A Guide to East Passyunk, South Philly’s Foodie Playground

Can’t-Miss Experiences

1. Dine at James Beard-honored restaurants

East Passyunk is at the forefront of the city’s innovative culinary scene, with a collection of critically acclaimed and James Beard-honored eateries.

Stop into Essen Bakery during your afternoon stroll down the Ave for its famous babka. Or book a reservation at an award-winning fine-dining restaurant, like El Chingon, Gabriella’s Vietnam, River Twice or Laurel.

El Chingon   — Photo courtesy El Chingon

2. Shop small and local

Dozens of storefronts line Passyunk Avenue, and most are helmed by passionate, local entrepreneurs and artisans. Translation: Expect shelves and racks filled with rare finds and particularly exciting goodies.

Stores like Nice Things Handmade,  South Fellini and Occasionette are great for gifts. And spots like Novel Idea, Latchkey and Beautiful World Syndicate, Tildie’s Toy Box, and the Philly Typewriter are also well worth a visit.

And eco-conscious shoppers can take advantage of a treasure trove of vintage shops and sustainability-minded shops like Good Buy Supply.

3. Savor a treat by the Singing Fountain

Rittenhouse Square has its iconic park. Old City has Independence Mall. And East Passyunk has the Singing Fountain.

While the charming mermaid-topped landmark that once played music — hence the name — is silent now, the bustling square is anything but. Grab a cold treat from a nearby shop, like D’Emilio’s Old World Ice Treats, Milk Jawn or Vanilya Bakery, pop a squat and get in on some prime people-watching.

And make sure you come back during the holiday season for the annual East Passyunk Tree Lighting.

  — Photo courtesy East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District

4. Take in skyline views at Bok Bar

Reimagined as a creative hub for artisans and small businesses, this shuttered South Philly high school flourishes with the fine dining restaurant Irwin’s, artist workshops, makers markets, events and more.

But the cherry on top is Bok Bar, the Bok Building’s hip rooftop eatery serving incredible views of the Philadelphia skyline, alongside drinks and a menu curated by a rotating lineup of local restaurants.

  — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

5. Have a cheesesteak taste test

In a cheesesteak city, East Passyunk could be considered sandwich central, with some of Philly’s most famous steak shops found within its borders.

Just follow the bright neon lights to the intersection of 9th Street & Passyunk Avenue, where iconic rivals — and neighbors — Pat’s and Geno’s battle it out daily. Grab a steak from one or the other (or both!), and weigh in on the cheesesteak wars for yourself. Looking for something less blinding? Hit up a lesser-known local fave like Cosmi’s Deli.

  — Photo courtesy Pat's King of Steaks

6. Catch a seasonal festival

East Passyunk hosts several major seasonal fests and events throughout the year, including East Passyunk Restaurant Week in the winter and the Flavors on the Avenue food festival during springtime. Each holiday season, Miracle on South 13th Street transforms one residential block into an illuminated scene straight out of a Hallmark movie.

Throughout the year, smaller events, like the Queers on the Avenue and Passyunk Passeggiata, regularly highlight the neighborhood’s dining, shopping and community.

Flavors on the Avenue   — Photo courtesy East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District

Where to Stay

While lodging options in the neighborhood are few, East Passyunk is conveniently located near several South Philly boutique hotels, like the Philadelphia Hotel Bella Vista, The Deacon in Graduate Hospital and The Queen Hotel, Sonder in Queen Village.

Queen Guest Room at The Queen Hotel, Sonder   — Photo courtesy The Queen Hotel Queen Village, Sonder

Local Tips

Ready to experience the neighborhood firsthand? Here are some tips to get you started:

• Parking in the area can be tough, but the neighborhood is easily accessible using SEPTA’s B subway line. It’s also an easy walk (or Uber/Lyft) from Center City — City Hall is only a 35-minute walk away! If you choose to drive, spots are often available along Broad Street or in one of the neighborhood’s public parking lots and garages.

• The neighborhood’s history as a commercial corridor goes way back to when it served as a trade route for the Lenni-Lenape tribe; East Passyunk even gets its name from the Lenape word for “in the valley.” While the “correct” pronunciation of the name is up for debate even among locals, you can’t go wrong with “Pash-yunk.”

• Between Broad Street and Federal Street, you’d be hard-pressed to find a national chain. Around 75% of the businesses are independently owned, and 60% are women-owned, including River Twice, Society Hill Dance Academy, Frame Fatale, and Rice & Sambal.