While many may know Pennsport as the spot for the Mummers’ “two street” after-party on New Year’s Day, this neighborhood has so much more to offer than sequins and feathers. This stretch of neighborhood runs South from Washington Ave to Snyder and East from S 4th Street all the way to the Delaware River. Just next door, you’ll find Dickinson Narrows, which is, you guessed it, a nice neat narrow rectangle of a neighborhood. It runs from Washington Ave at the north to Mifflin Street in the south and S 4th Street west to S 6th Street.
Both of these popular South Philly neighborhoods are a true walker’s paradise. With just a quick stroll, you’ll find yourself in Queen Village, East Passyunk, or Lower Moyamensing. Hop on a nearby bus, walk to the subway, or pedal your way to work; it’s all right at your doorstep. And with easy access to I-95, getting to other parts of the city via car (or out of it altogether) is totally effortless.
We took a sunny summer walk through the area and couldn’t help but pop into some of the small businesses that make up both neighborhoods. Here are a few of our favorite highlights!
Food and Drink
Rebel and Wolf Cafe, 1700 Moyamensing Ave | A coffee shop that has all the coffee and tea drinks your heart desires, as well as a seasonal food menu. Don’t forget the specials board, which has creative and refreshing options! They host events and workshops on the regs. They also give back to the community by donating 5% of profits towards local Philly-based youth art programs and 5% to environmental protection organizations in and around Philadelphia. Our kind of joint.
Yummiee’s Cafe, 1801 S 6th Street | A low-key Cambodian Street food restaurant that will make you feel transported. People are wild about this place, with authentic dishes, smoothies, and milk teas. Choose to dine in or pick up and take home for the best couch food session you’ve ever had.
My Tea Shop, 501 Tasker St | If bubble tea, smoothies, or Vietnamese coffee is your jam, step up to the window after walking the dog and get your order in! Right near Dickinson Park, so you can pop over before or after to enjoy!
Grindcore, 1515 S 4th St | Why does this neighborhood get all the good coffee spots?? Grab your latte, grab your pastry, and guess what? They’re vegan! Aside from the usual coffee house fare, they have delectable sandwiches with baked tofu standing in for eggs, vegan bacon options, and of course, tasty seitan delights.
Herman's Coffee, 1313 S 3rd St | We know, this here is now the third coffee shop, c’mon guys. We can’t leave them off; we adore each and every one on the list! Take a browse among the shelves of their well-stocked specialty food market items, and take a peek at the wine shop offerings. Psst.. both of those make great gifts around the holidays. If the weather is nice to grab a specialty espresso tonic or iced tea and find a lawn chair because you will look AMAZING and super cute while people watching.
El Fuerte de Loreta, 1412 S 5th St | Although delish for dinner, don’t forget about it for breakfast! They have traditional options like pancakes and omelets as well as Mexican entrees. It’s also BYOB, so don’t forget to bring the wine (or mimosas!). Herman’s Coffee - Now, we know that there is no shortage of coffee joints in Philly, but here is one more to add to your list! If the weather is nice, grab a specialty espresso tonic or iced tea and find a lawn chair because you will look AMAZING and super cute while people watching. Take note of the comedy nights they host, and if timed right, grab a second brunch, this time from one of the rotating food trucks nearby.
Moonshine Philly, 1825 East Moyamensing Ave | Is there anything better than Taco Tuesday AND quizzo? It’s the perfect combo! Head over to Moonshine for an extensive dinner menu, weekly specials, and cocktails. They run live music weekly, and you can dine alfresco when the weather suits.
Gooey Looies, 231 McCellan St | All good Philadelphians know you need a solid cheesesteak option in the neighborhood. Welcome to old school Gooey Looies (not to be confused with the kids’ game #IYKYK). Burgers, hoagies, and sandwiches are also on deck.
Second Street Brewhouse, 1700 S 2nd St | We love that they open early for specific soccer games! Grab a drink, grab some grub, and relax. You’re neighbors are here, there’s certain to be a dog around somewhere, hang out with zero pressure. When games aren’t playing, you’ll be treated to a flick from their extensive VHS collection.
Ginza Philly, 1100 S Front St | A modern Japanese seafood restaurant that serves up specialty dishes made with care. Enough veggie and vegan options so the whole friend gang can get together and celebrate.
Cake and Joe, 1401 E Moyamensing Ave | Look for the butterfly and you’re there! Bring your laptop, meet up with a friend or pop in to pick up your crazy pretty mousse desserts to take home. They also have a lunch menu full of filling and healthy options.
So close… Nearby in East Passyunk
The Dutch, 1537 S 11th St | Ok, it’s true, maybe we are food-crazed and straying a bit as this is actually located in East Passyunk, but we can’t leave without mentioning this local favorite thats easily walkable. A cozy bruncherie serving mouthwatering breakfast and lunch dishes. In addition to their everyday menu, which includes a Dutch baby, essentially a cast-iron cooked pancake, The Dutch has no shortage of seasonal specials. Think soft shell crab BLT in the summer and French onion soup in the fall.
The Jim, 1701 S 8th St | Man do we love a good vibey bar. Think round bar, red lights, a doll here or there, you know the usual. Pair your beer or cocktail with some delish asian food and you’ll wonder why you didn’t come here sooner. Plenty of outside seating for you and the pups.
The Good Hatch, 1709 S 8th St | Once you spot the colorful mural, you will know you are in the right spot. Get ready for the breakfast burrito of your dreams. If you’re into toasts with yummy spreads, you’re in luck - think avocados or ricotta with fruit. Open 7 days a week until 4 pm.
Green Spaces
Dickinson Square Park - It may be surprising to learn that Dickinson Square isn’t technically in Dickinson Narrows, but in fact Pennsport. Who’s counting, though? A green space dream, with a playground, chess tables, basketball, and plenty of picnic-worthy grass seating, there’s an outdoor activity for everyone. This is the perfect place to relax and reflect on just how incredible this neighborhood is. There is an ongoing Farmers Market every Sunday, 10 am-1 pm.
Jefferson Square Park - Meet up with friends at the happening community park, Jefferson Square. You’ll find kiddos playing, adults hanging, yoga in the park on the weekends, and don’t forget to keep your peepers out for gorgeous plantings throughout. Word of warning, this is a hot spot on the dog walking route, you may need to pet an abundance of pups, which can take a very, very long time.
Sacks Playground - Just across from Jefferson Square, you’ll find this action-packed green space. With Basketball courts, baseball fields, and a public pool for cooling off. It’s almost guaranteed that you will find all ages enjoying a soccer game at all times of the day.
Gold Star Park - A lil’ space where in the mornings you’ll find Tai Chi, in the afternoons kindergartners invade to use as their recess grounds, and in the cooler late afternoons and early evenings bocce enthusiasts will be boasting their skills on the green lawn.
Herron Playground and Splash Park- If you have kiddos with you, pop on over to Herron Playground and Splash Park to cool down and burn off some energy. Don’t worry, if you run through the sprinklers without a small fry in tow, we won’t tell.
Live Like A Local
Action Karate, 1731-33 S 6th St | You’ll find all the neighborhood kids heading in and out of here in their cute uniforms with the signature belt. No worries if you’re a grown-up up you can also join in the adult classes. If you have a kiddo with physical or intellectual disabilities, they offer sessions that will tap into their special talents and potential.
Companion Pet Hospital, 1524 S 5th Street | A “Best of Philly” winner for 2024. They are Philly’s only Fear Free Certified practice, which means they are there for your scaredy cat or pup. Hot tip if you find a lost kitty or dog in the neighborhood, they are wonderful about helping scan for a chip as well as posting on social to help find their way back home.
Rizzo Rink, 1001 S Front St | Around since 1979, this is a true landmark in the Pennsport neighborhood. A youth hockey-centric rink that also offers public skating (certain times of the year) as well as private lessons.
EgoPo Classic Theatre, 317 Dickinson Street | Although you may not actually SEE the performance at this location, we love that the main office is tucked in between two residential row homes. They are a “transient and immersive theatre company” that performs and curates events at various locations throughout the city. Become a subscription member for a surprisingly affordable amount and get yourself some perks along the way.
Bok Building, 800 Mifflin St | We have officially left the neighborhoods highlighted here, but it’s so close and just a quick walk away. Whether you are meeting up with friends for a Boot Scoot Line dancing night on the rooftop of Bok Bar, celebrating an anniversary at Irwins with breathtaking views, or visiting an artist gallery, Bok is a hub you don’t want to miss.
Mummers Museum, 1100 S 2nd St | If you’re interested in history, it is worth a stop in the Mummers Museum. With the current year’s costumes on display in the winners circle, a loop of last year’s live stream, and artifacts, you can learn about one of the country’s oldest traditions (the good and the bad). If you are looking for a large hall to host an event, they’ve got one for you!
If you are considering calling the tree-lined streets of Pennsport or Dickinson Narrows home, you know who to call (that's us!). We’ll tour homes together and be sure to make time to cool off or warm up with a delectable treat found right on this very list.
