Visit Dickinson Square Park

There's much more to South Philly than the Italian Market and Passyunk district, although these are city, if not national, treasures. Dickinson Square Park is a beautiful place to visit any time of year.

Lovers of American cities will appeciate the turn-of-the-century layout of the park and architecture of the surrounding houses, from a true golden age of American building. They will also appreciate the organic quality of the neighborhood, as is apparent from different architectural styles dating from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Among the notable nearby attractions is the Mummer's Museum. Dickinson Square is one block away from Two Street, considered by many to be "ground zero" for the Mummers, and the many Mummer's clubhouses located in the area. Starting every October, Mummers can be heard practicing underneath I-95 in preparation for the parade. From May to September, free Mummers concerts may be enjoyed at the Museum.

Of course, after the Mummers's Day Parade on January 1 of each year, there is much revelry on Two Street as the Mummers celebrate another year of successful planning, parading, and good times. It really is quite the spectacle, something that everyone should see at least once.

Stop by some of the nearby businesses, pick up a lunch and have an impromptu picnic; please dispose of your trash properly. Or stroll through the park before or after a satisfying dinner. Among the eateries nearby:

Caffe Valentino
1245 S. Third St. (at Wharton St.)
215.336.3033

This Zagat-rated BYO is a preferred venue for pasta and homestyle Italian favorites in a warm and friendly environment.  Expect better than average dishes at lower than average prices.  Overall, a great value from a really nice place.

Gooey Looie's
In the Pennsport Mall, Moyamensing and Moore Streets
215.334.7668

Famous among the hoagie cognescetti for their overstuffed masterpieces, Gooey Looie's hoagies are make with sliced-to-order meat, and weigh in at at least 2 lbs.

Langostini
100 Morris St. (at Front St.)
215.551.7709
http://www.langostinosrestaurant.com/

A local BYO specializing in classic Italian cuisine. Those in the know stick with the restaurant's namesake, according to the Zagat survey. Several bloggers have opined that Langostini is one of the best small Italian BYOs in South Philly. It's true.

Nicholas
2105 E. Moyamensing Avenue
215.271.7177 
http://www.nicholasphilly.com/

Just a short stroll from Dickinson Square Park, Zagat-rated Nicholas is giving other area BYOs some formidable competition, and should be a destination BYO for foodies city-wide.  Featuring creative, simple, and contemporary New American dishes, chefs Nick and Nick make an outsized delivery on a compact, concise menu.  The mussels, if they're on the menu, are absolutely not to be missed (even if you don't like mussels).  For a casually sophisticated meal with relaxed and friendly ambience, at wildly reasonable prices, this is the place.  Addiitonally, both of the Nicks are a couple of really nice, cool guys; when you're there, chat with them, and get the scoop what ingredients they're excited about using, depending upon the season.

In short, Nicholas never disappoints.

Raw Dawgs Saloon
1700 South Second Street (2nd and Morris)
http://www.rawdawgssaloon.com/

Raw Dawgs Saloon is updated version of the South Philly corner bar, featuring over 10 flat screen TVs that have plenty of sports, so you never have to miss a game while enjoying a pint or two with friends. They have one of the best selections of craft beers available in South Philly.

Raw Dawgs Saloon is the perfect weekday and weekend spot to hang out, featuring nightly specials, guest bartenders and over 60+ beers ranging from the usual suspects to American and Imported Crafts.

They also have some really nice regulars and friendly, welcoming bartenders.

Rooney's Deli
At the corner of Dickinson and Moyamensing

Large authentic hoagies served on top-notch bread, and always made to order. Be sure to try the "Mini" special, a small sandwich and chips, which always hits the spot.  The roast beef hoagie is the preferred choice of several of The Friends of Dickinson Square Park who are regular patrons.  With whatever you order, you can expect made-to-order sandwiches of fresh ingredients at a reasonable price.  Great stuff, and highly recommended.

The Witch American Bistro
1401 E. Moyamensing Aveenue (at Reed Street)
215.462.1200
http://www.thewitchbistro.com/

The Witch American Bistro in fact offers Center City food at neighborhood prices.  This fine establishment serves food that anyone would be proud to have close to home.  Serving new American food with a full bar, you can be assured of finding good, modern classics at affordable prices.  The staff is always helpful, service never fails, and the vibe is one primarily of people enjoying some really good food and cheer.

Two Street Pizza
1616 S 2nd St (2 Street and Fernon - 1 block south of Tasker)
215.468.5551

Two Street Pizza turns out authentic crispy-on-the-bottom pies with nice proportions of sauce and cheese. They also produce a classic South Philly cheesesteak and terrific hoagie, among a broad range of sandwiches, burgers and fried treats.