PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia is a city that takes its Italian-American culinary heritage seriously. While cheesesteaks and hoagies often steal the limelight, another beloved creation deserves its moment: the calzone. This delicious Italian turnover, essentially a folded pizza, offers a delightful pocket of melted cheese, savory fillings, and perfectly baked dough. Whether you like yours traditional with ricotta and mozzarella or packed with meats and veggies, Philadelphia boasts some fantastic spots to find this comforting classic.
What Makes a Great Philadelphia Calzone?
Before diving into where to find them, let's appreciate what makes a standout calzone:
- The Dough: It should be fresh, with a pleasant chew and a nicely browned, slightly crisp exterior.
- The Cheese: A generous blend of creamy ricotta and gooey, melted mozzarella is traditional and essential.
- The Fillings: Quality matters, whether it's classic Italian meats like pepperoni and sausage, fresh vegetables, or a simple, well-seasoned cheese blend.
- The Sauce: A rich, flavorful marinara sauce served on the side for dipping is non-negotiable for many.
Top Spots for Calzone Cravings in Philadelphia:
While many pizzerias offer calzones, some establishments have a reputation for making them particularly well. Here are a few highly-regarded places to start your Philadelphia calzone quest:
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Angelo's Pizzeria (South Philadelphia & Downtown)
- Why They're a Contender: Already legendary for its pizza and hoagies, Angelo's doesn't skimp on quality when it comes to their calzones. Expect high-quality ingredients, perfectly baked dough, and generous fillings. Their commitment to excellence across their menu extends to these savory pockets.
- What to Expect: Likely traditional options with premium meats and cheeses, served with their excellent red sauce. Given their popularity, be prepared for potential waits.
- Locations: 736 S 9th St (South Philly); 2238 Frankford Ave (Fishtown); other potential locations.
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Santucci's Original Square Pizza (Multiple Locations)
- Why They're a Contender: While famous for their unique square, sauce-on-top pizza, Santucci's also offers well-regarded calzones. They bring their decades of pizza-making experience to these folded creations.
- What to Expect: A satisfying, well-filled calzone with quality cheese and your choice of traditional pizza toppings as fillings. A family-friendly atmosphere.
- Locations: Various, including Italian Market, Roxborough, and more.
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Franco's Place Pizzeria (South Philadelphia)
- Why They're a Contender: A classic South Philly neighborhood pizzeria that consistently gets praise for its traditional Italian-American fare, including generously stuffed calzones.
- What to Expect: Hearty calzones with a good balance of cheese and fillings, served in a no-frills, authentic pizzeria setting.
- Location: 1000 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
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Pizza Brain (Fishtown/Kensington)
- Why They're a Contender: Known for its quirky vibe, pizza museum, and creative pies, Pizza Brain also offers calzones that reflect their commitment to quality ingredients and interesting flavor combinations.
- What to Expect: Potentially more inventive calzone options alongside the classics, all served in a unique and memorable atmosphere.
- Location: 2313 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
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Many Neighborhood Pizzerias & Italian Restaurants:
- Why They're Contenders: Philadelphia is packed with excellent, family-run Italian restaurants and pizzerias that might not have national fame but serve incredible, authentic calzones. Don't overlook your local spot!
- What to Expect: Often the best finds are in unassuming neighborhood joints where recipes have been passed down through generations.
Tips for Your Calzone Adventure:
- Ask for Extra Sauce: If you're a dipper, don't hesitate to request an extra side of marinara.
- Consider Baked vs. Fried: While most Philly calzones are baked, some smaller spots or those with different regional Italian influences might offer a fried version (panzerotti).
- Share (or Don't!): Calzones can be quite filling. They're great for sharing, but no judgment if you want one all to yourself!
While the cheesesteak may be Philadelphia's most famous culinary export, the humble yet mighty calzone holds a special place in the city's rich Italian-American food tradition. From classic neighborhood pizzerias in South Philly to more modern spots in Fishtown, delicious, cheese-filled pockets of doughy goodness await. Embark on your own Philadelphia calzone quest and discover the city's best-kept savory secrets!
Sources:
- Philadelphia Inquirer (Food Section & Craig LaBan Reviews)
- Philly Mag (Best of Philly lists, Food & Drink articles)
- Eater Philadelphia (Restaurant Guides & Reviews)
- Local food blogs and online review platforms (Yelp, Google Reviews, TripAdvisor)
- Specific restaurant websites for menu details
