Posted in Philadelphia
January 22, 2018
14 Philadelphia Staples You Should Have Tried By Now
Philadelphians are serious about our food. We’ll argue to the death for the term “hoagie,” we’ll roll our eyes when you try to tell us you had a good cheesesteak in Wisconsin, and we’ll gladly try to explain water ice for an hour. When you spend enough time here, food becomes part of the who you are. If you’re new to the city, or if you’ve lived here your whole life, make sure you’ve tried the following classic Philly foods.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Whether you like PA Dutch or Boylan's, birch beer is a Philadelphia favorite.
Jim's, Dalessandro's, Steve's, Joe's... choose one of Philly's legendary steak shops for the best cheesesteaks in the city.
Center City Pretzel Co. took over where Federal Pretzel left off... and the best pretzels you'll find in the city come in nondescript brown bags, sold on the corners out of odd carts or in small street stands.
I'll never understand why these didn't catch on across the rest of the country. They're the best part of halloween in Philly!
Krimpets, Kandy Kakes, Pies, Donuts, Cupcakes... you have to try each one if you're from Philly.
Yuengling is the nectar of the Philadelphia gods. America's Oldest Brewery still makes the best cheap beer around, and it's the perfect drink for a night in Philly.
They're best when paired together - something about the crispy fried chicken is perfect with a soft, freshly baked donut.
The best sandwich in America is right here in Philly... but you already knew that, right? Find this gem at Reading Terminal Market.
The most iconic Wawa hoagie is the Gobbler, but you'll have to wait until the fall to have one if you've missed out so far.
Hershel's East Side Deli in the Reading Terminal Market is the best deli in Philly, hands down. Their fresh meats make for the best Reubens you'll ever have.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for Franklin Ice Cream! From the classic soda fountain atmosphere to the seriously out-of-this-world scoops of handmade ice cream (and all of the treats you can imagine in between), this classic sweet shop can't be beat.
Philadelphians tend to go right to 4th Street Cookie Company when we're looking for a sweet treat, but if you haven't tried the Pennsylvania General Store cookies at Reading Terminal, you're missing out. These are a hit with those in the know!
It's gotta be on Sarcone's or Carangie bread for it to count as a true Italian hoagie. Save the Amoroso rolls for cheesesteaks.
Beiler's donuts - another Reading Terminal Market gem - are some of the tastiest, freshest donuts in the city.
You might have noticed that a few of these classic Philly foods can be found at Reading Terminal Market. If RTM isn’t a regular stop for you, or if you haven’t spent much time there, read about what makes this landmark The Most Incredible Marketplace In Philadelphia That Every Food Lover Will Simply Adore.
