How long is the Italian Market walk?

A standard self-guided walk through the market takes about 60 to 90 minutes. This includes time to browse the stalls at 9th Street, visit a few specialty shops like Di Bruno Bros., and enjoy a cheesesteak at the end.

Is the Italian Market in Philadelphia open every day?

While some shops are open daily, many vendors are closed on Mondays. The best time to visit for the full experience is Tuesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM, as many curbside stalls begin packing up by mid-afternoon.

Where is the best place to get a cheesesteak in Philadelphia?

The intersection of 9th and Passyunk is home to the famous rivals Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks. Most locals suggest trying both to decide for yourself, but be sure to learn the 'Whiz wit' ordering lingo before you reach the window.

Are Pat's and Geno's cash only?

Traditionally, both Pat's and Geno's were cash-only establishments for decades. While some have recently begun accepting cards or have ATMs on-site, it is always best to carry cash when visiting the Italian Market area for small vendor purchases.

Can you walk through the Italian Market for free?

Yes, the Italian Market is a public street and is completely free to explore. You only pay for the food and goods you choose to purchase from the various shops and curbside vendors along the route.

Is the South Philly flavor hunt family-friendly?

Absolutely, children often enjoy the vibrant colors, the variety of snacks, and the bright neon lights of the cheesesteak shops. Just be mindful that the sidewalks can get very crowded on weekends, making stroller navigation a bit difficult.

What are the must-visit shops in Philadelphia's Italian Market?

Essential stops include Di Bruno Bros. for cheese, Isgro Pastries for cannoli, and Fante's for kitchen gadgets. For a full meal, the cheesesteak shops at the southern end of the market are mandatory for first-time visitors.

Is there a guided tour Philadelphia foodies recommend for this area?

While many companies offer group options, a self-guided audio walk is often preferred by foodies as it allows you to linger at specific stalls, wait in line for fresh pastries, and eat at your own pace without a group schedule.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Philadelphia is a city of neighborhoods, but few possess the raw energy and aromatic charm of South Philly. This self-guided walk invites you to dive deep into the 9th Street Italian Market, a place where history isn't tucked away in a museum but is actively lived on every street corner. For over a century, this area has served as the pantry of the city, evolving from a strictly Italian enclave into a diverse international food destination. Your walking route begins in the heart of the curbside market, where the calls of vendors and the sight of hanging meats set the stage. As you explore independently, you will discover that the Italian Market is about more than just shopping; it is about the stories of the families who have kept these storefronts alive for four or five generations. You will visit legendary spots like Di Bruno Bros., where the art of cheese-making is celebrated, and Isgro Pastries, where the scent of almond paste and ricotta has lingered since 1904. This neighborhood stroll is a sensory journey. You will see the specialized tools at Fante's Kitchen Shop that have helped Philadelphians cook for over a hundred years. You will also experience the high-octane atmosphere of 'Cheesesteak Vegas' at the intersection of 9th and Passyunk. Here, the legendary rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks continues 24 hours a day, surrounded by the neon glow that has become a symbol of South Philly nightlife. What makes this South Philly flavor hunt special is the lack of a rigid schedule. You can linger over a cannoli, watch the world go by from a curbside bench, or take your time browsing the exotic spices and fresh produce that line the sidewalks. This is a walking tour Philadelphia locals and visitors alike can enjoy at their own pace, absorbing the grit, the flavor, and the undeniable spirit of one of America's most iconic markets. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler looking for hidden gems, this audio walk provides the perfect framework to discover the authentic taste of the city. Start exploring with Zigway and see why this neighborhood remains the culinary heartbeat of Philadelphia. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Wander through one of America's oldest and largest open-air curbside markets

Sample world-class artisanal cheeses at the legendary Di Bruno Bros.

Visit Isgro Pastries for award-winning cannoli filled to order since 1904

Browse a massive collection of professional kitchen tools at the historic Fante's

Witness the famous cheesesteak rivalry at the neon-lit 'Cheesesteak Vegas' intersection

Learn the unique ordering etiquette for an authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak

Tour Stops (6)

Italian Market 9th Street

Welcome to the 9th Street Italian Market, a vibrant living monument to Philadelphia's immigrant history. Stretching back to the late 1800s, this is one of the oldest and largest working outdoor markets in the United States. As you wander past the curbside stalls, you are walking the same path as generations of families who came here for fresh produce, meats, and spices. While the name highlights its Italian roots, today the market is a beautiful mosaic of cultures, including vibrant Vietnamese and Mexican influences. You will notice the iconic metal awnings and the smell of roasting peppers. This neighborhood stroll captures the grit and soul of South Philly, offering a sensory experience that hasn't changed much in a century. It is a place where business is still done with a handshake and a smile.

Di Bruno Bros. at the Italian Market

Step into Di Bruno Bros., a culinary landmark that has been a cornerstone of the Italian Market since 1939. Originally a small grocery store started by brothers Danny and Joe Di Bruno, it has grown into a world-renowned gourmet destination. This shop is famous for its incredible selection of cheeses from across the globe, often stacked high in a dizzying display. The Di Bruno family helped pioneer the gourmet food scene in Philadelphia, introducing locals to artisanal oils, vinegars, and cured meats long before they were trendy. The atmosphere inside is bustling and fragrant, reflecting decades of passion for high-quality ingredients. Whether you are a cheese connoisseur or just a hungry traveler, this stop is a testament to the family's 'Culinary Pioneer' legacy.

Fante's Kitchen Shop

Fante's Kitchen Shop is a dream for anyone who loves to cook. Opening its doors in 1906, this family-run business has survived world wars and economic shifts to remain one of the most respected kitchenware stores in the country. Fante's is legendary for its massive inventory, ranging from rare pasta-making tools to specialized coffee equipment. It is the kind of place where professional chefs and home cooks rub shoulders while searching for the perfect espresso machine or a specific cookie cutter. The staff here often possesses a deep, generational knowledge of their products. As you explore this neighborhood stroll, Fante's represents the enduring importance of specialized craftsmanship and family tradition in the South Philly community.

Isgro Pastries

Isgro Pastries is a sweet sanctuary that has been serving Philadelphia since 1904. Founded by Mario Isgro, who brought his Sicilian baking traditions to the city, this shop remains in the original family to this day. It is most famous for its award-winning cannoli, which are still filled to order to ensure the shells stay perfectly crisp. Beyond cannoli, the glass cases are filled with traditional Italian cookies, cakes, and pastries that follow century-old recipes. The shop’s interior, with its vintage charm, feels like a step back in time. It’s a highlight of any walking route through the area, showcasing the delicious rewards of preserving culinary heritage. The line out the door on holidays is a local tradition in itself.

Geno's Steaks

Welcome to the bright lights of Geno's Steaks, one half of the most famous rivalry in the sandwich world. Established in 1966 by Joey Vento, Geno's is impossible to miss with its neon signs and orange decor. This corner is the epicenter of Philadelphia's cheesesteak culture. When ordering, remember the local lingo: ask for 'one Whiz wit' if you want Cheez Whiz and fried onions, or 'one Provolone without' if you want provolone and no onions. The speed of service here is legendary, and the walls are covered in photos of celebrities who have made the pilgrimage to this iconic South Philly spot. It’s a high-energy environment that perfectly captures the bold spirit of the city.

Pat's King of Steaks

Just across the street from its rival stands Pat's King of Steaks, the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak. In 1930, Pat Olivieri was a hot dog vendor who decided to grill some beef and put it on an Italian roll. A taxi driver caught the scent, asked for a sandwich, and history was made. Unlike the neon-soaked Geno's, Pat's maintains a slightly more traditional, no-frills appearance. This intersection, known as 'Cheesesteak Vegas,' is a must-visit on any self-guided walk through Philadelphia. Comparing the two sandwiches is a rite of passage for visitors and a lifelong debate for locals. Whichever side you choose, you are standing at the heart of a culinary tradition that has come to define the city's identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most iconic route is along 9th Street through the Italian Market, ending at the intersection of 9th and Passyunk Avenue. This path covers approximately 0.5 miles and includes historic cheese shops, bakeries, and the city's most famous cheesesteak spots.