Get to know the many neighborhoods of Philadelphia in Agent Lady’s blog series “Philly Neighborhood Spotlight.” Whether you are looking to buy a home in this wonderful City of Brotherly Love or just want to get to know the lay of the land, read about the history, location, and highlights of Philly neighborhoods.
Location
The actual Italian Market is located between Washington Avenue and Fitzwater Street along 9th street. The surrounding residential blocks are also considered to be the Italian Market, but do not have any specific boundaries.
History
During the late 1800s there was an influx in immigrants from Italy coming through New York. A number of Italians made their way south to Philadelphia. In 1884, Italian immigrant Antonio Palumbo began renting rooms in his boarding house to other Italian immigrants. This resulted in the beginning of the Italian community in South Philly.
Residents started to build their own businesses such as bakeries and butcher shops. They also began selling fresh produce along 9th street, which eventually became a curb market. These fruit and vegetable stalls can still be seen today along 9th street under colorful awnings. The Italian Market is also home to America’s longest running Italian restaurant, the famous Ralph’s.
The neighborhood soon began to shift when new immigrants made South Philadelphia their home. Korean and Vietnamese immigrants became part of the Italian Market and set up their own restaurants and markets. Mexican immigrants also moved in and opened up their own business just a block south of the Italian Market as well.
The neighborhood is now a hub of different cultures with excellent food options.
Atmosphere
The Italian Market is a bustling neighborhood with food vendors, residents, and tourists taking advantage of the low-cost fresh produce. The produce vendors are open year round and keep warm during the winter with fires in old oil drums. Butcher shops and bakeries still serve customers and offer only the best cuts and sweets. The famous Di Bruno Bros. is also located in the market where passersby can smell the fresh cheese through the door.
Tourists come every day to check out the Italian Market and are led by tour groups as well.
Though in the market there aren’t many row homes, there are many apartments above the shops down 9th street. Going west or east of 9th street, there are many beautiful row homes. Even with plenty of commercial businesses, the neighborhood is still extremely residential.
Highlights & Events
Every year in May, the Italian Market holds the annual Italian Festival. This is a two-day festival of music, dancing, and fantastic food. It’s a favorite for many Philadelphia residents.
If you’re looking to save a few bucks on fresh food, the Italian Market is the place to go. Depending on what you buy, you could save an insane amount on fresh produce compared to your local grocery stores. Not to mention there are some great restaurant options perfect for date night or an evening with friends.
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Looking to Buy?
Are you a bona fide foodie and can’t stand to be away from delicious food options? Then it sounds like the Italian Market is the perfect place for you to live. Contact Philadelphia’s leading real estate agent, Cherise “Agent Lady” Wynne, for your free buyer consultation today!
About Brittany: Brittany is the super organized (and awesome) marketing assistant that helps home buying and selling clients have the best experience possible. She also shares her creative side by writing compelling short stories about the home buying process that are loosely based on actual client situations and captures the authentic feel of Philadelphia neighborhoods.
