Nestled in the heart of South Philadelphia, the captivating East Passyunk district (pronounced as “Pash-yunk”) exudes a vibrant ambiance, seamlessly blending the old with the new. The streets are adorned with traditional rowhomes, steeped in the rich heritage of South Philly, and century-old Italian restaurants that have stood the test of time.
Alongside these cherished establishments, you’ll discover an array of delightful boutiques and cozy cafes, curated by some of the city’s most renowned culinary maestros. A unique gem within this neighborhood is the Bok Building, a resplendent structure that once housed a high school in the 1930s and now serves as a hub for restaurants, bakeries, and artists’ workshops, breathing new life into its historic walls.
The East Passyunk neighborhood offers a diverse range of experiences, with something to captivate every visitor, and its dynamic nature ensures that there’s always something new to discover.
Unveiling the Essence:
East Passyunk, brimming with vitality, packs an abundance of attractions into its compact streets (although finding street parking can be quite the challenge). With over 150 independent establishments, encompassing bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and stores, this district stands as one of the city’s most sought-after destinations. Recognizing its culinary prowess, Food & Wine magazine bestowed upon it the honor of being named one of the “Top 10 Foodie Streets in America.”
Beyond the realm of delectable cuisine, East Passyunk also plays host to charming parks and local landmarks, including the melodious Singing Fountain, enchanting visitors with its delightful musical performances.
Moreover, the neighborhood thrives on its vibrant markets and festive celebrations, infusing the area with an unparalleled liveliness. The annual Flavors on the Avenue festival invites locals and visitors alike to indulge in a cornucopia of culinary delights, complemented by live music, enticing sidewalk sales, and artisanal products. As winter casts its spell, East Passyunk transforms into a captivating wonderland, renowned for hosting one of Philadelphia’s most beloved Christmas attractions—the mesmerizing display of lights and decorations known as Miracle on South 13th Street.
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of East Passyunk, where the spirit of community, culinary excellence, and timeless traditions converge to create an unforgettable experience.
Quick Facts
Population: 15,181 Average Age: 35 Median Rent: $1194 Median Home Value: $322,392
Location
Situated in South Philly, this neighborhood encompasses Passyunk Avenue, which runs diagonally south of the Italian Market from 9th Street to Broad Street.
Must-See Attractions
Singing Fountain — The Singing Fountain is a triangular plaza located at the intersection of East Passyunk Avenue, Tasker Street, and 11th Street. This local landmark serves as a gathering spot throughout the year, offering benches and hidden speakers that play music. Additionally, it hosts a weekly farmer’s market.
Urban Jungle — Urban Jungle is a delightful oasis that specializes in plants, gardening supplies, and all things horticultural. It is a cherished highlight of the neighborhood.
South Fellini — South Fellini is renowned for its unique collection of pins, patches, t-shirts, and more, all featuring clever messages and local slang that capture the essence of the city.
Delectable Dining
Bing Bing Dim Sum — This cozy restaurant offers a fusion of Chinese and Jewish-American cuisine. Bing Bing Dim Sum specializes in mouthwatering dumplings, buns, and other filled doughs, including the incredible cheesesteak bao and pork soup dumplings.
Pat’s and Geno’s — These legendary cheesesteak spots occupy opposite corners on 9th Street and are open 24/7, making them iconic destinations for locals and visitors alike.
Le Virtu — Le Virtu serves rustic cuisine inspired by Italy’s Abruzzo region, incorporating locally-sourced ingredients into its seasonal menu.
River Twice — At River Twice, indulge in a seasonal 7-course tasting menu featuring ingredients sourced from the Delaware River Valley and the Mid-Atlantic region.
Gabriella’s Vietnam — A personal favorite, Gabriella’s Vietnamese offers an exceptional dining experience in East Passyunk. From hot pots to banana leaf-wrapped dumplings and incredible winter flounder, the menu presents a wide array of intriguing Asian classics, all served family-style.
Laurel — Combining elements of French and American cuisine, Laurel is a highly sought-after dining establishment that offers a tantalizing 6-course chef’s tasting menu. Securing a reservation here is an esteemed achievement in Philadelphia.
Juana Tamale — If you have a penchant for delicious tamales and queso birria beef tacos, Juana Tamale is the perfect place for you. Vegan options are also available to cater to different dietary preferences.
POPE (Pub on Passyunk East) — As the quintessential craft beer bar of the neighborhood, POPE features a menu of soups, burgers, wings, and more, providing a satisfying dining experience for beer enthusiasts.
Bok Bar — Set within a former high school building, Bok Bar stands out as one of the trendiest rooftop restaurants and bars in the city. Whether you visit on a sunny afternoon or for a sunset drink, it offers a memorable ambiance.
Delightful Culinary Offerings of The Dutch
The Dutch is renowned for its delectable Dutch baby pancakes, fluffy omelets, and satisfying sandwiches. Recently, they have expanded their repertoire by introducing a comprehensive dinner menu that includes the option of enjoying breakfast for dinner.
Korshak Bagels: A National Sensation Korshak Bagels stands out not only in the neighborhood but also nationwide, thanks to its mouthwatering bagels crafted with unique ingredient combinations. The shop’s owner, known for his whimsical personality and fondness for poetry, has garnered attention, even catching the eye of The New York Times.
Manatawny Still Works: Distilling Excellence Manatawny Still Works’ urban location is considered one of the finest distilleries in the area. They produce an extensive range of spirits at their distillery in Pottstown and offer them in delightful signature cocktails and classic whiskey tasting flights, all served right on East Passykunk Avenue.
D’Emilio’s Old World Ice Treats: A Frozen Delight At D’Emilio’s, it’s a challenge to determine whether their soft serve, sorbetto (similar to water ice), or sundaes reign supreme. It’s best to embrace indulgence and savor them all.
Getting There
To reach East Passyunk, a leisurely 5-minute walk from the Tasker Morris Station on the Broad Street Line will bring you to your destination. While street parking is limited, you’ll find convenient parking available at the Parkway Constitution Health Plaza Garage.