186382721
Call it the Ninth Street Market, call it the Italian Market, call it whatever you want — it’s been one of South Philly’s finest assets for decades. Lined with curbside vendors selling dirt-cheap produce and world-class multi-generational fine food purveyors, the mix of old-world and new Philadelphians meets to create culinary magic.
As Michele Gambino, the South 9th Street Business Association’s business manager, put it “if you walk up and down the street, things are very familiar: it’s about the home, the kitchen, the food. It’s about a walking experience and about eating.”
The Market, the Readers’ Choice winner for South Philly landmark, has lasted through many ups and downs over the years, something Gambino says has to do with one common denominator that makes us human — food.
“Depression, wars, recessions, economic good times, changing demographics, people fleeing and coming back to the city, through all that time it has survived. And it’s survived because everyone loves to eat,” she said.
The business association has helped to bring the Market back into standing with improvements to cleanliness and vacant curbside stands. Gambino says the busiest blocks are between Christian Street and Washington Avenue, where there are 69 registered businesses. The stands are able to offer such cheap prices because they’re businesses that need a minimal staff, typically of one. Ten dollars can get someone a bounty to last for days.
But, if you’re looking to get a great cut of meat or a specialty stuffed sausage, the Market’s got you covered. The list of Philly-famous businesses that have made the Market a tourist destination is long and illustrious: Isgro Pastries, Ralph’s Italian Restaurant, Claudio’s Specialty Foods, Di Bruno Bros., Esposito’s Meats, Giordano’s Fruit and Produce, Cannuli’s Meats and Cappuccio’s Meats.
FDR Park and the Singing Fountain resonated with voters as a South Philly landmark in the second and third spots, respectively.
Staff Writer Bill Chenevert at bchenevert@southphillyreview.com or ext. 117.
186883921
186883921
