Walking along the charming streets of Society Hill, one might think that it has always been the highly-end, impeccably kept neighborhood it is today. What might surprise you is there was a time (in the early 1900s) when boarding houses, brothels, and a wholesale market lined these blocks. Plans to revive and restore the architecture of the neighborhood were introduced in 1929, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that historic renovations begin. In fact, this was the first urban restoration effort that included historic preservation in the nation. Thanks to those efforts, Society Hill has the largest concentration of original 18th-century architecture in the United States. We can’t imagine this beautiful neighborhood without it’s perfectly-preserved Federal and Georgian buildings!
Today Society Hill is one of the most desirably neighborhoods in the city, and listed as an historic district on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places. As you’re strolling along the tree-lines streets, hidden parks, and serene walkways, you can forget that you’re among the hustle and bustle of a city. You really get the best of both worlds living in this neighborhood: the peacefulness of an historic neighborhood with the access to some of the greatest places in Philadelphia.
We decided to do some investigating ourselves, selecting some of our favorite spots along the way.
Bites
Zahav - This Israeli restaurant, a James Beard award winner for Outstanding Restaurant, is nestled in this historic neighborhood. Start planning now as reservations book up quickly. Our tip is to try your luck at grabbing a seat at the bar.
Pizzeria Stella - A warm, neighborhood restaurant with the spirit of an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria. From the simple Margherita, all the way to a truffle and egg wood oven pie, this STARR Restaurant does not disappoint. The cute sidewalk tables along Headhouse Square will have you feeling you stepped right into Italy for the evening.
Dottie’s Donuts - All-vegan donut shop headquartered in West Philly. These puppies are ah-mazing. With tons of flavors to choose (lemon poppy glaze or earl grey cookie anyone??), don’t hold back, get the dozen.
Puyero Flavor - Venezuelan street food that “makes you dance in your seat.” Fried plantain, chicken-avocado, roasted pork shoulder are all full of yumminess. Veggies and vegans have plenty of options to keep them dancing as well! Kid-friendly, it is a perfect, casual lunch spot or an easy dinner.
Marakesh - Traditional Moroccan restaurant complete with belly dancers on the weekend and a prix fixe menu that can accommodate meat lovers and vegetarians. Grab your reservations early for a Friday or Saturday night as they book far in advance.
Bistro Romano - Intimate Italian restaurant with a rustic vibe. Providing the romantic vibes that pair perfectly with their incredible Italian dishes and top-notch wine selections. If it’s Friday or Saturday night, ask for a seat in the piano bar and enjoy the sounds of Craig Satchell, who has been entertaining for over 16 years!
Drinks
Bohdi - Artisanal coffee specialists in a historic townhouse that serves tea, pastries & other light fare. Warm-up with a hot beverage like a Lavender or Rose Latte, hang out on the sidewalk to take in the people watching, or peep out the sun-drenched plant-filled front window. Either way, the wafts of coffee and the barista behind the counter will make you smile.
The Twisted Tail - Restaurant specializing in American whiskey and charcoal grilled food. With various whiskey tasting events and cocktails that change with the season, even your most discriminating tastes will find bliss here. Sidle up to the bar and order yourself a Strawberry Boulevardier. You deserve it!
Bloomsday - Cafe with coffee, wine, and spirits alongside tasty, locally sourced bites. Natural wine is making its splash throughout Philadelphia, and you will find many excellent and unusual choices here. A cozy, stylish interior spills out onto the brick-lined sidewalk. No matter the time of day your heart and tastebuds will be happily satisfied.
Fun
Three Bears Park - You will fall in love with this pocket park. The Three Bear sculpture has been greeting kids and adults alike since 1967. Under a canopy of trees, a playground provides entertainment for the small ones and the built-in picnic tables suggest an al fresco lunch. Check out their facebook page for upcoming festivals and events for the whole family.
St. Peters School - Non-sectarian, independent, coeducational school. They have been providing education for the last 185 years with a mission statement to “foster mastery of academic principles, and educate students to be generous and committed citizens of their communities and the world.”
Landmark’s Ritz Five - Indie movie theater and Philadelphia institution. Since 1974, the Ritz theaters have been featuring indie films, including foreign language films, documentaries and even a restored classic every now and then. The friendly staff and comfy theaters will want you to make it a regular Friday night date.
Headhouse Farmer’s Market - On a normal weekday you can stroll the empty covered market and imagine what the wholesale market, back in the 1800s, may have been like. On Sundays, you don’t have to work too hard to imagine, as the market comes alive with local produce and vendors. One of the largest Food Trust markets in Philadelphia you can find not only your weekly groceries but lunch on the spot and artisanal wares that are irresistible. Stop by Three Sprigs Fruit Farm and be sure to say hi to our friend Farmer Ben!
Shop
Bluebond Guitars - In business for 30 years, Bluebond Guitars offers more than just gear. You can be your very own rockstar with music lessons that not only offer guitar, but voice, piano, and percussion to name a few. Quality instrument and gear repair will keep you sounding tip-top on stage. This is a neighborhood business you can be proud to support.
Garland of Letters - You can smell the warmth and kindness of this bookstore from the outside. Step into the incense-filled shop and you will find an offering of books on cooking for health, meditation and other things spiritual. Oils, trinkets and of course said incense can also be found spotted around the shop like little treasures.
The Strange and Unusual - Taxidermy, bugs or bats in Lucite, witchcraft books and herbs. It is all here under one roof. Whether you practice or just want to take a stroll and admire the curios, this shop is worth a visit.
Even if you don’t end up settling down in Society Hill, it costs nothing to stroll the streets and take in the stunning views. This is what Society Hill is all about; soaking in the history, beauty, and elegance of Philadelphia.
