How to Visit Philadelphia's Italian Market

The 9th Street Italian Market in Philadelphia is the oldest and largest working outdoor market in the country. It offers the tourist an unbeatable and historic culinary adventure. This outdoor market contains produce, meats and seafood from all over Pennsylvania for purchase. There are also several sandwich shops, spice stores and kitchen supply stores along Ninth Street. The Italian Market is a cultural experience that is best had early in the day, before the crowds descend on the area.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Get to the Italian Market just after it opens at 9 a.m. You'll see vendors unloading trucks and have the first crack at the best produce and meats.

2. Don't miss DiBruno's House of Cheese. This Philadelphia institution offers over 400 gourmet cheeses, imported olive oil, olives and vinegars. They'll let you sample anything if you ask.

3. Go into the two spice shops on Ninth Street for spices from all over the world. This is one of the few places to purchase rare spices like saffron or gourmet salt. You can buy spices whole or ground at either shop.

4. Check out all of the kitchen supply stores for hard-to-find items, often at a deep discount.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're just interested in produce, and not the Italian Market itself, head there just before the market closes at 5 P.M. Most suppliers will heavily discount produce towards the end of the day.
• Some suppliers will special order items for you if you ask.
• The Italian Market is a rich community that has remained largely unchanged for several generations. It's an excellent opportunity to experience the local flavor and culture.
• The Italian Market is closed on Mondays.
• Parking can be a challenge. Go early to beat the rush, or risk parking blocks away.
• On Sundays, the Italian Market closes early, at 2 p.m.

Resources

• Philadelphia Italian Market