Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia is known for its diverse food scene, and one way to experience the best of it is to try some of its classic dishes. You can eat the famous cannoli, DiNic's roast pork, and Wooder ice cream or explore the city's ethnic food scene and sample some of its iconic foods.
Cannoli
The city's Italian heritage means cannolis are integral to the Philly experience. There's no need to travel far to enjoy this delectable treat. There are several places to get them, including Termini Brothers, an iconic Italian bakery. The company, which has been around for over a century, makes cannoli and other Italian sweets.
DiNic's Roast Pork
If you're in the Philadelphia area, you've probably heard about DiNic's Roast Pork. This sandwich shop is located in Reading Terminal Market and has high maroon and yellow signs and a marbled green soapstone bar. The sandwich menu features six Italian-style sandwiches that cost from $8 to $11 each. The most popular item is the roast pork sandwich.
Wooder Ice
If you're a true Philly foodie, you'll want to try some Wooder ice at a local eatery. The famous dessert is a Philadelphia institution. Wooder ice is not only tasty but also comes with a rich history. You'll find a wide variety of flavors here, and you'll have a hard time choosing just one.
Pat's Cheesesteak
If you have a list of iconic Philadelphia foods, you might want to include Pat's cheesesteak. It has been a staple of Philly cuisine for nearly a century. Originally sold as a steak sandwich, it quickly became a staple of Philadelphia culture. In 1911, Pat Olivieri added cheese to the sandwich, which soon became a regular part of the city's diet.
Termini Brothers Bakery
In addition to the traditional Italian cookies and cakes, Termini Brothers Bakery also offers a wide selection of other sweet treats. Established in 1921, the bakery has become Philadelphia's go-to place for wedding cakes. The bakery uses authentic Sicilian recipes for its cookies and cakes and makes its own almond paste and preserves every summer. The store also imports Spanish pignoli for its delicious desserts.
Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels are a staple of Philadelphian culture and history. Soft pretzels have become a defining part of the city's culinary landscape, whether you prefer them twisted, braided, or bald (without salt). The Pennsylvania Dutch are responsible for making the city's famous soft pretzels. Soft pretzels can be found at many different restaurants and shops across the city. While there's a large selection of pretzel vendors in Philadelphia, you'll be better off going to a local bakery. A classic pretzel is golden and crusty on the outside, with a soft inside. A dipping sauce is a perfect complement to your soft pretzel.
Hoagies
Hoagies are one of the classic foods from the Philadelphia area. They are a long roll sandwich with many different names throughout the country, but Philadelphians call it by the name "hoagie." The name came about because the sandwich was first made at the Hog Island shipyard, located just outside of Philadelphia. Italian immigrants began making sandwiches in the early 1900s. There are several types of hoagies, and some are better than others. Some are traditional, and some are a little more adventurous. Whether you are a true fan of Italian food or enjoy a savory roll, there is sure to be a hoagie that fits your tastes. The best place to try these sandwiches is in Philadelphia.
Scrapple
You've probably heard about scrapple before, but if you've never had it, you're missing out. The delicious pork sausage has a rich history in Pennsylvania and is among the most iconic foods of the city. You can find scrapple at many restaurants and diners in the area, and you can even order it for takeout.
Tastykakes
Tastykakes are a delicious treat that is uniquely Philadelphian. They are sugar-laden and made with high-fructose corn, but they still hold a special place in our childhood hearts. And the best part is that they fit perfectly in a brown bag lunch. Tastykakes are on the Philadelphia culinary trinity. You can find Tastykakes at many Philadelphia grocery stores, including Wawa. These stores sell a variety of Philadelphia-style foods, including pizza, soft pretzels, curly fries, and mac and cheese. Tastykakes is another delicious Philadelphia food you should try if you visit the city. The brand also produces sugar-coated treats, like cupcakes, Kandy Kakes, and Krimpets.
Goldenberg Peanuts Chews
Goldenberg Peanuts Chews are a staple Philadelphia food and one of the city's most famous snacks. They've been around for over a hundred years, and people of all ages enjoy them. The peanut chews are made in a manufacturing facility in Northeast Philadelphia, where 1.2 million pieces are produced daily. Goldenberg's makes these sweet treats in small batches and uses approximately 44,000 pounds of whole peanuts each week. David Goldenberg founded the Goldenberg Candy Company in 1890. In 1917, he created the peanut chews that have become iconic Philadelphia treats. The company has produced some of the country's oldest branded candies, including Good and Plenty, licorice candies. Other iconic Philadelphia foods include Asher's chocolate-covered pretzels and Candy Corn.
Tomato Pie
The nation's tomato pie epicenter is South Philadelphia, where most of the city's 20th-century Italian immigrants settled. Many Philadelphia-style tomato pies are baked in the same ovens used to make cheesesteaks and roast pork sandwiches. Some are even made with the same dough. Tomato pie is a regional style of American pizza. It is made in rectangular sheets with a crisp crust. The toppings and crusts can vary widely, but they all share the same ingredients. It is possible to order a tomato pie with a sweet or savory sauce.
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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly
