Fishtown

Fishtown

Type	Neighborhood
Location	River Wards
ZIP code(s)	19125
Established	1847
Named for	Historic shad fishing industry
Boundaries	North: Norris Street, South: Girard Avenue, East: Delaware River, West: Front Street
Adjacent	Northern Liberties, Kensington, Port Richmond, East Kensington
Major streets	Girard Avenue, Frankford Avenue, Front Street
Transit	Market-Frankford Line (Girard Station, Berks Station)
Landmarks	Sugarhouse Casino, Frankford Hall, Johnny Brenda's

Fishtown is a neighborhood in the River Wards section of Philadelphia, located north of Center City along the Delaware River. Once a working-class enclave known for its shad fishing industry, Fishtown has transformed into one of Philadelphia's trendiest neighborhoods, characterized by acclaimed restaurants, craft breweries, music venues, and a thriving arts scene. The neighborhood retains its tight-knit community feel while attracting young professionals, artists, and entrepreneurs.

Fishtown's main commercial corridor, Frankford Avenue, features an eclectic mix of vintage shops, restaurants, coffee roasters, and bars that have made the neighborhood a destination for visitors and locals alike.

History

Origins

Fishtown takes its name from the shad fishing industry that defined the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. Fishermen operated along the Delaware River, and fish processing became a major industry. The neighborhood was originally part of the Kensington District, which was incorporated into Philadelphia in 1854.

Industrial Era

By the late 19th century, Fishtown had evolved from fishing into broader industrial activity. Factories, warehouses, and working-class rowhouses defined the neighborhood. The population was largely immigrant—Irish, Polish, and German families established deep community roots.

Decline and Transformation

Like many industrial neighborhoods, Fishtown declined in the mid-20th century as manufacturing left Philadelphia. However, affordable housing and proximity to Center City attracted artists and young people beginning in the 1990s.

The transformation accelerated in the 2000s and 2010s. Restaurants, bars, and creative businesses opened along Frankford Avenue. Property values rose significantly, bringing both opportunity and displacement concerns.

Character

Architecture

Fishtown's housing stock consists primarily of:

• Two-story brick rowhouses (most common)
• Three-story rowhouses with storefronts
• Former industrial buildings converted to lofts
• New construction infill

The neighborhood has a distinctly Philadelphia feel with its brick rowhouses and tight urban grid.

Community

Despite gentrification, Fishtown retains community character:

• Multi-generational families who have lived here for decades
• Active neighborhood associations
• Strong local business community
• Community events and festivals

Dining and Nightlife

Fishtown has become a culinary destination:

Notable Restaurants

• Wm. Mulherin's Sons - Italian in a converted whiskey-blending facility
• Suraya - Lebanese restaurant with garden
• Kalaya - Thai restaurant
• Pizzeria Beddia - Nationally acclaimed pizza
• Kensington Quarters - Butcher shop and restaurant
• Front Street Cafe - Breakfast and brunch spot

Bars and Breweries

• Johnny Brenda's - Bar and music venue
• Frankford Hall - German-style beer garden
• La Colombe - Coffee roasters with flagship location
• Evil Genius Beer Company - Local brewery
• Barcade - Retro arcade bar

Music Venues

• Johnny Brenda's - Live music upstairs
• The Fillmore Philadelphia - Large concert venue
• Kung Fu Necktie - DIY music venue

Shopping

Frankford Avenue offers distinctive shopping:

• Vintage and thrift stores
• Independent boutiques
• Art galleries
• Record shops
• Specialty food stores

Getting There

Public Transit

• Market-Frankford Line (The L): Girard Station and Berks Station
• SEPTA Bus Routes: 5, 15, 25, 43, 89

Biking

Fishtown is very bike-friendly with connections to the Delaware River Trail.

Driving

I-95 runs along the eastern edge. Street parking is available but can be difficult during peak hours.

Living in Fishtown

Housing

• Primarily rowhouse stock
• Increasing condo and apartment development
• Mix of rentals and owner-occupied homes
• Rising prices due to demand

Demographics

• Young professionals (largest growing segment)
• Long-term working-class families
• Artists and creative professionals
• College graduates in their 20s and 30s

Concerns

• Affordability and displacement
• Changing neighborhood character
• Parking pressure from new residents
• Balance between growth and preservation

See Also

• Northern Liberties
• Kensington
• Port Richmond
• East Kensington
• River Wards