Philadelphia is a blue-collar food city. Cheesesteaks, roast pork sandwiches, and soft pretzels are built for working people on a budget. Here's how to eat like a local in the City of Brotherly Love.
Cheesesteaks
The eternal debate: Pat's vs. Geno's? Locals know there are better options.
Jim's Steaks
Many locals' favorite. Great cheesesteaks with a thinner bread than the tourist spots.
John's Roast Pork
The roast pork is legendary, but the cheesesteak is also excellent.
Steve's Prince of Steaks
Long rolls and quality meat. A Northeast favorite.
Dalessandro's
Neighborhood spot with dedicated fans. Worth the trip.
Italian Market
America's oldest outdoor market, packed with cheap food stalls and delis.
DiNic's
The roast pork sandwich with broccoli rabe is legendary. One of America's best sandwiches.
Claudio's Specialty Foods
Italian deli with incredible hoagies. The Italian hoagie is perfect.
Cappuccio's Meats
Excellent Italian meats and sandwiches. Old school and affordable.
More Budget Gems
Reading Terminal Market
Historic market with dozens of vendors. Pennsylvania Dutch, Amish, and more.
Nam Phuong
Vietnamese in Philly's Chinatown. Excellent pho and bánh mì.
Sang Kee Peking Duck
The duck is famous, but all the noodle soups are excellent and cheap.
Federal Donuts
Korean fried chicken and donuts. Sounds weird, works perfectly.
Philadelphia Budget Eating Tips
- Italian Market: Best cheap food in the city
- Reading Terminal: Variety of cheap options under one roof
- South Philly: Authentic, affordable Italian and Mexican
- Chinatown: Great value Asian food downtown
- Skip tourist cheesesteaks: Pat's and Geno's are overrated
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