Historic Restaurants and Local Foods

Learn more with this project!

Travel Kit: Camera or pencil and sketchbook

Your Destination: Philadelphia is home to several historic food venues that have been serving locals and visitors for decades, offering a taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage.

On the Path: Find food that speaks to your stomach and learn more about it.

Step 1: Print a handout, color, cut and glue together on a paper plate or napkin. 

Group Tour: Make several handouts and take pictures of you and your friends pretending to eat your art.

Extend the Journey: Explore all the art inspired by food on our website. 

Vocabulary: Ingredients

Resources and Visual Aids: Create a Philly Cheesesteak, Pennsylvania State’s Hot Pretzels 

Here are more great Philadelphia restaurants to visit!

Chinatown

Vietnam RestaurantA Chinatown staple since 1982, offering authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi in a cozy setting.

Italian Market (South 9th Street)

Di Bruno Bros.: Founded in 1939, this family-run shop is a Philadelphia institution, offering an extensive selection of cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet foods.

Isgro Pastries: Established in 1904, known for its traditional Italian pastries, including the famous cannoli.

Tony’s Place: A beloved spot since 1950, serving classic Philly cheesesteaks in a no-frills setting.

Liberty Place & Comcast Center Area

The Shops at Liberty Place: An upscale shopping center featuring a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

Comcast Center Food Court: Located within the Comcast Center, offering a diverse selection of food vendors catering to the downtown workforce.

Reading Terminal Market: Opened in 1893, this historic market houses over 80 vendors offering a diverse array of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and international cuisines.

South Street

Jim’s South St.: Established in 1976, this iconic cheesesteak spot is renowned for its long-standing tradition of serving Philly’s signature sandwich.

Ishkabibbles: A late-night favorite since the 1970s, known for its chicken cheesesteaks and unique “Gremlin” drink.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House: Established in 1860, it is Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating tavern, offering classic pub fare in a historic setting.

Ralph’s Italian Restaurant: Founded in 1900, it is the oldest Italian restaurant in the U.S., known for its traditional Italian dishes and family-friendly atmosphere.

Dante & Luigi’s: Opened in 1899, it is a South Philly staple offering classic Italian-American cuisine in a charming, old-world setting.

John’s Roast Pork: Since 1930, it has been serving some of the best roast pork sandwiches and cheesesteaks in South Philadelphia.

Victor Café: Opened in 1933, it is a classic Italian restaurant where waiters serenade diners with opera arias, offering a unique dining experience.

Marra’s Cucina Italiana: Serving traditional Italian fare since 1927, it is known for its brick-oven pizzas and classic pasta dishes.

Tacconelli’s Pizzeria: Established in 1921, it is famous for its old-school tomato pies, made with a secret dough recipe and fresh ingredients.

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef: Opened in 1938, Nick’s is renowned for its roast beef sandwiches and house-made gravy fries in a casual setting.