Philadelphia’s Top Ten Must-Try Snacks

Philadelphia, a city rich in history and vibrant in culture, is a food lover’s paradise. With its diverse culinary scene, this city offers an array of mouth-watering snacks that are sure to delight your taste buds. As someone who loves to explore and experience new flavors, I embarked on a journey to discover the best snacks that Philadelphia has to offer. Here, I’ll share with you the ten must-try snacks in Philadelphia, complete with recommendations on where to find them and how to make the most of your gastronomic adventure.

1. Philly Cheesesteak

No trip to Philadelphia is complete without indulging in the iconic Philly Cheesesteak. This classic sandwich features thinly sliced rib-eye beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all packed into a fresh hoagie roll. The first bite is an explosion of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of Philly.

Recommended Spots:

• Pat’s King of Steaks: Often credited as the birthplace of the cheesesteak, Pat’s offers a traditional experience with its perfectly cooked beef and melty cheese.
• Geno’s Steaks: Located just across the street from Pat’s, Geno’s has been a long-time rival, serving equally delicious cheesesteaks with a slightly different twist.

My Experience:
I first tried a cheesesteak at Pat’s King of Steaks, and the experience was unforgettable. The sandwich was everything I expected: juicy beef, melted cheese, and perfectly sautéed onions. The bread was fresh and held all the ingredients together without getting soggy. Later, I crossed the street to Geno’s and tried their version. The beef was a bit more tender, and the cheese seemed more integrated with the meat. Both versions had their unique charm, and I couldn’t pick a favorite.

Booking Platforms:
You can order from both Pat’s and Geno’s via Grubhub or Uber Eats for a convenient delivery experience.

2. Soft Pretzels

Soft pretzels are a staple in Philadelphia, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. These pretzels are characterized by their chewy texture and a sprinkle of coarse salt. They’re perfect for a quick snack while exploring the city.

Recommended Spots:

• Federal Pretzel Baking Company: Known for their traditional approach, these pretzels are baked to perfection.
• Philly Pretzel Factory: A popular chain offering consistently delicious pretzels in various shapes and sizes.

My Experience:
Stopping by the Federal Pretzel Baking Company felt like stepping into a time machine. The aroma of freshly baked pretzels hit me as soon as I walked in. I tried a classic salted pretzel, which was warm and chewy with just the right amount of salt. Philly Pretzel Factory was my next stop, and I tried their pretzel bites. These bite-sized pieces were perfect for munching on the go, and the mustard dip added an extra zing.

Booking Platforms:
Soft pretzels from these spots can be ordered via DoorDash and Postmates.

3. Italian Roast Pork Sandwich

This sandwich, often overshadowed by the cheesesteak, deserves its own spotlight. Made with tender, slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone cheese, and broccoli rabe, the Italian Roast Pork Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying treat.

Recommended Spots:

• John’s Roast Pork: A local favorite, this spot serves a sandwich that is juicy, flavorful, and well-balanced.
• Tommy DiNic’s: Located in Reading Terminal Market, DiNic’s has been voted as one of the best sandwiches in America.

My Experience:
John’s Roast Pork was an absolute delight. The pork was tender and juicy, with a slightly smoky flavor. The sharp provolone added a wonderful tanginess, while the broccoli rabe provided a bitter contrast that balanced the richness of the meat and cheese. At Tommy DiNic’s, the experience was just as impressive. The sandwich was generously filled with succulent pork, and the bread was perfect for soaking up the juices without falling apart.

Booking Platforms:
Seamless and Caviar offer delivery from these acclaimed spots.

4. Fried Onion Rings

Fried onion rings, though simple, are a beloved snack in Philly. Crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, these golden rings are perfect for munching on the go or as a side dish.

Recommended Spots:

• PYT: This burger joint not only serves great burgers but also offers some of the best onion rings in the city.
• Shake Shack: Known for their consistency, Shake Shack’s onion rings are always a hit.

My Experience:
PYT’s onion rings were a revelation. They were perfectly fried, with a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, sweet onion center. Each bite was a delightful crunch followed by the tenderness of the onion. Shake Shack’s rings, while different in style, were equally enjoyable. They were smaller and crunchier, making them a perfect side to their delicious burgers.

Booking Platforms:
You can order onion rings from these places via Grubhub and Uber Eats.

5. Pepper and Egg Sandwich

A popular breakfast option, the Pepper and Egg Sandwich is simple yet satisfying. It consists of scrambled eggs mixed with sautéed bell peppers, all sandwiched in a fresh roll. This hearty snack is perfect for starting your day on the right note.

Recommended Spots:

• Santucci’s Original Square Pizza: While famous for their pizza, their Pepper and Egg Sandwich is also worth trying.
• Nick’s Roast Beef: Known for their roast beef, Nick’s also serves a delicious Pepper and Egg Sandwich.

My Experience:
I was pleasantly surprised by the Pepper and Egg Sandwich at Santucci’s. The eggs were perfectly scrambled, and the peppers added a sweet, slightly spicy flavor. The roll was fresh and provided a nice contrast to the softness of the eggs. At Nick’s Roast Beef, the sandwich was heartier, with a generous portion of eggs and peppers. It was the perfect breakfast to fuel a day of exploring the city.

Booking Platforms:
This breakfast delight can be ordered via DoorDash and Seamless.

6. Fish and Chips

While not unique to Philadelphia, the city offers some excellent renditions of this classic British dish. Crispy battered fish paired with thick-cut fries and tartar sauce make for a perfect meal.

Recommended Spots:

• The Dandelion: An English-style pub offering authentic fish and chips.
• Maggie’s Waterfront Cafe: Known for their generous portions and great views.

My Experience:
The Dandelion provided an authentic British pub experience. The fish was perfectly battered and fried to a golden crisp, while the fries were thick and fluffy. The tartar sauce was homemade and added a tangy kick. Maggie’s Waterfront Cafe offered a different ambiance with its beautiful waterfront views. The fish and chips were equally delightful, with a generous portion size that was perfect for sharing.

Booking Platforms:
Grubhub and Uber Eats deliver fish and chips from these spots.

7. Southern Fried Chicken

Philadelphia’s Southern Fried Chicken stands out with its crispy, seasoned coating and juicy interior. It’s a must-try for anyone who appreciates a well-made fried chicken.

Recommended Spots:

• Federal Donuts: Famous for both their donuts and fried chicken, this place offers a unique combination that you shouldn’t miss.
• Love & Honey Fried Chicken: Known for their perfectly cooked chicken and friendly service.

My Experience:
Federal Donuts was a revelation. The fried chicken was incredibly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. The seasoning was spot on, providing a perfect balance of flavors. I couldn’t resist trying their donuts as well, and they were a perfect sweet counterpart to the savory chicken. Love & Honey Fried Chicken offered a homier feel. Their chicken was equally impressive, with a crispy coating that didn’t overpower the juicy meat inside.

Booking Platforms:
You can order fried chicken via Caviar and Postmates.

8. Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings are a beloved snack in Philadelphia, enjoyed for their spicy, tangy flavor. These wings are perfect for sharing with friends over a cold beer.

Recommended Spots:

• Buffalo Billiards: Offering a variety of sauces, their buffalo wings are a crowd favorite.
• Tattooed Mom: This quirky bar serves some of the best wings in town, along with a fun atmosphere.

My Experience:
Buffalo Billiards didn’t disappoint with their wings. The sauce was perfectly spicy and tangy, and the wings were crispy and tender. They offered a variety of sauces, but the classic buffalo was my favorite. Tattooed Mom’s wings were equally delicious. The quirky decor added to the fun experience, and their wings were some of the best I’ve had. The sauce was flavorful and the wings were cooked to perfection.

Booking Platforms:
Grubhub and Seamless offer delivery from these popular spots.

9. Philadelphia Pizza

Philadelphia’s pizza scene is diverse and delicious, with a range of styles to suit any preference. From classic Neapolitan to creative, gourmet pies, there’s something for everyone.

Recommended Spots:

• Pizzeria Beddia: Named one of the best pizzerias in America, Beddia offers an unforgettable pizza experience.
• Pizza Brain: Home to both a pizzeria and a pizza museum, this spot is a must-visit for pizza lovers.

My Experience:
Pizzeria Beddia lived up to its reputation. The pizza was simple yet exquisite, with a perfectly charred crust, fresh tomato sauce, and high-quality cheese. Each bite was a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into making a great pizza. Pizza Brain offered a different but equally enjoyable experience. The eclectic decor and pizza-themed

museum were fun to explore, and their pizza was creative and delicious. I tried their signature pie, and the unique combination of toppings worked wonderfully together.

Booking Platforms:
You can order from these pizzerias via DoorDash and Caviar.

10. Soft Serve Ice Cream

During the hot summer months, nothing beats a refreshing soft serve ice cream. Philadelphia offers a variety of flavors and styles, making it a sweet treat to enjoy while strolling through the city.

Recommended Spots:

• Big Gay Ice Cream: Known for their inventive flavors and fun names, this spot is a hit with locals and tourists alike.
• Franklin Fountain: An old-fashioned ice cream parlor that offers a nostalgic experience with their delicious soft serve.

My Experience:
Big Gay Ice Cream was a delightful experience. Their soft serve was creamy and smooth, with unique flavors and toppings that made each cone special. I tried the Salty Pimp, which had a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Franklin Fountain offered a charming throwback to old-fashioned ice cream parlors. Their soft serve was rich and creamy, and the historic ambiance added to the overall experience. The root beer float was a particular highlight.

Booking Platforms:
Soft serve ice cream can be ordered via Grubhub and Uber Eats.

Philadelphia’s food scene is rich and varied, offering a plethora of snacks that reflect the city’s diverse culinary heritage. From the iconic Philly Cheesesteak to the refreshing soft serve ice cream, there’s something to satisfy every palate. By visiting these recommended spots and using the convenient booking platforms, you can enjoy the best snacks Philadelphia has to offer. So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure through the City of Brotherly Love.