World Travel Tips

My passion for discovering authentic local cuisines has always been at the forefront of my travels. Recently, my journey led me to the captivating city of Philadelphia, where I embarked on a culinary adventure that left me craving for more. I’ll share my gastronomic escapades, providing insights into Philadelphia’s affordable, yet incredibly delicious, local dishes.

The Cheesesteak Quest

My culinary journey in Philadelphia kicked off with an exploration of one of the city’s most iconic dishes—the cheesesteak. A mouthwatering masterpiece, the classic Philly cheesesteak is a hearty sandwich made from thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and often accompanied by grilled onions and peppers. Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, located conveniently across the street from each other in South Philadelphia, are the quintessential destinations to indulge in this local delight.

I decided to go for the authentic experience by trying both establishments. At Pat’s, I ordered the classic cheesesteak with provolone cheese and grilled onions, while at Geno’s, I opted for the Cheese Whiz version with fried peppers. The rivalry between the two places is legendary, and locals often have strong opinions about their favorite. Personally, I couldn’t choose a clear winner; both were incredibly delicious in their unique ways. If you’re looking to try a cheesesteak in Philadelphia, don’t miss this gastronomic showdown.

Dive into the Local Food Markets

Philadelphia boasts a vibrant food scene, and the city’s numerous food markets are a testament to its culinary diversity. Reading Terminal Market, located in the heart of the city, is a food lover’s paradise. From Amish pretzels to Pennsylvania Dutch sausage, the market offers a wide variety of local specialties. I indulged in a classic Philly soft pretzel, delightfully chewy and topped with just the right amount of salt. While strolling through the market, I couldn’t resist trying the mouthwatering Pennsylvania Dutch sausage, a smoky and flavorful treat that left me craving for more.

DiNic’s Roast Pork

While at Reading Terminal Market, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try one of the market’s most famous sandwiches. DiNic’s, a beloved eatery with a long-standing history in the market, is renowned for its roast pork sandwiches. The star of the show is the slow-roasted pork that’s tender and succulent, accompanied by sharp provolone, flavorful broccoli rabe, and a dash of hot peppers. The combination of flavors and textures in the roast pork sandwich was nothing short of remarkable. The juicy, well-seasoned meat paired with the slightly bitter greens and the sharp cheese created a symphony of tastes in my mouth. It was a delightful deviation from the traditional cheesesteak and a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Philadelphia.

Beiler’s Doughnuts

For those with a sweet tooth, Reading Terminal Market offers a delectable treat that’s hard to resist. Beiler’s Doughnuts is a family-owned stand that specializes in hand-rolled, Amish-style doughnuts. The moment I approached the counter, I was greeted by the sight of colorful, freshly fried doughnuts in various shapes and sizes. I couldn’t resist trying the classic powdered sugar doughnut. As I took my first bite, I was treated to a warm, fluffy interior that practically melted in my mouth. The powdered sugar on the outside added a delicate sweetness that complemented the doughnut’s simplicity perfectly. Beiler’s Doughnuts are a delightful indulgence, and a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings while exploring the market.

Sampling the Heavenly Hoagies

Another local culinary gem not to be missed in Philadelphia is the hoagie. A hoagie is a hearty sandwich made with a long Italian roll filled with various deli meats, cheese, and an assortment of fresh toppings. One of the best places to experience the city’s hoagie culture is Cosmi’s Deli, a quaint sandwich shop located in the heart of South Philly. I ordered their classic Italian hoagie with ham, salami, provolone cheese, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all perfectly drizzled with oil and vinegar. The flavors were exquisite, and I understood why Cosmi’s Deli is considered a local favorite. A true hoagie lover’s haven.

Sarcone’s Deli

Philadelphia is dotted with delightful delis serving up heavenly hoagies, and Sarcone’s Deli is one such gem. Located in the heart of the Italian Market, Sarcone’s is known for its fresh, hand-rolled bread that’s the foundation of their exceptional hoagies. I decided to try their classic Italian hoagie, featuring prosciutto, capacolla, and salami, along with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a drizzle of oil and vinegar. The combination of high-quality meats, fresh ingredients, and the soft yet slightly crusty roll was a taste sensation. The hoagie was packed with flavors, and every bite felt like a celebration of Philadelphia’s hoagie culture.

Dutch Eating Place

For a classic breakfast experience, I visited the Dutch Eating Place, a beloved breakfast spot located within the Reading Terminal Market. This small but bustling eatery offers a selection of traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dishes. I decided to try the scrapple and eggs breakfast, a local specialty. Scrapple is a type of pork-based sausage that’s pan-fried until crispy and served alongside eggs. The scrapple had a unique flavor and texture, with a crispy exterior and a soft, savory interior. Paired with perfectly cooked eggs, it was a hearty and satisfying breakfast that provided a glimpse into the region’s culinary traditions.

Johnny Brenda’s

Similarly, Johnny Brenda’s in Fishtown is a popular spot for budget-friendly yet mouthwatering dishes. I enjoyed their house-made pierogies, a savory Polish dish filled with various fillings like potatoes, cheese, and sauerkraut. The crispy exterior and the deliciously creamy fillings were a delightful treat. The pierogies at Johnny Brenda’s were served with sour cream and caramelized onions, adding a burst of flavor to each bite. This down-to-earth eatery is a favorite among locals and offers a taste of comfort food that’s both affordable and incredibly delicious.

Zahav: A Taste of the Mediterranean

One evening, my culinary adventure led me to the heart of Old City, where I discovered Zahav, a restaurant renowned for its modern take on Israeli cuisine. As soon as I walked in, I was enveloped in an inviting atmosphere that combined both elegance and warmth.

Zahav’s interior exudes a contemporary yet cozy charm, with a lively open kitchen at its center. The restaurant offers various seating options, including the bar, which allows you to witness the culinary magic as it unfolds before your eyes. The restaurant’s attention to detail is evident in its exquisite decor and impeccable service.

The star of Zahav’s menu is the “Tayim,” a tasting menu that allows you to experience a diverse array of dishes from the Mediterranean region. Each course is a work of art, blending traditional flavors with a modern twist. One standout dish is the “Hummus Tehina,” a creamy, rich hummus topped with a drizzle of silky tehina, and a sprinkle of earthy, spiced lamb ragu. The combination of textures and flavors in this dish is an absolute delight, and it showcases the restaurant’s commitment to authentic, quality ingredients.

For those seeking a memorable dining experience, Zahav also offers the “Mesibah” tasting, where you can indulge in a variety of grilled and roasted meats, presented family-style. The highlight of this menu is the heavenly, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. The succulent meat practically melts in your mouth and is a testament to Zahav’s dedication to perfection.

In addition to the delectable cuisine, Zahav provides an extensive wine list and a selection of creative cocktails to complement your meal. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the food they serve, and their recommendations enhance the dining experience.

Amada: A Spanish Culinary Haven

Amada’s ambiance is nothing short of captivating, with dim lighting, exposed brick walls, and rustic wooden beams that create an atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Spanish tavern. The restaurant offers various seating options, from intimate tables to a bustling bar area where you can enjoy a wide selection of Spanish wines and cocktails.

The tapas menu at Amada is a testament to the flavors and traditions of Spain. I opted for the “Tasting Menu,” a chef’s selection that promised to take me on a culinary journey through various regions of Spain. The first course, “Ensalada de Manzana,” was a refreshing salad featuring crisp apples, almonds, and Cabrales blue cheese, all drizzled with a sherry vinaigrette. The combination of sweet and savory flavors was a perfect start to the meal.

The “Gambas al Ajillo,” a classic Spanish dish of shrimp sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and chili, was a delightful explosion of flavors. The succulent shrimp, bathed in a fragrant garlic sauce, was a true revelation.

The “Cordero” dish featured tender lamb chops served with roasted vegetables and an almond picada. The perfectly cooked lamb, complemented by the nutty picada sauce, was a savory masterpiece that demonstrated the culinary prowess of Amada’s kitchen.

Amada offers an extensive selection of Spanish wines and sherries, as well as creative cocktails that perfectly complement the meal. The staff is knowledgeable and eager to guide you through the menu, helping you make the most of your Spanish dining adventure.

Tips for a Delicious Journey

As you embark on your culinary adventure in Philadelphia, here are some essential tips to enhance your experience:

• Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and explore local specialties. Philadelphia’s diverse food scene offers a wide range of options, and you might discover unexpected favorites.
• Plan Ahead: Research restaurants, read reviews, and make reservations in advance when possible, especially if you have specific dining establishments in mind.OpenTable and Resy are popular platforms that allow you to browse and reserve tables at numerous restaurants in the city. These user-friendly apps provide information about the restaurant’s menu, pricing, and reviews, making it easier to make informed decisions about your dining choices.
• Ask Locals: Strike up conversations with locals and ask for their food recommendations. They often have the inside scoop on hidden gems and must-try dishes.
• Be Open to Food Markets: Philadelphia’s food markets, like Reading Terminal Market, are treasure troves of flavors. Explore them to discover local and international delicacies.
• Embrace the Local Favorites: Cheesesteaks, hoagies, and soft pretzels are quintessential Philly foods. Don’t leave the city without trying them.

Philadelphia’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, and each meal offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and diverse culture. From iconic local dishes to international delights, the city has something to satisfy every palate. Whether you try a classic cheesesteak, a delicious roast pork sandwich, or handmade donuts, Philadelphia’s food scene will leave you with great memories.

Tags: Dutch Eating Place, Philadelphia, Zahav