Name: Mayleen Pangelina
Occupation: Artist. Creative Director.
Born and raised or imported to Philly? Wandered to Philly.
What is your connection/relationship to Philly? I’m originally from the island of Guam. My dad was in the military so we moved around often. I ended up finishing school in South Jersey. So when I left the nest I moved to the closest city outside of where I lived… Philadelphia. If you asked me ten years ago where I thought I’d be, I wouldn’t have thought here. But it’s now become a big part of my story.
Favorite restaurant in Philly? Honestly, too many to name. And I’m constantly trying to find more and more. But my most frequent go-to is Terakawa. Or Tea-do, my fave boba tea spot in Chinatown. Cafe Lift for breakfast! And an honorable mention for SoulFed Philly, the seafood spot. So good!
SYREETA MARTIN: CONNECTED
Best place to shop in Philly (food, clothes, gifts, jewelry, etc). Select one? My favorite place to shop would probably be the Garland of Letters Bookstore on South Street. It’s the coolest little shop for the spiritual folk. And I think they have the best book selection.
What is your one favorite “best kept secret” about Philly? Something that you and only a few others know about but everyone should… Well, it’s not a secret but what good is something great if I can’t share it? There’s this hiking trail leading up to a beautiful secluded natural pool called the “Devil’s Pool” in Wissahickon Valley Park. And it’s truly a gem. It’s where I go when I wanna get away from the city to clear my mind and just enjoy nature. It’s amazing on a nice day.
What makes Philly your Philly? I ground myself wherever I am. So Philly has definitely become a part of me, my growth and my whole journey. Although I don’t plan on staying forever, I’ve spent most of my twenties here. That’s a huge chapter for me. I’ve rediscovered a lot about myself while being here and met some of the best people. I love the rawness. What you see is what you get. With it’s perseverance and resilience, Philly will always be Philly.
What do you absolutely love about the city? It’s really up to you to mold your experience. Wherever you are. You gotta take the good with the bad but it’s all about how you ingest it or how you can let it teach you.
Contact:
Instagram
Mayonthemoon.com
Images: Courtesy of Mayleen Pangelina
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