Fishtown, a vibrant district of Philadelphia, mirrors the essence of that trendy aunt you admire — she’s the one who acquaints you with edgy underground music, always seems to have an assortment of delightful treats in her vehicle, and maintains an agreeably carefree demeanor. Despite its once covert charm being a secret no more, Fishtown remains relentlessly innovative, setting new standards with its award-winning eateries, captivating art displays, and unique boutique stores.
Fishtown’s Character: A Brief Sketch
Deeply ingrained with a blue-collar identity, Fishtown has since evolved into a thriving arts hub. Situated west of the Delaware River and north of Girard, the district is graced with breathtaking views of the waterfront. A stroll along its side streets, densely packed with row houses, may reveal quaint wooden fish motifs that serve as house numbers — a distinctive feature of local residences.
In Fishtown, an urban farm can be found beside a Dunkin’ Donuts, and a riverside park merges with a graffiti garden, exemplifying its unique character. This distinctive aura has caught the public eye. Every realtor in town has Fishtown in their spotlight, while young families are increasingly attracted to the neighborhood. As the home of the bakery responsible for Beyonce’s birthday cake and recent winners of the America’s Best Sandwich and one of America’s best hotel rooms awards, this trendy district has a bright future.
Quick Statistics
- Population: 12,496
- Median Age: 33
- Median Rent: $1860
- Median Home Value: $346,791
The Origin and Evolution of the Name
Fishtown originated as a nickname that proved too catchy to fade away. Initially known as Lower Kensington, it was rechristened Fishtown, drawing inspiration from the shad fisheries on the Delaware River that played a key role in the local industrial economy. Captain Anthony Palmer is credited with founding the territory, now known as Kensington and Fishtown, back in 1728, outlining its boundaries by forming a triangle with the Delaware River, Frankford Avenue, and York Street.
A wealth of historical properties, exceeding 30 in number, lie within the confines of the neighborhood, including notable landmarks such as Penn Treaty Park, the First Presbyterian Church of Kensington, and Palmer Cemetery. The idiosyncratic layout of the streets, straying from the typical grid system and oriented more towards the Delaware, lends this neighborhood its unique charm.
Must-See Attractions
Unique Establishments and More
From charming shops and art galleries to cozy bookstores and serene parks, there exists a plethora of distinctive locations worth exploring in the neighborhood. As you meander through the streets, keep an eye out for the Fishtown Shads—an endearing nickname coined by the local association. Many residences proudly display a hanging fish sign embellished with their address, paying homage to the area’s rich fishing heritage. Challenge yourself to spot as many of these delightful signs as you can!
Harriett’s Bookshop – This beloved local bookstore, named after the remarkable Harriet Tubman, is owned by members of the Black community.
Philadelphia Record Exchange – Trade in your vintage records or browse for new additions at this exchange.
Greensgrow Farms – Renowned as the city’s finest urban farm, Greensgrow greatly contributes to the well-being of the local community.
Jinxed Fishtown – Step into the world of vintage treasures at this charming stop, where you can uncover remarkable secondhand finds.
The Random Tea Room & Curiosity Shop – Beyond its teapot confines, the Random Tea Room offers a diverse sensory experience, according to their own words.
Indie Photo Lab – If you seek excellent film development services, Indie is the perfect place to visit. Their staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable.
Penn Treaty Park – Whether you desire exercise, relaxation, or simply breathtaking views, this historic green space, believed to be the site where William Penn signed a peace treaty with the local Lenape Tribe, will meet your desires.
Palmer Park – Though small in size, Palmer Park emanates tranquility and is an ideal spot to savor your morning bagel from Philly Street Bagels, conveniently located nearby.
Discover additional noteworthy destinations and activities within Fishtown.
Culinary Delights
Fishtown is home to some of the city’s most exceptional culinary establishments, making it a daunting task to compile a concise list. Nevertheless, we present our best attempt:
Kosta’s – Beneath its unassuming facade lies a dive bar that also serves delectable Greek cuisine. Don’t miss out on their mouthwatering Greek nachos!
Pizzeria Beddia – Recognized by Time magazine as one of the world’s premier dining spots, Beddia’s acclaim speaks for itself.
Suraya – The vibrant Lebanese ambiance of Suraya is only surpassed by its legendary cuisine. For an immersive experience, opt for a seat overlooking the open kitchen. Learn more about the remarkable Suraya restaurant.
Fette Sau – Arrive with a hearty appetite, as Fette Sau boasts some of the city’s finest barbecue. Additionally, their $5 Old Fashioneds during happy hour are a delightful bonus.
Philly Style Bagels – Start your day with the heavenly aroma of freshly baked bagels from Philly Style, but be sure to arrive early—they tend to sell out rapidly!
Murph’s Bar – Despite its unassuming name, Murph’s Bar surprises patrons with authentic Italian delicacies—a testament to Fishtown’s knack for keeping you on your toes.
Loco Pez – Experience the joy of Dollar Taco Day at Loco Pez.
El Bar – A beloved haunt among eccentric hipsters seeking affordable libations and quirky company, El Bar is a cherished local staple.
Frankford Hall – Experience one of the city’s premier beer gardens, an authentic German establishment imbued with a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
The Barbary – For those who revel in dancing, a visit to The Barbary is a must, especially during their themed nights that promise an unforgettable experience.
Johnny Brenda’s – Indulge in delectable cuisine, delightful libations, and immerse yourself in the energetic ambiance complemented by exceptional live music performances.
Where to stay
Lokal Hotel Fishtown – Immerse yourself in the essence of Philadelphia with Lokal, a meticulously curated design-driven hotel that aims to provide visitors with a personalized experience akin to residing in their own cozy apartment, rather than a conventional and uninspiring hotel room.
Wm. Mulherin’s Sons Hotel – Although small in size, this remarkable hotel comprises only four rooms, it maximizes its space to deliver an exceptional stay. Recognized as the “Best Hotel in the United States” by USA Today, just four years after its inception, Wm. Mulherin’s Sons Hotel stands as a testament to its excellence. Conveniently located on Girard Avenue, it enjoys proximity to the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line, ensuring easy access to the vibrant surroundings. Additionally, it is accessible by bus, the Route 15 trolley, and by car.
How to reach
Fishtown can be reached via SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line, with Girard Avenue serving as the ideal stop to immerse yourself in the heart of the neighborhood. The area is also easily accessible by bus, the Route 15 trolley, and by car.