The Best Philadelphia Food To Try in 2024
Are you looking for new Philadelphia food recipes for family dinners? Or maybe you’re searching for a way to explore the city’s culture and culinary traditions. The City of Brotherly Love offers an eclectic mix of Italian, Mexican and Pennsylvania Dutch heritages as well as a vibrant Chinatown and the artistically cultural Fishtown.
If you’re wondering what food is Philadelphia known for, we’ve searched near and far for the most amazing food in Philadelphia. From savory pork shoulder sandwiches and iconic cheesesteaks to scrapple, soft salty pretzels and Tastykake treats, this collection of Philadelphia foods will help get your culinary itinerary going.
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Get a Taste of Iconic Philadelphia Foods
Learning how to prepare regional recipes at home is a terrific way to share a love of Philadelphia foods with family and friends. To help you learn how to cook local dishes, consider booking fun and informative cooking classes in Philadelphia. You’ll join gourmet chefs who will share tips and techniques for sourcing ingredients from regional markets, planning menus and learning the history of native dishes.
Another great option is going on food tours in Philadelphia. You’ll discover the city’s top culinary spots for both dining out and take-out. Enjoy the best food in Philadelphia as you walk around town while learning about the area and taking in famous landmarks, architecture and iconic attractions.
23 Best Philadelphia Foods
1. Tacos at South Philly Barbacoa
Chef Cristina Martinez turned a popular Philadelphia food truck into a brick-and-mortar hot spot in the Italian Market neighborhood. Her take on authentic Mexican cuisine at South Philly Barbacoa has earned her a James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic.
The Vibe
Small and welcoming, the colorful South Philly Barbacoa features community tables, counter stools and outdoor seating. Food is served on traditional earthenware pottery, and the walls are lined with art. Lines are often out the door.
Why It's Good
Chef Martinez infuses tacos, tamales and authentic consommé with traditional spices and seasonings. Choose pancita, vegetables or savory barbacoa as fillings for the always popular tacos. The lamb barbacoa is slow-cooked in a citrus marinade and served on corn tortillas to create a wonderful Philadelphia food.
South Philly Barbacoa | 1140 S. 9th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $$
2. Roast Pork Sandwich at Tommy DiNic’s
Located at Reading Terminal Market, Philly’s famous indoor farmers market, Tommy DiNic’s is famous for its traditional hand-carved roast pork sandwich. Named Best Sandwich in America, it has also been featured on “Man vs. Food” on the Travel Channel.
The Vibe
Tommy DiNic’s is a fuss-free sandwich counter at the bustling farmers market, which has been serving Philadelphia food since 1893. Enjoy a sandwich and then shop for local specialties, baked goods, organic produce, artisan cheese, housewares and various other items among the many vendors.
Why It's Good
Tommy DiNic’s roast pork is made from slow-roasted Italian-seasoned pork, hand-carved, topped with a rich jus. It’s served Philly-style with roasted peppers, sautéed onions and provolone slices.
Tommy DiNic’s | 51 N. 12th St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 | $
3. Soft Pretzel at Philly Pretzel Factory
If there’s one Philadelphia food you need to try, it’s a soft pretzel. Philly Pretzel Factory founders Dan DiZio and Len Lehman started the company out of a love of pretzels. In business for more than 20 years, there are nearly 150 stores across the U.S. with about 30 in the Philadelphia area.
The Vibe
No matter which of the multiple locations you go to, you’ll discover a laid-back pretzel take-out spot that allows you to watch as pretzels are twisted on-site.
Why It's Good
Hand-twisted and fresh-baked, Philly Pretzel Factory uses the simple ingredients of flour, water, yeast and salt to create this popular snack. Getting a Philly Pretzel Factory snack is one of the things to do in Philadelphia that can’t be missed!
Philly Pretzel Factory | Multiple Locations | $
4. Apple Dumplings at Dutch Eating Place
A popular Reading Terminal Market Philadelphia food stop, Dutch Eating Place features homestyle and hearty Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast and lunch items. The iconic eatery, open since 1980, pays homage to the area’s Amish and Mennonite community.
The Vibe
Part of the bustling food market at Reading Terminal, you’ll rub elbows with visitors and locals who know where to find the best Philadelphia foods. There is counter seating or you can take your food to-go.
Why It's Good
The apple dumpling dish consists of a whole-cored apple that’s covered in pastry dough, blended with a sweet cinnamon mix and served with whipped heavy cream. Other Philadelphia foods to try at Dutch Eating Place include chicken pot pie, shoofly pie, fresh-cut fries and pork with sauerkraut.
Dutch Eating Place | 1136 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 | $
5. Cannoli at Termini Brothers Bakery
Termini Brothers Bakery has been in business for a decade serving up biscotti, pignoli, sfogliatella and other Sicilian treats. Really, though, it’s all about the cannoli. Be sure to get there early, as the line can stretch down the block.
The Vibe
Multiple locations include the nostalgia of the traditional neighborhood corner bakery. You’ll also find Termini Brothers at Reading Terminal Market.
Why It's Good
Perfectly formed pastry crust filled with creamy ricotta cheese, vanilla or chocolate Italian cream filling brings an understanding of the famous “The Godfather” quote “Leave the gun, take the cannoli” to this Philadelphia food.
Termini Brothers Bakery | Multiple Locations | $
6. Roast Beef Sandwich at Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef
Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef opened in 1938. In addition to the Philly location, there are locations serving this Philadelphia food in Springfield and West Chester, PA.
The Vibe
The South Philly corner location makes one think of a cool neighborhood bar. Indoors, it’s all about the roast beef, pork or turkey with a side of gravy fries and draft beer.
Why It's Good
Nick’s uses USDA Prime fresh beef to prepare their famous roast beef sandwich. It’s layered with homemade gravy and cheese, making a savory Philadelphia food that locals and visitors love.
Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef | 2149 S. 20th St., Philadelphia, PA 19145 | $
7. Soup Dumplings at Dim Sum Garden
Dumplings, rice and noodles are the mainstays at Dim Sum Garden, which opened in 2013 in Chinatown.
The Vibe
An unassuming storefront leads the way to a well-lit interior where you can sit at tables or countertop stools to enjoy this Philadelphia food.
Why It's Good
Xiao long bao, or Chinese steamed soup dumplings, are made daily and filled with a variety of delicious concoctions from savory to spicy.
Dim Sum Garden | 1020 Race St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 | $
8. Cheesesteak at Pat’s King of Steaks
Family-owned by the Olivieris since 1930, and open 24/7, Pat’s King of Steaks is the place to head to after an Eagles game (or anything else for that matter).
The Vibe
The self-professed inventor of the famous Philadelphia food cheesesteak, Pat’s has counter-service ordering and outdoor seating.
Why It's Good
It wouldn’t be a trip to Philadelphia without a classic Philly cheesesteak. Pat’s offers the option of with or without onions and with your choice of provolone, Cheese Whiz or American cheese.
Pat’s King of Steaks | 1237 Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $
9. Crabfries at Chickie’s and Pete’s
One of Philly’s best sports bars, Chickie’s and Pete’s was the first-ever private restaurant to open a stand at Veteran’s Stadium, the former home to the Philadelphia Eagles. You can find a stand at the Eagle's new stadium, Lincoln Financial Field, and at multiple other locations across Pennsylvania.
The Vibe
Sports bar vibes abound at this bustling venue that serves some of the best Philadelphia food. It’s a popular stop before, after or during an Eagles game.
Why It's Good
A Philadelphia food staple since 1977, crabfries are traditional crinkle-cut fries dusted with a blend of spices similar in nature to Old Bay seasoning. Dip in a cheesy sauce for extra flavor. In addition to Chickie’s and Pete’s, crabfries can be found at sporting events, stadiums and boardwalk locales in Philadelphia and beyond.
Chickie’s and Pete’s | Multiple Locations | $
10. Water Ice at John’s Water Ice
While not exactly a Philadelphia food, John’s Water Ice is a Philly staple. It has been family-owned and operated since 1945. Known as Italian ice in other locales, this frosty treat is a blend of fruit-flavored syrup, sugar and shaved ice.
The Vibe
The walkup storefront window at John’s is a summertime favorite for families and locals looking for a refreshing treat.
Why It's Good
The secret to any icy beverage is perfectly shaved ice. John’s is just that. Choose from flavors such as cherry, lemon, orange or lime, among many others. This Philadelphia food treat is served in a Dixie cup. You can add ice cream to make it a “gelati.”
John’s Water Ice | 701 Christian St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $
11. Falafels at Goldie
If you’re looking for a quick fix of Philadelphia food with a Middle Eastern twist, Goldie is the place to go. The vegan and Israeli-style falafel shop is popular for shawarma fries, hummus, tehina shakes and a wide array of falafel items.
The Vibe
Bright and airy counter-service joint, with some high-top stools that allow you to get your food quickly and get on with the eating. However, most patrons order this Philadelphia food to go.
Why It's Good
The falafel sandwich features six falafel balls mixed with marinated cabbage, tomatoes, cucumber and parsley and packed into a fluffy pita.
Goldie | Multiple Locations | $
12. Philly-Style Tomato Pie at Sarcone’s Bakery
Sarcone’s Bakery is one of the oldest Italian bakeries in Philly. The family-run business is known for bread, pizza and sweet treats. It’s been a South Philly favorite since 1918.
The Vibe
Sarcone’s has been a part of the Italian Market neighborhood and Philadelphia food scene for more than 90 years. The cozy storefront welcomes visitors with a casual vibe and indoor seating.
Why It's Good
Made with spongey focaccia bread, Sarcone’s tomato pie is spread with a heaping layer of savory tomato sauce, called “gravy” by local Italian-American families, and topped with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese.
Sarcone’s Bakery | 758 S. 9th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $
13. Hoagie at Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop
Whether you call it a sub, a hero, an Italian or any other name, it’s called a hoagie on the Philadelphia food scene! The popular sandwich is served at Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop and features deli meat, vegetables, cheeses and savory seasonings on a crusty roll similar to French bread.
The Vibe
The small and intimate setting at Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop features indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy this classic Philadelphia food.
Why It's Good
The six-inch hoagie at Woodrow’s is made with house-roasted turkey, Gruyère, Dijonnaise, cherry peppers, oregano oil and a heaping handful of lettuce, tomato and onions piled on a crusty seeded roll. The seasonal lobster roll is also popular.
Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop | 630 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $$
14. Rendang at Hardena
The family-run Hardena/Waroeng Surabaya, a James Beard award finalist, serves Indonesian cuisine mixed with ingredients and flavors from the Middle East, Europe and China.
The Vibe
A colorful exterior invites diners into an even more colorful and cozy interior filled with art, artifacts and greenery.
Why It's Good
Slow-braised caramelized beef in coconut milk and savory spices make up the signature rendang recipe. Don’t miss the house-made hot sauce at this Philadelphia food eatery.
Hardena | 1754 S. Hicks St., Philadelphia, PA 19145 | $
15. Lamb Shoulder at Zahav
Chef Michael Solomonov brings an elevated dining experience to Philadelphia at Zahav with a multi-course tasting menu. Dining here is considered one of the best date ideas in Philadelphia but is ideal for many other events and occasions. Reservations are required, and usually far in advance, to dine at this Philadelphia food hotspot.
The Vibe
Enjoy a casual vibe while feasting on traditional Israeli food such as halloumi, labneh and eggplant with za'atar.
Why It's Good
The entrée of the multi-course menu is the incredibly tender lamb shoulder, which features a unique blend of pomegranate, molasses and chickpeas. While this is one of the most popular dishes here, everything you try at Zahav will be delicious!
Zahav | 237 St. James Pl., Philadelphia, PA 19106 | $$$
16. Paesano Sandwich at Paesano’s Philly Style
Paesano’s is described as “Philly-style sandwiches with Italian inspiration.” Chef Peter McAndrews pairs bold flavors and savory spices with seeded rolls from the city’s esteemed Liscio’s Bakery.
The Vibe
Cool and casual, Paesano’s is a counter-service stop in the Italian Market neighborhood. There is indoor seating at this Philadelphia food eatery.
Why It's Good
The Paesano is loaded up with beef brisket, horseradish mayo, roasted tomato, pepperoncini, sharp provolone and a fried egg.
Paesano’s | 943 S. 9th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $
17. Fried Chicken and Donuts from Federal Donuts
Chicken and waffles have roots as a Pennsylvania Dutch meal. Federal Donuts brings a unique touch by pairing classic and spiced cake donuts with its famous fried chicken.
The Vibe
Multiple locations and a food truck make an accessible way to try this iconic Philadelphia food combination.
Why It's Good
Choose from a classic glazed donut or flavors like strawberry lavender and chocolate chip cake. You can enjoy the donuts as they come or add fried chicken seasoned with za’atar, coconut curry, chili garlic, buttermilk ranch or honey ginger.
Federal Donuts | Multiple Locations | $
18. Scrapple at Silk City Diner
The renovated 1950s diner welcomes visitors with a combination of a restaurant, bar, beer garden and dance club. Silk City Diner serves up creative cocktails, diner fare and elevated dishes like huevos rancheros, pork belly empanadas and kabayaki glazed salmon.
The Vibe
Silk City Diner offers indoor and outdoor (covered and heated) dining for a casual but intimate experience whether you’re there for dinner or dancing the night away.
Why It's Good
Made from the scraps of pork meat and combined with cornmeal and spices, scrapple is often an acquired taste when it comes to Philadelphia foods. However, those who enjoy it say that the traditional diner-style scrapple served at Silk City Diner is the best version of the dish.
Silk City Diner | 435 Spring Garden St., Philadelphia, PA 19123 | $
19. Square Pizza at Santucci’s
Family-owned and operated since 1959, Santucci’s has a location in the Italian Market neighborhood as well as several others around town. If not in Philadelphia, there are also some locations across the rest of Pennsylvania and in New Jersey.
The Vibe
The Italian Market location has a warm, intimate and family-friendly ambiance. It features a menu filled with pizza, pasta and homemade desserts.
Why It's Good
With a take on Chicago and Detroit-style pizza, Santucci’s pizza is baked in a square pan with the sauce spread over the top of the cheese.
Santucci’s | Multiple Locations | $
20. Pho at Thang Long
The family-owned Thang Long has been feeding Philly a variety of authentic Vietnamese menu items since the 1980s.
The Vibe
Thang Long features a relaxing vibe for enjoying bubble tea, vegan pho, banh mi and many rice dishes.
Why It's Good
Fresh ingredients and slow-cooked broth bring the comfort factor to steamy bowls of beef and chicken pho.
Thang Long | 2534-36 Kensington Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19125 | $
21. Red Gravy Pasta at Ralph’s Italian Restaurant
Opened in 1900, Ralph’s Italian Restaurant serves some of the best Italian food in Philadelphia. A favorite among locals, it’s also served Philadelphia food to numerous celebrities, from Frank Sinatra to Taylor Swift.
The Vibe
Small and intimate with an old-fashioned ambiance, Ralph’s is the perfect hideaway for a romantic dinner of savory Philadelphia foods.
Why It's Good
Red “gravy” is simply tomato sauce that’s a favorite among almost all patrons. Ralph’s piles it high on spaghetti, linguini and many other types of pasta.
Ralph’s Italian Restaurant | 760 S. 9th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $$
22. The Schmitter at McNally’s Tavern
Originally known as McNally’s Quick Lunch back in 1921, McNally’s Tavern is in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia. They also have a stand at the stadiums of the Phillies and the Eagles.
The Vibe
The family-friendly pub has an old-school vibe with a full-service bar and a quiet ambiance to try Philadelphia foods. Enjoy sipping a beer, dining on scratch-made soups and indulging in their famous take on the “ultimate cheesesteak” known as the Schmitter.
Why It's Good
The Schmitter is filled with roast beef, salami, cheese, fried onions and tomatoes to create a stomach-filling Philadelphia food masterpiece.
McNally’s Tavern | 8634 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19118
23. Tastykake
Established in Philadelphia in 1914 by Philip J. Baur and Herbert T. Morris, Tastykake became a snack staple in Philly before going worldwide. The Tasty Baking Company is headquartered in Philly at the Philadelphia Navy Yard.
The Vibe
From convenience stores to fresh-from-the-bakery, this Philadelphia food can be found in various stores around Philly and the world.
Why It's Good
Known for the jingle “Nobody bakes a cake as tasty as a Tastykake,” diehard fans snack on favorites like Butterscotch Krimpets, Peanut Butter Kandy Kakes, Chocolate Juniors and more.
Tastykakes | Multiple Locations | $
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Philadelphia features a diverse range of restaurants, bars and cafés to indulge in local Philadelphia food. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or you’re in town to check out the Liberty Bell and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this list is designed to give a glimpse into some of the best food in Philadelphia.
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