Editing Philadelphia Food Culture (section)

== Defining Characteristics ==

=== Authenticity ===

Philadelphia food culture values:

* '''Real over fancy'''
* '''Substance over presentation'''
* '''Neighborhood spots over chains'''
* '''Tradition over trends***

A great Philadelphia meal doesn't require tablecloths.

=== Immigrant Heritage ===

Philadelphia's food reflects waves of immigration:

'''Italian influence:'''
* The [[Italian Market]]
* Hoagies and Italian cold cuts
* Bakeries and delis
* South Philadelphia traditions

'''German/Pennsylvania Dutch influence:'''
* [[Soft pretzels]]
* Scrapple
* Pennsylvania Dutch cooking
* [[Reading Terminal Market]] Amish vendors

'''African American influence:'''
* Soul food traditions
* Southern cooking
* West Philadelphia and North Philadelphia restaurants

'''Jewish influence:'''
* Delis and delicatessens
* Jewish bakeries
* Diaspora traditions

'''Newer waves:'''
* Mexican and Latin American
* Vietnamese and Asian
* Middle Eastern
* Every subsequent group adds to the tapestry

=== Working-Class Roots ===

Philadelphia food culture emerges from working-class heritage:

* '''Affordable over expensive'''
* '''Filling over fussy'''
* '''Quick service over lengthy meals***
* '''Neighborhood focus***

Even as fine dining has grown, these values persist.