Beyond Cheesesteaks - A History of Iconic Philly Foods

Beyond Cheesesteaks - A History of Iconic Philly Foods

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PhillyBite Rosati IcePhiladelphia, PA - It’s impossible to visit Philadelphia and not taste some of the city’s signature foods. Philly’s flavors are so universally craved that some companies ship classics to your door. No matter where you live, though, you’re sure to find a brand bred with brotherly love in your local supermarket. The following is a list of well-known food companies that have their roots in the Philadelphia region.

Tastes of Home: 4 Famous Food Brands Born in the Philadelphia Region

It’s impossible to visit Philadelphia and not taste some of the city’s signature foods. But Philly’s influence on the American palate extends far beyond its famous cheesesteaks and hoagies. The region has been a cradle for iconic food companies that have grown from small, family-run operations into nationally recognized brands. You may not realize it, but a taste of Philadelphia's history and flavor might be waiting in your local supermarket right now. Here is a guide to four well-known food companies that have their roots in the Philadelphia region.

1. Rosati Ice: America's Original Italian Ice

  • The Story: The story of American water ice (Italian ice) begins in the basement of Sam Rosati's West Philadelphia home. In 1912, the so-called "King of Water Ice" would hand-crank his frozen treats and sell them from horse-drawn carriages throughout the city.
  • Today: Over a century later, Rosati Ice is the oldest Italian ice company in the United States. While the company's headquarters are now in Clifton Heights, PA, its delicious, refreshing water ice is available nationwide in supermarkets and is a staple in school cafeterias.

2. Campbell’s: The Iconic Red and White Can

  • The Story: The chicken soup you crave when you're sick has its roots just across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey. In 1869, fruit merchant Joseph Campbell and icebox manufacturer Abraham Anderson formed a business that would become the Campbell Soup Company.
  • Today: While Campbell's is now a global food giant, its world headquarters remains in Camden, a constant presence on the city's skyline. The iconic red and white can, inspired by the Cornell University football team's uniforms, is a testament to the brand's enduring legacy.

3. Dietz & Watson: The Deli Staple

  • The Story: Many would argue that a true Philadelphia hoagie isn't complete unless it's made with Dietz & Watson deli meat. The company was founded in 1939 when Gottlieb Dietz and Walter Watson teamed up, starting their business along the Delaware River next to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
  • Today: After a significant expansion, the company's headquarters are now in Northeast Philadelphia. Dietz & Watson’s premium meats and artisan cheeses are a staple at deli counters in every corner of the country, representing a commitment to quality that started in Philly.

4. Tastykake: A Sweet Philly Tradition

  • The Story: The Tasty Baking Company got its start in Philadelphia in 1914. Founders Philip Baur and Herbert Morris found the perfect building on Sedgley Avenue and began delivering their individually wrapped snack cakes, or "Tastykakes," by horse and wagon.
  • Today: Generations of Philadelphians have grown up with beloved treats like Butterscotch Krimpets®, Peanut Butter Kandy Kakes®, and Juniors®. While Tastykake has a national reach, the brand still calls the Philadelphia Navy Yard home and remains a sweet and nostalgic symbol of the city.

 



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