Philadelphia Pennsylvania, USA Travel Guide
The city became a destination for various immigrant groups, each contributing to its food culture. Strong Italian-American, Jewish, and Pennsylvania Dutch influences define many local favorites. Philadelphia is known for hearty comfort food and a thriving fine dining scene.
The city's port status brought diverse ingredients, and its role as an early American urban center fostered a robust market culture.
An outdoor market and surrounding area displaying a strong Italian-American influence. Expect fresh produce, meats, cheeses, authentic hoagies, and traditional pastries.
A historic indoor market with an eclectic mix of Amish fare, international food stalls, and area specialties like cheesesteaks and roast pork.
This strip in South Philadelphia features numerous highly-rated restaurants, from casual to fine dining, many with significant Italian roots.
Thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled with or without onions ("wit" or "wit-out"), served on a long hoagie roll with melted cheese (Provolone, American, or Cheez Whiz).
Where to find: Pat's King of Steaks, Geno's Steaks, Jim's South Street, Dalessandro's Steaks, Ishkabibble's.
Slow-roasted pork, typically with sharp Provolone cheese and sautéed broccoli rabe, served on a crusty Italian roll.
Where to find: John's Roast Pork, DiNic's Roast Pork (Reading Terminal Market), George's Sandwich Shop.
Philadelphia's version of a submarine sandwich, known for fresh Italian rolls and quality ingredients. Varieties range from Italian to cheesesteak hoagies.
Where to find: Wawa, Sarcone's Deli, Carmen's Famous Italian Hoagies (Reading Terminal Market).
Iconic local snack cakes and pies, found in convenience stores and supermarkets. Try a Krimpets or Peanut Butter Kandy Kake.
This classic Italian pastry, filled with sweet ricotta cheese, is especially prevalent in the Italian Market area.
Philadelphia's fine dining scene receives national recognition.
A wide array of mid-range restaurants has excellent quality without the fine dining price tag.
Philadelphia caters to every dining preference, from quick bites to gourmet experiences.
Explore Chinatown for authentic dim sum, noodles, and Szechuan dishes. South Philadelphia features a strong Vietnamese community with excellent pho and banh mi shops.
Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean, Thai available.
South Philadelphia also features numerous authentic Mexican taquerias. Indian, Ethiopian, and Middle Eastern cuisines are available across neighborhoods.
Mexican, Indian, Ethiopian, Middle Eastern and more.
Many dedicated restaurants (Vedge, HipCityVeg) and options at conventional eateries.
Halal options in Middle Eastern/South Asian restaurants. Kosher groceries in Northeast Philadelphia.
Many restaurants accommodate GF requests. Dedicated bakeries also exist.
Apps like HappyCow, Yelp, and Google Maps filter by dietary preferences.
Bring your own alcoholic beverages, often without corkage fees, at many establishments. This results in dining out more affordable and personal.
Check in advance for BYOB policy.
Explore the city's robust craft beer scene at local breweries and pubs for unique regional brews.
Numerous breweries to discover.
Check local event listings for culinary celebrations throughout the year. Many festivals feature diverse cuisines.
East Passyunk Restaurant Week or Center City Restaurant Week offer special menus and deals at top eateries.
A classic Philadelphia experience involves trying cheesesteaks from multiple iconic spots to find your preferred.
Spend time exploring the varied food stalls, from Amish specialties to international delights. It's a culinary journey.
An authentic outdoor market experience, demonstrating Italian-American heritage through food and specialty shops.
Restaurants like Vetri Cucina or The Rittenhouse Lacroix offer an elegant setting for celebrations.
Book well in advance for these popular spots.
Consider a tasting menu experience for a memorable culinary event.
Many fine dining locations feature chef's tasting menus.
Philadelphia is a leader in vegan dining, with establishments that attract national attention for their innovative plant-based menus.
The city's craft brewery scene expands constantly, offering diverse beer styles and lively taproom experiences in areas such as Fishtown and Kensington.
Explore authentic cuisines from around the world, from Vietnamese pho in South Philly to Ethiopian injera, reflecting the city's multithe cultural makeup.
Limit yourself to just cheesesteaks. Explore Reading Terminal Market and the Italian Market for a true taste of Philadelphia's diverse culinary offerings.
