Philadelphia Magazine
Philadelphia Magazine is a monthly regional magazine covering the culture, dining, real estate, and personalities of the Philadelphia area since 1908. The glossy magazine provides lifestyle journalism, investigative features, and "Best of" lists that influence how Philadelphians and visitors understand the city. Under various owners, the magazine has evolved from a chamber of commerce publication to an influential city magazine covering both celebrations and controversies.[1]
History
[edit | edit source]Philadelphia Magazine traces its origins to 1908 as a business-oriented publication. The magazine transformed in the 1960s and 1970s into the city magazine format—lifestyle features, restaurant coverage, real estate analysis, personality profiles—that defines it today. This evolution paralleled the development of city magazines nationally as a distinct genre serving metropolitan audiences.[1]
The magazine has passed through various ownership structures while maintaining its format and market position. Different owners have emphasized different aspects—some pursuing aggressive investigative journalism, others focusing on lifestyle content—but the core identity as Philadelphia's city magazine has persisted. Current ownership by Metro Corp continues the publication's long history.[1]
The magazine's influence extends beyond its direct readership through agenda-setting coverage. Restaurant reviews affect where Philadelphians dine; "Best of Philly" lists shape perceptions of neighborhoods, businesses, and services; feature articles frame how issues are discussed. This influence has made the magazine both respected and controversial depending on whose interests particular coverage affects.[1]
Coverage
[edit | edit source]Dining
[edit | edit source]Restaurant coverage has become central to the magazine's identity, with reviews, features, and annual restaurant issues influencing Philadelphia's dining scene. Critics' assessments can boost or damage restaurant fortunes. The "50 Best Restaurants" list generates significant attention and debate. This food coverage reflects Philadelphia's emergence as a serious culinary destination.[1]
Real Estate
[edit | edit source]Real estate coverage addresses Philadelphia's housing market, neighborhood development, and home design. Features on neighborhoods influence perceptions of where to live. The "Best Places to Live" package and real estate analysis serve readers navigating the housing market while reflecting and shaping views of the region's communities.[1]
Features
[edit | edit source]Long-form features address Philadelphia personalities, institutions, and issues. Profile subjects range from politicians to chefs to entrepreneurs to activists. Investigative pieces have exposed problems and generated controversy. These features provide the in-depth coverage that distinguishes magazines from daily journalism.[1]
"Best of Philly"
[edit | edit source]The annual "Best of Philly" issue, featuring hundreds of "best" designations across categories from restaurants to hair salons to dry cleaners, generates substantial readership and influence. Award recipients display plaques and promote their recognition. The comprehensive nature of the listings—covering virtually every consumer category—makes the issue a reference document for the region.[1]
Digital Operations
[edit | edit source]The phillymag.com website provides daily content extending beyond the monthly print magazine. Online publishing enables timely coverage of news and events while the magazine's brand attracts digital readership. Social media and email newsletters further extend reach. This digital presence supplements rather than replaces the print magazine.[1]