Passyunk Square/East Passyunk
South Philadelphia's Passyunk Square is quickly becoming one of the hottest neighborhoods in Philadelphia. And it's no wonder -- the area surrounding East Passyunk Avenue boasts several great parks and recreation centers, dining and nightlife, affordable housing, easy transportation options to Center City and a diverse coterie of engaged neighbors.

Recently, "the Avenue" has earned a reputation as the city's latest Restaurant Row. Creative, affordable restaurants such as Le Virtu, Fond, Stateside and Will are garnering buzz. Beyond fine dining, it's easy to find great taquerias and pho restaurants on any corner. Plus, the Lower 9th Street Italian Market (these days, dominated by Mexican businesses) is only a few blocks away from the legendary cheeseteak crossroads at Pat's and Geno's. 

With a storied history that spans Native Americans, early 20th century Italian immigrants, current Mexican, Vietnamese and Cambodian immigrants, and a growing influx of young professionals and families, Passyunk Square is a melting pot of cultures with the small-town feel to match. 

Click here for all of Flying Kite's East Passyunk coverage.

Geography:
Passyunk is a neighborhood in South Philadelphia bounded by Broad Street to the west, 6th Street to the east, Synder Avenue to the south and Washington Avenue to the north. The neighborhood is best known for its shopping and restaurants along the East Passyunk Avenue corridor. East Passyunk Crossing is the section of the neighborhood south of Tasker.

City of Philadelphia Planning Commission District Plan: South  

Getting Connected
Community Groups
Passyunk Avenue Revitalization Corporation
East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District
East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association and Town Watch
Passyunk Square Civic Association  

Media & Press
Passyunk Post  
South Philly Review  

Notable Events:
On Second Saturday, East Passyunk Avenue merchants host art openings, musical performances, special events and sales. Many offer complimentary refreshments.

Once a year, East Passyunk Restaurant Week offers three-course prix fixe lunch and dinner deals from the avenue's best restaurants -- everything from low-key BYOBs to elegant candlelight dining.  

The yearly Flavors of the Avenue event features a craft fair, live music and street festival. Enjoy the culinary offerings of 20+ of East Passyunk's award-winning chefs under the cover of a big tent. 

Local Landmarks:
The Passyunk Fountain is the heart of the neighborhood, and recent years have seen the arrival of some of the city's best restaurants to its adjacent corners --  Stateside, Fond, Noord and Izumi.

Seasonal window displays are part of what makes South Philly special. Stroll down residential streets and -- depending on the time of year -- marvel at the front windows filled with Easter bunnies, stuffed turkeys, Phillies penants, light-up ghosts or over-the-top Christmas flair.

Termini Brothers is the place to go for authentic Italian pastries -- especially the filled-to-order cannolis. If you're around for lunch, head across the street the the family's lunch-only BYOB, Mr. Joe's Cafe, for a heaping plate of pasta and gravy.

Cantina Los Cabellitos is the place for people-watching, especially if you can nab a spot in their huge outdoor dining area. Order a margarita and watch the neighborhood roll by.

El Jarocho is among a host of affordable, authentic taquerias in the neighborhood. Their specialty is stupendous al pastor tacos topped with housemade chipotle crema.

Black n’ Brew is a friendly neighborhood café with free Wi-Fi and local art on the walls. Enjoy delicious breakfast and lunch options, along with La Colombe coffee and homemade treats. 

Philadelphia Scooters is a specialty shop selling new and vintage scooters. Head down to pick out your own fun reliable transportation.

Nam Phuong is our choice among the amazing selection of Vietnamese restaurants clustered around Washington Avenue. Order their legendary spring rolls and wash it down with a viscous, rejuvenating iced coffee. For pho, try Pho Ha at 6th Street.

Ray's Happy Birthday Bar is a 74-year-old watering hole with wood-paneled walls and one of the few remaining antique flow-through spittoon bars.  Everyday is your Birthday at Ray's. 

Underdogs hot dog shop specializes in high quality toppings, specialty dogs and house-made fries with dips. Located on the famed cheesesteak strip adjacent to Pat's and Geno's, their newest location will help them earn their name. 

Urban Jungle is a garden center stocked with seasonal plants, containers and window boxes. Their staff of gardeners and designers are on hand to assist you if you need any advice.

The Pub on Passyunk East (or the P.O.P.E. to locals) is an excellent neighborhood beer bar with better-than-average bar food. Happy hour is a can't miss with half off all drafts (even the fancy ones).

Bells Bike Shop will take care of all of your two-wheeled needs. Just look for the giant garage door mural.

Getting Around 
SEPTA offers a range of travel options to Passyunk Avenue, including the Broad Street Subway Line and Bus Routes 23, 47 and 29. Contact Customer Service 215-580-7800 or visit SEPTA.org for schedules, fares and maps.