very competitive with respect to other similar stores offering the same service.

The lady I dealt with was also very helpful and friendly. They will also keep your template on file for future use.

Linden Optometry, A.P.C.

I had a great experience with my doctor; I don't remember her name, but she was young and Asian. I usually get very nervous at the glaucoma test and so do not get results for the air-puff test. She was very patient (and gentle) when she did the eye-poke test in lieu of the air-puff test.

Their frame selection is also pretty extensive; the salesperson is also good at picking out frames that fit your face shape well.

Bright Eye Care

Depending on what brand you get, the frames can be expensive. However, the cost of the lenses are not, just be sure to get the anti-glare; otherwise, lots of light will be bouncing off your face.

The service is also great; I was there for a long time picking out frames and the salesgirl continued to help me. Also very good at making suggestions of what fits your face well or what is in fashion.

Elegance Designer Yarns

The woman who runs the shop is so friendly -- will help you find yarns and will even order yarns for you.

The yarns are a bit expensive (for example, compared to Michael's), but the quality of the product is worth it.

Express

I like their clothes, but never buy anything that's not on sale -- overpriced. There is a sale at the end of every season, but don't go when it first starts; go a couple of weeks into it -- more or less the same stuff, but around half the initial sales price.

I agree that some of their stuff is trashy, but others are quite conservative. I love their pants, but can never get those on sale anymore (b/c I'm not a size 0 or 2!), but they're worth it when they have specials (varies by week).

Young Dong Tofu

All of my friends (and I) love this place! The tofu and rice are served in stone bowls -- awesome!

There are complimentary kimchees and pancake things. I recommend the tofu/meat combo -- such huge portions! My leftovers usually feed me for at least another meal. Trick: scoop out the rice until there is only a thin layer left; toward the end of your meal you'll have crunchy rice to snack on.

Their BBQ is absolutely wonderful -- mouth-watering!

Din Tai Fung Restaurant Inc

Most people rave about this place, but I think it's so-so. The lines are long -- you almost never get seated immediately. The portions are really small -- you have to spend a fortune to get full on dumpling here.

The food is good though, just be careful you don't burn yourself with the juice.

Try Luscious Dumpling instead -- cheaper and much better.

PROS: Long lines, small portions
CONS:

Burger Continental

The lamb here is very tasty. I recommend the Sunday buffet, for about $13, you get omelettes (made to order), baklava, chocolate-covered strawberries, variety of meats (including the lamb), and anything else you could want.

There has been live entertainment just about everytime I've been there -- sometimes there is a bellydancer!

Tropical Carribbean

The food tastes authentic and and servers are wonderful. The yucca is definitely worth trying.

Since the restaurant is rather small, I would make a reservation for any parties above 4.