Passyunk

 

Passyunk is one of Philadelphia’s hippest up-and-coming neighborhoods. Located within South Philadelphia and bordered by Bella Vista, Hawthorne, Central South Philadelphia, Wharton, and Point Breeze, Passyunk is known for its bustling commercial corridor along East Passyunk Avenue. This rare diagonal street cuts across Philadelphia’s grid-like layout and is home to a large variety of locally-run businesses, including the city’s two most iconic cheesesteak restaurants. The blocks surrounding East Passyunk Avenue feature a varied array of historic homes.

 

Center City is 10 minutes by car, 9 minutes by public transportation, 11 minutes by bike, and 30 minutes by foot.

 

Passyunk is actually comprised of two distinct neighborhoods on either side of East Passyunk Avenue, though most locals tend to think of Passyunk Square and East Passyunk as one continuous community. Passyunk is one of Philly’s trendiest neighborhoods, with plenty of “in” places to dine, drink, and shop.

 

The diversity of bars and restaurants lining East Passyunk Avenue gives the neighborhood a hip and vibrant vibe. Once a predominantly Italian working-class neighborhood, recent years have seen an influx of young urban professionals as Passyunk’s cultural cachet has been on the rise. The neighborhood is now an inviting mix of old and new, with many residents having lived here for their whole lives.

 

The stars of Passyunk’s dining scene have long been Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks--two neighboring establishments that have inspired decades of devotion with their competing claims to serve the definitive Philly cheesesteak. Marra’s has been serving Neapolitan pizza here since 1927, and Mamma Maria and Tre Scalini are other long-lived favorites for tasty Italian cuisine. Trendy modern additions to the neighborhood’s restaurant scene include Dutch-Scandinavian fusion BYOB Noord, Bing Bing’s innovative twists on Chinese dim sum, and enticing tasting courses at Laurel.

 

Taking a stroll through this walkable neighborhood is the best way to experience its unique blend of tradition and modern vibrancy. Head to the Singing Fountain to find longtime locals playing chess, or head into Theatre Exile to watch contemporary plays in a converted taxi garage.

 

Eschewing big-name brands in favor of small-time retailers targeting varied niches, East Passyunk Avenue is always an interesting place to shop. From retro records at Beautiful World Syndicate to unique gift shop Occassionette to stylish male fashion items at Metro, there’s much to be discovered.

 

Passyunk real estate offers a charming mix of historic brownstones and distinctive narrow trinity homes. Many of these properties have undergone renovation in recent years, so like the neighborhood itself, they offer an unbeatable blend of tradition and modernity. House prices have been climbing steadily in recent years, with Passyunk’s reputation as a great place to live growing year-over-year.

 

There’s always something going on in this dynamic neighborhood. Popular events include a farmers market with live music each Wednesday, more live music and delicious food during April’s Flavors on the Avenue, and good eats, family-friendly activities, and vintage automobiles at July’s Car Show and Street Festival.