Known for being the first Philly neighborhood settled by Italian immigrants, Bella Vista is one of the most diverse and exciting communities in Philadelphia. Bella Vista, which translates to ‘beautiful sight’, gets its namesake for its gorgeous view of the Center City Skyline. Its history dates to the colonial era, when protestant Italian immigrants from Sicily began to settle in the area, but it only grew into a thriving Italian hub in the late 1880s, where a vast amount of Italians traveled to the U.S. They established bonds with the current residents, and by the 1970s, the location had grown to roughly 600,000 Italians living primarily in South Philly.
It’s currently home to the first Italian immigrant bathhouse which later became the Fante-Leone pool. Bella Vista also has its share of famous residents, including the world-renowned opera singer Mario Lanza and social activist Frances E.W. Harper. There is even a museum in the neighborhood celebrating the history and impact of Mario Lanza’s work.
Now with its current moniker of Philadelphia’s “Little Italy”, Bella Vista prides itself on celebrating the best of Italian history and culture. In recent years, the neighborhood has become even more diverse, with growing Vietnamese, Hispanic, and Latinx communities. The history of Bella Vista is vast, and one of the neighborhood’s modern highlights is the availability of different cuisine options.
The Main Attraction
The Italian market goes hand in hand with the Bella Vista neighborhood. One of the oldest open-air markets in America, it spans over 20 blocks in South Philly. We’d list off all of the great things you can find, but honestly, it’d be easier to make a list of what’s not at the Italian Market. Think fresh veggies, cheeses, seafood, housewares, restaurants, they have it all! Many of the bakeries and shops have an antique flair that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The market is open all year round, and many shops and restaurants are open 7 days a week.
Photos: @italianmarketphilly
Time to Celebrate
Once a year in the spring the neighborhood gets together and throws an epic festival appropriately named The South 9th Street Market Festival. Touted as the “largest and best” block party, vendors sell their wares, restaurants fling open their doors with amazing specials, and the streets are filled with happy crowds. There’s entertainment booked for the whole weekend, a greased pole competition, a saints procession, and more. It’s one of the best ways to sample all the flavors of the market!
A Trip Around the World
Although established way back when by Italian immigrants, the vibrant neighborhood has welcomed nationalities from all over the world. The restaurants in the area represent tastes around the world. Here are a few that you’re bound to see a Philly Home Girl or two dining in (aka our favs).
Blue Corn | 940 S 9th St, Philadelphia | Blue Corn is divine. With authentic Mexican recipes that are plated beautifully and melt in your mouth. If you’re lucky you’ll arrive on a night with live music that goes to the wee morning hours. It’s a small establishment so call ahead. Full bar, cash only!
Alma Del Mar | 1007 S 9th St, Philadelphia | The proprietor was a guest on Queer Eye (a truly emotional episode!). Meet up with friends for a delectable brunch, or get dressed up for a romantic dinner. Family run, with a specialty of seafood, no matter the occasion you’re sure to have a lovely time under the festive twinkle lights of the patio.
Fiorella | 817 Christian St, Philadelphia | Noted not only for their fresh pasta, but they also have a wonderful staff that will make your special occasion (or regular Wednesday dinner) fabulous. The menu is tight, which means each and every dish is delish. Fun cocktails and mocktails, and of course top-notch wines. Be sure to book ahead.
Tabachoy | 932 South 10th St, Philadelphia | A “lighthearted, heavy-bellied, Filipino BYOB”. Getting all sorts of accolades (including @starchefs rising stars), this jolly family-run joint is calling our name. A menu where veggies and carnivores can share and enjoy an evening around the table.
Grace and Proper | 941 South 8th St, Philadelphia | Fancy wines, sophisticated cocktails, and shareable plates. This tiny joint gets jumping, but it’s worth standing in the corner sipping on a little something while you wait for a spot to open. It’s the kind of place where you’ll inevitably start talking to the people next to you, our kind of vibes.
Living in Bella Vista
If you are looking for a walkable vibrant neighborhood, this is it. You can walk to Queen Village, Passyunk Square, Society Hill, and Washington Square without breaking a sweat. Grab the bus on Washington Ave, or the subway from nearby Broad St. Bike trails are to the east along the Delaware River. You’ll see a lot of families enjoying Bella Vista, as parts of it are in the coveted Meredith School Catchment.
Get to know the neighbors at one of the green spaces. If you live within 5 blocks of The Bel Arbor Community Garden you get priority to dig and plant away in an available garden plot. Bardascino Park has a shady bocce court to get your game on, you can even join a league! Cianfrani Park hosts flea markets and concert series. The wildflowers add to the charm.
If you’re from out of town and want to try the neighborhood out, look to Philadelphia Hotel Bella Vista to make you feel right at home.
Ready to start house-hunting in this amazing neighborhood? The best part of living in the area is that while you have tons of excitement at the Italian Market, many of the streets are quiet and peaceful, perfect for families and those who want to get away from the hectic nature of city life. Give us a call and let’s make an afternoon of it. We’ll be sure to schedule a stop by the market for some treats along the way!
