A Gastronomic Guide to Philadelphia, the USA's Historic Hotspot
Philadelphia, a vibrant city on the East Coast, is experiencing a culinary renaissance. Known for its rich political history, the city now also boasts a diverse food scene that reflects its cultural melting pot. Come for its historical landmarks, but stay for its eclectic cuisine and creativity.
From History to Hoagies: Discover Street Eats in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is home to significant cultural communities, including the second-largest Italian and Irish populations, and the fourth-largest African-American community in the USA. This diversity is mirrored in its food offerings. Visitors can enjoy French fine dining at Parc, a beloved bistro, or explore the historic Reading Terminal Market, which serves everything from soul food to shawarmas. Casa Mexico offers delicious street tacos, while Vietnam provides award-winning fragrant noodle soup.
A stroll through the city reveals neighborhoods of tree-lined boulevards and historic brownstones. At the Italian Market, one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in the country, you can find a mix of fresh produce and international flavors. Here, Jacqueline Kelly of StrEATS of Philly Food Tours highlights the fusion of Italian, Vietnamese, and Mexican cuisines, evident in local dishes like the hoagie—a hearty Italian-American sandwich.
A Cultural Kaleidoscope
Philadelphia’s rich history is complemented by its vibrant public art scene. The city boasts countless sculptures and around 4,000 murals, making it one of the best destinations for free public art in the USA. On a walk towards the South Street district, visitors can see iconic artworks like Robert Indiana’s Love sculpture and a mural of Will Smith.
The Magic Gardens on South Street, created by local artist Isaiah Zagar, is a must-see. This folk-art masterpiece is a kaleidoscope of mosaics and found objects, reflecting the district’s eclectic and artistic spirit.
Culinary Delights
No visit to Philadelphia is complete without sampling the iconic Philly cheesesteak. At the Tattooed Mom dive bar, you can enjoy this local favorite in a quirky, graffiti-covered setting. The district's history of counterculture continues to thrive, offering a creative space for locals and visitors alike.
For a fine dining experience, head to Wilder near Rittenhouse Square. This cozy bar and restaurant, opened by a chef and artist couple, offers innovative dishes like savory cannoli filled with salmon and creme fraiche.
Embracing the City’s Bright Future
Philadelphia may be rooted in history, but its future is equally exciting. From the buzzing arts scene to the culinary innovations, the city is a hub of creativity and cultural fusion. As you explore, you’ll find that Philadelphia’s charm lies in its blend of past and present, making it a captivating destination for all.
Three More Philadelphia City Tours
- Yo, Philly! Rocky Film Tour, Best for: Cinema loversLed by Mike Kunda, the city’s most devoted Rocky impersonator, this three-hour tour covers various filming highlights of the Rocky series and is endorsed by Sylvester Stallone himself.
- Constitutional Walking Tour, Best for: History buffsThis 75-minute tour dives deep into Philadelphia’s history as the birthplace of the USA, covering over 20 significant sites, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Philly by Boat, Best for: A new perspectiveEnjoy a one-hour sunset cruise on the Delaware River, sailing under the Ben Franklin Bridge and soaking up the views of Philadelphia’s industrial waterfronts.