A guide to local favorites in East Passyunk Philadelphia
Most visitors come to South Philly in search of Pat’s or Geno’s, but a few blocks up from these cheesesteak outposts is a food mecca along East Passyunk Avenue. The mix of high and low is what makes it unique and fun to stroll. You’ll find award-winning dining, from French to Italian, Southeast Asian to Mexican, and cocktail bars sprinkled among dives.
Meet your local
Swabreen grew up in South America and settled in Philadelphia for college at Drexel University in 2002. She loves exploring cities both locally and internationally. She’s been writing about Philadelphia for about 10 years.
ssscorvus ssscorvusWant to get in touch? Email bytheway@washpost.com
Where I live:
Hawthorne, a quiet neighborhood in walking distance to the Italian Market, Center City and Old City. I’ve lived here for four years because the convenience is just too great to give up.
Best way to get around the city:
Walking is great, but some neighborhoods like Fishtown, West Philly and East Passyunk are easier to get to via SEPTA, our transit system.
Don’t leave without having:
Authentic “water ice” from John’s Water Ice with a pretzel rod. Or try one of our signature block-shaped and hand-twisted soft pretzels topped with mustard. This style was created here by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the 1800s.
But the local favorite is really:
Debating about cheesesteaks. I asked a group of foodie friends about where to get the best, and the top pick was John’s Roast Pork. You heard it from the locals, so it’s settled.
If I moved, I’d most miss:
Serendipitously running into friends on the street on any given day.
East Passyunk
Essen Bakery
A James Beard-nominated bakery, this tiny shop specializes in Jewish baked goods. There is a seasonal sandwich and toast menu for savory options.
Essen Bakery, 1437 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, Pa. 19147
Analog Watch Co.
Inspired by nature, they describe their timepieces as minimal and functional sculptures for the wrist. Each purchase helps support an environmental cause.
Analog Watch Co., 1737 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, Pa. 19148
Saté Kampar
This BYOB spot serves Malaysian specialties inspired by chef Ange Branca’s hometown. Their satays (marinated meat on skewers) are cooked over a grill using coconut shell briquettes.
Saté Kampar, 1837 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, Pa. 19148
Mr. Martino’s Trattoria
A humble Italian restaurant, Mr. Martino’s has been serving pasta and red sauce (gravy, as some call it in the region) for over two decades in a former hardware store with tin ceilings. At this cash-only joint, reservations are recommended, since they’re only open three days a week: Friday through Sunday.
Mr. Martino’s Trattoria, 1646 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, Pa. 19148
In the Valley
From award-winning chef Nicholas Elmi, this cocktail bar is next to his first restaurant, Laurel. Come here for great cocktails and French-inspired small plates.
In the Valley, 1615 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, Pa. 19148
South Fellini
Get a souvenir in the form of one of South Fellini’s pop-culture-inspired T-shirts that pay homage to Philadelphia and its neighborhoods. The “Wawa Jawn” is pretty much a must-have.
South Fellini, 1507 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, Pa. 19147
Swabreen Bakr
Swabreen grew up in South America and settled in Philadelphia for college at Drexel University in 2002. She loves exploring cities both locally and internationally. She’s been writing about Philadelphia for about 10 years.
@ssscorvus @ssscorvusMichelle Gustafson
Michelle is a contributing photographer to The Washington Post based in Philadelphia. Originally from New Mexico, she loves Philadelphia’s bravado and salt-of-the-earth attitude. You may spot her at Little Nonna’s, where she gets closer and closer to eating the entire plate of spaghetti in one sitting.
@michellegustafson
