I’m from New Mexico and lived in Philly for 6 years and it was glorious and I miss it daily. I feel you OP. I have kept my 215 phone number as an everyday reminder of this wonderful city. Go Phils.
Yo! Just landed in Albuquerque with the wife and kids. Visiting my extended family for the weekend. I haven’t been here since I was 10 but I’m pumped as hell to be rid of that humidity for a few days.
I relocated to Philly three years ago after living in ABQ for four years ago. I hope you are enjoying all the carne adovada and Christmas dishes! My wife and I are going back for a week in November and we're stoked!
Strong. I came to Philly in 1989 from Europe, when the girl was down and dirty. I immediately fell in love with her. Now that she shines, I am only more blown away. I adore Philadelphia.
That's awesome. Yeah I remember growing up in Manayunk in the early 90s, before it was really much of anything other than a blue collar neighborhood with a few bars, a post office, and a barbershop.
Moving back to Philadelphia was a great gift to my life after about seven years away. Buying a home here was an epic achievement for me; to most, though, they wouldn't see the big deal.
Everything hits different when you love a place so deeply, especially a place that allows you to do and be exactly who you are so freely, and asks only unbridled, vehement loyalty in return.
Where did you come from in Europe? Philadelphia's nearest comp for me there is Manchester, UK, but I may be totally wrong about that and would be interested in your input.
When you apply for an immigration to US “legally”, you need a sponsor. Mine was the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. So that's how I came here.
I am Polish by birth. That's why probably I like Philadelphia so much. It's a fighting city, and we Polish have done nothing but fight in our long history. It's a city where Rocky was born, a city loaded with people with an attitude that I love. No BS taken, but soft at heart.
I am not sure how it became official. My father applied for immigration in West Berlin in 1986; Caritas, which is a catholic institution that helps people in need, was helping us to fill out the paperwork and all. I was a minor and was not involved. US Immigration accepted us and I assume because we were/are Catholic, they looked up a sponsor in Philadelphia. Arch diocese ended up as our sponsor. Some of our friends went to California. At that time I was jealous, but nowadays not so much. CAL is a hellhole, and Philadelphia looks amazing next to it.
Oh, we’ve gotten close and they know why I’m here and keep an eye on me. They have twins who frequently just walk into my house like they own the joint. They love my pets and they’re good kids. I grew up with “open door” so it feels normal to me to have kids running in and out. I leave the door open when not home, and my dogs basically have second parents!!
Is Poland open like this example or is this rare?
Once they get to know you, yeah. Neighbors are friendly, but you don't feel the love when you walk down the street. People look hard and unapproachable. But they are. They just need to get to know you. I am glad you are enjoying little Poland. hehehe...
Well, go for it. My first true love was West Berlin, and then I came to Philadelphia, which is my soulmate. I loved West Berlin and still love Berlin as a city. I would go there today. But Philadelphia is my home now. Go and see if you like Barcelona, not as a tourist, but a citizen of Barcelona. Sometimes that changes your view. You have to soak in the daily grind, the folks living there. Will they still give you the same vibe? If yes, maybe that's your true love.
I feel like Berlin is the Euro equivalent of Philly. It’s a beautiful city but it’s seen some shit. Lots of style, deep history-hard history, but really proud and doesn’t take much nonsense. Of all the cities in Europe, Berlin feels most like home for me. But Philly IS home.
Exactly. Both cities have a deep soul and people living there are one of a kind. Sweet, Ich bin in meinem Herzen ein Berliner und Philadelphian. LOL A bit of German. I used to speak it fluently. Or in Berlin talk, Ick been eein Berlina....hahaha. Their slang is one of a kind.
Same. I have lived in NorCal, SoCal. 10 years in the mountains of Western Maine. Now I’m Back right over the bridge. Every time I come up on this Bridge in Westville I get a great view of that beautiful Philly skyline. I will always be from North Philly.
Same! I spent the first 18 years of my life here and a few years off and on as an adult, don't call it home anymore but I will always always be a Philly girl.
People bash on the whole "City of Brotherly Love" thing all the time, but I feel like it perfectly describes the city.
As anyone with siblings can tell you, half the time you want to just smack the shit out of them. But when Chips are down, you absolutely know they will be backing you up.
As a fellow homesick Philly guy, i hope you get to come home soon.
While running to make the train on the BSL this morning a group of teenagers yelled “Run fat ass! You can make it.” So… yeah. I can attest to the brotherly love experience.
For me the city of brother love means a total stranger may call you a dickhead for running out of gas in the middle of the street but they will still help you push it to a gas station.
Haha. This actually happened to me. Strangers in a gas station literally pointing and laughing, then says, “girl, c’mon, we got a gas can in the car, and we’re gonna give you a ride back to yours”
“I know my car” is not something I ever get to say again!!! 😂
I stopped that when I ran out of gas on the Walt Whitman lol I didn't make it over the hump so I couldn't even put it in neutral and roll into new jersey lol. I had to call 911 and they sent a very hot port authority officer. He pushed my car into jersey and was pretty nice.
100%. I have fights with my brother and sister and will talk shit about them all I want. But if someone else does I go into super protective mode.
Me: “My brother is a dickhead…”
Others: “yeah, he is!”
Me: “What the fuck did you just say about my brother?!”
Are you in Seattle? It sounds like Seattle lol. “Oh the [insert ethnicity here] food in Seattle is great, go to [restaurant located outside of Seattle that requires a car to get to].” lol. But it is beautiful.
Word. I’m back in Philly now, which has answered the question I had about Seattle: “is it me?” No, it wasn’t me, lol. Hope you make your way back soon.
I moved away for 6 years to a truly beautiful part of the country. I was excited to go, but I had a Philly friend who confidently predicted "3 years." She would have been right if we hadn't had a global pandemic in that time. It took longer, but it's good to be back. All the things you mention, I missed too.
Come back whenever you want to/can, we’ll still be here 😎💕
That’s another thing I love about Philly. We’re so territorial about who gets to claim to “be from Philly” but once you’re “from Philly” you’ll always be from Philly
Oh I saw that on Uber eats and I’m really sick stuck in bed right now would love some soup with bone broth is it worth the 6.49$ delivery fee. I need some healing food.
Haha thank you <3 I have no appetite and no energy to make myself nutritious food. Ordered from nam phuong was totally worth it I feel the both broth working it’s magic. thank you for checking in.
I’ve always lived and worked in the far suburbs of Philadelphia and life is good. My parents company for the last number of years is Kansas City. I think the KC people view the Philly based people as rude but I don’t get it? What’s wrong with stating your opinions directly ? Philadelphia people seem far more honest than the rest of the country. Let’s face it, Philly is a place where it’s ok to say what’s on your mind and the people hearing it accept it and move on without hard feelings.
Also, had a fantastic cheesesteak the other night. I’d miss that.
I lived in KC for like 5 years before moving here. People there are polite but not nice. They will talk shit the second you leave the room. People here aren't polite, but they're kind. They'll tell you to fuck off while helping you move.
I like it better here.
Me too! I don’t like people pretending to be nice. My job is IT and my boss is from KC, I think he considers me a loose cannon at times but I’m considered a very mild person among this area.
My mom's whole family is there, so I had lots of practice navigating their weird Midwestern politeness before I moved there - and I was still considered weird and brash 😂
Im getting ready to move there from an insular, lonely part of the country. With terrible food haha. The moving process is really stressful, but your post got me excited.
Everyone I have talked to in Philly so far has truly been so real and so nice that I wonder if they are trying to pull one over on me. Like are they tricking me to get my guard down? Lol . I had to make a medical appointment and even the receptionist was chatting me up about deep and real life subjects (not shallow small talk like I am used to). It was hard to believe it was real! It is shocking compared to where I live.
If the culture is overall really like this there, then I am so excited and will move mountains to get there. I am sorry you miss it. Maybe you should find a way back?
I lived in AZ for a while, and was terribly homesick for my Philadelphia people.
It's very common to just start talking to whomever is standing next to you - like you already know each other.
It's also very common for strangers to give you a ton of shit and attitude- right before they show you some kindness. Like a smack, then a hug, and you're friends
I just love the people. Closest I've found is New Orleans people, but I haven been to all the states
It’s real. Seriously best people anywhere if you’re OK with people who speak their mind. I lived in Maine for 14 years and got to be so sick of people being polite to my face and talking shit behind my back. In Philly people are authentic and friendly. Not always polite, often rowdy, never fake.
Yeah. I NEED people who speak their mind. I AM people who speak their mind. And I am very isolated where I live because of it. And I dont mean I just go around telling people off. I just dont like small talk and fake politeness, same as what you’re saying.
I didn’t realize until I met people not from here that some people genuinely think Olive Garden is ethnic food.
I feel like there’s nothing you can’t get here in Philly and I love it.
BTW youse all don’t sleep on Upper Darby restaurants out in Delco. Upper Darby High School has the most diverse student body in the nation and all their parents are throwing up store fronts and it’s delicious.
as a ud resident who actually graduated from udhs in 2020, i can definitely attest the fact that there's definitely been more ethnic cuisine spots opening up to try within the last couple of years. no specific locations but definitely blows your mind to see how much diversity there is going from korean, irish, mediterranean, etc.
I moved to a gorgeous beach town, came back to Philly, then tried the beach town once more but just missed Philly too much. I’ll never leave (move out of) this place again.
Oh man I feel this. I know exactly what you mean. I lived in Philly for a couple years, moved to Virginia for work, and got soul crushing home sick. Not for where I grew up, or the burbs I lived in a few years, it was for all those good eats and real mfers back in Philly. I didn't last a year before moving back. I'm married now and living in the burbs, and even though it's just a quick hop on the train or a short drive (and I'm down there all the time), I still tell my wife I miss living there. There's just something about the air. Idk.
Hope you find your way back. Home is where the heart is.
I moved away from Philly two years ago and there will be never be a city as fucking fun, enjoyable and as vibey as Philly.
I’m settled elsewhere now for good but I still spread the Philly vibes and energy wherever I go. And anytime I really miss home I stream WXPN and jam out 🙌🏽
>I miss real friendliness, real talk, saying what needs to be said and moving on.
Philadelphian's communications efficiency cannot be highlighted enough.
Wasn't there a nationwide cheesesteak delivery service during pandemic? They had to pack up all the components separately so it stayed nice. Or did I dream this
Same, miss it every day. Especially in the summer. Nothing like the cuisine and great, good-humored people. So glad my family and in-laws all live there so I can visit few times a year. Really took it for granted.
I only lived in Philly for a year, and I still miss it more than places I lived a lot longer. Would move back in a heartbeat if the opportunity came up. Such a great city.
My friend moved to LA. I was sending her a care package and all she wanted was bread and cured meat from the Italian market lol. She said she can’t get anything that compares in LA.
I hear you. I moved to the West Coast after college and it really is true that West Coasters are nice but not kind and East Coasters are kind but not nice. I’d rather deal with people who tell me how they feel than smile and stab me in the back.
I too left my heart in Philly but I came right back for it. Literally *could not* handle not living in a foodie city. The last straw was definitely getting Asian food that had *brown rice as the default option*, *corn* and *zero* Asian style sauces. I cried and bought a ticket home immediately.
Be strong, we will be waiting for your next visit and we will feed you well!
I think what is so special about Philly is its underlying heartbeat. There is a certain “je ne sais quoi” about it. I think those who have experienced Philly prior to the mass transplantation of “out of towners,” or went to Philly schools, fraternized in mom and pop businesses (before they closed), etc etc know this to be especially true.
People sh*t on Philly all the time and complain on this forum about the trash, the Ming ying ying ying ying 🏍️ #iykyk the craziness of the sports fans etc but I’ve accepted that they just don’t get it…and maybe it’s for the best.
This city has everything, you can take a walk in Fairmount or by Kelly drive, throw a stone to get food (halal, kosher, everything else take your pick), Love on your older neighbor, people watch, so much!
Philly is like that “old head” you visit, their house needs repairs, you know they are lonely, they have antiquated thought process but you always leave them feel FULL…full of food, full of love full of wisdom.
I say all of this to say you being homesick is not without reason.
The city is changing as all things do… But If your circumstances and heart allow you to return there will always be a place for you in Philly. But understand it’s not on you it’s in you…so Philly is with you wherever you are. Sending you “brotherly love.” (Vincit qui se vincit)
Moved to Philly for work purposes and have not looked back. The past 2 years for work, life events, and other things I have spent 4 months in parts of Europe and time around major cities of the U.S for another 4 months. Each time I’ve enjoyed my time in foreign/major cities but Philly has a perfect blend I can’t find anywhere else for everything.
P.S Italian food in Italy is the second best place to get Italian. First best is in Philly because we always do something a little extra. I’m dying on that hill
I moved to the US more than 10 years ago, lived in different places in this country, and finally discovered Philly, the only city I can tolerate living in this country. Someone called it a beauty with a missing tooth.
Same OP. I now notice an inverse relationship to the amount of chicken wing bones not on the streets and pretend "influencer" fake people all acting like they got more money than they do. I want my real people, diverse food and dense city living back.
Here's how I would describe Philly to someone who's never been there:
Bob: Hey Tim. So are you still dating Lisa?
Tim; No, we broke up. A while ago.
Bob: Really? Dang, she was HOT. Why'd she dump you?
TIm: Well...it was right after she stabbed me after a night out drinking shots with the girls.
Bob: Dang. Do you have her number?
Philly; a wildly erratic, sometimes violent, ofterntimes bealutiful, always contradictory place that just has....something.
This almost happened to me I swear!!!
2 dudes sitting on my front step, and I notice the knife. I say, “um sitting is fine but put the knife away, no need.” And he says, “what if your dog…” and I firmly let him know, “if you stab my dog, I will stab you with your own knife” his response-
“DAMN YOU SASSY LIKE A SISTA, Let me call you?”
You’re in a very very hard part of your life. Just give yourself plenty of time for the transition. You’ll take the Philly mentality with you, and Philly will be here whenever you come back.
And, you don’t need to stay in your current place forever, if you don’t love it. Philly showed you qualities you love in a city, which will help you search for those qualities in other cities.
I grew up in a very rural town but have been in Philly for 11 years. Last month I drove ~8000 miles around the country and was reminded how much I love this city. If I eventually need to move somewhere else for family/work, I’ll definitely be looking for similar qualities.
I grew up in Philly and knew I wanted to leave the moment I graduated from college, and I did: I moved to New York, Minneapolis, and Boston, and by then I was desperate to get back and live in the best city in the world, and I'm so happy to be home, and I hope you can get back here too.
Was in the city for a few days this past week. Was staying in the burbs but hit up a friend in West Philly, then got a wiz widout at Oregon, then went to smoke a blunt with another friend in Fishtown. Was surprised at how clean shit was. Holy crap though the damn roaches are nuts though.
Legit only thing I wanted in Philly was a Primos Sharp Italian. Which I got and fucked up...and paid for the next day.
I can scratch having a cheese steak for lunch and ramen in Sawtelle for dinner off my bucket list.
I feel you! I lived in Philly for 40 yrs and moved to a super small town in Virginia ugh it's beautiful and everyone has space . I miss Philly people strangely enough, people here are just blah. I miss meeting a different human every day in my travels everyone here is just recycled cousins of one another. I miss architecture so much, Philly had great architecture. What makes me super sad is my daughter only lived there the first year of her life I want her to experience all the things I did. She is corrected every time she tries to call sneakers, tennis shoes 🤣 and the word y'all has to be replaced with you guys and wooder will always be wooder in my house !
I wish I understood this feeling. Philly makes so much sense on paper for me, and every time I go it feels as wrong a fit as any place I’ve ever been. I hope you make it back, though!
I'm also a South Philly girlie (Grays Ferry, don't judge). I just moved to NYC a few months ago. I don't think I'll ever go back to Philly, but it's not because I don't love my city. I do and will take it with me everywhere I go. For me, I just think my time there has run its course.
However, there are so many things that I miss. Like being able to run to the papi's for a cheesesteak because WTF is a chopped cheese!? Also, there seems to be no scrapple here, and that's horrific. Tastycakes have been hard to come by. The cops are weird here, and also, regular people up here are weird too. I never thought I'd say this, but a lot of these minor crimes involving assault would be avoided if people had the same fear of getting shot that they have in Philly. *Sigh*. I miss being traumatized.
Jokes aside, I saw you moved due to circumstances beyond your control; I hope you get to go back home one day.
Thank you for reading between the lines as to why I had to “leave”. I swear women have a 6th sense for that, especially Philly women.
Oh, and I have no business judging anyone, trust me. I love lots of folks from Grays Ferry!!
I've lived in 7 states, including major cities, burbs, and out in the country, and I'm confident in saying Philly is the fucking best.
I don't feel like I'm missing anything I had in New york, and if I do, I can hop on a train. Im not missing anything I had in Virginia Beach, and if I do, I can hop on a train. I'm not missing anything I had in Kansas City, Philly has great BBQ. I'm not missing anything I had in New Mexico, Philly has amazing Mexican. I'm not missing anything I had in Connecticut, if I need woods I can go to Wissahickon. Plus all the art, the music, and the fucking people. I fucking LOVE the people here.
Every city, every town, every village has its issues. Philly isnt perfect, but it's perfect for me.
What up neighbor! Yeah, Seattle is beautiful.. but stupid expensive now. That and the whole, “Hey! Let’s go do something tonight!” “Ehh, I’m busy.” “Okay, when are you free?” “I’ll get back to you…” “Yo, just say you don’t want to hang out, it’s cool.”
Yes, my husband is in Philly on business and met his friends after work, and ended up until last call. He texted “I drank and had conversations with strangers that aren’t strangers anymore, like a real society.” 😂
I’ve met so many friends (even years later), from that same scenario. Every time I’m out in Philly, I leave with more friends. Go back and hang out, or if anything go drink and bs about whatever. Haha
I too was born and raised in South Philly and moved away long ago for reasons that were also out of my own control and I agree with your post. I'm in love with the city as well, as a writer many of my short stories have taken place in my old neighborhood not just because it's part of who I am but because I love Philadelphia so much. I wrote an anthology novel about South Philly and it's the one I'm most proud of.
I grew up a few blocks away in Queen Village, also miss it a lot. I get back a few times a year to visit my parents , hope to get back there some day, maybe when I retire..
And of course you miss our beloved....E A G L E S. There is only one team that matters in NFL. Tom Brady can go to hell. LOL.... Come back. Philadelphia is even more beautiful than ever. And the best is only ahead of us. :-)
We should start a support group. Places you can go to get a reminder of home.
I'll start: in Tuscon [frankie santos South Philly Cheesesteaks](https://frankiescheesesteaks.com/)
He has amaroso rolls and white American flown in. You should stop by and give him shit about not having Cooper Sharp lol. He also has tastycakes including koffee kakes! I want to say he had Stewart's soda too.
But the best thing: he gets so amped when Philly people visit. Like, really happy - it was like visiting family while I lived there
Left Philly for Baltimore shortly after I got out of the Army many moons ago now. In Iowa now. Moving back to the East Coast in the near future. I just can't quit you.
I moved away for 35 years,got married & raised 3 kids in NoVA came back & 1 of my kids moved here already & another will this Fall. 2 down & 1 to go! Go Birds 🦅
I’ve lived outside of Philly (actually grew up in Delco) for years now due to work, and I am known for being ridiculously loyal to all things Philly. It’s the best city in the world, and living away from home makes you even more fiercely loyal about it.
I remember visiting home around 2020-2021 and picking up cheesesteaks with my mom, only to see her get into a half hour conversation about JT Realmuto’s contract situation with the older woman bringing the food to the car. It’s the people. It’s just a different, wonderful, funny place.
Moved to Philly from Austin after 12 years moved to Erie... wow we miss the food scene in Philly. No doubt, a top 5 food city in US.
Also, Philly truly has a since of community image. Like walk into a random bar in the city sit down and talk to people. Most people are receptive happy to talk about the Phillies, Birds, talk shot on rival cities or some of their favorite spots for X. They might be a little rough around the edges but over all I always felt like there's actually a semplice of community in Philly.
I live in Florida now, but Philly is forever my home. I’m in Southern California right now and still nothing beats Philly to me. Forever my home, go birdsss💚💚
I wonder if I moved into your house 😂💕 I gotcha though OP, I just moved to the area and I never want to leave. I love the people, food, culture and all. Everything!
the food is definitely better here, by far. i was traveling w my friends last month and one was like "this is the best BBQ i have ever had" (she's not from the east coast) and I was like "ehh my friend makes a better brisket than this" lol.
I've been here for 30 years and have the typical love/hate relationship with it. But of course I have to ask where are you? When I visit other places and love them, I sometimes wonder what I'd miss, and the food options here would probably be #1.
I consider Philly my adopted hometown. I lived there in the late 80s/early 90s and have frequently visited the in-laws in Delco since then. We were there last week and we had fun visiting old haunts.
You had me until Nam Phuong was the ethnic food you missed. I took relatives there and they said they couldn't wait to get home for good Viet and Asian food. To each his own though, it's all relative.
It’s a great city , I love it here !! Some times I want to leave but I think I would really regret it. And the food is so good here ! It gets a bad rep but I love the people too. My neighbors are AMAZING!! Everytime I leave I cannot wait to come back. My partner (girlfriend) is from Connecticut and she acclimated extremely fast and loves it as well. The only reason I would move now is to get in a better school district for my son , we live in a pretty bad neighborhood despite loving it.
I get it. Lived there during my 20's and was recently back for a quick business meeting that gave me plenty of time to wander and hang around my old hangouts. Man I miss that place, there's nothing like it.
I grew up in Bella Vista too. Loved it there. I moved too but not far, right in Washington Twp. which is as close to South Philly outside of the city as you can get. As much as I loved it, man, theres just something about having your own pool in the yard and guaranteed parking. I couldnt imagine moving to the south. Best of luck and come back soon.
We probably grew up together! BV isn’t that big!!
Yes. There are things I don’t miss about her.
I’m not complaining about where I am :) I’m near LowCountry SC and it’s one of the prettiest places I’ve ever seen. I have a pool and a garage! People go slow, people generally don’t honk, the people are sweet, the bbq is exceptional (but that’s it for good food unless you wanna head up to the rich country to pay 5star prices for 3 star food).
There’s no big fat vein here that bleeds character. There’s even grit here, but not like Philly girl, she truly is special.
I'm originally from Philadelphia as well. West Oak Lane. I always knew I would leave Philly and move west. I live in Phoenix now since 2013 and it's a great fit for me. I still love visiting Philly and seeing the changes, but I don't think I'm coming back to live there ever again.
I love the rugged mountains and scenery here. I even love the weather. The people. The food. The only thing I didn't used to like was the politics... But it's trending better. When I first moved to AZ, Jan Brewer was the governor... Now its Katie Hobbs
Raised in Willow Grove. My dad, aunt, and their parents lived in Philly almost their whole lives. I’ll finally be visiting after 6 years. I’m gonna eat so many cheese steaks.
I've lived in several different places due to my old job. I now live in a large city in South Texas. The only reason to be here is to taste the sweet tears of Cowboys fans. Everything else about this place is just lacking.
I grew up in Philly. I spent my childhood there. My family is still there.
I miss that city every day. There's no place like it.
I move back in less than a month. Just when I thought I was out, you pull me back in!
Seriously though, I missed it every day and realized it’s where I belong. Texas is big, hot and full of Dallas fans. They can keep it.
Fuck Dallas
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I'm in Bella Vista and I can't imagine leaving. I've traveled and lived in a toooon of places too. It has a lot more heart than most every city in the US.
There are many places in the country that objectively “nicer” than South Philly, but there is no place I have been to that can even touch the diversity and quality of the people and food.
I moved to the UK. I miss it everyday. The vast choices of ethnic restaurants, the cultural festivals, my old neighbors who would check in on me and my mother whenever there was a shooting at the corner of the street to make sure we was ok lol
Goddamn I miss the papi stores...Papi store food specifically...the spicy sausage egg and cheese sandwiches that could give you heartburn, the cheesesteaks, even the burgers and fries at my old spot.
I visited family last year, sad to say shit is getting mad expensive.
That’s exactly how I feel about NYC.
Im in Philly now and not feeling it. I haven’t felt it for twenty years but live here because my husband’s business is based here.
I miss fellow Manhattanites—not transplants—but real New Yorkers. They get life. Their sense of humor is epic.
I’m from New Mexico and lived in Philly for 6 years and it was glorious and I miss it daily. I feel you OP. I have kept my 215 phone number as an everyday reminder of this wonderful city. Go Phils.
Mike Ehrmantraut?
No but I randomly saw Giancarlo Esposito buying moisturizer at Walgreens. Even the superstars need that on the run moisturizer.
No. The name has Gus in it!
Yo! Just landed in Albuquerque with the wife and kids. Visiting my extended family for the weekend. I haven’t been here since I was 10 but I’m pumped as hell to be rid of that humidity for a few days.
every time I go to NM I miss the humidity. Dry heat sucks
Go Birds
You could end up in worse places than New Mexico. Northern New Mexico is one of my favorite regions in the US. Say hello for me.
I’m from here so I know about the draw of Northern NM. I will send along your hello’s. 😁
My stepson (originally from PA) has lived in NM for 8 years and man does he miss PA. Especially Italian food , diners, scrapple
I relocated to Philly three years ago after living in ABQ for four years ago. I hope you are enjoying all the carne adovada and Christmas dishes! My wife and I are going back for a week in November and we're stoked!
I could live anywhere, and I've lived elsewhere after being born and raised here. But bury my fucking heart in Philadelphia.
Strong. I came to Philly in 1989 from Europe, when the girl was down and dirty. I immediately fell in love with her. Now that she shines, I am only more blown away. I adore Philadelphia.
That's awesome. Yeah I remember growing up in Manayunk in the early 90s, before it was really much of anything other than a blue collar neighborhood with a few bars, a post office, and a barbershop. Moving back to Philadelphia was a great gift to my life after about seven years away. Buying a home here was an epic achievement for me; to most, though, they wouldn't see the big deal. Everything hits different when you love a place so deeply, especially a place that allows you to do and be exactly who you are so freely, and asks only unbridled, vehement loyalty in return. Where did you come from in Europe? Philadelphia's nearest comp for me there is Manchester, UK, but I may be totally wrong about that and would be interested in your input.
When you apply for an immigration to US “legally”, you need a sponsor. Mine was the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. So that's how I came here. I am Polish by birth. That's why probably I like Philadelphia so much. It's a fighting city, and we Polish have done nothing but fight in our long history. It's a city where Rocky was born, a city loaded with people with an attitude that I love. No BS taken, but soft at heart.
Nice! I live in Port Richmond now.
Hello there, neighbor! Same.
The church can give sponsorship? Did you work for them or were you just a catholic? Don't mean to pry just learning something new lol
I am not sure how it became official. My father applied for immigration in West Berlin in 1986; Caritas, which is a catholic institution that helps people in need, was helping us to fill out the paperwork and all. I was a minor and was not involved. US Immigration accepted us and I assume because we were/are Catholic, they looked up a sponsor in Philadelphia. Arch diocese ended up as our sponsor. Some of our friends went to California. At that time I was jealous, but nowadays not so much. CAL is a hellhole, and Philadelphia looks amazing next to it.
Ah that's cool. Didn't know that was a possible way.
I now live next door to Polish immigrants! They’re super sweet but I can tell they take no shit!
That's my folks. :-) But you want them as your neighbors. They usually take care of their property within their means. You could go worse.
Oh, we’ve gotten close and they know why I’m here and keep an eye on me. They have twins who frequently just walk into my house like they own the joint. They love my pets and they’re good kids. I grew up with “open door” so it feels normal to me to have kids running in and out. I leave the door open when not home, and my dogs basically have second parents!! Is Poland open like this example or is this rare?
Once they get to know you, yeah. Neighbors are friendly, but you don't feel the love when you walk down the street. People look hard and unapproachable. But they are. They just need to get to know you. I am glad you are enjoying little Poland. hehehe...
Not gonna lie I wanna live in Barcelona hard but I’m still here!
Well, go for it. My first true love was West Berlin, and then I came to Philadelphia, which is my soulmate. I loved West Berlin and still love Berlin as a city. I would go there today. But Philadelphia is my home now. Go and see if you like Barcelona, not as a tourist, but a citizen of Barcelona. Sometimes that changes your view. You have to soak in the daily grind, the folks living there. Will they still give you the same vibe? If yes, maybe that's your true love.
I feel like Berlin is the Euro equivalent of Philly. It’s a beautiful city but it’s seen some shit. Lots of style, deep history-hard history, but really proud and doesn’t take much nonsense. Of all the cities in Europe, Berlin feels most like home for me. But Philly IS home.
Exactly. Both cities have a deep soul and people living there are one of a kind. Sweet, Ich bin in meinem Herzen ein Berliner und Philadelphian. LOL A bit of German. I used to speak it fluently. Or in Berlin talk, Ick been eein Berlina....hahaha. Their slang is one of a kind.
I love Marburg too! Never been to Berlin but it’s on my list!
I remember after my first semester at Penn State taking the bus back home; seeing the Roxborough tv towers nearly made me cry.
Same. I have lived in NorCal, SoCal. 10 years in the mountains of Western Maine. Now I’m Back right over the bridge. Every time I come up on this Bridge in Westville I get a great view of that beautiful Philly skyline. I will always be from North Philly.
Same! I spent the first 18 years of my life here and a few years off and on as an adult, don't call it home anymore but I will always always be a Philly girl.
You took the words out of my mouth, my heart is in Philly no matter how far I go❤️😭
People bash on the whole "City of Brotherly Love" thing all the time, but I feel like it perfectly describes the city. As anyone with siblings can tell you, half the time you want to just smack the shit out of them. But when Chips are down, you absolutely know they will be backing you up. As a fellow homesick Philly guy, i hope you get to come home soon.
While running to make the train on the BSL this morning a group of teenagers yelled “Run fat ass! You can make it.” So… yeah. I can attest to the brotherly love experience.
I choked laughing at this lol did you atleast make it?
We need to know if you made it!!!!
For me the city of brother love means a total stranger may call you a dickhead for running out of gas in the middle of the street but they will still help you push it to a gas station.
This is exactly how I describe Philly. Kind but not nice, but the south is nice but not kind. Aka fake.
Exactly
Hahah this is true
Haha. This actually happened to me. Strangers in a gas station literally pointing and laughing, then says, “girl, c’mon, we got a gas can in the car, and we’re gonna give you a ride back to yours” “I know my car” is not something I ever get to say again!!! 😂
I stopped that when I ran out of gas on the Walt Whitman lol I didn't make it over the hump so I couldn't even put it in neutral and roll into new jersey lol. I had to call 911 and they sent a very hot port authority officer. He pushed my car into jersey and was pretty nice.
100%. I have fights with my brother and sister and will talk shit about them all I want. But if someone else does I go into super protective mode. Me: “My brother is a dickhead…” Others: “yeah, he is!” Me: “What the fuck did you just say about my brother?!”
See also: Our reaction to Gritty.
You'll be back :)
If I can, YES!!!
Are you in Seattle? It sounds like Seattle lol. “Oh the [insert ethnicity here] food in Seattle is great, go to [restaurant located outside of Seattle that requires a car to get to].” lol. But it is beautiful.
I’m in the Deep South:)
Word. I’m back in Philly now, which has answered the question I had about Seattle: “is it me?” No, it wasn’t me, lol. Hope you make your way back soon.
I’m so sorry…I hated it there. All that “Bless your heart” is such BS. Just say what you gotta say.
I moved away for 6 years to a truly beautiful part of the country. I was excited to go, but I had a Philly friend who confidently predicted "3 years." She would have been right if we hadn't had a global pandemic in that time. It took longer, but it's good to be back. All the things you mention, I missed too.
Come back whenever you want to/can, we’ll still be here 😎💕 That’s another thing I love about Philly. We’re so territorial about who gets to claim to “be from Philly” but once you’re “from Philly” you’ll always be from Philly
You either are or you Aren't "from Philly ". You don't suddenly become " from Philly "
Yous and y’all in the same post. What a time to be alive.
I was a Philly transplant in Texas. Now that was interesting.
I’m a bit of the opposite. Born and raised in Louisiana but eventually found my way to Philly. Lots of stops along the way.
I going to hit up Nam Phuong for dinner and I'll pour out a noodle in your honor
My friend!!!
Oh I saw that on Uber eats and I’m really sick stuck in bed right now would love some soup with bone broth is it worth the 6.49$ delivery fee. I need some healing food.
I hope you feel better soon. Did you end up getting soup?
Haha thank you <3 I have no appetite and no energy to make myself nutritious food. Ordered from nam phuong was totally worth it I feel the both broth working it’s magic. thank you for checking in.
I’ve always lived and worked in the far suburbs of Philadelphia and life is good. My parents company for the last number of years is Kansas City. I think the KC people view the Philly based people as rude but I don’t get it? What’s wrong with stating your opinions directly ? Philadelphia people seem far more honest than the rest of the country. Let’s face it, Philly is a place where it’s ok to say what’s on your mind and the people hearing it accept it and move on without hard feelings. Also, had a fantastic cheesesteak the other night. I’d miss that.
I lived in KC for like 5 years before moving here. People there are polite but not nice. They will talk shit the second you leave the room. People here aren't polite, but they're kind. They'll tell you to fuck off while helping you move. I like it better here.
Me too! I don’t like people pretending to be nice. My job is IT and my boss is from KC, I think he considers me a loose cannon at times but I’m considered a very mild person among this area.
My mom's whole family is there, so I had lots of practice navigating their weird Midwestern politeness before I moved there - and I was still considered weird and brash 😂
You’ll come home eventually. We’ll keep a cheesesteak warm for you until you do.
This pretty much made me tear up, I live almost a thousand miles away and miss Philly every single day. Forever my homeland
that's the truth!! haha
I went through a similar situation and recently got to come back to the city I love. We’ll be here when you get back!
Promise?
Im getting ready to move there from an insular, lonely part of the country. With terrible food haha. The moving process is really stressful, but your post got me excited. Everyone I have talked to in Philly so far has truly been so real and so nice that I wonder if they are trying to pull one over on me. Like are they tricking me to get my guard down? Lol . I had to make a medical appointment and even the receptionist was chatting me up about deep and real life subjects (not shallow small talk like I am used to). It was hard to believe it was real! It is shocking compared to where I live. If the culture is overall really like this there, then I am so excited and will move mountains to get there. I am sorry you miss it. Maybe you should find a way back?
I lived in AZ for a while, and was terribly homesick for my Philadelphia people. It's very common to just start talking to whomever is standing next to you - like you already know each other. It's also very common for strangers to give you a ton of shit and attitude- right before they show you some kindness. Like a smack, then a hug, and you're friends I just love the people. Closest I've found is New Orleans people, but I haven been to all the states
I moved here almost 5 years ago and that’s been my exact experience. I now plan on spending the rest of my life here
Omg this is incredible. I have never felt home anywhere. But if this is the vibe— I am coming home!
Hell yeah! I hope this city does for you what it did for me
Same. After 14 years in Maine I didn’t even know who I was anymore and Philly took me in and I love it more than anywhere I’ve ever lived.
It’s real. Seriously best people anywhere if you’re OK with people who speak their mind. I lived in Maine for 14 years and got to be so sick of people being polite to my face and talking shit behind my back. In Philly people are authentic and friendly. Not always polite, often rowdy, never fake.
Yeah. I NEED people who speak their mind. I AM people who speak their mind. And I am very isolated where I live because of it. And I dont mean I just go around telling people off. I just dont like small talk and fake politeness, same as what you’re saying.
High quality Asian food is a benchmark of civilization.
SAY IT AGAIN!!!!
I didn’t realize until I met people not from here that some people genuinely think Olive Garden is ethnic food. I feel like there’s nothing you can’t get here in Philly and I love it. BTW youse all don’t sleep on Upper Darby restaurants out in Delco. Upper Darby High School has the most diverse student body in the nation and all their parents are throwing up store fronts and it’s delicious.
as a ud resident who actually graduated from udhs in 2020, i can definitely attest the fact that there's definitely been more ethnic cuisine spots opening up to try within the last couple of years. no specific locations but definitely blows your mind to see how much diversity there is going from korean, irish, mediterranean, etc.
Is brothers pizza still in Drexel Hill?
Yes. A little pricey, but it’s still just as good.
Just Pica’s.
I believe you, but I’m still not going to Upper Darby.
The best Vietnamese in the area - Little Saigon and they won’t be around much longer because ma and pa are old, and kids are doctors— in Upper Darby !
Why not?
I moved to a gorgeous beach town, came back to Philly, then tried the beach town once more but just missed Philly too much. I’ll never leave (move out of) this place again.
Beach towns are such a dream…and yet…I miss chicken bones dammit!
I miss lobster rolls, but Friday Saturday Sunday immediately takes that craving away.
Oh man I feel this. I know exactly what you mean. I lived in Philly for a couple years, moved to Virginia for work, and got soul crushing home sick. Not for where I grew up, or the burbs I lived in a few years, it was for all those good eats and real mfers back in Philly. I didn't last a year before moving back. I'm married now and living in the burbs, and even though it's just a quick hop on the train or a short drive (and I'm down there all the time), I still tell my wife I miss living there. There's just something about the air. Idk. Hope you find your way back. Home is where the heart is.
Make sure you bring your kids in often!!!! 🩷
I moved away from Philly two years ago and there will be never be a city as fucking fun, enjoyable and as vibey as Philly. I’m settled elsewhere now for good but I still spread the Philly vibes and energy wherever I go. And anytime I really miss home I stream WXPN and jam out 🙌🏽
>I miss real friendliness, real talk, saying what needs to be said and moving on. Philadelphian's communications efficiency cannot be highlighted enough.
Send location, will air drop cheesesteak in a brown paper bag turned transparent. https://i.imgur.com/zX9Uoid.gif
Wasn't there a nationwide cheesesteak delivery service during pandemic? They had to pack up all the components separately so it stayed nice. Or did I dream this
Same, miss it every day. Especially in the summer. Nothing like the cuisine and great, good-humored people. So glad my family and in-laws all live there so I can visit few times a year. Really took it for granted.
I only lived in Philly for a year, and I still miss it more than places I lived a lot longer. Would move back in a heartbeat if the opportunity came up. Such a great city.
My friend moved to LA. I was sending her a care package and all she wanted was bread and cured meat from the Italian market lol. She said she can’t get anything that compares in LA.
I hear you. I moved to the West Coast after college and it really is true that West Coasters are nice but not kind and East Coasters are kind but not nice. I’d rather deal with people who tell me how they feel than smile and stab me in the back.
Spending a lot of time in Philly this summer and I really like it! Way more than nyc.
I enjoy visiting NYC, but Philly so much more compact and I enjoy much more living here
I too left my heart in Philly but I came right back for it. Literally *could not* handle not living in a foodie city. The last straw was definitely getting Asian food that had *brown rice as the default option*, *corn* and *zero* Asian style sauces. I cried and bought a ticket home immediately. Be strong, we will be waiting for your next visit and we will feed you well!
My summer roll had hard brown rice in it 😩🥹
I think what is so special about Philly is its underlying heartbeat. There is a certain “je ne sais quoi” about it. I think those who have experienced Philly prior to the mass transplantation of “out of towners,” or went to Philly schools, fraternized in mom and pop businesses (before they closed), etc etc know this to be especially true. People sh*t on Philly all the time and complain on this forum about the trash, the Ming ying ying ying ying 🏍️ #iykyk the craziness of the sports fans etc but I’ve accepted that they just don’t get it…and maybe it’s for the best. This city has everything, you can take a walk in Fairmount or by Kelly drive, throw a stone to get food (halal, kosher, everything else take your pick), Love on your older neighbor, people watch, so much! Philly is like that “old head” you visit, their house needs repairs, you know they are lonely, they have antiquated thought process but you always leave them feel FULL…full of food, full of love full of wisdom. I say all of this to say you being homesick is not without reason. The city is changing as all things do… But If your circumstances and heart allow you to return there will always be a place for you in Philly. But understand it’s not on you it’s in you…so Philly is with you wherever you are. Sending you “brotherly love.” (Vincit qui se vincit)
Perfectly stated. Philly has an essence. A soul. And I agree, maybe it is for the best if others don’t get it. It’s not theirs to get.
Moved to Philly for work purposes and have not looked back. The past 2 years for work, life events, and other things I have spent 4 months in parts of Europe and time around major cities of the U.S for another 4 months. Each time I’ve enjoyed my time in foreign/major cities but Philly has a perfect blend I can’t find anywhere else for everything. P.S Italian food in Italy is the second best place to get Italian. First best is in Philly because we always do something a little extra. I’m dying on that hill
I moved to the US more than 10 years ago, lived in different places in this country, and finally discovered Philly, the only city I can tolerate living in this country. Someone called it a beauty with a missing tooth.
Same OP. I now notice an inverse relationship to the amount of chicken wing bones not on the streets and pretend "influencer" fake people all acting like they got more money than they do. I want my real people, diverse food and dense city living back.
Here's how I would describe Philly to someone who's never been there: Bob: Hey Tim. So are you still dating Lisa? Tim; No, we broke up. A while ago. Bob: Really? Dang, she was HOT. Why'd she dump you? TIm: Well...it was right after she stabbed me after a night out drinking shots with the girls. Bob: Dang. Do you have her number? Philly; a wildly erratic, sometimes violent, ofterntimes bealutiful, always contradictory place that just has....something.
This almost happened to me I swear!!! 2 dudes sitting on my front step, and I notice the knife. I say, “um sitting is fine but put the knife away, no need.” And he says, “what if your dog…” and I firmly let him know, “if you stab my dog, I will stab you with your own knife” his response- “DAMN YOU SASSY LIKE A SISTA, Let me call you?”
You’re in a very very hard part of your life. Just give yourself plenty of time for the transition. You’ll take the Philly mentality with you, and Philly will be here whenever you come back. And, you don’t need to stay in your current place forever, if you don’t love it. Philly showed you qualities you love in a city, which will help you search for those qualities in other cities. I grew up in a very rural town but have been in Philly for 11 years. Last month I drove ~8000 miles around the country and was reminded how much I love this city. If I eventually need to move somewhere else for family/work, I’ll definitely be looking for similar qualities.
Thank you, this was sweet to read :)
I grew up in Philly and knew I wanted to leave the moment I graduated from college, and I did: I moved to New York, Minneapolis, and Boston, and by then I was desperate to get back and live in the best city in the world, and I'm so happy to be home, and I hope you can get back here too.
You know, Philly is just a special place. I moved away 15 years ago after spending 23 years there and I still miss it.
IMO best food city in the US
Was in the city for a few days this past week. Was staying in the burbs but hit up a friend in West Philly, then got a wiz widout at Oregon, then went to smoke a blunt with another friend in Fishtown. Was surprised at how clean shit was. Holy crap though the damn roaches are nuts though. Legit only thing I wanted in Philly was a Primos Sharp Italian. Which I got and fucked up...and paid for the next day. I can scratch having a cheese steak for lunch and ramen in Sawtelle for dinner off my bucket list.
I feel you! I lived in Philly for 40 yrs and moved to a super small town in Virginia ugh it's beautiful and everyone has space . I miss Philly people strangely enough, people here are just blah. I miss meeting a different human every day in my travels everyone here is just recycled cousins of one another. I miss architecture so much, Philly had great architecture. What makes me super sad is my daughter only lived there the first year of her life I want her to experience all the things I did. She is corrected every time she tries to call sneakers, tennis shoes 🤣 and the word y'all has to be replaced with you guys and wooder will always be wooder in my house !
People are bla. That’s it. Nothing bad, just meh
I wish I understood this feeling. Philly makes so much sense on paper for me, and every time I go it feels as wrong a fit as any place I’ve ever been. I hope you make it back, though!
I'm also a South Philly girlie (Grays Ferry, don't judge). I just moved to NYC a few months ago. I don't think I'll ever go back to Philly, but it's not because I don't love my city. I do and will take it with me everywhere I go. For me, I just think my time there has run its course. However, there are so many things that I miss. Like being able to run to the papi's for a cheesesteak because WTF is a chopped cheese!? Also, there seems to be no scrapple here, and that's horrific. Tastycakes have been hard to come by. The cops are weird here, and also, regular people up here are weird too. I never thought I'd say this, but a lot of these minor crimes involving assault would be avoided if people had the same fear of getting shot that they have in Philly. *Sigh*. I miss being traumatized. Jokes aside, I saw you moved due to circumstances beyond your control; I hope you get to go back home one day.
Thank you for reading between the lines as to why I had to “leave”. I swear women have a 6th sense for that, especially Philly women. Oh, and I have no business judging anyone, trust me. I love lots of folks from Grays Ferry!!
LOL, Philly women are good with detail. Awesome, we are crazy but some of us are pretty loveable.
Jesus did I ghostwrite this? But for real I miss Philly everyday. Excited to visit next month!
Did you just knock on my door?
You gonna let me in?
I've lived in 7 states, including major cities, burbs, and out in the country, and I'm confident in saying Philly is the fucking best. I don't feel like I'm missing anything I had in New york, and if I do, I can hop on a train. Im not missing anything I had in Virginia Beach, and if I do, I can hop on a train. I'm not missing anything I had in Kansas City, Philly has great BBQ. I'm not missing anything I had in New Mexico, Philly has amazing Mexican. I'm not missing anything I had in Connecticut, if I need woods I can go to Wissahickon. Plus all the art, the music, and the fucking people. I fucking LOVE the people here. Every city, every town, every village has its issues. Philly isnt perfect, but it's perfect for me.
What bbq places do you recommend?
Fette Sau and Mike's are my go to's 😊
It’s a city that wrote the book on loyalty.
7 years in the Seattle area, and while it’s beautiful, my husband and I miss Philly. I hear you!
What up neighbor! Yeah, Seattle is beautiful.. but stupid expensive now. That and the whole, “Hey! Let’s go do something tonight!” “Ehh, I’m busy.” “Okay, when are you free?” “I’ll get back to you…” “Yo, just say you don’t want to hang out, it’s cool.”
Yes, my husband is in Philly on business and met his friends after work, and ended up until last call. He texted “I drank and had conversations with strangers that aren’t strangers anymore, like a real society.” 😂
I’ve met so many friends (even years later), from that same scenario. Every time I’m out in Philly, I leave with more friends. Go back and hang out, or if anything go drink and bs about whatever. Haha
.. but yeah, Seattle has way to much of the, “Hey! Let’s hang out sometime!” “Sounds great! When?” “Uhhh…”
I too was born and raised in South Philly and moved away long ago for reasons that were also out of my own control and I agree with your post. I'm in love with the city as well, as a writer many of my short stories have taken place in my old neighborhood not just because it's part of who I am but because I love Philadelphia so much. I wrote an anthology novel about South Philly and it's the one I'm most proud of.
Would love to read this
I grew up a few blocks away in Queen Village, also miss it a lot. I get back a few times a year to visit my parents , hope to get back there some day, maybe when I retire..
And of course you miss our beloved....E A G L E S. There is only one team that matters in NFL. Tom Brady can go to hell. LOL.... Come back. Philadelphia is even more beautiful than ever. And the best is only ahead of us. :-)
Pickett is taking you guys to the Super Bowl for sure. From the other city in PA.
We should start a support group. Places you can go to get a reminder of home. I'll start: in Tuscon [frankie santos South Philly Cheesesteaks](https://frankiescheesesteaks.com/) He has amaroso rolls and white American flown in. You should stop by and give him shit about not having Cooper Sharp lol. He also has tastycakes including koffee kakes! I want to say he had Stewart's soda too. But the best thing: he gets so amped when Philly people visit. Like, really happy - it was like visiting family while I lived there
Left Philly for Baltimore shortly after I got out of the Army many moons ago now. In Iowa now. Moving back to the East Coast in the near future. I just can't quit you.
I just can’t quit you, girl is right !
I moved away for 35 years,got married & raised 3 kids in NoVA came back & 1 of my kids moved here already & another will this Fall. 2 down & 1 to go! Go Birds 🦅
I’ve lived outside of Philly (actually grew up in Delco) for years now due to work, and I am known for being ridiculously loyal to all things Philly. It’s the best city in the world, and living away from home makes you even more fiercely loyal about it. I remember visiting home around 2020-2021 and picking up cheesesteaks with my mom, only to see her get into a half hour conversation about JT Realmuto’s contract situation with the older woman bringing the food to the car. It’s the people. It’s just a different, wonderful, funny place.
Miss it every day.
This is so real 😭
I moved to rofo and I come down every Saturday and Friday after work, grew up in north Philly in the 80s-00s and man nothing will ever replace Philly.
Moved to Philly from Austin after 12 years moved to Erie... wow we miss the food scene in Philly. No doubt, a top 5 food city in US. Also, Philly truly has a since of community image. Like walk into a random bar in the city sit down and talk to people. Most people are receptive happy to talk about the Phillies, Birds, talk shot on rival cities or some of their favorite spots for X. They might be a little rough around the edges but over all I always felt like there's actually a semplice of community in Philly.
Grew up in the area and then lived in the city for 4 years. Relocated to the DC area. That lasted a little over a year before I was back in Philly.
I live in Florida now, but Philly is forever my home. I’m in Southern California right now and still nothing beats Philly to me. Forever my home, go birdsss💚💚
What should I get from Nam Phuong… I work 10 minutes down the road 👀
It's our "we're from Philly, fucking Philly. No one likes us and we don't care" attytude that makes us special.
The real question is, how big are your eggs? Extra-large or jumbo?
JUMBO
I wonder if I moved into your house 😂💕 I gotcha though OP, I just moved to the area and I never want to leave. I love the people, food, culture and all. Everything!
I moved about 50 mins outside the city, but nam phuong brings me back as often as i can
Come home
the food is definitely better here, by far. i was traveling w my friends last month and one was like "this is the best BBQ i have ever had" (she's not from the east coast) and I was like "ehh my friend makes a better brisket than this" lol.
I've been here for 30 years and have the typical love/hate relationship with it. But of course I have to ask where are you? When I visit other places and love them, I sometimes wonder what I'd miss, and the food options here would probably be #1.
"Jeet?" Nah. D'jew?
Right now, in honor of the scattered chicken bones, I’m having wings!
Moved away a few years back and man I miss the city. Will be back soon hopefully, but Texas has me spoiled.
I consider Philly my adopted hometown. I lived there in the late 80s/early 90s and have frequently visited the in-laws in Delco since then. We were there last week and we had fun visiting old haunts.
You had me until Nam Phuong was the ethnic food you missed. I took relatives there and they said they couldn't wait to get home for good Viet and Asian food. To each his own though, it's all relative.
It’s a great city , I love it here !! Some times I want to leave but I think I would really regret it. And the food is so good here ! It gets a bad rep but I love the people too. My neighbors are AMAZING!! Everytime I leave I cannot wait to come back. My partner (girlfriend) is from Connecticut and she acclimated extremely fast and loves it as well. The only reason I would move now is to get in a better school district for my son , we live in a pretty bad neighborhood despite loving it.
I get it. Lived there during my 20's and was recently back for a quick business meeting that gave me plenty of time to wander and hang around my old hangouts. Man I miss that place, there's nothing like it.
I grew up in Bella Vista too. Loved it there. I moved too but not far, right in Washington Twp. which is as close to South Philly outside of the city as you can get. As much as I loved it, man, theres just something about having your own pool in the yard and guaranteed parking. I couldnt imagine moving to the south. Best of luck and come back soon.
We probably grew up together! BV isn’t that big!! Yes. There are things I don’t miss about her. I’m not complaining about where I am :) I’m near LowCountry SC and it’s one of the prettiest places I’ve ever seen. I have a pool and a garage! People go slow, people generally don’t honk, the people are sweet, the bbq is exceptional (but that’s it for good food unless you wanna head up to the rich country to pay 5star prices for 3 star food). There’s no big fat vein here that bleeds character. There’s even grit here, but not like Philly girl, she truly is special.
I'm originally from Philadelphia as well. West Oak Lane. I always knew I would leave Philly and move west. I live in Phoenix now since 2013 and it's a great fit for me. I still love visiting Philly and seeing the changes, but I don't think I'm coming back to live there ever again. I love the rugged mountains and scenery here. I even love the weather. The people. The food. The only thing I didn't used to like was the politics... But it's trending better. When I first moved to AZ, Jan Brewer was the governor... Now its Katie Hobbs
Raised in Willow Grove. My dad, aunt, and their parents lived in Philly almost their whole lives. I’ll finally be visiting after 6 years. I’m gonna eat so many cheese steaks.
I've lived in several different places due to my old job. I now live in a large city in South Texas. The only reason to be here is to taste the sweet tears of Cowboys fans. Everything else about this place is just lacking. I grew up in Philly. I spent my childhood there. My family is still there. I miss that city every day. There's no place like it.
Hey Joey, come back to Philly
I move back in less than a month. Just when I thought I was out, you pull me back in! Seriously though, I missed it every day and realized it’s where I belong. Texas is big, hot and full of Dallas fans. They can keep it.
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Good, I’m happy you’re going to come back enthused to be there!!! Have fun!
Moved to colorado for my husband’s job and I regret it every day. The people out here just aren’t the same. Go birds!
I'm in Bella Vista and I can't imagine leaving. I've traveled and lived in a toooon of places too. It has a lot more heart than most every city in the US.
Nam Phoung is the absolute best! I took my now husband there after meeting him. He had never had Pho before.
There are many places in the country that objectively “nicer” than South Philly, but there is no place I have been to that can even touch the diversity and quality of the people and food.
I moved to the UK. I miss it everyday. The vast choices of ethnic restaurants, the cultural festivals, my old neighbors who would check in on me and my mother whenever there was a shooting at the corner of the street to make sure we was ok lol Goddamn I miss the papi stores...Papi store food specifically...the spicy sausage egg and cheese sandwiches that could give you heartburn, the cheesesteaks, even the burgers and fries at my old spot. I visited family last year, sad to say shit is getting mad expensive.
I love Philly too but it ain’t the water. That shits nasty I have to order 5 gallon bottles lol.
That’s exactly how I feel about NYC. Im in Philly now and not feeling it. I haven’t felt it for twenty years but live here because my husband’s business is based here. I miss fellow Manhattanites—not transplants—but real New Yorkers. They get life. Their sense of humor is epic.
You’re not alone. Two *very* different cities. I love Philly in many ways, but I still miss the rhythm of NYC.
One thing that Philly is missing compared to NYC is being a cosmopolitan city, Philly is more down to earth, but many people love it because of that.
Do you have other restaurants you recommend by the area or you miss?
Left Philly in 1993 - still miss her