South Philly and the Iconic Italian Market is one of my favorite areas of the city! 

Dozens of vendors line the street, selling the freshest vegetables, fish, meats, spices and produce from their stalls, while gourmet shops and restaurants occupy storefronts in between. 

And while the Italian Market has an incredibly strong Italian heritage — which can still be seen today throughout the stores, restaurants and neighborhood in general — an exciting surge of international flavors has given the area new life over the past decade.

Food Recommendations

This is my longest list of restaurants (and for good reason!) Click the bolded text to visit their website!

• Saloon - Upscale Italian - great for birthdays. Make sure you get a side of the fettuccine alfredo!
• Angelo's Pizzeria - Best cheesesteak in the city and the pizza is incredible too. It's a walk-up spot that's also cash only. I like to order here and then stroll through the Italian Market while I wait. There's a courtyard nearby that you can eat at as well!
• Taco Heart - Austin, Texas-style tacos.. so good. Make sure to grab a side of queso and puffy chips. 
• South Philly Barbacoa - Unassuming Mexican eatery specializing in traditional slow-cooked barbacoa-style tacos & toppings. Make sure to look up the hours before hand - they are mostly only open on weekends and cash only. 
• Fiorella Pasta - One of the most special places to dine in the city. Try to get a reservation at the Chef's Counter if possible and don't forget to order the Rigatoni.
• Palizzi Social Club - Incredible old-school members only club with delicious drinks and tasting menu. Cash only - Call me if you need help getting in. 
• Isgro Pastries - One of the best bakeries in the city. You will smell it from a block away... 
• Anthony's Italian Coffee & Chocolate House - Delicious gelato, imported Italian chocolate, and coffee
• Tacos El Rodeo Food Truck - Located in the Sherwin-Williams parking lot. Best tacos in the city. Cash only. If you know, you know. 
• ​​​​​​​RIM Cafe - He's the cannoli King. Trust me on this one. 
  
• Dante & Luigi's - Incredible old school Italian food with some crazy history. Make sure to get a reservation!
  
• Ralph's Italian Restaurant - Oldest Italian Restaurant in Philly. It's not the best Italian food in the city, but it's certainly delicious and you will feel the history all around you. Tons of famous Presidents celebs have eaten here. 
  
• The Victor Café - Opera live performances - if you're into that. Pretty cool!
  
• Blue Corn Restaurant and Bar - One of the best Mexican spots in the city. Cash only.