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African-American: Restaurants and Dining
Travel the world with your taste buds
Eat Like the Locals
When in Philadelphia, do as Philadelphians do. Locals love to eat out and patronize all the restaurants, but they also indulge in the region’s favorite food groups - cheesesteaks, hoagies, water ice and soft pretzels.
Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks
First, some cheesesteak insider tips. There are really only three acceptable cheese options - Cheez-Wiz, American or provolone cheese. Also, to sound like a native, if you want onions on your cheesesteak, order a “cheesesteak wit.” If you prefer to hold the onions, order a “cheesesteak wit out.” Got it?
Now that you’re prepared, here are some places to find this signature treat:
- Campo’s Deli, 214 Market Street, (215) 923-1000;
- Dalessandro’s Steaks, Henry Avenue and Wendover Street, (215) 482-5407;
- Geno’s Steaks, 1219 S. 9th Street, (215) 389-0659;
- Jim’s Steaks, 400 South Street, (215) 928-1911;
- Pat’s King of Steaks, 1237 E. Passyunk Avenue, (215) 468-1547.
- Tony Luke's, 35 E. Oregon Avenue, (215) 551-5725
- John's Roast Poark, 14 Snyder Avenue, (215) 463-1951
Hoagies
There is more flexibility with hoagies. You can find them with or without lunchmeat, but the traditional is the Italian hoagie. But, come hungry and with a friend. Some are so large, you’ll want to share.
- Primo Hoagies, 21st & Chestnut Streets, (215) 496-0540;
- Salumeria, Reading Terminal Market, 12th & Arch Streets, (215) 592-8150;
- Sarcone’s Deli, 734 S. 9th Street, (215) 922-1717;
- Tony Luke’s Old Philly Style Sandwiches, 118 S. 18th Street, (215) 568-4630.
Water Ice
Yes, “water ice” (or "wooter ice" if you want to feign a Philly accent) might sound redundant, but it is a local summer staple. Pick your favorite flavor - cherry and lemon are popular - and then enjoy the chill. Some popular spots are:
- Rita’s Water Ice, 235 South Street, (215) 629-3910;
- John’s Water Ice, 702 Christian Street, (215) 925-6955;
- Morrone’s Water Ice, 200 N. 63rd Street, (215) 747-2909;
- Dati’s Delight, 23rd & Passyunk Avenue, (215) 271-0186.
Soft Pretzels
A good soft pretzel is doughy in the middle with just the right amount of salt. Yes, you will want to top it with mustard, so ask for a napkin. Find them at almost any street vendor and at:
- Philadelphia Soft Pretzels, 4315 N. 3rd Street, (215) 324-4315;
- Federal Pretzel Baking Company, 638 Federal Street, (215) 467-0505.
Of course you can find all these favorite Philadelphia treats at the Reading Terminal Market. The nation’s oldest and largest farmers market is a maze of colorful crafts, fragrant ethnic food stands and fresh foods for eat-in or takeout.
While you’re there, stop by Delilah’s. The world’s most famous TV personality (Oprah Winfrey, of course) said Delilah’s mac and cheese was the best in the nation. Make sure you leave room for the fried chicken, Virginia ham, greens and other Southern favorites.
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