Philadelphia Italian Market: Chef-Led Food Tour & Tastings

Summary

Philly’s Italian Market flavors with a local chef leading the way

You’ll wander Philly’s iconic Italian Market alongside a chef who grew up here, sampling everything from bakery-fresh cannoli to legendary roast pork sandwiches and sharp cheeses at Di Bruno Bros. Meet local vendors, sip real espresso, and get swept up in South Philly stories that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked under the striped awning just as a delivery guy zipped by on his bike, shouting something in Italian that made our guide — Chef Jacquie — laugh. She grew up around here, she said, and you could tell by the way every shop owner waved or called her name. The smell of roasting peppers and espresso drifted out from somewhere (I never did figure out which shop), mixing with the wet pavement after last night’s rain. First stop was this bakery that apparently almost snagged a James Beard Award — I tried to pronounce “sfogliatella” but the baker just grinned and handed me a cannoli instead. Powdered sugar everywhere, but worth it.

Walking through the Italian Market is kind of like time travel. You get these flashes of old Philly — produce stands with handwritten signs, grandmas arguing about tomatoes, kids darting between crates. At Di Bruno Bros., we sampled cheeses I can’t even spell (one was so sharp it made my eyes water), and Jacquie had us try pairing them with little hunks of bread. She pointed out where her dad used to buy sausage for Sunday gravy. It’s not a fancy tour — more like tagging along with someone who knows all the shortcuts and stories.

I didn’t expect to love the roast pork sandwich at Paesano’s as much as I did (the chef there beat Bobby Flay once? No big deal). We ended up lingering over tiny cups of espresso in this kitchenware shop — I guess that’s how locals do it, standing at the counter, talking about food and family. My hands still smelled like garlic when we left. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for the clatter of pans and someone singing softly in Italian behind us. Kind of stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Philadelphia's Italian Market

• Visit first Roman Catholic Church
• Taste cannoli and buy pastries
• Enjoy cheese pairings and shop
• Stroll and savor food at market
• Shop kitchenware and drink espresso

Top questions

How long does the Philadelphia Italian Market food tour last?

The tour typically lasts several hours as you walk and taste through multiple stops in the market.

Is lunch included on this Philadelphia food tour?

Yes, lunch and multiple tastings are included during your guided walk through the market.

Are vegetarian options available on this chef-led tasting tour?

Vegetarian options are available; just let them know when booking.

Does this day trip include pickup or transportation?

No hotel pickup is included but public transportation is nearby and accessible.

Is this Philadelphia Italian Market tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult; strollers are welcome too.

What languages does the local guide speak on this tour?

The guide speaks English and Italian fluently.

What should I wear for the Italian Market tasting journey?

Dress appropriately for weather; rain ponchos are provided if needed since it operates rain or shine.

Do guests receive any discounts while shopping during the tour?

Yes, guests receive special shopping discounts at select cheese shops and kitchenware stores along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes guided tastings led by a professional chef who grew up in South Philly, plenty of food samples from legendary vendors (like nonna-style pizza, artisan cheeses at Di Bruno Bros., cannoli from an award-nominated bakery), lunch featuring an iconic roast pork sandwich, plus exclusive shopping discounts at select market shops along your stroll.