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Philadelphia food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Philadelphia.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
What to eat in Philadelphia
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Philly Cheesesteak
$10–$15
Thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese (Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American) piled high on a long, crusty roll. It's a messy, iconic sandwich that defines South Philly street food.
Where to try: Pat's King of Steaks or Geno's Steaks (South Philly)
Roast Pork Sandwich
$12–$17
Slow-roasted pork shoulder, often seasoned with garlic and herbs, served on a kaiser roll with sharp provolone cheese and broccoli rabe. This is a beloved, albeit lesser-known, Philly sandwich.
Where to try: John's Roast Pork (South Philly)
Soft Pretzel
$2–$4
A large, chewy, hand-twisted pretzel, often served warm with mustard. Philadelphia pretzels are distinct for their soft interior and shiny, slightly crisp exterior.
Where to try: Philly Pretzel Factory or street vendors throughout the city
Scrapple
$5–$10
A regional breakfast meat made from pork scraps and trimmings, mixed with cornmeal or flour and spices, then formed into a loaf and sliced for frying. It has a unique, savory flavor and a firm texture.
Where to try: Reading Terminal Market diners
Water Ice (Italian Ice)
$3–$6
A frozen dessert made from water, sugar, and fruit flavoring, with a texture smoother than sorbet but icier than gelato. It's a refreshing staple, especially in the summer.
Where to try: John's Water Ice (South Philly) or Rita's Italian Ice locations
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
South Philadelphia
Historic, working-class, diverse culinary traditions
CheesesteaksItalian cuisineStreet food
Reading Terminal Market
Bustling indoor market with a huge variety of vendors
BreakfastLunchLocal produceDiverse eats
Fishtown
Trendy, artsy, with a growing number of innovative restaurants
Craft cocktailsNew American cuisineLive music
Rittenhouse Square
Upscale, elegant, with a concentration of fine dining
Fine diningBrunchPeople-watching
Dietary notes
Philadelphia's traditional cuisine is very meat-centric, particularly the iconic cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. However, with its diverse population and growing foodie scene, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in neighborhoods like Fishtown and Rittenhouse, and at Reading Terminal Market.
Local etiquette
- •When ordering a cheesesteak, be clear about your cheese preference ('Whiz wit' or 'Whiz witout' onions, etc.).
- •Tipping is standard in restaurants and bars; 18-20% is customary for good service.
- •While many places accept cards, having some cash on hand is useful for smaller vendors and food trucks.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •Don't be afraid to try food from street carts; many are excellent and offer a true taste of the city.
Plan the rest of your Philadelphia trip
Food guides elsewhere