A Foodie’s Pocket Guide to Philadelphia

What and where to eat in Philly

Philadelphia is one of the great foodie cities of the world with an incredibly diverse dining culture, home to everything from street food stalls and sidewalk restaurants to bars, fast food eateries, pizza joints, and contemporary a la carte restaurants. There’s something for every type of palate in Philly! Read on to become inspired for the ultimate gastronomic adventure in Philadelphia with our shortlist of must-try dishes and where to savour them.  

Philly Cheesesteak

What’s a trip to Philadelphia without indulging the iconic cheesesteak? This staple cuisine, originally invented by Pat Olivieri is a crusty hoagie roll filled with thinly sliced ribeye beef and topped with a choice of melted cheese, from American to Cheez Whiz. Eating a cheesesteak is immersing yourself in Philly’s culture.  

There are many creative takes to this famous sandwich, but we recommend sticking to the classic version. Pat’s King of Steaks on Passyunk Ave is the home of the first and original cheesesteak that was invented in 1930. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas). An alternative spot to sample a classic cheesesteak is Campo’s Philly Cheesesteaks on Market Street close to the city’s Independence Hall and Liberty Bell - the perfect spot for a tasty bite after some sightseeing.

Soft Pretzels

Pretzels were first introduced in Philly centuries ago by European settlers and have since become a favourite for locals and tourists. The soft pretzel is a signature snack widely available throughout the city at corner shops, street vendors, and bakeries, and is a popular comfort food best enjoyed with a coffee at breakfast, or after an evening out on the town.  

You’re never far from a decent soft pretzel in Philly. The Philly Pretzel Factory, available at multiple locations across the city, offers hand-twisted and freshly baked pretzels made with water, yeast, flour, and a pinch of salt; you can enjoy them with mustard or dipping sauces. Another pretzel hotspot is the Center City Pretzel Co at Italian Market – also specialising in hand-twisted soft pretzels and pretzel rolls.

Hoagies

This American style sandwich is Philadelphia’s answer to subway (but tastier and heartier), served hot or cold and prepared by local bakeries with freshly made rolls and a choice of fillings, from meats and vegetables to salads, cheeses, and flavourings like oregano, salt, and pepper. Hoagies are built-to-order and customised to your taste.

Angelo’s Pizzeria in South Philly is a great spot for a hoagie with favourites such as Italian and Italian tuna, plus delicious fried snacks that go well as a side. Ricci’s Hoagies is also worth noting; this family-run sandwich shop has been operating since the 1920s and offers an extensive choice of hoagies, including the signature old fashioned Italian and corned beef special.  

Tomato Pie

The delectable square shaped tomato pie originated in Italian bakeries when leftover bread dough was baked at the end of the day and covered with tomato sauce. It’s become famous and is now traditionally prepared with foccia-like spongy dough that has been fermented for a long period of time. It’s then dressed with a sauce made of fresh tomatoes, sprinkled with herbs, drizzled with a touch of olive oil, and occasionally dusted with grated cheese.  

Sample some tantalising tomato pie at Sarcone’s Bakery in South Philly - one of the city’s longest running Italian bakeries which offers classic versions of this staple cuisine, or Marchiano’s Bakery on Umbria Street, offering creative versions of tomato pies including a cheesesteak option, allowing you to enjoy the best of two iconic Philadelphia dishes in one go!

Tastykakes

Tastykakes is a delicious and simple variety of sweet snacks available throughout Philadelphia at bakeries, supermarkets, or convenience stores, with variations to choose from such as the famed butterscotch krimpet sponge-style cakes and the Kandy Kake – filled with peanut butter and covered in chocolate. Tastykakes originated in Philly and are so tasty that production for them has been expanding across the US. These mini cakes are individually wrapped so you can take some home as souvenirs for your loved ones and bring a piece of Philadelphia with you.  

Are your tastebuds tingling for some Philly cuisine? You could be in with the chance of winning a pair of return flight tickets to Philadelphia courtesy of British Airways - enter here. We also offer great value holiday packages to Philadelphia. Contact Brightsun today on 0208 819 0531 to find out more or to receive a customised quote.