12 Essential Eats to Savor in Philadelphia

Philly may be world-famous for its cheesesteaks, but the city’s food scene runs far deeper and it’s absolutely delicious. Blending Italian-American comfort, Pennsylvania Dutch classics, soul food staples, and a growing wave of inventive eats, Philadelphia delivers bold flavors at every turn. From bustling markets to corner delis and late-night food trucks, this is a city where eating well is part of the culture. Whether you crave sweet, savory, or something in between, these 12 iconic bites offer an unforgettable taste of Philly’s diverse and proud culinary heritage.

1. Philly Cheesesteak, Pat’s or Geno’s

You can’t visit Philly without sinking your teeth into its most iconic sandwich the cheesesteak. Made with thinly sliced ribeye, melted cheese (Whiz, provolone, or American), and a crusty roll, it’s a savory, greasy masterpiece that defines the city’s street food scene. Pat’s and Geno’s facing off in South Philly are legendary rivals, but locals often favor lesser-known spots like Dalessandro’s or Jim’s. The real secret? Order with confidence (“Whiz wit” means Cheese Whiz with onions), grab extra napkins, and eat it hot off the grill. It’s a flavorful rite of passage in Philly.

2. Roast Pork Sandwich, John’s Roast Pork

While the cheesesteak grabs headlines, many locals swear by the roast pork sandwich. Served on a seeded Italian roll, this slow-roasted marvel is piled with thin-sliced pork, garlicky broccoli rabe, and melted provolone. John’s Roast Pork near the waterfront is a beloved go-to, known for nailing the balance of savory, bitter, and sharp flavors. It’s hearty, flavorful, and a strong contender for the city’s best sandwich even if it doesn’t get as much fame.

3. Soft Pretzel, Philly Pretzel Factory

Philly soft pretzels aren’t your typical ballpark snacks, they’re wider, doughier, and often shaped into figure-eights or twists. Baked fresh daily and best served warm with yellow mustard, they’re a beloved local staple found at street carts, corner stores, and places like Philly Pretzel Factory. Soft, chewy, and slightly salty, they’re a satisfying snack any time of day whether you’re grabbing one with your morning coffee or after a late night out. In a city full of iconic eats, the humble pretzel remains one of the most affordable and essential tastes of Philly street food culture.

4. Scrapple, Dutch Eating Place

Scrapple might raise eyebrows, but in Philly, it’s a beloved breakfast tradition rooted in Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. Made from pork trimmings, cornmeal, and spices, this savory loaf is sliced and pan-fried to a golden crisp. Crispy outside and tender within, it’s typically served alongside eggs and toast at classic spots like the Dutch Eating Place in Reading Terminal Market. Add a drizzle of syrup or a squirt of ketchup either way, it’s unexpectedly satisfying. Scrapple may be a love-it-or-leave-it kind of dish, but for many Philadelphians, it’s the ultimate comfort breakfast.

5. Tomato Pie, Sarcone’s Bakery

Tomato pie may resemble pizza, but it’s a Philly original with a personality all its own. Served at room temperature, this square-cut favorite features a thick, airy crust topped with a rich, tangy tomato sauce and no cheese in sight. The focus is on the bread and the bright, flavorful sauce, often sprinkled with herbs or grated Romano. Sarcone’s Bakery in South Philly is a local go-to, known for crafting tomato pie that’s simple yet deeply satisfying. Whether you grab a slice for lunch, bring a box to a gathering, or snack while sightseeing, it’s a humble classic that locals love.

6. Hoagie, Primo Hoagies

In Philly, calling it a “sub” is borderline blasphemy here, it’s a hoagie. These cold-cut creations are stacked with layers of meats, cheeses, crisp lettuce, tomato, onions, and zesty dressings, all tucked into a sturdy Italian roll. Primo Hoagies is a local favorite, offering dozens of flavorful combos like turkey with sharp provolone or the spicy “Italian Diablo” loaded with pepper shooters. Made to order and packed with texture, hoagies are a no-fuss, high-reward lunch option. Whether you’re grabbing one to go or sitting down for a break, it’s a true Philly food essential.

7. Cannoli, Termini Bros Bakery

If there’s one dessert you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Philly, it’s a cannoli from Termini Bros Bakery. This iconic shop has been crafting hand-filled cannoli since 1921, using crispy, golden shells and a smooth, sweet ricotta cream that strikes the perfect balance of rich and light. You can top it with chocolate chips, pistachios, or candied fruit for an extra indulgent touch. With locations at Reading Terminal Market and in South Philly, Termini Bros is as much about tradition as it is flavor. It’s a nostalgic, satisfying finish to any Philly food adventure.

8. Water Ice, John’s Water Ice

Water ice is Philly’s beloved answer to Italian ice but smoother, softer, and even more refreshing. This icy treat is made by blending finely shaved ice with fruit-flavored syrup into a silky, slushy texture that melts on your tongue. John’s Water Ice, a city staple since the 1940s, keeps things simple and classic with flavors like cherry, lemon, and mango. It’s dairy-free, intensely flavorful, and the perfect way to cool down after a salty snack or spicy sandwich. Though especially popular in summer, a scoop of water ice is worth savoring any time of year in the City of Brotherly Love.

9. Tastykake, Local Grocers & Shops

Tastykakes are more than just snacks, they’re a Philly institution. These pre-packaged pastries have been fueling locals since 1914 and can be found in nearly every convenience store, gas station, and school lunchbox across the region. From Peanut Butter Kandy Kakes to Butterscotch Krimpets and Cream-Filled Cupcakes, they deliver a hit of nostalgia with every bite. While you won’t spot them in bakeries, Tastykakes are a window into everyday Philly food culture. Pick one up with your morning coffee or stash it in your bag for a sweet, satisfying taste of hometown tradition.

10. Dutch Apple Dumpling, Reading Terminal Market

Warm, flaky, and stuffed with cinnamon-spiced apples, the Pennsylvania Dutch apple dumpling is one of Philly’s most comforting and underrated desserts. Often baked whole and served with a splash of cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a cozy, home-style treat that delivers big flavor in every bite. You’ll find excellent versions at Reading Terminal Market’s Dutch Eating Place, where the dish is made fresh and served with a smile. Though especially popular in autumn, this classic dessert offers a taste of tradition that satisfies year-round.

11. Chicken & Waffles, Relish or Rex at the Royal

Philly’s soul food scene is on full display with the beloved combo of chicken and waffles. Golden, crispy fried chicken served over soft, buttery waffles creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet especially when topped with maple syrup, hot sauce, or both. Local favorites like Relish and Rex at the Royal upraise the dish with bold flavors and thoughtful twists, blending Southern roots with Philly soul. It’s hearty, deeply satisfying, and packed with personality, the kind of meal that leaves a lasting impression and a craving to come back for more.

12. Federal Donuts, Fried Chicken & Donuts Combo

Federal Donuts is pure Philly unconventional, bold, and irresistibly good. This cult-favorite spot built its name on an unexpected but genius pairing crispy, spice-rubbed fried chicken and gourmet donuts made fresh to order. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the donuts come in rotating flavors like strawberry lavender, blueberry mascarpone, or classic cinnamon sugar. It’s fast, affordable, and a little offbeat in the best way. With several locations around the city, it’s easy to squeeze in a visit. Trust us, no Philly food tour is complete without this quirky combo.