Passyunk Square

 

Philadelphia’s culinary haven, Passyunk Square can thank generations of blending cultures for its thriving foodie scene. Originally home to the Lenape Native Americans, from whom Passyunk Square gets its name, followed by Swedish settlers in the 17th century, this epicurean town received possibly its greatest influence from the Italian immigrants who infused the neighborhood with the authentic flavors of their home country. Today, chefs live and work here, and bartenders and bistro owners are the life of the nighttime party.

 

With a vibrant history and cherished global heritage, Passyunk Square offers residents a unique and coveted sense of connection not often found in a city space. Locals, both long-established and brand new to the area, feel a strong sense of pride in this South Philly spot and work hard to enliven and enrich the area at every turn. Christmas comes alive on East Passyunk Avenue, and locals mingle and catch up year-round at the area’s countless bars and cafes. Row houses and brownstones dot the leafy streets, with an occasional Federal and Colonial style mixed in, while new construction builds stun with soaring ceilings, gourmet kitchens, and chic open concept designs.

 

• Outstanding culinary scene
• Rich cultural heritage
• Quiet, brick-lined streets
• Close-knit community

Passyunk Square inspires a sense of pride in its residents, and the proof is in the warm hellos and friendly atmosphere infusing the enclave. This is the place where everyone really does know your name, where the guy behind the bar seems more like the host of the night’s best party than merely the person serving drinks. Some residents can trace their family presence back several generations, while others have newly discovered this gem, and the community tips its hat to the cultural heritage on which the neighborhood was built.

 

With one of the most exciting foodie streets in the country, Passyunk Square has something for every palate. An extensive tequila list and classic Mexican flavors make Cantina Los Caballitos the perfect spot for dinner with friends, while Noir features a stunning menu of Montreal-influenced Italian cuisine. Innovative yet unpretentious, Le Virtù celebrates the farmers of Abruzzo with a scratch-made menu of trattoria classics, like fritto misto, arancini, and an incredible array of hand-rolled pastas. With a light and airy feel, and an easy, relaxed atmosphere, Burrata sets the stage for family dinners, celebrations, or just a quick weekday bite. Fresh lobster and crab meat elevate ravioli to a sumptuous affair, and the gnocchi dazzles with a rich truffle cream sauce and shaved parmesan.

 

Passyunk Square residents work hard to make their neighborhood one of the best in Philly, and the results are impressive. Wine tastings, gallery openings, street fairs, and live music energize the pretty streets here, and locals love every minute of it. Spanning five blocks, the Flavors On the Avenue festival is an epicurean dream. Sip seasonal drinks, sample bites from the city’s best bistros, and enjoy live music while you stroll East Passyunk Ave, which Food and Wine magazine has named one of the top foodie streets in the nation. Summer in Passyunk Square brings the East Passyunk Car Show and Street Festival, the biggest block party in the neighborhood. Grab a handcrafted beer, your favorite street food fare, and marvel at the antique and classic cars on display. When the weather turns crisp, and pumpkins come out to play, it’s time for Fall Fest and Spooky Saturday. Bring your best costume and your cutest kids or spookiest pups to the costume photo booth, take your little ones trick-or-treating to local businesses or indulge in spirited cocktails and fall flavors courtesy of Passyunk Square’s most frightfully delicious restaurants.

 

Passyunk Square residents have access to the School District of Philadelphia, which includes the highly acclaimed magnet school, Julia R. Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School, for students in grades five through 12.