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Culinary Mysteries Solved

Q: I need to bring a side dish to a Labor Day party, but I'm no cook. Which markets have some unusual options, and will any of them be open on Labor Day?

A: There are a variety of gourmet markets that should have what you're looking for, although only a couple are open on Labor Day. DiBruno Bros. (1730 Chestnut St., 215-665-9220) has plenty of prepared to-go dishes, from pasta carmella with smoked gouda to beef kebabs to tofu. They'll be open 9 a.m.-4 p.m., but if you have something specific in mind, it's best to order 72 hours in advance. Fork: etc. (308 Market St., 215-625-9425) will be taking care of your side-dish needs from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. with selections such as cheese and fruit plates and edamame radish salad. On the sandwich front, Palm Tree Market (717 N. Second St., 215-925-4707) is open 8 a.m.-11 p.m. While Quince (209 W. Girard Ave., 215-232-3425) won't be open on Labor Day weekend, stop in Friday for one of their Mediterranean platters. Packed with goodies like stuffed grape leaves, fava beans, Greek salad and hummus, they're vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. Cornerstone Market (19 W. Girard Ave., 215-634-4800) will be open through the weekend, and with options such as sweet potato salad and mayo-less, cranberry-dotted coleslaw, they put a sophisticated twist on traditional party fare.